Sheafhayne Manor

This former medieval hall, once part of the historic Yarcombe Estate, stands a mile from the village of Yarcombe and sleeps up to 24 guests across eleven individually named bedrooms. The flagstone entrance hall, exposed beams and a medieval fireplace set the tone for a house built around large-group gatherings rather than a quiet couple's retreat.

Bedrooms are spread across four staircases, one of which is a steep, boxed-off spiral, so those with mobility concerns should note the layout before booking. Of the ten bathrooms, three are en-suite bathrooms, three en-suite shower rooms, one is a Jack-and-Jill en-suite, and three are shared shower rooms, with an additional separate downstairs WC off the entrance hall. The farmhouse kitchen runs on a four-oven electric Everhot range plus a separate double oven and hob, two dishwashers, two fridges and a large freezer, with a utility room providing a washing machine and tumble dryer.

Shared living space includes an oak-panelled drawing room with a wood burner (logs included) and TV/DVD, a banqueting dining room seating 24, a billiard room with a full-size snooker table, and a separate children's lounge with its own TV/DVD. A heated games room offers a pool table, air hockey, table tennis, table football and ride-on toys, and can also be hired separately for functions by prior arrangement with the owners. Outdoors, an enclosed courtyard with toys and a sandpit suits younger children, while a rear terrace holds a charcoal barbecue and seating for the full group. Trout fishing is available on the River Yarty, which runs through the surrounding farmland.

Off-road parking accommodates more than 24 cars, and the property runs on a private water supply. Up to four dogs are welcome, with an outside kennel available and additional charges may apply for more. Two travel cots and two highchairs can be provided on request, and a pub and restaurant sit in the local village. Catering and pre-ordered local produce from a nearby farm shop can be arranged directly with the owners, though pre-booking is essential for either service.