Nestled into the valley, this converted cider mill is surrounded by mature cottage gardens with stunning views. A great base for exploring the Forest of Dean whilst escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday living.
Private and peaceful, this converted cider mill enjoys an elevated position within the historic village of Lydbrook. Surrounded by mature cottage gardens and boasting a two-bedroom, two-bathroom layout, it’s a great base for two couples and a pair of canine pals.
Occupying a steep-sided valley within both the Forest of Dean and the Wye Valley AONB, Lydbrook has a rich industrial history. There’s lots to discover in the surrounding countryside, but climb the narrow footpath up to this characterful cottage and a laid-back holiday vibe awaits – this really is a place in which you can do as much or as little as you’d like. Step through the front porch and you’ll find a fabulous kitchen/breakfast room. A glass roof allows lots of lovely natural light into the kitchen area; beyond is a raised dining table with high-backed stools where you can chill-out with a Nespresso coffee while dinner cooks. For more formal mealtimes, move into the library – with garden views and wooden panelling, it has a table and chairs for four plus a selection books and board games. Big exposed beams and a huge fireplace with a wood burner set the scene for relaxing evenings in front of the TV in the main lounge. And adding home-style convenience to your stay, a utility room with a washing machine and an adjoining shower room complete the ground-floor layout. When it’s time for bed, settle the dogs – two are welcome here – and go upstairs where there are two bedrooms. The master has a super-king size bed, TV and steps down to a small garden room where you can enjoy a breath of fresh air and some lovely views as your day begins. The second has a king-size zip-and-link bed that can be made into twins on request, and completing the first floor is a bathroom with a Jacuzzi-style bath for a spa-like soak. This former cider mill comes with around an acre of mature gardens which guests are free to explore – you can even help yourselves to any produce that’s ready to harvest during your stay! Gather on the raised deck to the far side of the cottage and there’s a fun, covered bar area and open terrace with a table and chairs. For stunning views and sunshine, stroll to the orchard gardens and relax in a wooden lounger; a little further on, there’s a pergola where you could take afternoon tea.
Self-catering is no hassle here – the village has a well-stocked shop, takeaways and welcoming pubs. Work up an appetite with walks in the Wye Valley – the iconic Symonds Yat Rock is just over 6 miles away. Just across the Welsh border, Monmouth (10 miles) is known for its 13th-century gatehouse bridge and offers a range of independent shops and eateries to suit all tastes. Head north instead and, 7 miles away, Ross-on-Wye has 19th-century mock-Gothic walls and pretty pastel-hued dwellings tumbling down the hillside to the river. 3 miles away, the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre is a great starting point for families and adventurers on two wheels.