Discover Affordable and Unique Cabin Rentals with the National Trust
When it comes to finding the perfect cabin rental for a group of friends, platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are often the go-to options. However, during my search for a five-person rental near Eryri National Park in Wales, I stumbled upon an incredible alternative that offered even more than I expected. Not only were the homes spacious and full of historic charm, but they were also cheaper than Airbnb. Plus, they came with some amazing extra perks.
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If you’re not familiar with the National Trust, Europe’s largest conservation organization, you’re in for a treat. They manage nearly 800 miles of undeveloped coastline, protected land, and hundreds of historic homes, castles, parks, and gardens across the United Kingdom. Chances are, if you’ve visited a castle or paid for parking at a trailhead in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, it was managed by the National Trust. What I didn’t realize until recently is that the National Trust is also a hidden gem for finding group-friendly accommodations in England and Wales.
During a last-minute trip to Wales with my friends, we booked a four-bedroom house called Dyffryn Mymbyr Farmhouse for three nights in late November. The total cost came out to be around $440, which was incredibly affordable considering the size of the house and its amenities. The farmhouse had two spacious living rooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and even free electric car charging. It was conveniently located just minutes away from the trailhead for Eryri (Mt. Snowdon) and a short drive from Plas Y Brenin, an outdoor center specializing in mountain guide training.
Upon arrival, we were blown away by the stunning views surrounding the farmhouse. We spent our mornings sitting in the bay window, sipping tea, journaling, and using the house’s binoculars to observe nearby sheep. The sunset on our first evening was absolutely breathtaking, and we couldn’t believe our luck in finding such a beautiful and affordable rental.
As it turns out, the National Trust manages hundreds of holiday houses all over the country. Many of these properties allow dogs at no extra fee and offer free charging for electric cars, which can save you a significant amount of money on charging stations during your trip. One of the best perks is that guests staying in these houses can visit National Trust sites for free during their stay. We took advantage of this by visiting Bodnant Garden in northwest Wales, where we enjoyed a leisurely walk through the fall foliage and saved over $80 in entrance fees.
Similar to Airbnb, you can search the National Trust holiday house database based on your specific criteria, such as the number of bedrooms, location, and nearby amenities like pubs, beaches, or train stations. The charity also offers last-minute booking discounts for dates that are approaching quickly, so if you’re flexible on your location and looking for a great deal, be sure to check those out.
Here are a few stunning National Trust properties to consider:
Dyffryn Mymbyr, Wales
Located near Wales’s beautiful mountain scenery and the town of Betws-y-Coed, this property offers two separately bookable houses, making it ideal for larger groups.
Triggabrowne Dairy Cottage, Cornwall, England
This cozy one-bedroom cottage is perfect for a peaceful getaway near Cornwall’s stunning coastline and the South West Coast Path.
Rose Castle Cottage, Cumbria, England
Experience the charm of the Lake District in this adorable two-bedroom stone cottage, surrounded by scenic pastures and close to Ambleside and Lake Windermere.
Snowshill Manor Farmhouse, Broadway, England
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Cotswolds with this classic five-bedroom farmhouse, perfect for exploring the picturesque region and walking the Cotswold Way.
Tri-a-Hanner, Gwynedd, Wales
Enjoy a coastal retreat at this one-bedroom cottage located just yards from the sea on the Llyn Peninsula, with easy access to Eryri National Park.
Dinefwr Home Farm, Carmarthenshire, Wales
For larger groups, this six-bedroom historic house in the heart of the Lake District offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities and easy access to Bannau Brycheiniog National Park.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for unique and affordable cabin rentals for your next group getaway, don’t overlook the National Trust. With their extensive collection of holiday houses across England and Wales, you can enjoy spacious accommodations, stunning natural surroundings, and even free access to National Trust sites during your stay. Start planning your unforgettable adventure today!
About the Author
“As an avid lover of the outdoors and a game theme enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for unique and affordable accommodations. The National Trust’s holiday houses have been a game-changer for me and my friends, allowing us to experience the beauty of England and Wales while staying within our budget. I highly recommend exploring their properties for your next group adventure.”
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
