Rent Find self catering and cottages with an open fire or a wood burner in West England

The Knoll Tower, Weston-under-Lizard Shifnal, Shropshire, West England

Sleeps 2
Weekly prices from £354

Self catering accommodation in Weston-under-Lizard Shifnal sleeps 2.

Features include: • Internet Access • Open Fire or Woodburning Stove • Romantic Breaks • Easy Walking Access • Cottage Sleeps 2

Accommodation overview:

The Knoll Tower details

The Knoll Tower, built circa 1865, is located in the midst of the ancient and historic park of Weston Park, with panoramic views of the Shropshire countryside and Welsh borders.

This luxury self-catering bolt hole is available for week or weekend short breaks throughout the year. Sleeping two this Victorian Hunting Lodge was built in the late 1800s by the third Earl of Bradford. Set over three floors, leading up to a top floor sitting room with stunning panoramic views over Capability Browns stunning 18th century parkland, the Tower combines all the home comforts you could would want but in a unique historic hideaway.

The Knoll Tower is situated on the outer reaches of the Park and as well as unrivalled views across to the magnificent 17th century stately home and the Temple of Diana, also enjoys views across the Shropshire Hills, affording total privacy for a relaxing escape.

The magnificent 17th century stately home, which can be seen from the Tower was built in 1671, the estate also features two more Grade 1 listed buildings, the Temple of Diana and the Roman Bridge in Temple Wood. Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, a frequent visitor to Weston, suggested building a hunting lodge on the Knoll and so the Tower was created.

Guests staying at Knoll Tower can enjoy walking through Temple Wood, one of only five Capability Brown Pleasure Grounds left intact in the UK. The Granary Grill and Deli on the estate is open all year round with the Grill serving lunch and dinner and the Deli stocking a wide range of speciality food and drink.

Although the Earls of Bradford owned much of the land around Weston the Knoll on which the Tower was erected was owned by the Durrant Family of Tong, a village close to the Park, up until 1855 at which time their small estate was put up for sale.

The Durrant Family of Tong had made their money in the Caribbean in the sugar trade. The last owner before the sale of the estate divorced his wife after which he led a fairly extravagant life style. A character not loved locally, he erected a monument on the Knoll to celebrate his divorce. On his demise, his two sons blew the monument up and we believe there is a remnant of the masonry in the woodland near the Tower.

The Weston Park Foundation took over the Weston Park estate in 1986, the Tower was unused and semi derelict at that time. In 2002 it was restored and permission granted to build an extersion providing kitchen, bathroom and heating. In December 2013, the property went through a major redecoration programme to enable the charity to offer the property as a unique destination for short breaks.

Blacksmiths Cottage, Boresford, Shropshire, West England

Sleeps 2
Weekly prices from £274

Self catering accommodation in Boresford sleeps 2.

Features include: • Internet Access • Open Fire or Woodburning Stove • Romantic Breaks • Pub near by • Cottage Sleeps 2

Accommodation overview:

Blacksmiths Cottage details

Blacksmiths Cottage is a detached barn conversion offering spacious accommodation on a single level.

It is set in a very rural secluded valley on the borders of Wales, Herefordshire and Shropshire, offering easy access to popular places such as Ludlow, Leominster and Hay on Wye.

Locally there are many walks in the lovely countryside and two bicycles are included should you prefer. The nearest country pub is situated in Lingen just four miles away with many further restaurants including two Michelin starred in the medieval town of Ludlow.

There are local amenities in the local town of Presteigne or Knighton. The nearest train station is Knighton which is five miles away.

Pool Head Cottage, Westhide, Herefordshire, West England

Sleeps 6
Weekly prices from £397

Self catering accommodation in Westhide sleeps 6.

Features include: • Garden • Pet friendly • Internet Access • Open Fire or Woodburning Stove • Fishing near by • Pub near by • Cottage Sleeps 6

Accommodation overview:

Pool Head Cottage details

Located on the Westhide Estate, Pool Head Cottage provides a contemporary and cosy holiday get-a-away, in the beautiful county of Herefordshire. The quiet village of Westhide is hidden away, just two miles from the A4103 which links the charming cities of Hereford and Worcester making it easily accessible from the M5. Hereford is just six miles away and benefits from a mainline station so access by rail is an option. Both cities are within easy driving and offer a wide choice of restaurants, shops, entertainment and attractions.

The accommodation on the Westhide Estate offers a peaceful environment in which to relax and unwind. Enjoy walking through its 400 acre oak woodland, fishing in one of its many pools or just sipping a glass of wine whilst enjoying incredible views of the Malvern Hills and Black Mountains - both of which provide outstanding hiking, mountain biking and horse riding opportunities. Enthusiastic walkers can easily walk the three miles to the neighbouring village of Withington to find the Cross Keys public house, (bar only), and local shop. Food and wine connoisseurs will enjoy visits to Westons Cider, the Three Choirs vineyard and historic wool town of Ludlow - famous for its numerous Michelin Star restaurants - time it right and you could enjoy one of the many fantastic local food festivals, including Abergavenny and Ludlow .

