Danby Lodge - a house that sleeps 14 guests in 7 bedrooms

Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Exterior
A heated pool
4.5
Excellent(13 Reviews)

Cottage in Forest of Dean

14 guests · 7 bedrooms · 4 baths

Reasons to book

Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
Includes essentialsGarden, Pool, Pets allowed and more
Book with confidenceWe partner with the top travel sites so you know you're getting a great deal on the perfect rental

About this cottage rental

The lodge enjoys stunning scenery and views in a tranquil, and private setting, away from roads and surrounded by wildlife and forest walks. The property is surrounded by dry stone walls and fences with electric gates at the entrance for privacy and security. Facilities include a heated outdoor swimming pool, a log fire situated within a huge stone fireplace, as well as patio areas for al-fresco dining. A gas barbeque is available for use by guests and the house has ample parking facilities.

The grounds contain a mix of mature gardens, wild areas, and private woodland, including a pond, a walled garden containing a carp pond, a greenhouse containing various herbs and vegetables, which visitors can enjoy in summer, and a kitchen garden containing raised herb beds. The nearest neighbouring house is around a mile distant through the forest, so guests can be assured of complete privacy and quietness during their stay at the house.

The house contains a total of six bedrooms, four of which contain Super King size beds, one contains a King size, and one a double (in a smaller attic room with low eaves). One of the double bedrooms has a "Zip and Link" bed which can be split into two singles if this is preferable. There is also a (double-sized) sofa bed in the library. Three bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms. The main bathroom enjoys a large bath and a walk-in marble tiled shower with a Phillipe Starck designer shower and tapware. Most of the beds in the house are Super Kingsize (for more details see below) and are made up of Egyptian cotton linen, duck feather duvets, toppers, and pillows. We provide hand and bath towels for guests.

The house also has a TV Room containing a 60-inch Ultra High Definition Smart TV with Satellite Channels and a high-quality sound system with ample DVDs and CDs for use by guests. Downstairs, there is also a dining Hall containing a Refectory table and a large stone fireplace, a reading room (Snug room), and a further small library room, adjacent to one of the en-suite bedrooms, which can be used as a child's bedroom if required. Please note that the bed in this room is a (double) sofa bed.

Danby Lodge is full of character and historical features, including a huge stone inglenook fireplace, wooden panelling, and thick stone walls. The house is furnished with a mix of modern and antique furniture to match the immense character of this magnificent house. One of the bedrooms is accessed via a hidden "priest hole" - a door masquerading as a bookcase. It is a fantastic place for a family holiday or a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

There is a badminton net and racquets available. There is also a good selection of books to read.

The kitchen and utility feature granite work surfaces with Philippe Starck designer taps. The kitchen also contains an American Style Stainless steel fridge freezer, a small informal dining table and chairs, a stainless steel range with six burner gas hob, and a Fisher and Paykel dual drawer dishwasher.

It is common to see wildlife in and around the house. There are owls living in a tree within the grounds, and deer and wild boar can often be seen in the forest nearby. Kestrels often visit and perch in trees near to the house and there is a multitude of other birdlife in and near the house. Foxes sometimes visit and can be heard calling at night and the pond contains newts, frogs, tadpoles (at the right time of year), and a few goldfish. Ducks (and sometimes a large Heron) visit the pond at various times of the year.

As the house is situated in the middle of the forest, there are fantastic walks and mountain biking trails, which can be accessed directly from the gates in the perimeter of the house's grounds. From April to June, the bluebells are out in the woods surrounding the house, as well as within the grounds. The bluebell woods at Soudley are a short 5-minute walk down the hill from the house.

A number of pubs are situated within around 10 minutes walking distance from the house and a number of further pubs and restaurants can be recommended within easy driving distance. Go Ape, the outdoor treetop adventure park at Mallard's pike is around 10 minutes walk from the house through the woods.

Although the property sleeps 14, the dining table will accommodate 12 at the most (it easily accommodates 10). There is a small informal dining table in the kitchen which accommodates a further 4 people. The seating around the fire also accommodates approximately 10 people, as does the seating in the TV Room. Please also note that the pool is only open during the Spring/Summer months (May to September). The pool heating will only be turned on if the temperature is forecast to be higher than 20 degrees and relatively good during your stay.

The bed sizes and bathroom arrangements are as follows :

Main bedroom: Super King size bed (180 x 200cm), en-suite bathroom containing a bath with shower over bath

Rear bedroom (behind Main): King size bed (180 x 190cm) - This bedroom shares the use of the main bathroom

Front Bedroom (beside Main): Super Kingsize Zip and Link Bed (180 x 200cm) or 2 x 90cm x 200cm single beds. This bedroom shares the use of the main bathroom

Main Attic bedroom (2nd floor): Super King size bed (180 x 200cm) - en-suite bathroom containing a roll-top bath. Hand-held shower spray attachment on bath (not able to stand up and shower).

Small Attic bedroom (2nd floor): Double bed (120 x 190cm) - shares use of the main bathroom, or could use en-suite to Main Attic bedroom (both bedrooms can be shut off via door at the bottom of the second flight of stairs).

Main bathroom: Large (2000 x 800) bath and walk-in shower. Phillippe Starck taps.

Priest Hole bedroom (behind false bookcase off library): Super King size bed (180 x 200cm) - en-suite bathroom with large walk-in shower. No bath.

