English Heritage expands holiday cottage portfolio

Fancy staying at a Roman villa or medieval monastery? English Heritage announces eight exciting new additions to its hugely successful portfolio of holiday cottages. Combining stylish and luxurious 21st century interiors with breathtaking views and atmospheric surroundings, the new cottages offer a UK holiday experience rich in culture, history and discovery.

The cottages will be available to book from 29th January 2007, and cost from around £455 for a week-long stay in a one-bedroom cottage*.

The Retreat at North Leigh Roman Villa, Oxfordshire, provides a dramatic setting for a cosy one-bedroom cottage overlooking the foundations of a home last inhabited in the 4th century. Guests will also be able to enjoy the out-of-hours tranquillity of the cloisters of Mount Grace Priory, North Yorkshire, staying at Priors Lodge. Alternatively, holiday like royalty at the favourite residence of the late Queen Mother, at one of two attractive cottages at Walmer Castle, Kent. Both Garden Cottage and Greenhouse Apartment overlook the garden, and can accommodate four people. These can be booked together to accommodate up to eight guests, providing the ideal location for an extended family break.

Each property has a story to tell, from the imposing Cambridge House at Audley End, Essex, and the spacious Pool House situated close to the romantic ruins and spectacular gardens of Witley Court, Worcestershire; to the quaint South Lodge overlooking 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield, East Sussex, and Bowling Green Apartment, the former residence of Queen Victoria’s favourite daughter at Carisbrooke Castle, Isle of Wight. The new cottages have been selected for their unique location, giving guests the chance to soak up the atmosphere at some of England’s most important historic sites.

Rob Parkes, Head of Property Development for English Heritage, commented: “The first year of the holiday cottage project has been hugely successful. Whilst we knew such a unique proposition would be attractive to the UK holiday market, we did not anticipate the response we have had. We are confident this interest will continue to grow with our new additions, all of which are extraordinary properties in beautiful settings.”

English Heritage launched its holiday cottages in spring 2006. The accommodation is aimed at the luxury end of the market, and has so far exceeded expectations, with 2006 bookings at over 70% capacity. The five existing properties have proved incredibly popular, receiving acclaim for their luxurious fixtures and fittings, and unique settings.

Reservations for the new cottages can be made from 29 January. Full details and prices for of the entire holiday cottage portfolio can be accessed via english-heritage.org.uk/holidaycottages.

* Price is based on a week-long (7 night) stay at The Retreat, North Leigh Roman Villa, or The Custodian’s House, Pendennis Castle, during the off-peak season.