Kilnwood
Wells, Somerset, UK
Tucked into the rolling Mendip Hills and with views of Glastonbury Tor, Kilnwood is a rustic country house retreat in the heart of rural Somerset. Restored from a life of labour into a luxury self-catering family home, the sensitive renovation of these former farm buildings near Wells meld organic materials with polished finishes. Make forever memories in the gardens, with not a care in the world but whoever’s turn it is to rouse from their poolside sunbed to craft the next round of chilled mojitos.
Introduction
With its terracotta roof and weathered charm, Kilnwood near Wells is a luxury country house escape with a contemporary edge which wouldn’t look an ounce out of place in the heart of Tuscany. With plenty of space for the whole family to unfurl in and miles upon miles of undulating hinterland reaching out in every direction, here is a home where free-range families can set themselves free. With a heated outdoor pool, play area and two acres of gardens run wild in, the whole family will settle in within no time.
Inside
When little legs are weary from trekking across the beautiful Wells surrounds, bring them back to the house, rinse off muddy boots in the steaming outdoor shower, then retreat to the comfy welcome of Kilnwood's interior. Set up a table football tournament in the annex for hours of fun on rainy days, or a movie marathon in the television room on long winter nights. Six bedrooms allow plenty of space for all: children will love the bunk room, and grandparents can find peace and quiet by choosing one of two rooms in The Pottery.
Outside
Somerset was made for adventures; with hiking boots tied tight and backpacks filled with treats, head to the Mendip Hills in search of faery rings and cavernous gorges. Back at the house there's a heated outdoor swimming pool, play area and two acres of gardens to keep children entertained. Grown-ups can lounge to their heart’s content, throwing down a blanket in the shade of a willow with a paperback, before idling back for al fresco barbecues under sunset skies. As the heat begins to fade, gather blankets from the house and stoke the hidden fire pit, toasting s’mores and telling campfire tales.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 12 guests (10 adults and 2 children)
From £3,595 per week, £2,750 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 8 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsOne ground floor double bedroom with king-size bed, one bunk room, and one twin bedroom, in addition to a family bathroom with separate shower, and a separate WC. One first floor double bedroom with king-size bed and private access to a family bathroom with roll top bath and separate shower. The Pottery annexe has a further double bedroom with king-size bed, twin bedroom, and family bathroom with separate shower
View bedrooms - FeaturesEnclosed outdoor heated swimming pool and outdoor heated shower (May - September), fire pit, trampoline and table football
- PetsSorry, no pets
- Arrivals and departuresArrival Day: Friday or MondayArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children are very welcome. One travel cot and two highchairs are available.
- PracticalitiesThe property is accessed via a shared drive and there is parking for up to five cars within Kilnwood. Please be mindful that the house is within close proximity to farms and neighbours. The gardener will endeavour to service the fully-enclosed gardens and pond on changeover days, but may need to visit the property at other times. The rooms in the Pottery annex are not available when booking the smaller group option. Out of respect of the neighbours, the swimming pool is accessible between 7am-10pm.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper, Sonos multi-room sound system, two large Smart TVs with Netflix, Amazon and a DVD player, WiFi internet, gas barbecue, board games, linen, towels, logs and kindling to get you started...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more little luxuries
- Private cateringDiscover your options for private dining and fully catered breaks.
- Additional extrasA handpicked selection of unique experiences are available at this property.
- RestrictionsParties considered on prior permission from the owner, no fireworks permitted.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsView floor planEV charger locationsCheck mobile signalRecommend to a friend
Prices & Availability
Wells
Settled in green fields, close to all sorts of attractions and known for its proximity to that legendary music festival, Glastonbury, this popular Somerset market town has much to offer the passing rambler and weekend traveller.
Getting there
- On the Map The property is located three miles from the centre of Wells and 12 miles from Glastonbury in Somerset.
- By Car Kilnwood is two and a half hours, or 120 miles, from central London.
- By Train The nearest train station is Castle Cary at 20 minutes away, or Bath Spa is 35 minutes away.
- By Air The nearest airport is Bristol, just under 40 minutes’ drive from the property.
From the owner
“Over the decades the barn has swapped hands between farmers, gardeners and potters. We bought it in 2016 after years of living in London and coming on short breaks to Somerset to escape the city. As parents to five children, we love getting away to this amazingly beautiful part of the world.”
We bought the barn in 2016 after years of living in London, and coming to Wells in Somerset on short breaks to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
As parents to five children we love being able to escape to this amazingly beautiful part of the world, within a few hours of central London with space to run around and the cleanest air to breathe, and not having to catch a plane! The original tenants of the barn were, of course, the cows and pigs from the main farmhouse. When the owners of the farm exited the dairy business, they split the barn from the main farmhouse and it has swapped hands between a few owners including some very keen gardeners, a couple of potters, and finally us: a Portuguese/Australian combo with a love of the English countryside – and an inability to resist a good project.
We have surprised ourselves by how much we enjoy spending time here in the Mendip Hills. The view from the outdoor heated shower on a clear summer’s day has to be one of the best in Somerset. There is so much to do locally, with beautiful garden walks, great pubs, restaurants and cathedrals to explore in Wells, gorges to climb in Cheddar and renowned music festivals in Glastonbury. But most importantly, we have strived to make the property itself a relaxing and fun-filled place to visit for our family and friends, adults and children alike.
The Liddy Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Wells with an insider’s perspective.
To See
Wells Catherdral, Wells
Wells Cathedral is set in the medieval heart of England’s smallest city and is the earliest English Cathedral to be built in the Gothic style, a real treat to walk around. There are free guided tours available all year round, except on Sundays.
To Eat
The Holcombe Inn, Radstock
This 17th century inn offers award-winning, delicious food as featured in the Michelin Guide. It is a firm family favourite, especially for its ever-popular Sunday roasts, and best of all it´s just a short drive away from the house.
To Do
Longleat, Warminster
A fun safari drive-through with lions, tigers, and the hilarious monkey mayhem (not recommended if you want your car to remain intact!). The stunning Elizabethan house in Capability Brown, landscaped gardens are also open to the public. A great day out for all the family.
To See
City of Bath
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this iconic city is a stylish treat. Bathe in naturally hot spa water at Thermae Bath Sap and visit the 2000 year-old original Roman baths. There are also shops, theatre and restaurants to explore. Park and Ride is the best travel option here.
Guest Testimonials
The house was fabulous. Beautifully decorated and extremely comfortable. It had everything we could possible want including towels for the pool which were much appreciated. Thank you for a wonderful and relaxing stay.
Our group had an amazing weekend stay at Kilnwood to celebrate a family birthday. The owners have created a beautiful, unique home and we will certainly book with Unique Homestays again in the future!
We had a lovely stay at Kilnwood! It is such a great family house, not to mention beautifully and thoughtfully decorated with plenty to do. Thank you for a wonderful time.
Unique extras
Enhance your stay with a unique experience from one of our preferred suppliers. From professional in-house chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and wine delivered to the door, see what’s on offer for your bespoke escape.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Kilnwood and Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Creating a backyard oasis
Living Etc.
June 2022Party House
Country Homes & Interiors
December 2020An Architect-Designed Holiday Home
Living Etc.
September 2020Best cabin stays in the UK
The Times
May 2023Staycation in splendid isolation
Country Living
May 2023Britain´s best holiday cottages
The Telegraph
May 2023Best holiday homes in the UK
Conde Nast Traveller
May 2023A look inside The Fable x The White Company
House Beautiful
May 2023
Luxury Self-Catering Cottages > UK > Somerset > Wells > Kilnwood
Related Collections
Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
