Five of the best big sleepers

Experiencing how 'the other half live' even if it's only for a weekend...

Spring is a great time to start thinking about summer getaways but with so much beautiful countryside in the UK, provided we get a bit of sun, there's no need to leave our lovely island. A great weekend away might just require a gang of friends and a big house. With the buying power of many it's possible to experience 'how the other half live' by renting a gorgeous mansion for the weekend.

The Wow House Company has some unbelievable properties available for short term stays all over the UK. They make the perfect venue for big birthday bashes and who could possibly resist a murder mystery party in one of these swanky pads, even if it does mean dressing up as Colonel Mustard for the night?!

We've picked five of the best 'big sleepers', each of which accomodate over 10 people.

1. Mayfield House, High Weald of East Sussex

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A glorious modern take on the Palladian manor, Mayfield House has seven bedrooms, an indoor swimming pool, steam room, cinema room, billiard room and gym. Living like a millionaire footballer never felt so good!

A photo of Mayfield House, High Weald of East Sussex taken from the outside in the garden

(Image credit: TBC)

A white living room with white sofas, ornaments and statues on side tables and an open fire

(Image credit: TBC)

2. The Old Rectory, Devon

An impressive Victorian property located on the edge of a quiet north Devonshire village, the Old Rectory boasts breathtaking views over a green rolling valley, an outdoor pool, tennis court, snooker room and accomodation for 24 adults and four children.

The Old Rectory, North Devon

(Image credit: TBC)

a bedroom with large wooden bed with cushiions on and blue patterned wallpaper and a bedside table

(Image credit: TBC)

3. Orchard House, Tyringham near London

Orchard House is a classic Edwardian house offering total seclusion, yet within easy reach of London. Its wow factors includean indoor pool, sauna, tennis court and jacuzzi. The house can sleep up to 10 guests in double bedrooms and the property is furnished with fine antiques throughout. You can even rent your own staff for that truly Downton experience.

Orchard House Tyringham near London exterior shot with gardens in the foreground

(Image credit: TBC)

A country living room with comfy sofas, coffee table and real log fire

(Image credit: TBC)

4. Painswick Manor, Cotswolds

Take a step back in time in this luxury Grade I listed manor house whose previous guests include King Charles I during the 1643 Siege of Gloucester, among others. The property can sleep up to 28 guests and has an outdoor swimming pool, hot tub and billiard room.

Painswick Manor exterior with garden

(Image credit: TBC)

Paniswick Manor Kitchen with large dining table

(Image credit: TBC)

5. Clarendon Manor, Puddletown, Dorset

Dorset is apparently the hot new haunt of many celebs, so jump on the band-wagon by renting this gargantuan property. Clarendon Manor has room for up to 24 guests and is only a 20-minute drive away from the Jurassic Coast, famous for its beaches, cliffs and coves.

Clarendon House exterior

(Image credit: TBC)

Clarenden House living room with mustard walls, sofas and log fire

(Image credit: TBC)
Contributor

Tamara was Ideal Home's Digital Editor before joining the Woman & Home team in 2022. She has spent the last 15 years working with the style teams at Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, both now at Future PLC. It’s with these award wining interiors teams that she's honed her skills and passion for shopping, styling and writing. Tamara is always ahead of the curve when it comes to interiors trends – and is great at seeking out designer dupes on the high street.