Superbly characterful little cottage that’s a favourite for minimoons
Space & setting.
Bang on the border of three gloriously beautiful counties (Shropshire, Worcestershire and Herefordshire) sits this beautiful rustic-chic cottage-for 2. Years ago, it was accommodation for Brook Farm’s hop pickers; today it’s been thoroughly modernised, yet retains a cosy, characterful charm thanks to exposed brick walls and ancient beams. The farm itself is now a sprawl of purple-hellebored gardens, wild green meadows and peaceful woodland: 9 acres to wander at your will, listening for song-thrush, woodpeckers, even nightingales at dusk.
If you’re here for a short stay, simply revel in relaxing. Fill the rolltop tub with bubbles and read a magazine; share a bottle of wine as you snuggle next to the woodburner. We’d personally book for longer, though, as you’ll want to explore the unspoilt countryside. Foodie Ludlow is 8 miles away for independent restaurants and delis; further afield you can explore the cider trail, wild swim in the River Teme or walk along heather-strewn heathlands, where views stretch forever.
Getting here: drive or train to Ludlow then taxi (15 mins).
Owners Stephen and Steven both grew up in this area, but met in London working for the same organisation. They felt they were done with the city life and love being close to nature and having house guests, so this lifestyle ticked all the boxes. They’ve been here for several years and feel very lucky. “It’s so tranquil; we’re in our own little valley, in quintessentially English countryside,” says Steven.
They love
“Being out in our meadow, edged with apple trees, towards the end of the day. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine as the sun sets. And in the colder weather, it’s lovely to take a frosty walk around the garden and discover swathes of snowdrops.”
We love
The exposed brickwork and ancient beams. And the sound of the apple juice and preserves you can buy – made from produce grown on the farm.
You may not love
It’s a 30-minute walk to the pub!
Surrounds.
- This area is an apple hotspot, all rolling green hills and pretty orchards. Local town Tenbury Wells is a perfect place to start the local cider route.
- On a rainy day, wander Tenbury’s independents or catch a film at the Art Deco cinema.
- Georgian Ludlow is a foodie’s delight – brilliant restaurants and farmers’ markets.
- Mortimer Forest offers 1,000 acres of beautiful woodland trails. Or ramble across The Longmynd, with its stunning views of the Shropshire Hills. In late summer the hilltops are a sea of purple heather and you’ll see semi-wild herds of ponies.
- Wild swim in the River Teme, from shallow pools down to the weir. Treat yourself to coffee and cake at CSONS Green Café when you’ve finished. If it’s a cold day they’ll give you a hot-water bottle to warm up!
Specifics.
- Private cottage on a 9-acre rural setting
- Vast bedroom with kingsize four-poster bed and sofa
- Bathroom with rolltop bath and walk-in shower
- Open-plan downstairs
- Fully equipped farmhouse-style kitchen; basic ingredients and welcome treats
- Snuggler chair in front of a woodburner
- DVDs, books, puzzles, binoculars, board games, magazines and an excellent info pack
- Washing machine/dryer in a separate outhouse
- Outdoor terrace with seating and barbecue
- Dogs warmly welcomed and the owners provide a blanket, towels, bowls, a few treats, and a dog-info pack on the local area! They can run lead-free in the grounds
- The owners live in the farmhouse; knock on their door if you need them
- Eco measures: a ‘biodisc’ micro treatment plant for sewage and grey water waste; logs sourced from their woodland; full recycling and food compost bins; they encourage wildlife with the plant species they grow and environments they maintain (woodland, meadow, water); woodpiles, bird feeders and nesting boxes around the farm.
- Remember to pack: your slippers. Everything else is here!
Book your stay.
Surprise gift on arrival when you book with Kip!
30% deposit, with the balance due 8 weeks prior to stay.
Cancellations: 8+ weeks prior to stay: deposit refunded, minus a £30 processing fee.
6-8 weeks prior to stay: deposit retained, 70% balance refunded, minus a £30 processing fee.
4-6 weeks prior to stay: 50% of the total booking fee retained, 50% refunded, minus a £30 processing fee.
No refunds if booking cancelled within 4 weeks of stay.
See our full booking Ts & Cs
FAQs.
Hop Pickers’ House is a great spot for dogs. It has its own private, enclosed garden. There’s just one small (20cm) gap under the adjacent barn door, which leads into a further gated area. The gap can be easily blocked if it’s a concern. From there, there’s the wider nine acres of garden, woodland, and meadow – which is perfect for exploring with dogs.
Yes, of course.
There are some great places to eat and drink in our area. The nearest pub is around two miles away.
Yes (We don’t provide a travel cot or other baby equipment).
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