The lows, however, have been rare. One of the most rewarding parts of housesitting has been the community we’ve found on the road. During a stay in Pembrokeshire, my partner became a key fixture of the open mic nights at the local pub, we got invited to barbecues with the locals and watched the Northern Lights arm in arm with the entire village. Travelling full-time can feel lonely – but being welcomed in with open arms by so many new communities has given us a restored faith in humanity.
For the owners, it’s a win-win situation. One homeowner whose dog was too unwell for kennels said us staying “made going away possible”. And it’s not always pets that need looking after; we’ve cared for prized vegetable patches and a five-year-old sourdough starter. Which, after a very thorough briefing on how to keep it alive, was supervised with more due diligence than the cat.
For many, it’s complete peace of mind: knowing that your home is not left vacant, animals are happy in their usual environment and plants are getting watered is priceless. With the cost of kennels averaging £15-20 per dog per night in the UK – according to dog-care service Barking Mad – housesitting is a good economic trade-off.
There’s no end to where this lifestyle could take us. We’ve discussed Canada, South-East Asia and even ticking off Route 66 travelling this way. Next on the itinerary is a month in County Cork, Ireland. We’re buying flip phones and going off-grid(ish) to soak up the most of the experience.
Because it’s not a forever thing. As we near one year as house-sitters, we’re beginning to crave routine and a nest of our own. But rent or a mortgage would put a stop to the freedom of pursuing our dreams and the serendipitous encounters we so cherish right now.
Having made new friends all over the country and, in the process, overcoming a decade of career burnout in London, my house-sitting travels have breathed new life into my future. They’ve reminded me that it’s fun to be a tourist in my own country and, most importantly, have allowed me to fall in love with the UK all over again.
House-sitting highlights
After a year of travelling around the UK, here are three destinations Hannah would visit again.
Dale, Pembrokeshire
Our first visit to Pembrokeshire will stay with us forever. Snorkel at St Brides Haven, trek circular coastal paths and revel in the glory of vibrant wildlife.
Grove of Narberth (01834 860915) has double rooms from £256, including breakfast.