Dog-friendly Worcestershire

This delightful residence is situated in the heart of the Worcestershire countryside offering the perfect location for exploring the many sights and amenities. The village of Welland borders Castlemorton Common and is also within walking distance of the famous Malvern Hills. The Cider Press is just two miles from the Three Counties Showground and just 4 miles from both Upton and Malvern. Shop ¼ mile, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

Nestling in beautiful countryside within the Heart of England Forest, England’s largest new native broadleaf forest, these two holiday properties are the perfect retreat for a peaceful and tranquil break surrounded by woodland. They have been well thought out and are furnished beautifully with the holidaymaker in mind. The cottages are operated by the Heart of England Forest charity’s wholly owned subsidiary, with all profits being Gift-Aided to the charity, so guests not only enjoy the woodland, but do so in the knowledge that they are supporting the growth of the country’s largest new native broadleaf forest. Both feature a lovely open plan sociable living space, well-equipped kitchens and comfortable bedrooms for that perfect night’s sleep, and each property benefits from a private terrace to enjoy the warmer days sitting and relaxing or dining al fresco with a refreshing glass of wine.

The Heart of England Forest spans over 7,000 acres and has ambitious plans to grow into a 30,000-acre contiguous native broadleaf woodland. The forest comprises a mosaic of habitats from flower-rich meadows to newly planted woodland, from ponds and other wetland areas to mature and ancient woodland. There are miles of public footpaths to explore and really discover the woodlands and getting back to nature. Walk out from the cottages straight down to the Noleham Brook and trace its path to the River Avon, following in the footsteps of otters, or wander over to Colletts Pond, teeming with a variety of bejewelled dragonflies and damselflies.

These cottages enable visitors to access the Heart of England Forest where you may spot one of the country’s rarest butterflies such as the purple emperor, catch a glimpse of one of several IUCN Red List birds of conservation concern, or just enjoy a stroll in the adjacent woodland marvelling at the dappled sunlight on tree leaves. Whichever direction you travel, you will enjoy some of the most spectacular scenery in England. Just under a mile is the charming village of Dorsington, surrounded by rolling hills and countryside. Just over 5 miles is the edge of the Cotswolds where you can drive through quintessentially English villages in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, stopping off at various country pubs, tea rooms and independent shops. Some notable towns and villages worth a visit are Chipping Campden with its beautiful high street, Broadway where you can visit the Tower, Bourton-on-the-Water with the pretty River Windrush running through the centre, and Stow-on-the-Wold, another pretty centre with plenty of independent shops and eateries. Head east to Stratford-upon-Avon, 7 miles, with a wealth of attractions including William Shakespeare’s birthplace, the Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre, boat trips and hire, and many shops, bars, restaurants and other historic houses and sites.

For horse racing enthusiasts, you are spoilt for choice with racing at Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick and Cheltenham. For a day trip to London, Honeybourne station is just a 10-minute drive away with direct trains into London Paddington for alternative days out. Within an easy drive is historic Warwick, with its ancient castle and grounds, as well as Royal Leamington Spa, Kenilworth, Droitwich Spa, Alcester and Henley-in-Arden. The National Exhibition Centre and Resort World is 30 miles to the north.

Acorn Cottage (UK35095) & Oak Cottage (UK35096) can be booked together to accommodate up to 11 guests.