At A Glance
Everything you need to make the most of a stay at The Cottage — walks, restaurants, markets, and the rainy-day alternatives I send every guest.
- Pack walking boots; Brampton Valley Way starts nearby
- Market Harborough markets Tue/Fri/Sat for local food
- Bulls Head Clipston a 5-min walk for pub dinners
- National Space Centre Leicester (40 min) for rainy days
- Smart locks mean arriving at any time is easy
Getting the most out of your stay at The Cottage starts before you even arrive. Here are the tips and recommendations I share with every guest.
Staying nearby? The Cottage is a converted Victorian dovecote sleeping up to 4. Super king bed, private dining deck, and countryside views. From £119/night.
Check Availability →Pack Walking Boots
The countryside around Clipston is beautiful, and the Brampton Valley Way starts just minutes from the estate. Even a short walk after breakfast makes the day feel different.
The Jurassic Way also passes close by for longer routes. You can walk straight out of The Cottage and be on a trail within minutes.
Stock Up in Market Harborough
Market Harborough is 10 minutes away and has a great selection of independent food shops, a weekly market, and cafes. Pick up fresh bread, local cheese, and something for the BBQ.
The Cottage kitchen has everything you need to cook properly, from the espresso machine to a fully equipped hob and oven.
Try the Bulls Head
The Bulls Head pub in Clipston is right on your doorstep. It is a proper country pub with good food and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for a low-effort evening out when you do not feel like cooking.
A Note from Susan
“I always send my guests a welcome guide with my personal recommendations. The best walks, the restaurants I actually go to, the things to do on a rainy day. That personal touch is what makes the difference between a good stay and one you remember.”
— Susan, Founder of Espais Roca
Use the Private Terrace
The dining deck at The Cottage is one of its best features. On a warm evening, light the gas BBQ, pour a glass of wine, and enjoy the view over the rolling hills. It is the kind of evening you remember.
The terrace faces west, so you get beautiful sunsets. Bring a blanket for later in the evening when it cools down.
Explore Beyond Clipston
Foxton Locks is 15 minutes away and one of the most interesting canal sites in England. Kelmarsh Hall and Brixworth Country Park are both within 25 minutes. Leicester and Northampton are easy day trips for museums, shopping, and restaurants.
“Such a lovely cottage. The location is excellent, very peaceful. The cottage is exquisite, excellent facilities, amazing design and furnishings. Would definitely return.”
— Phil, via Airbnb
Make the Most of Smart Features
The Cottage has smart locks, so there is no key handover. Just arrive and let yourself in. The fibre broadband is fast, Netflix is set up on the smart TV, and the Amazon Echo plays unlimited music.
Ask Alexa for a morning alarm or the weather forecast. The EV charger is available if you drive electric.
Slow Down
This is the most important tip. The Cottage is designed for slowing down. The Hypnos bed, the underfloor heating, the espresso machine in the morning, the countryside silence.
You do not need to fill every hour. Some of the best stays are the ones where you do the least.
Rainy Day Ideas
If the weather turns, the National Space Centre in Leicester is a brilliant indoor day out. The King Richard III Visitor Centre is fascinating. Or stay in, put a film on, and enjoy the cosiness. The Cottage was built for exactly that.
Your Romantic Countryside Retreat
The Cottage, a converted Victorian dovecote on the 14 Acres estate. Perfect for couples and small families.
Book The Cottage
A romantic Victorian dovecote conversion with a super king bed, private dining deck, and rolling countryside views. Part of the 14 Acres estate in Clipston. From £119/night.
Check AvailabilityFrequently Asked Questions
How many people does The Cottage sleep?
The Cottage sleeps up to 4 guests: a super king bed in the main bedroom and a sofa bed in the living area. Perfect for a couple, two couples travelling together, or a small family.
How far is The Cottage from Market Harborough?
Market Harborough town centre is about 10 minutes by car from The Cottage in Clipston. The town has markets on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, plus independent shops and good restaurants.
Can I bring a dog?
The Cottage is not currently dog-friendly. The Loft on the same 14 Acres estate is dog-friendly, so if you are travelling with a dog, ask Susan about staying there or booking both properties together.
Is there parking at The Cottage?
Yes, there is private parking on the 14 Acres estate. An EV charger is also available for guests driving electric vehicles.
Can I book The Cottage alongside other properties?
Yes. The Cottage (sleeps 4), The Loft (sleeps 6), and The Barn (sleeps 8) are all on the same 14 Acres estate and can be booked together for up to 18 guests. Popular for weddings, milestone birthdays, and family reunions.
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in from 4pm, check-out by 10am. Smart locks mean there is no key handover — you arrive whenever suits and let yourself in with a code.