Kingshill Farmhouse

Sitting in a remote corner of Kent, Elmley Nature Reserve is one of southern England's hidden jewels – home to falcons, wildfowl, waders and butterflies, the 3,330 acres feel almost entirely untouched by human hand. It's actually the only farm-owned and managed National Nature Reserve in the UK, run by Georgina and Gareth Fulton, so it's all the more special that you can stay overnight on this exceptional estate, either glamping in a mixture of shepherd's huts, cabins and bell tents, or staying in one of two impressive properties.

The first of these – Elmley Cottage – sleeps up to 10 people on a self-catering basis, while the other – 18th-century Kingshill Farmhouse – is a rather special six-bedroom property sleeping 12 (or up to 14, including two fold-out beds). Opened just a few years ago following an extensive restoration, the farmhouse has featured in all sorts of design and travel magazines and is a unique and unforgettable place to stay, retaining a rustic vibe while feeling thoroughly contemporary. There's a cosy yet grand dual-aspect sitting room that's a perfect place to slouch, a library providing a quiet space for reading, and an inviting snug with a wood burner.

Wherever in the house you may be, you're acutely aware of the glorious view over the nature reserve outside, which makes its presence felt in every room, but most of all in the modern kitchen, where floor-to-ceiling glass doors open out onto a patio with a fire pit and furniture for al fresco dining and late-night musing. If you don't fancy cooking yourself, meals and drinks can be ordered and delivered to your door, including breakfast baskets, picnic lunches, and wholesome supper hampers.

Upstairs, the six bedrooms are uber-stylish and comfortable. Choose dual-aspect Elmley Room and enjoy a double shower, while the stylish Yellow Room has a super-spacious bathroom overlooking the reserve. Meanwhile, the top floor is occupied by the appropriately named Lookout Suite, which has two beamed bedrooms, one with a super-king-size bed, the other with twin daybeds. Bathrooms come complete with rainfall showers, some rooms also have rolltop tubs, and they all have robes and Verden toiletries.

You could spend days on end here very happily if the weather is bad, or frankly, even if it's not. However, it would be a shame not to take advantage of everything else the location has to offer, whether it's spotting bearded reedlings or going on one of the reserve's regular wildlife tours – Elmley is home to one of England's largest lapwing populations, plus you may catch a glimpse of marsh harriers, buzzards, and much more. There are also well-being treatments on offer, which the friendly team can organise, as well as extras like a private chef. If you fancy a wander, head to The Linhay, a characterful barn with comfy seats, books, games, books and a wood burner. Alternatively, simply admire the spectacular vistas from Kingshill Farmhouse, and come evening, drift off to sleep as the owls hoot softly. Beyond the reserve, visit nearby Minster Beach, explore Sheppey, or cross the river to pick up the 246-kilometre Saxon Shore Way.