Head out through the trees on foot or by bicycle when you stay at this handsome cottage near Mallards Pike in the Forest of Dean. Sleeping four, the two-bedroom retreat, which is 5.5 miles from Cinderford, is set within a row of traditional-style properties with access to leafy footpaths and trails. With a gorgeous garden, featuring a wildlife pond, and a wood burner, for winter evenings, it makes a great base for exploring the borderlands of England and Wales at any time of year.

Let yourselves in at the back, where you can slip off your walking boots and hang your jackets. There is also a WC here. Wander through to the kitchen/diner to put the kettle on and cut yourself a slice of the freshly baked cake you bought on your last excursion. Find everything you need in here to help you prepare hearty feasts for your party too. Dine together at the table, with the door to the garden open on fine days. While away your evenings in the lovely lounge, where another external door can be opened to bring in a breeze or you can fire up the wood burner when it is chilly. Watch TV, read your books or play games. When you are ready to retire for the night, climb the stairs to the first floor where your inviting double and twin bedrooms are located. The family bathroom is also up here. Spend as much time as possible out in the garden. Dine out here, open a bottle of wine and watch the birds in the trees.

Head into the Wye Valley, which begins 5.5 miles away, to walk, cycle or paddle up the river in canoes. Visit Tintern Abbey, 12.5 miles away, and Raglan Castle, 18.5 miles away, over the border in Wales.

Additional information and rules

No dogs allowed

- 2 bedrooms – 1 double and 1 twin

- 1 bathroom with shower over the bath and WC, and 1 separate WC

- Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, dishwasher and washing machine

- Wood burner (first basket of logs included)

- TV in lounge

- Ample roadside parking

- Pub within walking distance