English Heritage not only has some fascinating sites to explore, did you know it has historical places to stay in too?
There’s everything from garden sites to countryside retreats and no holiday is complete without a trip to the coast so it’s good to know some locations are perfect to take in the fresh seaside air!
With the flexibility of three ‘length of stay’ options and lots to see and do, by staying at one of English Heritage’s holiday cottages you will also be playing your part in giving England’s heritage a future.
Countryside charm…
South Lodge, Battle Abbey, Sussex.
Enjoy the fresh air and open spaces surrounding one of the most famous battlefields in England’s history. South Lodge comfortably sleeps up to four people and is the perfect base to discover where the armies of King Harold and William the Conqueror clashed here at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. Conveniently located, the cottage also provides a pleasant walk up to the ruins of the Abbey, the Gatehouse and the visitor centre. Find out more here…
East Lodge, Hardwick Old Hall, Derbyshire.
This two-bedroom cottage sleeps four people and is situated within the walled grounds of the romantic ruin overlooking the Derbyshire countryside. Featuring high ceilings and lead light windows, expect a spacious stay with spectacular views of Hardwick Hall and its gardens, ready for you to immerse yourself in one of the grandest periods of England’s History. Find out more here…
Glorious gardens…
Priors Lodge, Mount Grace Priory, North Yorkshire.
Tucked away at the foot of the Cleveland Hills the priory is a haven of tranquillity. Explore 13 acres of newly rejuvenated Arts and Crafts gardens (whilst keeping an eye out for the famous priory stoats as you go). Roam the room-like spaces of the terraces and dell garden, and see the Monk’s Cell garden full of herbs, vegetables and flowers. There is exclusive access to explore the ruins of the medieval monastery and gardens on your own terms. Find out more here…
Gardener’s House – Wrest Park, Bedfordshire.
The 90 acres of beautiful gardens, including landscapes remodelled by Capability Brown, delight with heady scents, water features, beautiful statues and a pear orchard with floral lawn. Gardener’s House, which was originally constructed for Wrest Park’s head gardener, provides the perfect base to retire to after a day of exploring the glorious gardens and grounds. Find out more here…
By the sea…
No.1 and No.2 Sovereign’s Gate, Osborne, Isle of Wight.
These two new holiday cottages have been developed in this iconic building. Sovereign’s Gate was commissioned by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert as the formal entrance to Osborne. Although not used by visitors to Osborne today it remains the entrance by which members of the royal family enter the Estate. Once the public have left at the end of the day, you have the opportunity to explore Osborne’s extensive grounds including the private beach at your leisure. Find out more here…
Callie’s Cottage, Pendennis Castle, Cornwall.
Callie’s Cottage sleeps four and was built 100 years ago as a Sergeants’ mess but takes its name from Callie Saxty MBE, the castle’s retired operations manager. She came to live here for 18 months and stayed 24 years. Callie always felt sorry for day-trippers because Pendennis takes on a new life once the crowds have dispersed. Staying here affords a chance to find out precisely what she meant. The cottage is superbly equipped and the look is sleek and contemporary. Find out more here…
Two new iconic cottages have been developed at the iconic Osborne (Image: Getty Images/Wirestock)
To find out more about staying at one of English Heritage holiday cottages, visit english-heritage.org.uk
We’ve teamed up with English Heritage to offer 25 per cent off gift and annual memberships which gives the chance to see its sites in every season.
What’s more English Heritage membership allows every member to take up to six children under the age of 18 within the family group into any of the English Heritage properties at no extra charge.
Want to find out more? Simply click here! Use code NEWSQ25 at the checkout.
Offer ends: March 31, 2025.
T&C’s: For use on new membership purchases only. Annual direct debit only.