This tiny Welsh holiday home sits half below ground and, as its name suggests, takes inspiration from the fictional world of children’s classic Wind in the Willows.

Situated in Presteigne, Powys,  Mole Cottage inhabits a medieval building that’s been renovated from a dark subterranean space into a bright, minimalist three-room home that belies its semi-underground location.
Interior design practice Harp Studio led the refurb, rearranging the cottage’s layout, filling it with vintage furniture and installing a new kitchen and bathroom.

The cottage is decked out in a muted palette, with whitewashed walls reflecting light onto slate flooring and reclaimed farmhouse doors. Where possible, found materials have been used – with kitchen worktops made using scaffolding boards, and a salvaged zinc sink installed.

Guests can browse the cottage’s collection of homeware made by local potter Chloe Charrington, all of which is available to buy from the Harp Studio shop.

Mole Cottage is available to rent from late spring/early summer through the practice and can be booked via Harp Studio’s website, emailing stay@harp-studio.com or calling 07779737829.

The UK’s best woodland and coastal retreats to hole up in this summer