At their 'charming house', in a hamlet reached down narrow lanes in the hills above Ludlow, Alex Read and Tracey Baylis (a 'delightful' couple) follow a green agenda. An underground heat pump, solar panels and wood burners provide much of the energy; organic and Fairtrade produce is used where possible for meals. Two of the bedrooms are in the old house, two in an extension connected by a 'lovely, light room' with comfy sofas and chairs, and a large dining table; kilim rugs on oak floorboards. 'We loved our large bedroom in the main house, with its original beams, old pine furniture, sofa, window seat, attractive bathroom.' The bedrooms in the extension have 'beautifully crafted oak fittings'; one has a freestanding bath in the room. Breakfast, served communally, includes 'big jars of organic cereals and muesli, fresh fruit, yogurt, home-made preserves. Lovely chunky toast, tasty bacon and sausages, eggs from their own hens.' The hostess, who once worked with the chef Shaun Hill in Ludlow, cooks dinner by arrangement: 'Good country dishes, local pork and lamb, delicious summer pudding.' Children and dogs are welcomed; the owners have two young sons and two outdoor dogs.