The Arc Cabin
The Arc is magical, homespun yet contemporary. There’s a unique style to the bright fabrics, and more than a hint of design about the finishing touches: an iPod dock and original artwork on the walls bring the beautiful weathered furniture, well-thumbed novels and crocheted rugs up to date. Through the reclaimed front door, the space is roomy and welcoming, with wood-burning stove and large oak dining table. Bi-fold doors swing wide onto the veranda, a great spot for taking in the river views or sharing a meal on a summer evening.
In the country-style kitchen, Lotte’s background as a nutritional therapist shines through: passionate about food and health, she will leave you some of her favourite local treats to start you off – all delicious. Shelves heave with cookbooks, antique saucepans, and spices whole and ground; the many hobs, Belfast sink and long zinc worktop give you plenty of room, not just to cook, but create.
The king-sized antique French bed, covered in fabulous linen and bright cushions, is curtained off for privacy and the bathroom has both claw-foot bath and separate power shower. Up a ladder (over 8s only), twin beds are just as comfy. A tip: find sketch pads and knitting things in the mezzanine drawers. Lotte, the owner, has thought of everything, and you will enjoy exploring!
The Arc overlooks fields, with poplar on your right, and the house on your left, though feels private thanks to clever screening. Kenneth Grahame is said to have stayed at the Island House, drawing inspiration for ‘The Wind in The Willows’ here. The countryside’s certainly pretty enough – strike out on the footpath to loop around the river, take binoculars to spot rare red kites, or make a beeline for a fine pub, The Crown, just ten minutes walk away.