Royal Oak House

Meticulously converted from a former pub into a luxurious countryside retreat, this breathtaking seven-bedroom home is set on two acres in the picturesque village of Motcombe, Dorset, and is a terrific choice for a large family holiday or a group of friends. A blend of old-style charm and high-end modern comforts, it lies behind gates at the end of long driveway, where its grand columned entrance looks out over ample parking for (we kid you not!) up to 10 cars. It's a statement property, all right, and you also won't be disappointed when you step inside.

It's furnished to an exceptionally high standard throughout, with a spacious open-plan living area downstairs that's perfect for entertaining large groups of people, but also offers plenty of space to relax. The kitchen-dining space features a huge breakfast bar and a dining area with a large wooden table seating 12. The Indian Jhula swing seats add a touch of uniqueness to what is a an impressive space – and are just some of many features from the sub-continent that pop up throughout the house. Other downstairs rooms include a drawing room complete with plush seating, contemporary art and more Indian-style furniture, a snug, book-lined library and a games room with a pool table and a dartboard. There's also a gym, and two further playrooms help to keep younger guests occupied.

Upstairs there are seven well-appointed bedrooms, three of which lead off a handsome landing space decorated with more art and large world map. These rooms all have four-poster beds and lavish en-suite bathrooms, while on the next floor there are four further guest bedrooms – two doubles and two twins, which share a bathroom. Outside, the garden has something for everyone: a large lawn and spacious patio with a barbecue and a good-sized, seasonally-heated swimming pool, next to which is an elegant and  intriguing India-style pagoda with an outdoor dining table.  There's also a barked play area with a superb playhouse and climbing frames.

Finally, Royal Oak House enjoys a tremendous location close to the picturesque town of Shaftesbury in North Dorset. You can visit nearby Stourhead, Kingston Lacy and several other National Trust properties, plus you're close to the walks and cycle paths of Cranbourne Chase National Landscape across the county border in Wiltshire. There's also a decent country pub in Motcombe in the Coppleridge Inn.  Whether you want to get out and about, or you just want to some quality time with your nearest and dearest, Royal Oak House is a perfect venue.