The Gates

Chippenham, Wiltshire

Step back in time and enjoy all the charm of The Gates and the village of Castle Combe, nestled in the Cotswold Valley. Situated in a conservation area, this picturesque and historic village has remained almost unchanged since the 15th century; with no street lights or television aerials to detract from the village's historic charm. All the buildings are listed and the atmosphere is absolutely breath-taking.

Enter into the cosy sitting room with its exposed beams, feature inglenook fireplace with a wood burning stove, and plenty of surrounding seating to relax and enjoy it. The large dining kitchen is fully equipped with a double Belfast sink and plenty of appliances and utensils for a family self-catering holiday. A useful cloakroom is situated in the newer part of the property and a winding staircase leads up to the bedrooms. Bedroom one is simply beautiful, and very romantic, with a king-size bed under a gothic window (originally from the church) and a free-standing roll-top bath next to the bed. Bedroom two is equally inviting, with a French double bed and a pretty en-suite shower room. The third bedroom is a twin room with antique single beds and more exposed beams. A modern family shower room completes the accommodation.

The position of The Gates could not be better; opposite the centrepiece of the village, the Medieval Market Cross, and on the edge of the village churchyard with its attractive clock tower. The gable wall in the property features a Gothic window originally from the church. Some parts of the house date back to Medieval times, and most of the roof timbers are over 400 years old. In 2003 this holiday retreat was sadly devastated by fire, however the building has been beautifully and sympathetically restored, retaining all the character of the original structure yet offering 21st century comfort with excellent facilities.

Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner at the local pub, the thatched Castle Inn, within easy walking distance of The Gates. When you've wandered the pretty streets of Castle Combe, maybe drive to National Trust's Lacock (less than 10 miles away) where again, little has changed and the pretty streets and houses have been preserved for over 200 years. Cosmopolitan Bath and Bristol are just a short drive away, each offering a fantastic array of shops, restaurants, theatres and bars.

• Baby Friendly
• Pub Nearby