Gulliver´s Hall
Bisley, Stroud, Gloucestershire, The Cotswolds, UK
Characterful, classic and daring all in one sweep, this luxury Cotswold farmhouse is stitched together with a rich family history emanating through every fibre. Settled in 320 acres of Gloucestershire farmland, adventures abound; skip between bluebells and spot peregrines floating on thermals before cannonballing into the outdoor swimming pool. A homestay where escapism and comfort are key, you’ll need to be dragged by the heels to leave.
Introduction
Blending ancestral tales with elegant maximalism, just entering Gulliver's Hall brings vitality to the soul. A secluded luxury self-catering home where every last detail has a story to tell, even the stained glass windows depicting the family griffin could speak of robbery and reconciliation. The house and its extensive grounds are an ode to the owner’s parents, who forged a life here in the late 1960s, turning a humble dairy farm into a loved abode. Today, a pedigree herd of Welsh Black cattle still roam these Cotswold hills where conservation and land stewardship are of the highest importance.
Inside
Chosen for its likeness to nearby Bisley village and the surrounding bucolic countryside, a whimsical wallpaper illustrating undulating slopes and enormous sycamores found in the Gloucestershire landscape wraps its way around the staircase all the way to the third floor, while blousy florals and bright corners bring vibrancy and charm to even the wettest winter days. When family meals are in full swing, know these precious moments are born onto the ancient history below your plate; the dining table has been carved from the trunk of a colossal oak which was felled on the grounds some 50 years ago.
Outside
Whether your intentions are to rejuvenate or revel, there's outdoor space for all energy levels at this playful family estate. For those seeking R&R, look no further than the south-facing spa enclosed by Cotswold stone; think hours floating on a lilo in the pool, sipping lemonade under cloudless skies, then lavender-scented meditations between the sauna, steam room, and a finishing thaw in the sunken hot tub. Acres upon acres of woodland and wildflowers are sure to exhaust zealous children, who can peer into trickling streams, hunt for tadpoles, or have croquet competitions among the wildflowers.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 21 guests
From £7,795 per week, £5,895 per short break - Alternative group optionsUp to 6 or up to 15 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThe main house comprises of seven bedrooms and sleeps 15, with a further three bedrooms in the pool house sleeping six. On the first floor of the main house there are five bedrooms. The master bedroom includes a super king-size bed and en suite with pink art deco style bath and separate rainfall shower. The further four bedrooms on this floor include: two bedrooms with double beds (one with en suite shower room), one bedroom with king-size bed and en suite shower room, and one with super king-size bed and en suite shower room. There is also a family bathroom with shower over on this floor. On the second floor are two bedrooms, one with double bed and one with three single beds, sharing the family shower room. In the pool house are three further bedrooms; one with king-size bed on the ground floor with en suite shower and WC and two further bedrooms on the first floor with king-size beds, sharing the family shower room.
View bedrooms - FeaturesOutdoor heated swimming pool (April-October), sunken spa bath, sauna, steam room, outdoor shower, outdoor kitchen with pizza oven, paella burner, games and cinema room, tennis court, croquet lawn
- PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome on prior request
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabies and children are very welcome. A cot, two highchairs and four stair gates are provided.
- PracticalitiesThere is parking for ten cars (or more on prior request) on the private driveway. The house kitchen includes a Lacanche triple electric oven, induction hob, double dishwasher, fridge-freezer, Nespresso machine and Quooker boiling water tap. The pool house kitchen includes an electric oven, hob, fridge-freezer, Nespresso machine, drinks fridge and dishwasher. There is a separate utility room including a washing machine and tumble dryer. Due to the swimming pool and several ponds, please supervise children at all times. The pedigree herd of Welsh Black cattle will often be in the neighbouring field and guests are asked to keep dogs on leads when in this area. When booking the smaller group option (for up to six guests) only the pool house will be available, the main house will not be accessible but will remain blissfully unoccupied. When booking the alternative group size of 15, the pool house bedrooms will be unavailable.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper of local and organic produce, Sonos multiroom speakers, iPad, extra large Big Green Egg barbecue, Smart TVs, WiFi internet, Sky Sports, cinema projector, luxury toiletries, children´s toys...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- RetreatsFrom surf lessons to dawn yoga and adrenalin-fuelled adventures, we work with the most inspirational of experts to ensure a truly tailored stay. On confirmation of booking, these details will be shared within your house book.
