Courtyard Cottage - Minehead

Courtyard Cottage is all on one level and is entered over a single step. The two bedrooms, a double and a twin, are at opposite ends of the building, so it sleeps four, and the one bathroom has a shower over the bath. The Grade II-listed conversion stands in the grounds of a 16th-century manor house at Ellicombe, near Minehead, with Dunster half a mile away.

The living space is one open-plan room combining lounge, kitchen and dining area, with an oak-panelled wall, exposed beams and a Smart TV. The kitchen has an electric hob and oven, a microwave and a fridge with an ice compartment. Wi-Fi covers the cottage, a charcoal barbecue is available, and a highchair, travel cot and stairgate are available. Guests find local tea, coffee, hot chocolate and toiletries on arrival.

A cobbled courtyard outside the door holds a space for one car and a dog wash. From it you reach the shared 2-acre sub-tropical garden, which has a secret garden, a giant chess set, a children's swing and a communal fire pit with logs provided. Views run over the West Somerset Steam Railway and across the Bristol Channel to the Welsh coast. The paddock has goats, sheep and a miniature Shetland pony. Swimmers have the shared heated pool in its own walled area, open 10am to 6pm from May to September and by appointment for cold-water swimming from October to April. Steps lead into the shallow end, with no ladder or handrail. A sauna and ice bath nearby need separate booking with the homeowner.

Two dogs can stay, with additional charges possible, and a crate, bowls, towels and treats are on hand. Shops are a mile away and the beach 1.5 miles. Best for a family of four, or two couples, who want a single-storey cottage and a garden to share.