Market Harborough is this gorgeous market town in the Leicestershire-Northamptonshire countryside – a real charmer with its historic streets, laid-back vibe and super welcoming atmosphere. Not too far from the action but surrounded by loads of open countryside and quaint villages, it’s the perfect base for families looking for a relaxing break together. And, let’s be honest, getting the right family-friendly accommodation is a big part of making your holiday special.
Just a stone’s throw from the town, you’ll find places like 14 Acres – this brilliant alternative to your run of the mill hotel. Tucked away in peaceful rural surroundings, these super thoughtfully designed lodges offer heaps of space, modern comforts and all the family-friendly features you could want to make bringing the kids along a breeze. Open-plan living areas, fully kitted out kitchens, outdoor space and entertainment options make it easy for families to just feel at home from the word go.
For families visiting Market Harborough in 2026, the area’s got an unbeatable mix of convenience and calm going on. Loads of nearby places to stay focus on exactly what families want: flexibility, some space to breathe, and room for everyone to relax together. No stuffy hotel corridors here – countryside escapes mean kids can run wild while parents get a bit of peace and quiet, and take in the views.
Looking for inspiration during your stay? Our guide to the 9 Best Things to Do in Market Harborough highlights family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and relaxed day trips that pair perfectly with a countryside base. Whether you prefer being close to town or tucked away in nature, Market Harborough and its surrounding countryside offer families the perfect balance of comfort, exploration, and togetherness—with 14 Acres providing a standout setting for a truly memorable family escape.
1. The Cottage – A Peaceful Countryside Retreat Near Market Harborough
For couples or small families dreaming of a peaceful yet refined countryside break, The Cottage at 14 Acres in Clipston is a truly special retreat. Set within the tranquil grounds of Rectory Farm (LE16 9RF) and just a short drive from the market town of Market Harborough, this beautifully converted Victorian dove cote blends historic character with contemporary comfort. Surrounded by open farmland, quiet country lanes, and wide skies, it’s an ideal place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and still enjoy easy access to local shops, cafés, and heritage attractions.
Inside, The Cottage has got a thinkfully designed 65 m² layout that sleeps up to 4 easily. It’s got one big bedroom with a super-comfy super-king bed, a sofa bed in the open-plan living area and 1.5 modern bathrooms with a big soaking tub and a walk-in shower. And, with a fully equipped kitchen and lovely living space, it’s super easy to just get settled in – whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer, more leisurely stay. Plus, with all the entertainment options you could want – including Netflix and an Xbox – you’ll never be short of ideas for relaxed, family-friendly downtime. And, with your own private outdoor area, you can enjoy morning coffee, sunset drinks or alfresco dining.
Why Families and Couples Love The Cottage
Comfortable Sleeping for Up to 4 – One spacious bedroom plus a sofa bed
1.5 Stylish Bathrooms – Fresh towels and quality toiletries included
Fully Equipped Kitchen – Oven, microwave, dishwasher, coffee machine, and family essentials
Entertainment for All Ages – Smart TV with Netflix, Xbox, books, and board games
Private Outdoor Space – Terrace and BBQ area with countryside views
Free Wi-Fi & Private Parking – Easy, stress-free stays
Local Activities & Outdoor Fun
Walking and cycling routes from the doorstep
Fishing, golf courses, and countryside pursuits nearby
Quiet picnic spots and scenic nature walks
Nearby Places to Explore
Market Harborough – approx. 10 minutes by car
Kelmarsh Hall & Gardens – around 6 km
Leicester Station – approx. 30 km
East Midlands Airport – approx. 63 km
Eco-Conscious Living at 14 Acres
Solar power and air-source heating
Filtered well water to reduce plastic waste
Environmentally friendly cleaning products
Combining privacy, sustainability, and understated luxury, The Cottage at 14 Acres is a wonderful base for families or couples seeking a calm countryside escape with all the comforts of a high-end retreat.
