Dillington Estate, near Ilminster, Somerset - Explore & Book

"We may not have had the most relaxing journey to south Somerset – with the rain lashing down on our car as we drove west – but as soon as we pulled into Dillington Estate we felt our shoulders drop. Its rolling green fields filled with bleating sheep were an instant antidote to city life and frustrating traffic jams. This beautiful 3,000-acre estate has been in the same family for over 200 years, with grand Dillington House dating back to the 16th century. The Duke of Monmouth lunched here before the Pitchfork Rebellion and spoke to an audience of 2,000 people under an ancient chestnut tree, whose fallen trunk still lies in the grounds today. Nearby, in the parkland and local countryside, you’ll find more historic treasures, including Grade-II listed self-catering properties – all ideal for families. They range in size, from cosy 2-bedroom cottages up to sociable 7-bedroom houses that are perfect for get-togethers. But they're all decked out in modern country styling, with pops of colour from throws, sofas and feature wallpapers. Some have hot tubs, others have clawfoot bathtubs, and all have wood-burners for cosy country nights. Spend your days exploring the estate, walking or biking in the Somerset countryside with pub pit-stops, or drive to Jurassic Coast beaches for the day. Later, eat alfresco dinners in your garden or play board games together in the lounge. Easy does it. Highs Set in peaceful rural Somerset, you’ll feel a million miles from busy modern life (the dark skies here are mesmerising) despite being so close to Ilminster Each beautiful period property has been sympathetically refurbished in a modern style, retaining original flagstone floors The houses are spacious, with pretty, mature gardens and alfresco dining tables for lazy summer lunches (some also have hot tubs in their gardens) Friendly owners who go out of their way to help Brilliant for families – especially those with pre-schoolers, who can enjoy great-value mid-week rates outside of high season Lows Each stay requires a £500 security deposit You'll need a car to reach restaurants and shops, but it's only a 5-minute drive to Ilminster" - Anna Mullinder