Get together! The very best UK holiday homes for that long-awaited gathering
Lockdown restrictions are easing, paving the way to plan big group get-togethers at long last.
While some may wish to re-unite somewhere fabulously sun-drenched, with so much uncertainty (and cost) still surrounding overseas travel, others are keen to re-group with friends and family on home turf - where it may be much more likely to go ahead.
From chocolate box cottages to historic manor houses and modern, city mansions there has never been a better time to grab your favourite people and get together in one big British house.
Whether you’re celebrating a missed milestone birthday or have been dreaming of a big family reunion, the the party planners at Sugar & Rind have put together their pick of the best party pads fit for a sophisticated soirée.
“After being separated from our loved ones for so long, we’re excited to bringing people together to celebrate missed birthdays, anniversaries and all the other get-togethers that have been sacrificed over the last year," explains Sugar & Rind founder Philly Mackinnon.
So if you're looking for a sprawling country home or a party pad by the sea, these luxury home-stays, sleeping 12 or more people, could offer the perfect location to get your gang together again for a shindig.
While availability for the height of summer may be limited, all are still available to book for various dates throughout 2021.
All you need to do now is decide on the guest list.
Read more: The Great British Bucket List: Brighton
The best party houses to rent right now
Henry’s Townhouse, Marylebone
This four-storey townhouse in London’s Marylebone was once the home of Jane Austen’s favourite brother, and a place she would visit often.
Recently restored to its former glory, this Georgian gem briefly opened as a hotel during lockdown but is now exclusively available for private hire, and features seven decadent bedrooms for guests to stay over. Host a dinner party in Monsieur Halavant’s Pantry, take afternoon tea in Jane’s Sitting Room or enjoy evening aperitifs in the Carriage Snug or Terrace.
Details: Sleeps up to 14. Day guests allowed with prior permission. Children allowed. No pets. From £4,950 a night.
Book: henrystownhouse.co.uk
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Ariabelle, West Sussex
This lavish country home set in 40 acres of enchanting woodland in the South Downs National Park is the ultimate luxury self-catering experience.
Just one hour from London, the 10-bed property comes with a hot tub, sauna, steam room, tennis courts, gym and its very own bar - but the real showstopper at Ariabelle is the palatial indoor heated swimming pool.
Did somebody say pool party?
Details: Sleeps 14, day hire also available. Children allowed. Dog friendly. From £12,000 for a short break.
Book: uniquehomestays.com
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Captain’s House, Osea Island
Escape to Essex’s answer to the Hamptons with a stay at The Captain’s House on Osea Island. This huge coastal pad, which is briefly cut off by the tide, has nine luxury bedrooms, some of which have four poster beds and roll-top baths. The dining table can seat up to 30 so there is no excuse not to serve up a party feast.
Splash around in the heated swimming pool, sit on the terrace with a glass of something relaxing and watch the boats go by, or take the private stairs down to the beach below in warmer months.
Details: Sleeps 22. Children allowed. Dog friendly. From £9,000 for a three-night weekend.
Book: kateandtoms.com
Pelham House, Hertfordshire
This grand countryside retreat is set in four acres of private grounds and has seven bedrooms and six reception rooms, including a large dining table, which means there is plenty of space for entertaining.
The centrepiece of the property, however, is the indoor heated pool complex – which comes with a sauna, its own snug room and a 60 inch TV overlooking the pool, perfect for the group watching of big sporting events.
There is also a cinema room, games room and trampoline to keep kids occupied. If you’re visiting in summer, the French doors open onto a roofed brick barbecue area and outdoor bar.
Details: Sleeps 14. Children allowed. No pets. From £7,695 for 7 nights. Book: thewowhousecompany.com
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Wilfred Manor, Cotswolds
This Grade I listed mansion can be found in Painswick in the heart of the Cotswolds - and is a house with a royal history, with King Charles taking refuge there during the siege of Gloucester in 1643.
Now, the regally restored manor has one of its eight luxury bedrooms named after him, which comes with a super king size bed and en-suite.
Enjoy drinks near the roaring fireplace in the Great Room, host a fabulous dinner party around the huge 18- seater table, or head to the Snooker Room which has its own bar for a night cap.
Party extras include an outdoor pool and jacuzzi, which can be covered if the British weather strikes.
Details: Sleeps up to 22. Children allowed. No pets. From £12,015 for a 7-night stay. Book: oliverstravels.com