2. The Barn – A Stylish Eco-Luxury Escape for Families & Groups in the East Midlands
Located deep in a private 14-acre estate in the picturesque village of Clipston, The Barn at 14 Acres is a one-of-a-kind countryside retreat that seamlessly blends generous space, refined design, and sustainable living. This stunning Victorian red-brick barn has been carefully restored into a 160m² luxury holiday home that comfortably sleeps up to 8 guests plus 2 infants. Whether you’re a family looking for a relaxing break or a group of friends seeking a sophisticated setting with plenty of room to spread out, The Barn at 14 Acres is the perfect destination.
Just a 10-minute drive from Market Harborough, this idyllic retreat offers the best of both worlds — peaceful countryside surroundings with easy access to a wide range of independent shops, restaurants, and local attractions. Visit the beautiful Kelmarsh Hall and Kilworth House Theatre, go walking in the countryside, or take a day trip to Silverstone Circuit, the UK’s iconic race track — the choice is limitless. And with its cutting-edge eco-friendly features, smart home technology, underfloor heating, and luxury Hypnos mattresses, The Barn at 14 Acres really does have it all — a stay that’s both indulgent and environmentally friendly.
Why Guests Love The Barn
Light-Filled Open Living – Spacious kitchen, dining, and lounge area with garden views through the 10-metre glass wall
Alfresco Dining & BBQ – Outdoor kitchen with gas grill and seating for relaxed meals outside
Private Garden Terrace – Comfortable outdoor sofas for slow mornings and evenings under the stars
Family-Friendly Comfort
Sleeps 8 + 2 Infants – Three super-king bedrooms (one configurable as twins) plus a double sofa bed
Infant-Ready Setup – High chairs, stair gates, and safety features available
Stylish Bathrooms – Contemporary design with premium toiletries
Modern Amenities
Eco-Conscious Living – Solar-powered with low-impact systems
Smart Entertainment – 65” Smart TV, Netflix, Xbox, Amazon Echo, and iPad
All-Season Comfort – Underfloor heating and air conditioning
Fast, Free Wi-Fi – Reliable connection throughout
Private Parking – Secure on-site parking included
Things to Do Nearby
Outdoor Activities – Sailing, kayaking, and cycling at Pitsford Reservoir
Excellent Transport Links – Market Harborough station with fast trains to London, Leicester, and Nottingham
Local Highlights – Foxton Locks, Welford Farm Park, Kilworth House, Silverstone
Places to Eat & Drink
The Old Red Lion – approx. 1.3 miles
The Fitzgerald Arms – approx. 3 miles
Maison des Macarons – approx. 4 miles
Accessibility & Extras
Ground-Floor Layout – Wheelchair-friendly throughout
Laundry & Wake-Up Service – Available on request
Grocery Delivery – For effortless arrivals
The Barn at 14 Acres is an inviting blend of countryside calm, contemporary luxury, and sustainable design—perfect for memorable gatherings with family or friends.
Book your stay and enjoy a refined rural escape with modern comfort and space to truly unwind.
3. The Loft – Stylish Countryside Escape for Families & Friends
Located on a private 14-acre estate in the charming village of Clipston (LE16 9RF), The Loft at 14 Acres is a beautifully designed countryside retreat just a 10-minute drive from Market Harborough. This thoughtfully converted Victorian barn combines rustic charm with contemporary luxury – making it the ideal getaway for families or small groups looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Stylish Countryside Living with Boutique Comfort
Overview
The Loft is a spacious two-bedroom rural retreat, perfectly positioned overlooking open fields and a serene pond. With its tranquil setting and easy access to the East Midlands’ countryside and market towns, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – peace and quiet, with all the convenience and attractions of the wider area, just a stone’s throw away.
Accommodation Highlights
- Light-Filled Open-Plan Living: Generously sized interiors (approx. 1,450 sq ft) with a comfortable lounge, elegant dining area, and sleek, modern kitchen.
