The prettiest village with the river Eye running through – drive through the ford to this old stone barn conversion. French doors at the back open into a lovely big, open-plan sitting/dining/cooking space. The feel is peaceful and airy with natural colours, linen curtains, kilims on painted boards. There’s a log-burner and comfortable blue sofa, and the kitchen area is sleekly done with a long dark work top and all the gadgets for proper cooking. The bedroom has a king-sized, deep bed topped with good linen, a quirky fish painting and windows overlooking the farmhouse next door; there’s space for a couple of children in a single and extra pull-out bed too. The gravelled garden at the back is edged with herbs, flowers, box and crab apple – perfect for sunny drinks and al fresco dining; or you can walk to the pub for supper – dip your toes in the river on the way. Cheltenham is 25 minutes: great shopping, the races and jazz and literary festivals. Next door is The Chapel, for two, so if you want to come with family or friends you can spill over there and have both the gardens – there’s a gateway in between.
We thoroughly enjoyed two stays at River Barn in the last year. The first time we stayed for a week and it was idyllic - the summer fete was on in Upper Slaughter and (I think!) Rachel had just begun letting the cottage out. It is very comfortable and furnished to high standards. The bed linens are fit for a 5-star hotel. Our recent stay was just as good. It's clearly a popular self-catering rental, but even after a busy year of lettings, the cottage was spotless and very well kept. The location is picturesque and perfect for walking. We'll be back again. Highly recommend!!