CHALFORD, GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Five cottages on an 80 acre hill farm on the steep slopes of the Golden Valley, where wild woods and banks of cowslips and orchids are rated of equal importance to the raising of cattle and sheep.  The traditional stone cottages are spread over the farm and have panoramic rural views.  The farm is bounded by an old canal built in 1785 which is the starting point for many local walks.  Chalford village is a mile away with its jumble of mellow cottages scattered down the hillside, several shops and three pubs.  Cirencester and Stroud are 15 minutes drive, while Gloucester, Cheltenham, Bristol and Bath can be reached within the hour.

Linen and towels extra.  Access to laundry and telephone.  Pets allowed.

Hornstone

3 bedrooms   Sleeps 6/7   3 stars

Changeover day: Saturday

Superbly situated with panoramic views, garden enclosed by stone wall.  One double bed and five singles.  Oil fired central heating, log fire, microwave.  Parking 20 metres away.  Lots of wild life especially 'Brock the Badger' who expects to be fed most nights. Price: from £410 per week; electricity and heating by coin meter

Cockshut

2 bedrooms   Sleeps 4   3 stars

Changeover day: Saturday

This quaint cottage is set on its own 200 yards from the farmhouse on the farm drive.  Flagstone floor with rugs and exposed beams, a ladder leading to a small sleeping loft for children.  Sunny breakfast patio and a lawned garden enclosed by a stone wall.  Oil fired central heating, log fire.  Parking adjacent. Price: from £310 per week; central heating included, electricity by coin meter