To get the most out of Nuwara Eliya, the famous hill station beloved of the British planters more than a century ago, it is essential to soak up the nostalgia of yesteryear by choosing an accommodation that reflects the island’s rich colonial past.

Brockenhurst fits this mould; built over a century ago by a British surveyor named Philip Falk, its construction is typical of the colonial hill country where nights are often chilly and the days hot. Brockenhurst has been recently classified as a heritage building and retains original design features such as granite walls, timber floors, high ceilings, polished cement floors and green roofs. Although most of the furnishings are new, their functional design seems to match the simple colonial style of that bygone era.

Brockenhurst is encircled by a lush garden featuring a two-tiered lawn from where you can gaze over towards town or up at Single Tree Hill. Shrubs brim neatly at the edges of the garden whilst an elevated rose bed with busy-lizzy border feels very British indeed. Under the shade of fragrant pine trees, whose feathery leaves are a popular sanctuary for visiting birds, is an excellent place for children’s ball games, a barbecue or relaxing with a book and sipping afternoon tea. Since the atmosphere of the house is relaxed and because it’s yours to enjoy completely in private, it very quickly feels like home.

The house has a caretaker and chef who both reflect the warm hospitality of this hill-country town. In the evening a fire can be lit in the lounge, transforming it into a toasty and ambient living space with a small library. Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails here before moving into the dining room to feast on a hearty meal using the delicious fresh produce that this agricultural region is famous for (provisions are charged at cost price). Brockenhurst makes an ideal base to soak up the sights of this Hill Country town, the house’s four bedrooms (two of which sleep 3-5 children or adults) make it excellent value for larger families and groups of friends.