The Black Mountains are the backdrop to your Herefordshire retreat: this converted bakehouse has all a couple need to escape city life. Inside, tones are neutral, with wheat coloured carpets and soft fabrics in the living room to set off the dark beams above, and a wood-burner stacked with logs. The kitchen isn’t huge but it is well-equipped (and you’ll find some generous basics along with handmade chocolates and local Welsh cakes), so pad through to the conservatory with a coffee, or step out to the sunny garden – both are great birdwatching spots. Two meadows lie just beyond, the start of many footpaths that criss-cross the countryside; the river Monnow meanders by too. The energetic Jones’ use the old mill owner’s house at weekends but otherwise the cottage stands in peaceful seclusion. After a day spent in bookish Hay-on-Wye, a windswept trek on Offa’s Dyke or a drink in the local pub you can head upstairs and collapse into your big zip-link double, with its fresh linen and pretty view to the garden. The award-winning village shop can sell you a fishing licence and there’s plenty of space for storing bikes.
Monnow River Cottage was probably the best holiday home we have enjoyed. Tivy and Steve have created such a beautiful home within a truly magical setting. The garden, the river, the orchard and a stunning watermil- with the Black Mountains in view too. The cottage has everything and more - with a generous welcome basket of food provided fresh flowers in every room, fluffy soft towels and home grown vegetables. It was exceptionally difficult to leave so we will have to return!