Muse
Crowcombe, The Quantock Hills, Somerset, UK
Wrapped in Somerset's countryside, Muse is a place where art and landscape converge. Days at this luxury self-catering home unfold in harmony with nature's own cyclical exhibitions, inviting you to walk through the Quantock’s wildflower-strewn fields in summer, soak in a fireside copper bath as leaves fall, or capture snow-dusted scenery in a painting of your own.
Introduction
Muse began life as a modest outbuilding to an 18th-century farmhouse. Left neglected, it might have been lost entirely had a Swedish-English couple not spotted the farmstead’s potential at auction and restored its barns and byres with the help of local craftsmen. Today, its light-filled and contemporary interiors create a studio-like space that's adorned with art. Beyond, the pastoral landscape presents its own canvas with a seasonally shifting colour palette. This private hideaway is an idyll for couples or those seeking a solo escape, while larger groups can book Aria, a homestay for six on the same estate yet hidden by trees.
Inside
Expansive arched windows flood this single-storey home with sunlight and frame views of verdant greenery, dissolving the boundary between indoors and out, art and life. The main kitchen-living space, with its whitewashed walls, clean lines and overhead skylights, carries the bright, airy calm of an artist’s studio. Throughout, modern and historic artworks sit in dialogue with one another; in the bedroom, a vast Stuart portrait delivers a dramatic chiaroscuro counterpoint to the otherwise serene palette of creams and ochres. The gallery-like atmosphere at Muse is perhaps unsurprising given the owners’ have made careers of sculpting and art.
Outside
Set amidst 45 acres of countryside, a gentle stroll will unveil sun-dappled meadows, free-roaming geese and chickens, fruit trees, and a meandering river where otters often come to bathe. You may also hear the nostalgic whistle of passing steam locomotives drifting across the landscape. Just beyond, the rolling Quantock Hills invite exploration: in summer, their slopes are adorned with vibrant heather, while autumn brings a tapestry of russet bracken and golden gorse. After a day spent in the great outdoors, a deep copper bathtub in a wooden cabin beside the house invites languid soaks beside a crackling woodburner.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 2 guests
From £1,295 per week, £995 per short break - Bedrooms and bathroomsOne double bedroom with a king-size bed and en suite with a WC and rainfall shower.
View bedrooms - PetsSorry, no pets allowed
- Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabes-in-arms are welcome.
- PracticalitiesThere is private parking for two cars. Please note, the road to the property is narrow and rough; please be advised if driving low-slung cars. The owners live in the main farmhouse over the river, but will not disturb your stay. The open-plan kitchen diner features a Bosch electric oven and four-ring induction hob, slimline dishwasher, undermount fridge with ice box, microwave, Aarke sparkling water dispenser and Krups pod coffee machine with Nespresso milk frother. A separate utility room houses the washing machine and tumble dryer.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper with local and seasonal produce, Sonos speaker, Smart TV, WiFi internet, gas barbecue, luxury bed linen, board gamesHouse book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringWhether you're looking for a fully catered stay or a one-off meal for a special occasion, discover your bespoke catering options.
Explore private dining - Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
The Quantock Hills
Exposed summits with far-reaching views across Exmoor and into Devon, deep wooded valleys and undulating farmland leading to pretty chocolate box villages; the Quantock Hills AONB is an outdoor lovers delight on the northern coast of Somerset.
Getting there
- On the Map Muse sits on the western edge of the Quantock Hills AONB, Somerset.
- By Car Muse is approximately three and a half hours drive from London, and an hour and a half from Bristol.
- By Train Taunton train station is around half an hour's drive away from the house, with regular routes to London, which have a journey time of around two hours.
- By Air Exeter Airport is an hour's drive away, while Bristol Airport is around an hour and 15 minutes. Both have car hire available in advance. Helicopters are welcome to land on the grounds of Muse.
From the owner
“In 2006 we bought this derelict farm in a valley at the foot of the Quantocks surrounded by 50 acres of untouched, rolling fields. A real time capsule in Somerset, here we found a quiet escape from London living.”
We are a Swedish-come-English couple living in the main farmhouse over the river, who have made careers out of sculpting and art. We heard about the farm estate through word of mouth and wanted a new family home and renovation project in the countryside, away from our home in central London.
After restoring the main farmhouse, we decided to renovate the majority of the outbuildings too, Muse being completed in 2021.
Muse has an exceedingly welcoming vibe. It is a light, bright and joyful place to gather with friends and family. While open and airy, it also allows for privacy and cosiness. There is a secret garden element to the outdoor area that make guests feel as if they are in a wonderland, while still only being a short drive from town and the train station.
Here, we love to stroll the grounds, hike, gather flowers for fresh bouquets, or just relax outside on the patio and read, listening to the sounds of nature all around us. We hope guests find it a place of rest and refuge too.
The de Bendern Simmons Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in The Quantock Hills with an insider's perspective.
To Eat
The Masons Arms, Knowstone
Exposed timber beams, sweeping views of Exmoor National Park, Michelin-starred food and a welcoming pub atmosphere make The Masons Arms a must-visit. Expect the likes of fresh monkfish in prosciutto and local beef fillet.
To See
Tarr Steps, Dulverton
A medieval clapper bridge crossing the River Barle, Tarr Steps is one of Exmoor´s most famous landmarks and is surrounded by enchanting woodland walks. The Tarr Farm Inn, which you’ll pass en route, is an excellent spot for a tipple too.
To Do
West Somerset Railway
Journey on a traditional steam train along the coast, through Exmoor National Park and along the boundaries of the Quantock Hills National Landscape. Hop on at Crowcombe Heathfield, one and a half miles from the house.
To Do
Porlock Weir
Porlock is a historic harbour on Exmoor’s coast and a great spot for fresh seafood, including the famous Porlock Bay oysters. Sit outside the restaurant in the sun and enjoy a tipple, or explore the art galleries and independent shops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you're curious about pet policies, the nearest walkable pubs, or wild swimming spots, we have the answers to common property-specific queries here. For everything else, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which 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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Spring travel news
British Travel Journal
March 2026Demand for Easter staycations soars
The Times
March 2026Better with friends
ELLE
March 2026The 26 cosiest cottages in Britain
Daily Mail
March 2026Meeting the brief
Ireland´s Homes Interiors & Living
March 2026Britain is in bloom!
The Times
March 2026The best hideaways with outdoor baths
British Travel Journal
March 2026The UK’s most indulgent rock’n’roll holiday rental
The Times
March 2026
Collections > May half term breaks > UK > Somerset > Crowcombe > Muse
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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.
