If a taste of rural English life is what you crave, this brick barn retreat smack-dab in the rolling countryside more than fits the bill. While we adore the calm and cosy interior, the tranquil location is what really shines here. Though host Gaynor lives on-site, it's utterly peaceful. The view took our breath away, and every inch of this home has been designed with it in mind – whether you're lounging on the cosy sofa with the French doors wide open or washing up in the kitchen, you can admire the idyllic Staffordshire scenery. Begin your morning with a cup of tea on the terrace – Gaynor leaves milk and biscuits for you to snack on – then don your walking shoes and head out for a ramble on one of the many walking paths in the area. After a day in the fresh air, reward yourself with a pint and hearty meal from the pub down the road, or if you're in the mood to cook, rustle up dinner in the modern kitchen. For a change of pace, Lichfield's charming array of shops, cafes and restaurants is just twenty minutes away, while adrenaline junkies will love Alton Towers, only a thirty-five-minute drive. No matter what you get up to, we recommend finishing off the evening with a glass of wine out in the garden, soaking up the last of the day's sunshine.

Home truths:
*This home is a self-contained annexe – though it’s completely private, the hosts do live on-site and can be as hands-on (or off) as you need
*This is in a stunning rural location, so you’ll definitely need a car here to get around – there’s plenty of parking in the driveway
*This home is ideal for couples seeking a restful retreat in a delightful village
*Due to the home's location, the WiFi signal can be poor