Looking for somewhere to hire for a sizeable gathering of family and friends? There are some really special houses available across the county that are big on style as well as space, as Andrea Cowan discovers
Sleeps 14
This recently restored Grade II* Listed Elizabethan Manor House is nestled at the foot of the Quantock Hills on the Cothelstone Estate.
There are seven bedrooms, of which four are ensuite. Both the elegant drawing room and grand dining hall, which has been at the heart of the house for over 500 years, have space for all 14 guests to gather, whilst a billiard room, with its own bar, is the perfect place for partying the night away.
cothelstonemanor.com
Sleeps 14
For something a little different, this stylish house in Portishead has breathtaking, panoramic views of the Severn estuary.
There are plenty of spots to make the most of the dramatic sea views. Some bedrooms have balconies, and there are various social spaces with huge floor-to-ceiling windows. When it comes to mealtimes, all 14 guests can sit together in the stylish conservatory.
A huge plus for inter-generational get-togethers, this house is wheelchair accessible, courtesy of an internal lift.
groupaccommodation.com
Sleeps 19
Set in magical moorland surroundings within the Exmoor Dark Sky Reserve, this former Edwardian hunting lodge blends modern comfort with country charm.
There are seven bedrooms and bathrooms, and a fun dormitory-style attic space for five children. The party can get together for celebratory meals in the spacious open-plan dining area, or weather permitting, there is an outdoor kitchen and terrace from which to enjoy the night sky, along with an impressive 12-person hot tub.
moorrooms.co.uk
Sleeps 22
Tatham House is surrounded by three acres of beautiful grounds and orchard, complete with an all-weather tennis court.
Inside, there are 10 ensuite bedrooms, a high spec open-plan kitchen and dining room which includes a super large table for everyone to sit in comfort.
On the lower ground floor is a fabulous social space with table tennis, pool table, bar billiards and a cinema room. The house also boasts an indoor swimming pool. Something for everyone.
thebighouseco.com
Sleeps 22
This former rectory sits in 17 acres of gardens and woodland and has its own small lake. If the weather permits, the grounds include a heated pool, sauna, hot tub, hard tennis court, croquet lawn and football pitch.
Entertainment continues inside with reception rooms a plenty offering both snooker and table tennis, and an atmospheric cinema room. Next to the kitchen is a large orangery for dining, with French doors into the garden.
thebighouseco.com
Sleeps 24
This grand Grade II listed Georgian manor house and landscaped gardens has so much to offer including an outdoor pool, hot tub, al fresco dining area, children’s playground and treehouse.
Set over three floors, the accommodation inside is just as considered. There is a drawing room with a piano, and a large dining room full of atmosphere with a long banquet table and log burner atmosphere. There is even a fully equipped gym and games room.
themanorholcombe.co.uk
Sleeps 31
Set in four acres, this characterful house was built by Thomas Fox in 1797 next to his textile mill, to house his family of 13 children.
There are 11 bedrooms with an additional five available in the adjacent Stables. A huge bonus is the formal dining room which can comfortably seat all 31 guests. Meanwhile, an elegant drawing room, games room, party room and smaller cosy living room provide plenty of options for keeping everyone entertained.
thebighouseco.com
