Somerset has welcomed a new luxurious retreat with the opening of Yarlington Lodge, an exclusive-use country estate designed for private get-togethers. Situated just a mile from the renowned The Newt in Somerset, this latest venture by South African couple Koos Bekker and Karen Roos promises a blend of rural charm and sophisticated comfort without the responsibilities of traditional estate ownership.
The 12-acre Yarlington Lodge estate, once owned by Catherine Parr, features three distinct residences: the main eight-bedroom Yarlington Lodge, a restored rectory dating from around 1850; the Coach House; and the Cottage in the Wall, formerly the gardener's lodging. Together, these properties can host up to 32 guests, making it an ideal destination for intergenerational family holidays, friendship groups, or corporate retreats seeking privacy and elegance.
Karen Roos, in collaboration with Richard Parr architects, has curated the interiors, marrying Regency-era aesthetics with modern elements. Guests will discover Victorian oil paintings, Napoleonic campaign furniture, and antique globes, playfully interspersed with contemporary pieces like a red lacquer 'LOVE'-insigned cabinet. Bedrooms are uniquely named after 19th-century literary characters, such as 'Becky Sharpe' and 'Mrs Dashwood', adding a distinctive character to each space. The 'Fanny Price' room, for instance, boasts a king-sized four-poster bed and a luxurious chequered-floor bathroom with a copper bathtub.
Beyond the exquisite accommodation, Yarlington Lodge offers extensive facilities. The landscaped gardens and woodlands provide ample space for relaxation and activities, including an outdoor blue-mosaic pool and an indoor jacuzzi. A highlight is the Palm House, a glass-and-Crittall venue filled with foliage, perfect for morning yoga, socialising, or candlelit dinners. Culinary experiences are central to the stay, with Head Chef Hannah Woodburn utilising fresh, high-quality produce from The Newt's own farm, including British White fillet steaks, to create exceptional meals.
This opening reinforces Somerset's growing reputation as a destination for high-end hospitality. Yarlington Lodge provides a unique opportunity for those seeking the grandeur of a country estate experience with all the amenities and services of a luxury hotel, but in a completely private setting, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the rural bliss of the West Country.