Tudor Farmhouse

The chocolate-box charm of a centuries-old farmhouse, barn and cider house in flower-filled gardens does not immediately suggest a boutique hotel. But within, you find beautiful bedrooms, blending contemporary styling with rustic features such as beams and exposed walls. Owners Hari and Colin Fell arrived here from London in 2003, beguiled by the surrounding Forest of Dean, and our readers love what they have created. ‘Idyllic visit, as always,’ reads a typical report. ‘Hari and her team are second to none.’ Rooms range from cosy Hatchlings to spacious Cockerels and suites, with a roll-top bath, monsoon shower, maybe a four-poster. A grazing menu will see you through from lunch to a cream tea. At dinner, locally sourced dishes might include cod with mussel broth, sea vegetables, saffron potatoes or wild mushroom and summer truffle Wellington. ‘The whole meal was outstanding.’ Breakfast brings ‘superb Wye Valley smoked salmon, an impressive array of juices including several apple varieties’. ‘Lovely garden, lovely walks suggested by the hotel in ravishing countryside.’ (Ann and Philip McCormack, Andrew Kleissner, and others)