Imagine taking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, but still having all of the amenities you need. Imagine waking up in a luxury cottage in the middle of nowhere, but with a hot tub outside your door, an open fire, and a pub on your doorstep.
Why not really live the dream? You can do it at one of our cottages. We offer luxury breaks for families, couples and groups in beautiful locations throughout Somerset. Our cottages are hosted by local families who know their area inside out and can help you get the most out of your trip.
We have everything you need—from golf buggies to private woodlands with deer and all kinds of wildlife—to make sure your stay is as comfortable as possible while still allowing you to experience true countryside living at its finest.
Providing luxury breaks in the South West of England, in the beautiful countryside of
live the dream.
Somerset.
Hi! I'm Jade, your host at Empire Holidays. I grew up holidaying at The Retreat, and it was always a special time for me. Barbecues and summer parties were the perfect chance to make lasting memories with friends and family. In 2022, we decided to open our home to guests—marrying my dad's vision for country living with my mum's love for interior design and my own passion for hosting (and yes, obsessive tidying!).
Come explore the nature and tranquillity of our beautiful woodland, and take a respite from the day-to-day. This sanctuary will bring you back to the best version of yourself. Drop in for a cup of coffee, or send me an email telling me a little more about yourself. This holiday is only a click away.
We take bookings from Monday to Friday 9AM-5PM, and Saturday, our lines are open for questions only. Sunday is time for a little R&R.
I'm Jade
MEET your host
hi, friend
Welcome to our beautiful market town cottage, our cosy pied-à-terre in the heart of Castle Cary, South Somerset. A 1 bedroom perfect for a solo stay or a dynamic duo, this tranquil and luxurious cottage will inspire your senses. Walking out the front door, you will be greeted by artisanal bakeries, boutique restaurants, charming shops and more.
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The ultimate in luxury holidays, welcome to Stags Cottage. A quaint 2 bedroom cottage with a contemporary kitchen, this cottage feels like a modern woodland getaway. Pamper yourself in the marble-clad shower room or hop into our garden hot tub, where you can enjoy a drink and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
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You won't be disappointed when you take a visit to our hero cabin on the property: The Retreat. Set within 120 acres of private woodland and walkways, making it a perfect rural retreat, featuring a private hot tub to soak your cares away. This 3 bedroom oasis was once our private holiday home—and now it's available to you!
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the offerings
A home-away-from-home experience.
OUR COTTAGES
THE MITCHELL PARTY
Attractive cottage - spotlessly clean and very well equipped. High quality fixtures, comfortable beds and sofas, plenty of storage. Cottage was warm and cosy. Generous welcome hamper on arrival and cottage decorated tastefully for the Christmas period. Great communication from property host - friendly and helpful throughout whole stay. We'll be back!! Highly recommend! :)
"COTTAGE WAS WARM AND COSY"
Andy, Lisa and Family
Thank you Jade for an amazing stay. You have thought of everything , we had had every comfort.
"YOU HAVE THOUGHT OF EVERYTHING"
Gail + Paul
This place is defintely home from home. Felt very relaxed + spoilt. Everything you need under one roof. Jade, Maria and Malcolm were the perfect hosts along with Izzy + Roxy being perfect guard dogs. Loved it + hopefully will be back. x
"FELT VERY RELAXED + SPOILT."
cassie and craig
Amazing stay, fantastic and modern house. Comfortable beds. Everything you would need thought of and provided. Couldn't have asked for a better short break.
"COULDN'T HAVE ASKED FOR A BETTER SHORT BREAK"
JERRY, NIKOLA (AND BRUNO)
A fabulous cabin in a lovely location. We enjoyed exploring the local area, walks in the wood + chilling in the hot tub. Thank you Jade for a warm welcome and you have thought of everything for a great stay.
"A FABULOUS CABIN IN A LOVELY LOCATION"
THE DEXTERS
The Retreat, we had an amazing holiday. The cabins were immaculate and the woodlands breathtaking. Amazing to have the cabin and surrounding woodland just for us. Lots to explore and great seeing deers at sunset. The buggies great fun. Loads to explore locally, Wells, Castle Cary and great food at The Red Lion Inn, just a 10 minute walk. Jade is supper bubbly, friendly and very helpful. In the evenings we toasted marshmellows on the firepit and watched an array of stars. Such a peaceful and relaxing setting an excellent place to chill, relax and reset. Thank you Jade, Maria and Malcolm. xxx
"THE CABINS WERE IMMACULATE AND THE WOODLANDS BREATHTAKING"
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