- Eco-friendlyTwo type 2 electric car charging points, water to the house pumped from a spring using hydraulic ram
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsView floor plan
Weddings
Happening where wedded bliss meets joie de vivre, Gulliver´s Hall is a videographer’s playground; there´s acres of wildflower fields, Giacometti-style bronze statues, and a wedding barn fit for pairs of playful classicists. Never has a place been so suited to mad hatter banquets and surrealist soirees.
Prices & Availability
Bisley
The epitome of Cotswold charm, the market town of Bisley is positively bursting with chocolate-box cottages and honey-hued inns. Surrounded by typical rolling English countryside, Bisley is an ideal base for hikers, bikers and nature enthusiasts.
Getting there
- On the Map Gulliver's Hall sits in the Cotswold AONB, just four miles from Stroud.
- By Car Approximately two and a half hours from London and half an hour from both Gloucester and Cheltenham.
- By Train Stroud is the nearest train station, 11 minutes away by car.
- By Air Birmingham and Heathrow airports are around an hour and two hours away respectively.
From the owner
“The peace and tranquillity of Gulliver´s Hall is its most enviable asset. We´ve tried to create a place that has somewhere, and something, for everyone to enjoy.”
The unique seclusion of the house on the shoulder of the hillside overlooking the wooded valley of Toadsmoor has provided home and shelter to farming families for over 700 years.
We have tried to re-create and enhance what was to me, an idyllic childhood home, with something for everyone. Whether that's a sheltered bench in my mother´s favourite spot in the garden overlooking the house, or coming across one of my father´s sculptures in the long grass, or fishing for tadpoles and newts in one of the ponds or the stream. Perhaps it may be lounging in the spa´s heated spring water, relaxing in the sauna or enjoying the croquet lawn, a deceptively competitive game!
The sun deck may be a perfect spot for those who enjoy a really good morning coffee in a comfortable chair with the paper, or perhaps an early evening gin and tonic on the terrace whilst the sun goes down.
We hope that we have provided a house that is comfortable, warm and welcoming and where people feel relaxed and thoroughly at home for the duration of the stay. Everything has been completed to the highest standards using sympathetic materials sourced from the farm wherever possible.
Martin and Kate
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Bisley with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
The Bell, Sapperton
Old stone walls, beamed ceilings and cosy corner tables; The Bell is the epitome of Cotswolds country charm. After a hearty Sunday roast, taking a gentle stroll around the pretty village is practically mandatory.
To Do
Westonbirt Arboretum
For the adrenaline junkies and Gruffalo hunters, the UK´s largest arboretum houses five national tree collections, treetop walkways and, of course, a café with delicious sweet treats.
To Do
Wellness at Gulliver´s Hall
From a private pizza chef, to bespoke sports therapy and beauty treatments without having to leave the grounds, wellness in all its forms can be accomplished at this Cotswold home. Details provided after booking confirmation.
To Do
Stroud Farmer´s Market
Renowned as one of the best in the UK, this multi-award-winning farmer´s market has a reputation for a reason: if you can name it, you´ll find it. Ponder over the local market fayre while tucking into some sizzling street food.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
Magical! From the first time we came to Gulliver´s Hall, magical was the world that came to mind, and Kate and Martin´s attention to detail, warm and welcoming manner was the icing on the cake! Everyone in our party had a wonderful time and enjoyed all that their beautiful home had to offer. It is sad to go but we have created memories that none of us will forget. We look forward to returning in the future.
