The Huts at The Royal Oak

*Brand new*

The Royal Oak has been here for over 200 years: once a cider house, once a cheese house, so full of interesting history. Nowadays it’s becoming known for its 3 gorgeous shepherd huts, which sit in a neighbouring field, looking out over the Vale of Evesham towards the Malverns. Inside, they’re a real departure from the common Cotswolds script. No washed-out neutrals or overplayed rustic tropes; instead, it’s all depth and texture. Dark panelling, rich colours and ironwork, softened by linen bedding and the glow of log burners. Small spaces, yes, but handled cleverly. The details are spot on, too. White Company robes. Excellent coffee and homemade granola. Adirondack chairs angled towards those views, alongside firepits for starry evenings. The occasional chug of a steam train passing feels almost too charming to be real.

Days here won’t need much structuring. You might walk a bit of the Cotswold Way, or visit Sudeley Castle and Stanway House if you’re in the mood for something grander. The idyllic villages of Broadway, Guiting Power and Stow on the Wold are minutes away, but it’s just as easy to stay local; perhaps a circular ramble with your dog, or a game of pickleball then dinner in the pub. Come as a couple and lean into romance and relaxation (book Dumbleton in that case, with its copper rolltop bath). Or book all 3 huts with friends for a countryside stay that feels both elevated and entirely easy. The best kind.

Getting here: drive, or train to Cheltenham or Kingham then taxi (15 mins)