- Flexible Bedrooms: Two large super-king bedrooms, both configurable as twins—ideal for families, couples, or friends sharing.
- Luxury Bathrooms: Two contemporary ensuite bathrooms featuring a deep bathtub and a walk-in rainfall shower, complete with plush towels and premium toiletries.
- Comfort All Year Round: Underfloor heating, air conditioning, and thoughtful insulation ensure a cosy stay in every season.
- Entertainment Ready: Smart TV with Netflix, Xbox, board games, and family-friendly entertainment for relaxed evenings in.
- Outdoor Living: A private terrace and balcony with peaceful pond and garden views, outdoor seating, and BBQ facilities for alfresco dining.
Amenities & Thoughtful Extras
- Fully Equipped Kitchen: Dishwasher, oven, hob, microwave, fridge, and complete cookware—plus family-friendly extras such as high chairs and children’s tableware.
- Family-Friendly Touches: Baby cots, toys, outdoor wellies, and practical details that make travelling with children effortless.
- Laundry Facilities: Washer and dryer included—ideal for longer stays or countryside adventures.
- High-Speed Wi-Fi: Reliable connectivity throughout the property, perfect for streaming or remote work.
- Private On-Site Parking: Secure parking with easy access to nearby villages and attractions.
Things to Do Nearby
Guests at The Loft are perfectly placed to explore some of the region’s best-loved spots, including:
- Foxton Locks & the Grand Union Canal
- Welford Farm Park (great for families)
- Pitsford Reservoir – sailing, kayaking, cycling & walking trails
- Coton Manor Gardens & West Haddon countryside walks
- Market Harborough & Leicester – independent shops, cafés, and dining
Transport & Accessibility
- Market Harborough Train Station – approx. 6 miles (direct links to London, Leicester & Nottingham)
- Nearby Airports:
- Sywell Aerodrome – 13 miles
- East Midlands Airport – 38 miles
- Sywell Aerodrome – 13 miles
How to Book
Just pick your dates and we’ll let you know if they’re available – booking is quick, secure and all online, with all the details you need sent right to your inbox.
The Loft at 14 Acres is a super stylish spot in the countryside where you can relax, unwind and really make the most of what’s on offer in rural Northamptonshire. Book it now and enjoy the best of country living in the most effortless way possible.
Discover Luxury Holiday Homes for Families & Friends at 14 Acres
Tucked away in the rolling countryside where Leicestershire and Northamptonshire meet, 14 Acres is a proper little gem – a private rural estate with a collection of super stylish, boutique luxury retreats. Easy to get to from the M1 and A14 and under an hour from London by train, it’s a great spot for couples, families and friends looking to get away from it all without going too far.
We’ve designed 14 Acres for slow, relaxing stays – so we’ve got the privacy of a countryside hideaway and the ease of hotel-style service. Our guests love the little extras like daily housekeeping, premium coffee, breakfast bits and a team on hand to help with anything. The estate has loads of beautifully designed homes – from 1 to 3 bedrooms – and they’re all done up in a different style. You can book one on its own or get the whole estate to yourself if you’re planning a big bash.
What Makes 14 Acres Special
- Luxury Hypnos beds for exceptional sleep
- Rituals toiletries and curated local artwork throughout
- Family-friendly features including Xbox, Netflix, and a popcorn machine
- Private chef and in-house spa treatments available on request
- Prime countryside location near Foxton Locks, Silverstone Circuit, and scenic walking routes
- Exclusive estate hire accommodating up to 19 guests plus infants
Whether you’re planning a romantic break, a relaxed family holiday, or a special group getaway, 14 Acres offers space, privacy, and understated luxury in equal measure—creating a countryside experience that feels both indulgent and effortlessly calm.
Ready to escape to the countryside? 14 Acres invites you to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy rural luxury at its finest.
