Tucked away in a traditional, honey-coloured stone building, this Cotswolds cottage is an idyllic base from which to explore this beautiful corner of the English countryside. Just off the main tourist trails in Coln St Aldwyn – one of the area’s prettiest villages – this home is the perfect starting point to explore the Cotswolds’ network of picturesque villages and glorious nature walks. Inside, the open-plan living space blends antique and modern furnishings to create a warm welcome, with a wood-burning stove as its focal point. We love the long, rustic dining table in the country-style kitchen whose cobalt blue cabinetry contrasts handsomely with the bright walls that reflect the light coming through the large windows. Upstairs, the comfortable bedrooms give way to wide sweeping views of the surrounding meadows and the river Coln beyond. One of the home’s most unique features is its lovely separate outbuilding. Here, you’ll find an artist’s studio where you can let your creative side run free and a garden room decked out in bunting, a table and chairs, perfect for hosting an afternoon over tea. After a day spent rambling in the great outdoors, sampling the area's traditional pubs or just lounging in your own garden, sit down around the courtyard’s table on balmy nights for a barbecue feast under the stars. On cooler evenings, wrap yourself up in a blanket by the fire over a board game and a glass of wine, and revel in the stillness of your quiet country retreat. Home truths: *Pets are welcome to stay but please keep them downstairs only *The fourth bedroom is a study that can accommodate two children on the trundle bed if needed *A cot, a travel cot, window guards and baby safety gates are available – just ask the host when booking *There is enough parking space for three cars in the home's driveway – there is also free on-street parking