Artful Escapes: Yarlington Lodge

In Somerset, a historic estate is transformed into a charming stay that embodies a Regency-meets-Empire aesthetic

Historic stone mansion with large windows, two topiary trees, and a green lawn with a croquet set in the foreground.
Yarlington Lodge. Photo: Hans Van Brackel

The landmark Yarlington Lodge, situated on an estate allegedly gifted by Henry VIII to his wife Katherine Parr, has been superbly metamorphosed into a sprawling compound. The expansive property—which includes an eight-bedroom manor house, a four-bedroom coach house in the former stables, and a four-bedroom gardener’s cottage as well as a lush walled garden—is the passion project of Karen Roos, co-owner of The Newt.

Elegant living room with dark sofas, fireplace, large windows, and painting. Warm lighting creates a cozy atmosphere.
The drawing room at Yarlington Lodge. Photo: Hans Van Brackel

Working with Richard Parr Associates, she has created sumptuous, fabric-swathed rooms with canopy-tented ceilings and period paintings that embody a Regency-meets-Empire aesthetic that’s juxtaposed with stylish design touches.

Row of green raincoats on hooks above a green bench with boots neatly lined underneath against a green paneled wall.
The boot room at Yarlington Lodge.
Elegant bedroom with a canopy bed, velvet sofa, fireplace, and classic artwork on wood-paneled walls.
The Josephine suite at Yarlington Lodge. Photo: Hans Van Brackel
Elegant dining room with large windows, striped wallpaper, a fireplace, and a long table set for a meal.
Dining room at Yarlington Lodge. Photo: Hans Van Brackel
Rustic kitchen with green shelves, white dishes, wooden table, bread, eggs, cup, and a coffee press in warm light.
The breakfast room at Yarlington Lodge.
Cozy green study with bookshelves, armchair, chaise lounge, fireplace, paintings, and large window letting in natural light.
The library at Yarlington Lodge. Photo: Hans Van Brackel
Outdoor pool with wicker chairs and straw umbrellas, surrounded by a stone wall and greenery.
The pool at Yarlington Lodge. Photo: Hans Van Brackel

A spacious library, a drawing room, and a formal dining room—all with views of the gardens beyond—invite guests (a maximum of 32) to linger, while a cozy cinema is ideal for screening current films. But it’s the grounds, boasting an arbor of laburnum and wisteria, a sleek swimming pool, and a charming greenhouse, that really dazzle.

A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2026 Summer Issue in the section “Artful Escapes.” Subscribe to the magazine.