Fairview - Dunster

Fairview is a medieval hall house in the village of Dunster, and Channel 4's Time Team dated it to 1371. It sleeps 8 in four bedrooms, all on the first floor up cottage-style stairs: two king-size bedrooms, a double and a twin. One of the kings has an en-suite shower room and is reached up one step. The family bathroom, with a freestanding bath, a separate shower and a WC, is approached by three steep steps, and there is also a family shower room.

Downstairs, the lounge has wooden panelling and a wood burner set into an original fireplace, with an initial basket of logs supplied. A snug with its own Smart TV and DVD player suits the children. Two steps lead up to the dining room and two more to the kitchen, which has flagstone floors, an Esse gas range cooker, an electric oven with an induction hob, a dishwasher and a microwave. The washing machine is in a utility area upstairs, opposite the family bathroom. A travel cot and highchair are available, and a stairgate is fitted at the top of the staircase with a door at the bottom.

Outside, a cobbled courtyard leads off the kitchen, with seating and a charcoal barbecue. The original stable keeps bikes and outdoor equipment under cover. Steep steps climb from the courtyard to a tiered, sloping garden with seating and views over Dunster. Parking is on the street or in public car parks, where local charges apply. Shops, tea rooms, pubs and restaurants are all within half a mile, and the beach is 2 miles away.

Two dogs are allowed, with additional charges possible. Expect cottage-style stairs and sloping ceilings in the master en-suite bedroom and the family bathroom. It suits a family or two couples who like an old building and can manage steps.