Sofa Bed (in Library): Double bed (133 x 180) - shares use of the main bathroom or could use en-suite to Priest Hole bedroom.

The Priest Hole bedroom and Library are at the other end of the house to the main stairway and the Priest Hole bedroom has its own set of stairs leading to it.

Amenities

Pool
Pets allowed
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
Hot tub or spa
TV
Garden

Map of Forest of Dean

Reviews

4.5
Excellent(13 Reviews)
4.5
Feb 2024
The property is set in wonderful grounds and is well furnished. We had everything we needed for a 4 day stay. The fire in the lounge was a lovely focal point throughout the time we were there and we would love to return in summer when we could use the pool. Unfortunately Vrbo’s computer system did not appear to communicate with the property agent’s which led to various problems, including the property manager not knowing that we had paid the deposit. A phone call with the property agent easily sorted the issues out but it was a stressful time whilst happening. We paid a large damage deposit which we have neither received back nor been told when it will be repaid, despite contacting both Vrbo and the property manager. Hopefully someone will eventually decide to refund this money but I will never use Vrbo again.
4.5
Aug 2020
Altruistic Holiday !!
Altruistic Holiday !!
The property has great potential - but as with most old building needs constant TLC. We had a number of issues to deal with, some unavoidable, but others caused by a lack of willingness on the Owner's behalf to spend the necessary funds. After a week of dialogue this was recognised by the property manager and we are due to receive a discount on our stay. It is very reassuring that subsequent guests will have a significantly superior offering to the one we had - and there is satisfaction it that, even though it would have been nice to have enjoyed a cleaner house and pool, among other things ! We hope the owner regularly invests some of the substantial letting fees he is receiving for the property in its maintenance and cleaning - that may encourage us to go back, because overall we did have a very enjoyable holiday.
4.5
Jan 2018
Fantastic place!
Fantastic place!
Extremely comfortable and really well equipped.
4.5
Sep 2017
Three families thoroughly enjoyed the luxury break for 3 nights. The pool was fantastic, clean, and a reasonable temperature (our Australian friends might disagree). The location was secluded and peaceful with a pub about 30 mins walk through the forest, the food there was average. The rooms were all good sizes and clean. One criticism would be that the top floor bathroom did not have air circulation and with carpets has created a damp smell, may need to be looked into by the owners. All in all we would recommend this place to friends.
4.5
Sep 2017
Impressive home with fantastic faculties
Impressive home with fantastic faculties
Three families thoroughly enjoyed the luxury break for 3 nights. The pool was fantastic, clean, and a reasonable temperature (our Australian friends might disagree). The location was secluded and peaceful with a pub about 30 mins walk through the forest, the food there was average. The rooms were all good sizes and clean. One criticism would be that the top floor bathroom did not have air circulation and with carpets has created a damp smell, may need to be looked into by the owners. All in all we would recommend this place to friends.
4.5
Jul 2017
Amazing stay!
Amazing stay!
Amazing house, beautiful grounds, our group of friends had a brilliant time here. Would absolutely stay again, many thanks for having us!
4.5
May 2017
Driving down the forest track towards the house was magical and when we came through the gates and saw Danby Lodge we were so delighted. Only having an internet image to go on it was a relief to see it was more lovely than we had imagined. 14 of us happily shared the property and there was plenty of space for everyone. The TV room was fab for a chill out and lighting the fire in the evening to sit around and chat was great. The outdoor pool was big hit with the children. There was so much space to run around and play. The surrounding woodland was amazing and we took our dogs walking a few times. They all loved it too! We are planning to come back next year to rekindle the love we had for this stunning home from home. The Wi-Fi was a bit hit and miss, but if you don't want to be 'on' all the time, that's no bad thing. Our family were able to reconnect and enjoy lots of quality time together. Just perfect! I would recommend a stay here if you really want to escape the rat race for a few days.
4.5
May 2017
Beautiful house in a beautiful location. Perfect for a large family gathering.
Beautiful house in a beautiful location. Perfect for a large family gathering.
Driving down the forest track towards the house was magical and when we came through the gates and saw Danby Lodge we were so delighted. Only having an internet image to go on it was a relief to see it was more lovely than we had imagined. 14 of us happily shared the property and there was plenty of space for everyone. The TV room was fab for a chill out and lighting the fire in the evening to sit around and chat was great. The outdoor pool was big hit with the children. There was so much space to run around and play. The surrounding woodland was amazing and we took our dogs walking a few times. They all loved it too! We are planning to come back next year to rekindle the love we had for this stunning home from home. The Wi-Fi was a bit hit and miss, but if you don't want to be 'on' all the time, that's no bad thing. Our family were able to reconnect and enjoy lots of quality time together. Just perfect! I would recommend a stay here if you really want to escape the rat race for a few days.

FAQs

How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Forest of Dean?

The average price for a rental in Forest of Dean is R 1,768 per night. This rental is R 12,632 above the average.

Is parking included with this cottage?

Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Danby Lodge - a house that sleeps 14 guests in 7 bedrooms. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.

Is there a pool at this cottage?

Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at Danby Lodge - a house that sleeps 14 guests in 7 bedrooms. Enjoy the water!

Is Danby Lodge - a house that sleeps 14 guests in 7 bedrooms pet friendly?

Yes! This cottage is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.

What amenities are available at Danby Lodge - a house that sleeps 14 guests in 7 bedrooms?

We found 12 amenities for this rental. This includes pool, pets allowed, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, and fireplace.

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