Pet friendly holiday cottage, sleeps 10 - Bicester (2.5mls S), Oxfordshire

Under 3 miles from Bicester Village and 8 miles from Blenheim Palace - the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill - this astonishing three-storey property, which sleeps ten people across five bedrooms, combines tasteful rural interiors with the latest creature comforts for those seeking to put the outside world on pause. Offering open-plan living, a conservatory and enviable leisure facilities, not to mention easy access to local amenities and some of Oxfordshire’s most renowned attractions, the property will be the setting for a getaway to remember. Lose hours in the open-plan lounge, a fantastic gathering place comprising inviting seating areas arranged around a wood burner - ideal for family films or long conversations into the night - with a pool table nearby for competitive friends.

Solace is assured in the conservatory – a large, welcoming space bathing in sunlight with comfortable seating and westerly rural views. Create wonderful meals in a contemporary kitchen that offers a host of facilities (including a utility room), perfect for those who demand an orderly, well-fed holiday household, with extra seating scattered about. Enjoy long lunches and endless dinner parties in the dining room with a table large enough to accommodate 12 people, peeling back its folding doors in the summer to let the warmth of the garden inside.

Peaceful nights are assured in each of the five bedrooms: a king-size bedroom with an en-suite bathroom; two west-facing twin bedrooms (which can be converted to king-size bedrooms), and a double bedroom. All share the adjacent family bathroom. A double bedroom with an en-suite shower room sits on the second floor, as does a small office, ideal for those bringing homework.

Out in the private enclosed garden, spread yourselves across the lawn (the owner offers complementary therapy treatments, as well as Pilates sessions during the summer months) or enjoy al fresco breakfasts, evening BBQs or a soak in the six-seater hot tub on the patio. Parking for ten cars is available opposite the house.