Shepherds Parlour

Whether it's a romantic winter retreat or summer escape The Shepherds Parlour offers guests an all year getaway in the heart of the Somerset countryside, just short drive from the coast. This exquisite bolthole may be diminutive but has been impeccably-styled elevating the 'glamping' concept to a whole new level.

The Parlour is a stylish black corrugated hut with wooden steps which take guests through double doors directly into the kitchen area of the studio-style suite. Dark wooden tongue and groove panels are contrasted by white metro tilling which sits beside a quality wooden counter top and deep blue cupboards. A window provides views for cooks, who will love this small but perfectly kitted-out workspace. Wooden shelves carry glassware, tableware and condiments, while attractive brass shelving houses the gin bar, complete with crystal tumblers for those late night tipples. The wooden counter top leads into a convenient breakfast bar with handsome brass legged, leather-seated barstools. It's the perfect spot for morning coffee or a late supper. A gas fire nestles against a shabby-chic wooden mantelpiece, keeping visitors cosy on chilly winter nights.

Through to the sleeping area and the tongue and groove panelling continues across to the far wall where it is stylishly interrupted by a stunning feature wall. A large, comfy double bed lies snug against the wall and at the foot of the bed there is a window offering lovely views out towards the lake. Bespoke wooden cupboards under the bed provide plenty of storage space for guests to stash their belongings. The parlour has a bijoux but opulent bathroom with decorative tiles adorning the walls of the large walk-in shower.

Alternatively, guests can enjoy a relaxing soak in the outdoor bath. Sitting on a large deck area, the wooden panelled tub is wood fired, giving guests steaming hot baths whether first thing in the morning, watching the mist rise off the lake or late at night under the clear, night sky. The deck area makes the perfect place to relax, there is a large dining table and benches and a cute outdoor lounge which houses comfy outdoor furniture and is lit by streams of pretty fairy lights giving every evening a magical ambience. In addition to the deck, the parlour has its own outdoor pizza oven and seating area.

Located in the quintessentially English countryside, the parlour is a pebble's through from lovely Lyme Regis where visitors can enjoy coastal walks, fossil spotting or a sea dip. Lyme is also home to Hix Oyster and Fish House, which is worth a visit. Indeed, foodies are spoilt for choice with great food just one mile away at The Lord Poullett Arms, Soulshine cafe at Bridport and the River Cafe Canteen in Axminster.