Elmley Cottage

Nestled in a remote corner of Kent, 3,300-acre Elmley Nature Reserve is one of southern England's hidden gems – a seemingly endless expanse of sky and water that's home to peregrine falcons, waders and wildfowl, and feels almost entirely untouched by human hand. It's actually the only family-owned and managed National Nature Reserve in the UK, run by Georgina and Gareth Fulton, making it all the more special that you can actually stay overnight in this wonderful place, either glamping or in one of two self-catering properties – Kingshill Farmhouse or Elmley Cottage, which sleeps up to 10 people and is ideal for family gatherings or groups of friends.

Situated on the edge of Elmley's gathering of farm buildings, Elmley Cottage is spacious and light and surrounded by nature, with sweeping and frankly unforgettable views over the nature reserve's wetlands, reeds and meadows. You can wake up to beautiful misty mornings filled with the call of geese and go to sleep accompanied by the hoot of an owl. The ground floor has a light-filled kitchen-diner with a range cooker and enough space to seat 10; there's also a big sitting room next door with large windows, a Smart TV and DVD player, and a bedroom. Upstairs, there are 4 further double bedrooms, one of which has an en-suite, plus there are two other bathrooms, both stocked with Verden toiletries. There's decent WiFi throughout, and a garden with a barbecue and outdoor furniture. Food-wise, guests can whip up meals themselves, order breakfast baskets, picnic lunches, and delicious supper hampers to be delivered, or opt for private catering.

You could spend a very happy few days pottering about in the cottage and around, enjoying the unique location in the middle of this spectacular reserve – Elmley is home to one of England's largest lapwing populations, plus you're likely to spot curlews, herons, short-eared owls and much more, and you can join regular wildlife tours of the reserve. Well-being treatments can be organised by the on-site team, or if you fancy a communal space to relax, head to The Linhay – the rustic barn has comfy seating, games, books and a wood burner for cold days. Alternatively, simply gaze out the window of Elmley Cottage across the marshes, or drift off to sleep at sundown as the owls hoot softly. Beyond the reserve, explore Sheppey, visit the beach at Minster, both a short drive away, or cross the river to pick up the Saxon Shore Way.