Kate and Martin were the most incredible hosts. They were there for us before and during our stay and went above and beyond to make our trip exceptional. We are particularly grateful for their vendor recommendations, pre-trip assistance, beautiful flower arrangements in the house, stunning welcome basket and exceptional hospitality and assistance during our stay. They are not only top notch hosts but are lovely people and we will be forever grateful for their help in making our wedding day so magical. The property itself was also stunning and extremely well maintained (and clean). I look forward to returning!
Gulliver´s Hall is a fabulous place to spend a week. We have loved being here with so much to do, it has been hard to leave! Perfect for our get together with family and friends and our hosts couldn´t have been more helpful. The private chefs recommended have been a great addition to a wonderful holiday!
Thank you so much for allowing us to stay in this beautiful house. It is so fabulously equipped and we absolutely loved the beautiful furnishings. We used the croquet, table tennis, swimming pool, jacuzzi and tennis court and enjoyed fantastic walks every day from the house. To top it all off we have had a great week of weather. Thank you!
We all had the best weekend ever in the Cotswold´s, staying in the most beautiful home. Thank you so much. We loved the flapjacks from the owners and cooking by chef Ian. It was an unforgettable weekend celebrating with the most amazing girls.
Amazing house and helpful owners who were always available. Everyone loved the house and facilities, we made use of everything I think, literally! Every guest commented how amazing the house is and how the owners have thought of every detail with no expense spared. It really is a special house and will treasure the memories from this stay for a long time.
We booked Gulliver’s Hall for a special occasion as we felt that the property would be unique, luxurious and full of amenities to suit all. Gulliver’s Hall was all of this and more. It is a very special, utterly beautiful property, in a stunning location and we all fell in love with it immediately.
The property was of the highest standard in decor and furnishings. The superb weather enabled us to make the most of the excellent outdoor facilities. We greatly appreciated the personal and warm welcome we had from the owners. The wonderful hamper of local goods was much enjoyed!
The total package of Gulliver´s Hall was amazing. I have to say that it exceeded my expectations and all the other guests too. The location was simply amazing. We were very lucky to have a beautiful week of weather and it truly felt that we were transported to another world while we relaxed in the sun by the pool and watched the children having a fantastic time. The owners were so welcoming and helpful, I could not have wished for a better experience from start to finish.
Hailing from Durham, Houston TX and Genova Italy this group had a spectacular trip. This house and the fantastic owners made sure we had everything we would need. The estate is an impressive blend of history, design and modern amenities. As a chef, I was able to create big meals easily with a plethora of equipment and excellent ranges. What a magical place!! Thanks for making our trip unforgettable.
Wow, what an amazing place! We celebrated our mum´s 90th year in such fantastic style with wonderful surroundings. Absolutely everything was spot on! We´ve really enjoyed everything about this very special house.
The perfect property for a multi-generation get-together! We have just spent the weekend celebrating a 70th birthday with our family from different parts of the country, aged from 2-70 at this amazing property and what a time we had! From the wonderful welcome from the owners who couldn’t do enough for us, the delicious flapjack with 70 on the top - such a special touch, and the perfect hamper of local goods to the outstanding standard of the house and facilities. Thank you.
Just to say thank you once again for your wonderful hospitality and house. It is stunningly appointed with everything we could have wished for and has given me some great interior design ideas! We had the most fantastic weekend and we were all so sad to leave.
Well, what a timely wonderful week we have had! Everything we hoped for and so much more! We cooked together, enjoyed all the wonderful facilities, foraged, baked sourdough bread, laughed, relaxed and generally had the best time. Thank you to the owners for sharing your beautiful home and grounds. Really special.
Our trip to Gulliver´s Hall was amazing. The owners were absolutely incredible hosts. They looked after us so well and were so kind. This was our first weekend away as a whole team together, and this house worked perfectly. We couldn´t fault it, and the fact that there was a pool house to keep the party going, and the main house to relax was amazing. I´d definitely recommend this home for any team building or offices that want to get away with the team.
