This old dairy, set on the Burghley Estate, is a peaceful getaway for large groups and makes a pretty picture for small celebrations. Throughout the restoration of the dairy and its conversion into cottages, an emphasis remained on the history of this building, and plenty of the original features remain to make this a charming and comfortable stay. With two wings, it also grants everyone plenty of space, though the mezzanine bedrooms can only be accessed through several ground-floor rooms, which might not feel the most private. Still, it's a beautiful space, and the estate is within the Capability Brown Parkland, first landscaped in the early 1700s and still as lush and inviting, perfect for walks with the dogs.

Home truths:
*We suggest hiring a car for ease – there's parking space for up to ten cars here.
*A welcome hamper will get you started. If you'd like to stock up on anything, the nearest supermarket for stocking up is a ten-minute drive away.
*There's a ground-floor bedroom and bathroom here. Some of the bedrooms feature a zip and link bed that can be arranged as a double or two single beds upon request. The four mezzanine bedrooms can only be accessed via ground-floor bedrooms, which might not feel entirely private.
*Events may be allowed here – speak to your host.