The best Airbnbs in Somerset for the ultimate rural holiday

Location: Kingsbury Episcopi, Langport

Tucked away in peak dreamy Somerset countryside, this painstakingly handbuilt cabin is the perfect semi-off grid getaway. You’d never know you were essentially down the back of someone’s garden (well, down the back of someone’s orchard) when ensconced in this surprisingly spacious and ultra romantic two bedroom retreat. Douglas fir cladding, hand-woven hazel panels, an oak and maple kitchen and a locally-fabricated fire pit all add to its artisan energy. There are places in the cabin where you can get the internet if you wiggle your phone about high enough – but switching off is definitely the recommended approach. P.S. There’s a digital radio but no TV. But don’t worry, the host provides Banangrams.

Time Out says: 'If you fancy an evening out, the charming Wyndham Arms is a two-minute walk away, so you don’t need to worry about driving back home (though you might need to make sure your wellies are to hand if it’s been a soggy day). There’s also a handbook with a number of local walks that range from 45 minutes to over an hour, if you’re feeling intrepid.’

Sleeps: Five guests. Two bedrooms

Price: From £180 per night

Location: Mendip Hills, a 10-minute drive to Wells

Well, well, well what’s the deal with Wells anyway? It’s one of the smallest cities in the UK, and is a hit with visitors. Once you see its stunning medieval architecture and seriously cute pubs, you’ll understand why. So this Airbnb gives you the perfect mix of relaxing in the countryside and exploring Wells. Perched high on a working smallholding in the Mendip Hills, this light-filled lodge delivers sweeping vistas. Ideal for small families or friends travelling with a dog, the property features direct access to scenic footpaths right from the front door, plus a private, fully fenced garden for off-lead relaxation. Kids and animal lovers can spot resident sheep, ponies, goats, and ducks in the surrounding fields, while active groups can cycle the Somerset Levels or explore nearby Stockhill Woods.

Time Out tip: Drive 10 minutes to visit the iconic Bishop’s Palace in Wells, then grab lunch at the historic dog-friendly restaurant and wine bar The Pessoir

Sleeps: Four people. Two bedrooms

Price: From £160 per night

➡️ Read more about the best things to do in Wells

Location: Huish Episcopi

Everybody loves a shepherd hut. You’re immersed in nature, but not quite as extremely as glamping. There’s still somehwere you can cook and get some proper shut eye, but its a bit more adventurous — and tonnes more Instagrammable — than staying in a traditional house. Tucked away on a quiet working farm in Huish Episcopi, this quaint shepherd’s hut is a dreamy weekend sanctuary built for two. Wake up to views across an apple orchard before soaking in your private outdoor hot tub under the stars. For a classic Somerset afternoon, stroll along the river directly into Langport for fresh bakery treats, or walk five minutes down the path to Eli’s Rose & Crown, a legendary local pub renowned for live music and regional ciders.

Time Out tip: You can hire a paddleboard to explore the peaceful River Parrett

Sleeps: Two people. One bedroom

Price: From £170 per night

Location: Hornblotton near Castle Cary

Perfect for a family or friends escape to the countryside, this Grade II listed seventeenth-century farmhouse overlooks an orchard and provides easy access to beautiful unspoiled walks right from the back door. You’ll be staying in an annex attached to the home, with two comfortable bedrooms and an open-plan living, dining and kitchen area. Feel free to use the tennis courts on the grounds too; just give the hosts a heads-up before you play. If you’re into the Worthy Farm music festival scene (yes, we mean Glastonbury), this spot offers a less muddy but equally enjoyable alternative to camping.

Time Out says: You’ve got a tonne of options within a quick half-hour drive, from Glastonbury Festival to Wells Cathedral

Sleeps: Sleeps four guests. Two bedrooms

Price: From £260 per night

Location: Thorney

Somerset’s rolling hills and ultra cosy pubs are kind of the perfect setting for you and your dog. So pet owners and pooch lovers, we’ve found the ideal dog-friendly Airbnb for you. Set in the rural Somerset countryside of Thorney, which is a short drive to Exmoor National Park and Quantock Hills, this semi-detached cottage offers a romantic retreat designed for two humans and their four-legged companion. Featuring an open-plan living area, a galleried king bedroom, and thoughtful doggy treats upon arrival, it provides all the comforts of home. After a day hiking local trails, unwind in the enclosed three acre lawned grounds while your dog stretches their legs safely off-lead. It won’t break the bank either.

Time Out tip: Pack your walking boots and head out to explore the nearby dog-friendly trails across the Quantock Hills before stopping in for a cider at a local thatched pub

Sleeps: Two people. One bedroom

Price: From £100 per night

Location: Just outside of Wells

If you and your crew want to stay in a home that’s more spa than Airbnb, this beautiful barn, aptly named The Piggery, is a luxurious choice. You’ll have access to a wide range of luxe amenities, including a swimming pool, steam room, sauna, gym and outdoor tennis court, shared with the other people staying on the estate. You can book private sessions for your group through the Airbnb host. If that wasn’t enough, you can admire the 18 acres of bucolic meadows that surrounds this gated community. Inside, there’s an open plan living room and kitchen space, warmed by underfloor heating, and two bedrooms with king sized beds. Plus, you’re well positioned in the Mendip area to explore all the best that Somerset has to offer.

Time Out tip: Pick up some fresh ingredients from the twice weekly farmers’ markets in Wells, or treat yourself to some proper grub at Root Wells 

Sleeps: Five people. Two bedrooms

Price: From £290 per night

Location: Washford

Keen on the idea of full nature immersion, but can't quite bring yourself to go camping? This beautiful and homely safari tent is just the ticket if you’re in need of a cheap stay in Somerset. You’re more likely spot apples than animals, given it’s located within Torre Cider Farm, but that can be fun too! There's a main tent, plus an adjoining tent for children (or childish mates), with a toilet, shower, and compact kitchen. The interiors are far from your flimsy festival tent, boasting gorgeous woodwork carved by a local artist. The orchard itself offers stunning views over the Exmoor National Dark Skies Park, with proximity to the Farmhouse Kitchen and a children’s playground. We’ll drink to that.

Time Out says: You're close to Cleeve Abbey, a medieval monastic site owned by English Heritage as well as the small animal and wildlife park Tropiquaria Zoo

Sleeps: Five people. Two bedrooms

Price: From £120

Location: Weston-super-Mare

This newly-converted, eighteenth-century former coach house has earned its place among Airbnb’s top ten most wish-listed homes during lockdown – and it’s easy to see why. It’s gorgeous! The hot tub and fairy-lit garden are the real highlights, closely followed by the king-size bed, snug lounge room, and well-equipped kitchen. Not to mention, it's a stone’s throw away from the sea and the local restaurants in the town centre. Your stay even comes complete with a locally sourced continental breakfast, super fast WiFi, and the convenience of off-road parking. It really is the perfect spot to relax by the seaside.

Time Out says: Weston is a great spot to explore, with several long sandy beaches, a Grand Pier, the Playhouse Theatre, two golf courses, and a bustling high street

Sleeps: Two guests. One bedroom

Price: From £170 per night

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