Lymes Barn

Get everyone together to celebrate a special occasion at this beautiful barn sitting in the tranquil Staffordshire countryside, just 5 miles outside Newcastle-under-Lyme. Sleeping 12 people across six bedrooms – with room for two more on a sofa bed – it's ideal for large families or groups who are in search of a spacious rural retreat.

Set off to explore the gardens and maze at Trentham (4.5 miles), or to Apedale Country Park (4.5 miles) to wander down its woodland trails and let the kids have fun in the adventure play area. Further afield, the Peak District National Park (17.5 miles) rewards walkers with dramatic views over the open moorlands, while Alton Towers (19.5 miles) promises an unforgettable day out for the kids.

Step through your cottage’s grand arched door, and you’ll find yourself in a smart entrance hall, where rooms open off to either side. At the heart of the barn, there’s a huge open-plan kitchen and dining room – the sociable hub of the home.

There’s a central island with breakfast-bar stools and a big dining table, as well as patio doors that open out onto garden decking. Off this space, you’ll also find a games area that promises to keep everyone entertained with its pool table and air hockey game.

Head upstairs and you’ll find a formal dining room – the perfect place for a celebratory dinner – which leads through grand arched doorways to a choice of living spaces: a formal lounge, a cosy reading nook, and another games room/lounge stocked with family favourites. Down a spiral staircase, you’ll find a private gym that opens straight onto the garden.

Six double bedrooms are spread across both floors. Two smart family bathrooms – one with a bath and one with a bath and shower – complete the layout.