The Stable & Barn, Cothill

The Lloyd family, sheep farmers up here in the Black Mountains for generations, have lavished attention on their restoration of listed Barn, Stable and the sweetly simple Shepherd’s Hut (let only with The Stable as it shares a bathroom). The result is a really successful mix of old: stone, slate, beams, china, general rusticity and retro pieces – and new: ultra-modern kitchens, bathrooms, heating and electronic devices – touches of fun, splashes of vibrant colour. Long, wild views from deeply comfortable, woody bedrooms will entice you out to tramp those hills; return to soak in deep baths, or enjoy the power showers, then head down the wide oak stairs for a drink by the woodburning stove and dinner – perhaps prepared by Ali – though everything a cook could want is provided and this is a thoroughly foodie area. The Barn has the bigger garden, The Stable floods with light through the glazed doorway, the Hut stands between two ancient oaks. If you can tear yourself away, go to bookish Hay and to Abbey Dore for a concert, to Hereford market and to see the Cathedral and Mappa Mundi – a weekend is not enough!