Other attractions in the area include the historic Eastnor Castle, the beautiful gardens at Hampton Court, Symmonds Yat, horse racing at Hereford and Cheltenham and the many farmers' markets hosted in the local market towns of Ledbury, Ross-on-Wye and Hay-on-Wye - also home of the Guardian Literary Festival.London to Westhide approx. three hours.

The Gatehouse, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, West England

Sleeps 4
Weekly prices from £582

Self catering accommodation in Bridgnorth sleeps 4.

Features include: • Internet Access • Open Fire or Woodburning Stove • Romantic Breaks • Cottage Sleeps 4

Accommodation overview:

The Gatehouse details

The Gatehouse at Upton Cressett is one of the most romantic and historically significant gatehouses in the country, often compared to the Tower at Sissinghurst Castle in Kent. It has won the Best Hidden Gem award at the 2011 Hudson's Heritage Awards and was recently voted runner up in the 2015 Hudson's Heritage Award for best luxury accommodation.

The property has its own imposing entrance gates, gravelled drive-way and parking. Wrought iron gates lead through to a medieval courtyard and 16th century cobbled archway.

Prince Rupert, nephew of Charles I and commander of the royalist troops,stayed in the Gatehouse during the Civil War and the panelled bedroom he slept in is named after him.

Built in 1580 as an entrance to the moated manor of Upton Cressett Hall,the turreted Gatehouse with bedroom suites on two floors has been featured on the cover of Country Life and was admired by Nikolaus Pevsner. In his acclaimed book Best Houses of Britain, Simon Jenkins described the Gatehouse as 'an Elizabethan gem'.

There is a long-standing story that the young Edward V (one of the princes in the Tower), son of King Edward IV, stayed at the early manor in 1483 on his fateful journey from Ludlow Castle (some 17miles away) to the Tower of London. Others who have stayed in the Gatehouse, as well as Prince Rupert, include Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and Sir Denis Thatcher, Elizabeth Hurley and many writers.

The Gatehouse can be taken in conjunction with The Coach House (also in our brochure) to provide accommodation for eight guests.

Weston Park, Shifnal, Shropshire, West England

Sleeps 54
Weekly prices from £250

Self catering accommodation in Shifnal sleeps 54.

Features include: • Internet Access • Open Fire or Woodburning Stove • Fishing near by • Pub near by • Cottage Sleeps 54

Accommodation overview:

Weston Park details

Rural Retreats are proud to present Weston Park, offering luxury accommodation, 5-star service & award winning cuisine. The perfect venue for your corporate event (located on the Shropshire / Staffordshire border, an ideal conference venue for delegates based around the country), or large gathering with friends & family. Weston Park has it all. Exclusively yours with a minimum booking of 12 of the 28 rooms.

Gifted to the nation in 1986 by Richard, the current and 7th Earl of Bradford, Weston is now owned and maintained by the Weston Park Foundation, an independent charitable trust.

The formal lines of the 19th century gardens fuse dramatically with the naturalistic style fashioned by Capability Brown in the 18th century.

Choose from 28 (22 doubles, four double/twin and two singles) bedrooms located within the House, all of which are furnished with family heirlooms, antique furniture and original paintings along with televisions, fluffy towels and robes. Every room has either an en-suite or private bathroom with views of either the formal gardens, ‘Capability’ Brown Parkland or the Temple of Diana. Fully manned with butlers, chefs and housekeepers.

During the Park open seasons, children can enjoy the woodland adventure playground with its slides, zip wire, cargo net and miniature railway. Little ones will enjoy the activity room with a fabulous traverse wall, board games and dressing up boxes!

The Cider Mill, Great Catley, Herefordshire, West England

Sleeps 2
Weekly prices from £303

Self catering accommodation in Great Catley sleeps 2.

Features include: • Garden • Pet friendly • Internet Access • Open Fire or Woodburning Stove • Romantic Breaks • Pub near by • Cottage Sleeps 2

Accommodation overview:

The Cider Mill details

The Cider Mill is a charming grade ll listed building with original features of oak beams and exposed brick work. The property displays a real sense of place with the back drop of the farm’s own orchard, enveloped within the Herefordshire countryside famous for its’ cider production. This once working 16th Century Cider Mill now provides luxury country living with a spacious lounge and kitchen area and a unique cylindrical bedroom. The property also has its’ own private walled garden with access to the grounds.

It is situated in the hamlet of Catley, a mile from the village of Bosbury and only 20 minutes from the M50. Two local pubs are within a mile and a half, the Bell at Bosbury and the Oak at Staplow. Both serve local ales, excellent food and take-outs. The area is a perfect retreat for exploring the beautiful Herefordshire countryside.

