Bull Pen

• Sleeps: 6
• Bedrooms: 3
• Bathrooms: 3 ensuite
• Minimum stay: 3 nights

It was the great William Morris who described Bibury as “the most beautiful village in England” back in the 19th century, but the rural Cotswolds village has received plenty of similar accolades in the years since.

Not only does time barely seem to have touched this rural haven, with a sparkling river running through its centre, but Arlington Row, a gorgeous collection of 17th century weavers’ cottages, is one of the most photographed spots in the Cotswolds.

It’s amongst all that charming English countryside that you’ll discover Bull Pen, a bright and luxurious space for up to six guests and their two lucky dogs. Open-plan and flooded with daylight, this really is the ideal place for social gatherings of family and friends.

As its name suggests, Bull Pen was once home to the farmer’s prized bull – though it’s hard to imagine him draped over the squishy sofas after a long day of grazing! You will note some hints to the retreat’s past, however, including ancient beams, iron girders, and honey-coloured Cotswold stone that perfectly complements the natural light that floods through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Gather round the wood-burner, as you swap stories after a hearty meal prepared in the well-equipped kitchen. With a handy breakfast bar and stools to gather round with a glass of wine, the chef need not cook alone, while the dining area is adorned with hanging light features, for an irresistibly soft evening glow.

There are three superking bedrooms to choose from when it’s time to turn in. All of them face the elegant courtyard – itself a wonderful spot for al fresco dining, with a countryside vista that seems to stretch out forever.

(Hint: try to claim the master room for yourself, so you can enjoy its gorgeous stone-and-marble en-suite…that features a standalone bath just begging to be filled with bubbles!)

At a glance

• A stunningly restored, single-level retreat, sleeping up to 6 guests and peacefully located in the rural Cotswolds village of Bibury.
• If you’d rather leave the car at home, Bull Pen is easily accessed by rail from London, with regular trains from Paddington.
• There are three kingsize bedrooms to choose from. The master includes a stone-and-marble en-suite with freestanding bath.
• A full concierge service is available for local recommendations and reservations if needed. There are plenty of pubs in the local area, along with regular farmers’ markets.

Features

• Dog Friendly
• Family Friendly

More information

If you can tear yourselves away from your rustic bolt hole, there’s plenty to see and do in the local area. Bibury itself is home to a selection of friendly pubs and restaurants, not to mention regular farmers’ markets, and an exquisite Saxon church with a designer stained-glass window.

There’s plenty more on offer if you’re prepared to hop in the car, from a trip to the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, otherwise known as Bourton-on-the-Water, to a fresh-produce shopping expedition to Daylesford Organic Farm. Or for those in need of a little extra pampering, how about a treatment or two at the Haybarn Spa?

However you spend your time, we’re willing to bet the highlight of your day will be charging back to your beloved Bull Pen by evening, as you enjoy a welcome sunset tipple in the courtyard.  You’ll be chatting and laughing together until the cows come home!

Things to note

Check in at 4pm, check out by 11am. Up to two dogs are welcome downstairs only, with a cleaning surcharge applicable. No smoking. Stairgate, highchair, and travel cot are available on request.