Holiday rental
This is a dog-friendly self-catering holiday house for fans of historic England, offering authentic 16th century features and history, alongside wi-fi and big, comfortable beds. Cool stone walls are comfortable in the summer and a wood-burning stove is cosy in the winter. Stress-free transport is also offered to guests who prefer not to drive.
Wisson Hill is available for holiday rental for the first time, in 2026. This sixteenth century farmhouse has been lovingly refurbished over the last 20 years, whilst a family home. Inspired by the Landmark Trust, guests are now invited to share the many historic features and mysteries that have been uncovered in a house dating from the Tudor period.
This is a historic holiday home with a difference. The Tudor structure and its changes across the centuries have not been plastered over, so visitors can see how the house was built in 1530 and the evidence of later alterations. The house is furnished with a blend of antiques, close matches to contemporary furnishings, and original artwork, to give a warm and personal feel.
Fans of the Tudor period can see the original timber frame house built in 1530, as well as the results of a second Tudor phase of building, probably in the 1590s.
Period features include timber frame, flagstones, three large fireplaces, including an inglenook with wood-burning stove, original decorative features and paint, superstitious markings, wattle and daub panels, leaded windows and carpenters marks.
The history of the house and its owners, with connections with William Shakespeare and the Gunpowder Plotters and the house’s restoration story show that this is a very unusual and quirky historic place to stay on holiday.
Big windows let in sunlight, and large radiators and a wood burning stove keep the house bright and cosy, despite its age. From the spacious kitchen dining room, opening onto a sunny courtyard, to the grandeur of the timbered gable bedroom, Wisson Hill is an ideal holiday base for history lovers and fans of the Tudor period.
Wisson Hill is easy to reach, in the heart of England, served by the motorway network and about 45 minutes from Birmingham airport. However you arrive, the last part of the journey will be over the medieval bridge at Bidford-on-Avon, crossing the meadows into the rural hamlet of Barton.
There is plenty of off-road parking, walks from the door and a pub in the village. On the edge of the Heart of England Forest and with paths in either direction along the Avon, the walking in the immediate area makes this a heavenly holiday base for dog-owners (and dogs).
Situated half way between Stratford-upon-Avon and The Cotswolds, rolling countryside, forests, picturesque villages, and historic attractions are all very close. For those who are prepared to drive a little further, there are dozens of National Trust properties, Warwick and Kenilworth castles and even a day trip to Wales, or Worcester, Oxford or London by train.
Reviews since rental launch in summer 2026
Want a holiday in a historic house but don’t want to drive?
Let us take the strain by arranging your holiday transport, at cost. Please let us know what you need before booking, from a quick lift to the local bus stop or train station to driving you around an agreed holiday itinerary.
If you are happy to drive but could just do with a little local advice about parking and ways to ensure your holiday is stress-free, that’s included in your rental, if you want it.
An authentic 16th century house with 21st century comfort
The three bedrooms all have comfortable new oak beds and mattresses, with quality bedding. The shower has a good pressure and the slipper bath is a luxurious delight. The fully-equipped and spacious kitchen is great for lazy breakfasts or home-cooked supper, but there are many places to eat and drink within walking distance or a short drive.
Please be aware that floors are uneven and this house may not be suitable for very small children or some adults. Well-behaved dogs are welcome.
Whilst staying in a historic holiday house is a unique experience, modern conveniences can still be welcome, so Wisson Hill has fast wi-fi and the option of a TV (it rolls away into a cupboard if you prefer not to use it).
With the owner living next door, we can offer additional help by arrangement, from car charging to dog sitting – please just let us know what is important to you, so we can make your holiday in this historic building as perfect as possible.
Please find out more about booking Wisson Hill for your holiday: