Welcome to Burnworthy Estate, a family-run estate tucked away in the breathtaking Blackdown Hills, right in the heart of the Somerset countryside. With its rolling green views and peaceful charm, this timeless piece of rural Somerset has been in our family for generations. But in 2019, we realised it was time to breathe new life into the estate.
We knew we needed to diversify to secure the future of Burnworthy. And so, the idea of Burnworthy Retreat was born; a luxury escape for couples (and their four-legged friends!) seeking something truly special.
The Log Cabin: Where It All Began
In 2021, after months of dreaming, planning, and building, we launched our first retreat property: The Log Cabin.
Originally a 3-bedroom log cabin built over 40 years ago, it needed more than just a lick of paint. With a little imagination we brought it back to life. The result? A stunning, open-plan one-bedroom hideaway; perfect for couples looking for peace, privacy, and a touch of luxury.
We designed everything ourselves and teamed up with our brilliant builder, Luke, and his crew to bring our vision to life. Rustic charm meets modern indulgence, and let’s just say… wait until you see the view.
Wrapped around the Oak. Enter the Treehouse
Thanks to the incredible feedback from our Log Cabin guests, we took a leap and began work on our second retreat. We wanted something equally magical, but a little different. And there it was, our beautiful, 200-year-old oak tree.
What better complement to a log cabin than a treehouse?
It was a journey, to say the least; planning permission, design tweaks, building regulations (a story for another day!), but in 2024, we officially opened the doors to our Treehouse Retreat. Nestled high among the leaves, with its own exclusive setting on the estate, it offers a completely different way to unwind in nature, without compromising on luxury.
A Retreat Designed with You in Mind
Our goal has always been simple: to create a couples-only retreat where guests can fully switch off, reconnect, and celebrate; whether it’s an anniversary, honeymoon, birthday or just a well-earned escape from the everyday.
And the response? It’s been incredible.
This year, we were absolutely over the moon to be named Muddy Stilettos’ Regional Winner for Best Boutique Stay 2025, a title voted for by our wonderful guests. Even more amazing, we’ve now been selected as one of the Top 5 Boutique Stays in the UK in the national finals, handpicked by independent judges. We are so grateful, and honestly, still pinching ourselves!
What’s Next?
We’ve got so much more to share: from behind-the-scenes peeks at the cabin’s transformation to all the ups and downs of building a treehouse. Plus, we’ll be sharing our favourite local spots, top tips for Somerset adventures and the surrounding areas, and exciting news from the Burnworthy Estate.
So whether you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway or just love a good countryside story, make sure to check back in.
Here’s to the journey so far and all the magic still to come.
Jake, Jen, and Chloé x
