On Tuesday 24th March, the entire UK went into a forced lockdown to help combat the spread of coronavirus. Thoughts about leaving the house were replaced by ones of how to maximise your living space, whether it’s in a large mansion or studio flat. Even in the aftermath of lockdown, the country’s mindset towards homes will have changed, and a small flat in central London may hold the same appeal it once did.

But what if you had carte blanche on where you could choose to live? Would you stay in your current abode or opt for somewhere secluded and far away from the neighbours? There’s plenty of decisions to make when it comes to finding your very own Fortress of Solitude. 

Here at Helmsmen, we’ve been thinking about the best bolt holes in the UK, and this article features homes that are ideal for isolation. Read on, and discover where you could shack up for the foreseeable future as the world adapts to the post-coronavirus life we find ourselves in.

Balgy Lodge

Where is it? 

Located in Scotland, in an area of true wilderness, the Balgy Lodge runs for 3,983 acres from the tidal shore of Upper Loch Torridon to the summit of Beinn Shieldaig. Cast your eyes on some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Scotland, then visit the nearby village of Shieldaig, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the country. 

Why is it an ideal bolt hole?

Living at the lodge means you’re miles away from civilisation (taking self-isolation to a new level in the process), and the house is entirely self-sufficient: it’s powered by its own wind turbine and has a water source from the river. There’s also an unlimited supply of food from the nearby land and sea. Not only could you outlast coronavirus here; you could probably see out a zombie apocalypse too.

How much is it? 

Available for 6 months rent, just contact hello@helmsmen.co.uk

Hyde Mill Cottage

Where is it?

The Cotswolds has always been somewhere to enjoy peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle. In today’s climate, the scenic settings found in the sprawling green countryside have taken on a whole new level, and Hyde Mill cottage happens to enjoy a sought-after location in the village of Stow on the Wold, which is just under 85 miles from London. 

Why is it an ideal bolt hole? 

The quaint cottage provides a stark alternative from London’s flashy developments and is relatively isolated compared to the capital: Stow’s population is just 2,000, while London has nine-million residents. Living at Hyde Mill means you don’t need to worry about supplies drying up during the lockdown; there’s access to local farmers at the cottage, so you don’t even need to pop to the supermarket.

How much is it? 

For more inforation or to rent Hyde Mill Cottage, contact hello@helmsmen.co.uk

Old Jordan’s House in Beaconsfield

What is it? 

If money is no object in your search for the perfect bolt hole, look no further than the Buckinghamshire area of Beaconsfield, where you will find a grand 10-bedroom house that exudes luxury. This one-off property incorporates an 18th century period manor house fused with a Japanese inspired gardens. Oh, and there’s an F1 racing car on show just for good measure.

Why is it the perfect bolt hole?

Before its recent ownership, Old Jordan’s was occupied by the Quakers for more than 400 years. In that time, they used the property as a hiding place for Quakers, meaning it already has experience as a hideaway from the real world. So why not enjoy the 10 bedrooms, six acres of landscaped gardens, a private village while you hide from Covid-19?

How much is it? 

Be prepared to splash the cash. Old Jordan’s house will set you back £15 million and is listed with Knight Frank.

Trannack Farm

Where is it? 

Trannack Farm is a detached barn conversion that enjoys peaceful rural surroundings. It’s located five miles from Penzance and impressive views of rolling countryside, making it a nice spot to escape from the world. You will also get to combine country settings with Cornwall’s majestic coastline. 

Why is it an ideal bolt hole? 

Four bedrooms and bathrooms are the ideal settings for isolation, as you won’t feel cramped in your getaway surroundings. But it’s the external workshop building that really sets Trannack Farm apart. If you can’t get hold of important items, why not build them yourself?

How much is it?

Stags estate agents have this farmhouse listed on Rightmove for a guide price of £550,000. 

Bridgefoot Lane

Where is it?

The need to isolate will only be temporary, so you might want to think about renting instead of buying. A four-bedroom detached house on Bridgefoot Lane in Hertfordshire could be just what you need thanks to its 10 acres of stunning grounds that offer neighbourless living. 

Why is it the ideal bolt hole?

An entertainment room, gymnasium, heated swimming pool and floodlit tennis court mean you’ll have plenty of things to do to keep you occupied while we’re you’re stuck indoors. The entire property comprises 5,800 square feet, too, so you will have ample amounts of of space to move around. 

How much is it?  

Potters Bar estate agents, Auckland, have Bridgefoot Lane on the market for £3,200 per week, which equates to £13,866 per month.  

The Spinney

Where is it?

A state-of-the-art, six-bedroom country house in Warwickshire will do the trick for some serious isolation. The Spinney is located on the outskirts of Hampton Lucy and is a brand-new build that was completed in February 2019. The lucky person who lives here will be the first owner, so there’s no need to disinfect the entire place once you’ve moved in. 

Why is it an ideal bolt hole?

Other than its status as a brand-new house, The Spinney features state-of-the-art green technology. That means you won’t accumulate expensive energy bills while you spend an increased amount of time at home. You can even avoid the supermarkets with a newly planted wildlife corridor and mature copse that provide the chance for you to grow your own vegetables.

How much is it? 

The Spinney is listed with Savills for £2.5m

The best bolt holes

Whether it’s quaint countryside settings, mountainous peaks or coastal getaways, it’s no surprise to find lots of people looking away from London for their isolation options. Each of the properties on our list would make for an ideal getaway while still offering you the chance to enjoy a life of luxury – even in these trying times.