bolthole

A bolthole is a place of refuge or sanctuary, often a small, secluded, or comfortable dwelling. The term suggests a safe haven where one can retreat from the pressures of daily life, danger, or unwanted attention. Historically, boltholes were sometimes used by fugitives or those seeking to escape persecution. They could be hidden rooms, secret passages, or remote locations.

In modern usage, a bolthole typically refers to a secondary residence, often a small holiday cottage or apartment, kept for occasional use. This type of bolthole provides a private escape for relaxation and leisure, separate from one's primary home. The emphasis is on privacy, comfort, and a sense of personal space. The idea of a bolthole implies a degree of secrecy or at least a lack of public accessibility. It is a place where one can be oneself without scrutiny. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe any situation or place that offers a temporary escape or respite.