Orchard Cottage, Winchcombe, Cotswolds

In the North Cotswolds, within an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Orchard Cottage is tucked away in the grounds of a 14th century hall house which was the home to the writer and engineer LTC Rolt. Orchard Cottage stands in an old fruit orchard where some of the great Perry pear trees so characteristic of this slope of the Cotswolds still survive. Fresh limestone spring water makes incomparable tea, and a small group of pure bred sheep graze the surrounding orchards. Stanley Pontlarge is a hamlet of six houses and a small Norman church at the end of a lane. The cottage provides direct access to many footpaths making it an ideal base for walkers. Beyond the nearby farm buildings, a hill track, leads over Stanley Mount to Winchcombe (2 miles), one time capital of Mercia, an historic stone town with a fine wool church and now a conservation area. The town has a selection of independent shops, pubs and restaurants. Orchard Cottage has a simple single floor layout. It will sleep four, ideally two adults and two children. The main bedroom has a double bed (which can on request be made up as two singles). The second bedroom has two full sized bunk beds. The bathroom is ensuite with the master bedroom. To access the bathroom from the second bedroom guests have to pass through the main bedroom. The cottage is equipped with electric wall heaters and underfloor heating in the bathroom. There is a wood burning stove (first basket of logs complementary) and there are additional free standing heaters. There is recently installed and upgraded good free wifi. The cottage has a delightful south facing secluded private garden with outdoor seating.