The old town of Ledbury has its traditional black and white buildings but within them are a very eclectic range of independent shops and restaurants. Close by are Eastnor Castle, the Three Choirs Vineyard and Westons Cider Mill. The cities of Hereford and Worcester are an equidistant 15 miles. Both have beautiful cathedrals and riverside settings. Hereford has the famous Mappa Mundi and Worcester its cricket ground and racecourse.

The Malvern Hills are just 20 minutes away together with its spa town and theatre. Ludlow, Hay-on-Wye, Gloucester and Cheltenham are all less than an hour away with their own renowned festivals.

Bullens Bank Cottage, Hay-on-Wye, Herefordshire, West England

Sleeps 4
Weekly prices from £936

Self catering accommodation in Hay-on-Wye sleeps 4.

Features include: • Garden • Pet friendly • Open Fire or Woodburning Stove • Detached Property • Cottage Sleeps 4

Accommodation overview: Bullens Bank Cottage is a holiday property which has one of the most spectacular views imaginable. It is, literally, amazing. Situated on the edge of the hillside it looks out towards some stunning English countryside, for miles and miles. Internally this holiday cottage is very cosy and traditional: secluded, low ceilings plus wood burning stoves all adding to the appeal of this 200 year old building. The cottage is surrounded by a private garden and fields. This cottage is astonishing for its view alone but also offers superb value for money. The owners also have another property about 100 yards away down the hill, ideal for slightly larger groups, called Llangain.   ACCOMMODATION.Entrance through into Living Room One, a cosy room with sofa (sofa bed, no charge) and chairs, woodburning stove table and chairs storage heater, Flatscreen TV with Freeview and integral DVD/CD player Living Room Two has another wood-burning stove, with sofas and chairs to enjoy the stunning views, storage heater, dining table and chairs and, of course, astonishing views.   Kitchen well equipped with electric hob and oven, microwave, fridge and freezer, washing machine and dishwasherBathroom with bath, shower over bath, basin and WC. Upstairs Bedroom One (compact) with double bed (4ft 6in), wardrobe Bedrooms Two (compact) with two standard size single beds and wardrobeAdditional twin beds located on landing space, no extra charge through which you will access the other bedrooms.OutsideThere garden is well equipped with garden furniture, picnic tables, benches, soft reclining chairs and barbecue all offering excellent views!  Heating by storage heaters and wood-burning stoves. Electricity and logs are included all year. Linen provided, but NOT towels. Pets welcome. Cot provided.Friday Changeover. Short Breaks welcome all year, except High Season and Xmas, Easter and Half Terms please check otherwise. Please note that this cottage can be rented with Llangain for larger parties.   Important Note: the property is reached via a steep stone track which is not suitable for 'low-profile' sports cars.

Lower Moor Lodge, Hay-on-Wye, Herefordshire, West England

Sleeps 4
Weekly prices from £608

Self catering accommodation in Hay-on-Wye sleeps 4.

Features include: Wheelchair Accessible • Garden • Pet friendly • Open Fire or Woodburning Stove • Pub near by • Detached Property • Cottage Sleeps 4

Accommodation overview: Lower Moor Lodge, Hay on Wye is a lovely, cosy cottage located conveniently for this historic and delightful literary town. The cottage, which is over 200 years old and was once the lodge to the Lower Moor Manor, has a wealth of period features, including original flagstone and wooden flooring and wood burning stove. The owners have cleverly mixed old and new to make it a very charming home. There is a lovely garden and super views to the south. The property is located just 15 mins level walk from Hay centre with its shops, cafes and restaurants. (Hay on Wye is a world renowned for its book festivals and book shops NB: 'Hay Festival' is charged at Xmas ratesACCOMMODATION (all on one level, with two steps to bedroom 1)Entrance through to Kitchen.Kitchen, equipped with Rayburn hob and oven, dishwasher, fridge (no freezer), washer/dryer plus table and two chairs. Stable door to garden and patio area.Dining Room, a lovely room with a view towards the garden, table and four chairs.Living Room with flagstone floor and large rug, plus one sofa and two chairs, log burner, TV with DVD player. Bedroom One with super view, double bed, wardrobe and chest of drawersBedroom Two with two single bedsBathroom with bath, electric shower over, WC and washbasinOutsideThe cottage enjoys a good size garden which surrounds the property, including off-street parking. The garden is lovely with many cottage style plants along with a patio with table and chairs. Beyond there are fields in one direction while the town is in the other. Saturday Changeover Please. One Pet Welcome. No Cot or high chair supplied. Heating & Electricity included, as well as a starter pack of logs. (The property is suitable for those with limited mobility, but please do note that there is a step into each bedroom and that the shower is in the bath.)Short Breaks welcome October to Easter, except School Holidays. Otherwise, short breaks only at 3 weeks notice.