WILLOWHAYES - Somerset

In its former existence, Willowhayes was a collection of centuries old barns used for storing willow grown for the basket making trade which still continues in this part of Somerset. It has seen a remarkable transformation into a stylish and spacious property which offers luxury holiday accommodation for up to 12 people, with room for 2 more at an extra charge per person. This is the kind of place that's perfect for large group stays any time of year because there's so much to keep everyone smiling come rain or shine - an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room, games room and a children's play area. Come for family holidays and low-key celebrations, private spa breaks, refined hen weekends and self-catering corporate away days.

Willowhayes sits in a peaceful hamlet just outside the village of Stoke St Gregory on the magical Somerset Levels. The county town of Taunton is just a few miles away, and there is easy access to the A358 and M5 motorway (J24). The Somerset Levels are a unique and time-honoured area of the West Country; with a beauty entirely of its own, the region is renowned for its picturesque wetlands and abundance of wildlife. Cross the lane from Willowhayes and walk beside the River Tone to Burrow Mump; climb to the ruined church at the top, admire the far-reaching views and then head back down to the King Alfred Inn for lunch.

You can walk for miles on The Levels but take your binoculars because you never know what you might spot - it's a bird watcher's paradise. There are several very tranquil nature reserves where rare butterflies and dragonflies can be seen; in the winter months you can watch the incredible starling murmurations at Westhay Moor or Ham Wall. Pootle about the narrow lanes and stop off at Bere Cider Company or Wilkins Cider Farm. Explore the ruins of Muchelney Abbey and whilst you're there visit the Priest's House (NT) and pop in the parish church to see the beautiful 17th century painted ceiling with its colourful angels.

Just up the hill is Coates English Willow Centre where you can watch basket weaving demonstrations and stop for cake in the tea room. Spend a morning browsing around Langport and have an amble along the River Parrett, or venture over to Somerton for a look round the antiques centre and lunch at the White Hart.

A little further afield is Glastonbury with its quirky shops and mystic vibe; take in the serenity of the Chalice Well and Glastonbury Abbey, wander up the Tor for a panoramic vista across the landscape. Spend the day in Wells, the smallest city in England, see the majestic Cathedral and the moated 13th century Bishop's Palace. For retail therapy head to Clarks' Village at Street or go to Taunton and tie it in with a family session on the high ropes and low ropes at Vivary Golf and Adventure Centre. If you fancy a day by the sea head over to the Jurassic Coast where you can spuddle in the rockpools and hunt for fossils at Charmouth, or go to Lyme Regis for a mackerel fishing trip and a visit to Dinosaurland Fossil Museum. For days out with the kids take your pick - The Donkey Sanctuary, Haynes Motor Museum, Montacute House and Tropiquaria Wildlife Park are all within easy reach. Happy times await you at Willowhayes, lashings of luxury togetherness you'll never forget.

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