We loved Gulliver´s Hall and rented it for a corporate retreat. The owner couldn´t have been kinder or more accommodating. I think a lot more companies should look into using her house specifically, but also Unique Homestays, for corporate retreats-it was so perfect! The house is decorated and supplied at an exceptional level. The location was fantastic; walking distance from a cute town, beautiful and expansive property, pizza oven, multiple rooms to have meetings, and plenty of space for everyone to spread out and have their own space.
We have stayed in many lovely houses over the years but yours is truly special for so many reasons. It works so well for a large group and you have taken such care in perfecting every aspect of decorating and outfitting this extraordinary home.
Thank you for sharing the beautiful Gulliver´s Hall with us over our wedding weekend. We had five generations- usually scattered across three countries all under one roof and it couldn´t have been more special. You went above and beyond when it came to caterers, flowers and babysitters (to name just a few things!) Looking forward to future visits now that we know about you.
Had the most incredible stay in this gorgeous house, I felt like royalty sleeping in the amazing four poster bed. Starting the day with a swim and hot tub before making breakfast in the wonderful kitchen is really special. The surroundings are so beautiful and we even saw a deer on the lawn one afternoon! The huge dining table means everyone can sit together, this property really does have everything!
Well what can I say? Gulliver´s Hall is just superb. I think I spent most of my time by the pool, hot tub and pool house. It was like visiting the spa each day, especially with the sauna and steam room. The bedrooms were full of luxury and the quiet surroundings meant I got a good nights sleep! Bottles of wine and a pizza oven meant good times with good people. Memories I shall treasure forever, so thank you so much for a lovely stay!
Wow! Wow! Wow! What an incredible place to spend a week celebrating with family and friends. There are far too many wonderful things to mention each individually, but this home ticks every single box. Thank you to the owners for all your hard work and hospitality. We all feel extremely privileged to have stayed here and have made memories to last a lifetime.
Thank you to the owners for allowing us into your lovely home. So enjoyable and relaxing. The swimming pool and tennis court were in use a lot of the time. There is so much to enjoy and take in. A beautiful place to be inside and outside and something for every age.
Thank you for creating an amazing place, a perfect venue and setting for such a special occasion. A brilliant weekend enjoyed by all of our family and friends, helped by the glorious weather this weekend. I am sure we will be back!
Thank you so very much to the owners, your home is spectacular. Every small detail was noticed and appreciated. This weekend was wonderful, from tennis, swimming races, jacuzzi time and champagne in the evening sun, to fitting 18 family members around the kitchen table and dancing into the early hours. Needless to say, the gloriously comfortable beds were needed! Thank you again, we will be back (not only for your delicious flapjack!)
Annual birthday weekend just went up a notch! Wonderfully decorated throughout, beautiful place and so much joy in the fabrics and wallpapers. Love the pool house and spa area. An amazing stay, thank you.
What a fabulous place to celebrate in excellent surroundings with awesome views. There is so much to do here, something for everyone, such an amazing place. Thank you for making our stay very special. You have made a remarkable job of making a great place to create amazing memories.
First and foremost- WOW! What a beautifully appointed home! We don´t want to leave! In spite of the rainy weather we have enjoyed hikes and trails, a walk to the Wool Pack Inn for a cosy lunch , and lots and lots of cooking and feasting in this fabulous kitchen! We have made beautiful memories this Christmas with much to celebrate including an engagement and two expectant mothers!
Unique extras
From private chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and adrenalin-fuelled retreats, once you’ve booked your stay our house book will introduce you to our owner-recommended suppliers to create a truly bespoke, memorable escape.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Gulliver´s Hall 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.
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The 10 most stylish villas
House & Garden
April 2022The best villas for groups
House & Garden
March 2022At one with nature
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024Healing waters
Condé Nast Traveller
September 202425 of the UK´s best lakeside stays
The Times
September 2024Highland fling
25 Beautiful Homes
September 202429 of the best beach retreats in the UK
The Times
September 2024The best last-minute breaks for summer
The Telegraph
August 2024
Collections > Holiday homes 2-3 hours from London > UK > Gloucestershire > Stroud > Gulliver´s Hall
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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.