Planning your next weekend getaway or looking for the perfect gathering space for your big event? Set amid the rolling fields of Leicestershire’s idyllic countryside, on the outskirts of Appleby Magna and at the edge of the National Forest, Upper Rectory Farm Cottages offer charming self-catering accommodation in a pretty courtyard setting, with nine properties accommodating between 2 and 22 guests, meaning there is something for everyone.

The vibe here is the home away from home you’ve always wanted, with large, bespoke kitchens for family dining or, if you simply can’t bring yourself to cook up a storm whilst on holiday, owner Jean has yummy suggestions – from private dining to party catering! Now that sounds like our kind of self-catering.

Styled in a modern rustic aesthetic (think Osborne & Little and Designers Guild fabrics), there are comfy, open plan spaces with country-style kitchens (equipped with all the cooking utensils, table and glassware you’ll need) and dining areas. Exposed brick, rustic slate and plenty of original oak beams and floors retain a working farm vibe. Oh, and Jean even provides guests with some of her fabulous homemade flapjacks on arrival. Heaven.

Upper Rectory Farm is also ideal for house parties or corporate events, with a spacious Refectory space that is ideal for conferences, meetings, brainstorming and team building activities and you can even get married on their neighbouring farm – Norton Fields is an exclusive countryside wedding venue set amid the fields, with newly converted farm buildings providing rustic, vintage charm that create a truly bucolic setting and includes seven luxury ensuite bedrooms for the bridal party and wedding guests.