The Malt House

'A lovely house to sit around in, with open fires and lots of welcoming armchairs, sofas, newspapers and magazines.' This 'beautiful old building' in Cotswold vernacular style (a conversion of a Grade II listed malt house with two adjacent cottages) is a 'pleasant B&B', run by the 'charming' owner, Judi Wilkes, and her 'helpful and efficient' staff. The bedrooms are 'beautifully furnished' and well equipped, with umbrella, spare toothbrush, torch, and fresh milk for tea-making. All overlook the large, pretty garden which has 'lovely countryside views'; three have a private entrance, one a fireplace, one a small sitting room. 'Ours was cosy on a cold evening; cottagey furnishings, big soft bed, huge bathroom.' Breakfasts are 'generous', and in warm weather, tea (with home-made biscuits) and evening drinks are served in the summer house in the garden. Meals may be provided, by arrangement, for groups of 12 or more, and house parties are catered for. 'There are lots of excellent gastropubs within a short drive' (coming by car is advised), and a map with recommendations is in each room. From the gate you can walk on to the Cotswold Way. (ANR, EA and G Smith, and others)