Rural Retreats was founded in 1985 with the aim of making the countryside more accessible for holidaymakers and giving them the best possible choice of holiday homes across the UK. Rural Retreats’ continuing success is based on excellent local knowledge and painstaking research, together with a flair for finding delightful and unusual properties. All of this has enabled us to build a portfolio of over 450 exceptionally fine holiday homes in stunningly beautiful locations, all available for you to rent. When you are looking for your own perfect holiday home, our experienced and helpful staff can help to point you to the property of your dreams. Whatever you want to ask about any of our properties, there will be someone on our staff who knows the cottage or apartment at first hand.

Bokes Barn is a contemporary barn conversion overlooking 80 acres of vineyards, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The large, open-plan living area creates a feeling of space and light, with doors opening out onto the generous patio, with glorious views and comfortable seating.

Information correct at time of writing. With its magnificent cathedral, cobbled streets and local markets, Canterbury is an obvious place to start exploring this special part of the world. You might find some surprises too – the Canterbury Tales gives you the chance to walk alongside Chaucer’s pilgrims and hear their stories. If you’re green-fingered, you’re in for a treat. The gardens at Sissinghurst Castle are world famous, and one of the most beautiful spots is the White Garden. On the Kent and Sussex border, Pashley Manor Gardens are also well worth a visit, with 11 acres of beautiful borders overflowing with colour. Explore Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest. With miles of family cycling and mountain-biking, walking, and running, as well as Go Ape tree top adventure, and an adventure play trail. Bodiam Castle is what exactly castles are meant to look like, with a moat, drawbridge and battlements. Yet Scotney Castle may be even more picturesque, with its own moat and romantic garden, all set in a secluded wooded estate. If you enjoy a historic day out, Battle Abbey offers you nearly 1,000 years of history in one place. Stand on the site where William the...