Guests say
Under Catswood is a well-regarded property, praised for its stunning views, comfortable and spacious accommodation, and peaceful location. Guests appreciate the modern amenities, the warmth of the house, and the thoughtful touches like a welcome pack. The property's elevated position offers a unique perspective of the Gloucestershire countryside, making it a favourite for many who have stayed.
While many guests found the property clean and well-presented, there were notable instances of dissatisfaction regarding cleanliness, including reports of a dirty BBQ, dusty surfaces, and a full vacuum cleaner. These issues seem to be exceptions rather than the rule, but they have impacted the overall perception of cleanliness.
The location is highly praised for its spectacular views and serene setting, ideal for a relaxing getaway. Access can be challenging, especially in adverse weather conditions, and the narrow roads may deter some, but the majority of guests feel the journey is worthwhile for the tranquillity and beauty on offer.
Guests consistently report that the property is extremely comfortable, with cosy interiors and personal touches that make it feel like a home away from home. The beds are comfortable, and the living spaces are well-received for their spaciousness and warmth.
The property is generally well-equipped with modern facilities. However, some guests experienced issues with water pressure, heating control, and appliance operation. There are mentions of broken window handles and a need for clearer instructions for the kitchen appliances, suggesting room for improvement in maintenance and user guidance.
While guests have mentioned welcome packs and other good touches, there is insufficient information to determine the consistency and range of thoughtful gestures provided. Therefore, a score cannot be accurately assigned, and guests should note that such amenities are subject to change and may not be guaranteed.
About this property
Stroud 3 miles. Located in the wonderful Slad Valley, this architect-designed, contemporary villa is nestled in seven acres of private woodland and commands stunning 30 mile views across the Cotswold escarpment. Finished to a high standard, to provide stunning accommodation, it really does provide something special for a group of six. On arrival at the property, you will immediately see the spectacular vista spread out before you, along with handy off-road parking. Access the property via a flight of external steps; as soon as you enter the property you will begin to appreciate the thought and time that has gone into creating a spectacular home. Arranged over one level, the whole house provides a welcoming and light, open-plan space where you can relax and unwind. On one side of the house you will find a superb kitchen/diner, where you will find all the conveniences you would expect in a property of this quality, and spend time relaxing around the retro dining table whilst soaking up the magnificent views, whatever the weather. The kitchen/diner gives access to the sun room - the perfect spot for a few moments of peaceful relaxation. The sun room gives access to one of the three beautifully decorated en-suite bedrooms, this one equipped with a king size bed and the en-suite with a walk-in shower. Cross to the other side of the house where you will find the dual-level sitting room comprising of a glorious sitting area (accessed down four steps), where you can curl up by the log-burner on those chilly winter evenings, or catch up with the latest offering on the large, Smart TV. On the upper level you will find a separate reading area, supplied with a range of books and magazines to keep you entertained. From here you also have access to the two remaining bedrooms; the master king-size suite with en-suite fully equipped with bath (and shower over), and a further bedroom, this time with twin beds and en-suite shower room. Once you have settled in take time to explore the outside of the house; multiple sitting areas from which to enjoy the spectacular scenery, as well as seven acres of woodland to explore, where you will hopefully find an abundance of wildlife, including deer, badgers, owl and buzzards. You will begin to appreciate why the author Laurie Lee was so enamoured with the area, and it provides the setting for his timeless classic 'Cider with Rosie'. After making the most of the house’s surroundings, venture to the peaceful village of Slad to savour a pint at the The Woolpack Inn (Laurie Lee's local!), before continuing on to Stroud. The town of Stroud makes for a wonderful outing, with its fascinating Museum in the Park to explore, the Sladebank Woods to venture through and its many eateries and shops to stop at. Try and visit on a Saturday, when the fabulous Farmers' Market is in situ, and sample some of the local gastronomic delights. Alternatively make your way to Painswick, often referred to as 'The Queen of the Cotswolds' for a round of golf in the local club, before touring the breathtaking Rococo Garden and viewing the Grade II Listed building of The Little Fleece. 20 minutes away lies the splendid Regency town of Cheltenham, with something to attract visitors whatever the time of year, with its array of festivals, restaurants, shops and world famous race course. Venture to Gloucester for a day out with a difference and tour the famed Gloucester Cathedral, learn of Britain's waterway history in the National Waterways Museum, and go picnicking in the delightful Robinswood Hill Country Park. There is so much to explore in this region, with the outdoors delights of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty resting on your doorstep. So much fun is waiting to be had at Under Catswood!
The town of Stroud, nestled within the rolling hills that once housed innumerable sheep during the town's heyday as the Cotswolds' woollen industry, is recognised as the less commercial part of the Cotswolds. It is a slightly bohemian assemblage of buildings, squares, and roads. Attractive eateries, cosy bookshops, welcoming cafes, and independent stores may all be found in Stroud today. Stroud, which Jasper Conran referred to as the "Covent Garden of the Cotswolds," features a year-round calendar of musical and theatrical performances, a bustling arts community, and a cutting-edge movie theatre. A museum, lakeside walks, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and Stratford Park on the outskirts of town are all great places to unwind. Explore the five rolling valleys that surround the town, which have country paths ideal for walking or riding.
Accommodation
Single-storey.
Three bedrooms: 2 x king-sizes with en-suite bath, shower over, basin, heated towel rail and WC, 1 x twin (can be made as a superking on request) with en-suite walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Cloakroom.
Kitchen/diner.
Utility.
Sitting room with woodburning stove
Air sourced central heating with woodburning stove.
Electric combi microwave/oven and induction hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washer/dryer and dishwasher.
Smart TV , Freeview, WiFi and selection of books.
Fuel, power and logs for woodburning stove included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Off-road parking.
Side garden with patio and lawn.
Side terrace with patio, barbecue and furniture with access to woodland.
No smoking.
Shop 2.1 miles, pub 1.4 miles.
Dogs welcome additional charges apply.
Note: Despite the property being single-storey, there are steep external steps leading up to the entrance that may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.
Note: There are steps within the property, please take care.
Note: The garden features steep slopes, children must always be supervised outside
Nearby points of interest
- Corinium Museum
- Cheltenham Racecourse
Reviews (34)
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Lorraine
The situation of the property is stunning and to be able to walk from the house and enjoy the beautiful Laurie Lee countryside was a bonus. The property was spacious enough for us 3 couples to be together but never on top of each other and we were able to take ourselves off to another part of the house if needs be for some quiet time- such as completing a jigsaw! The garden is perfect for dogs. We chose this place to escape the noise of fireworks and that worked perfectly. At night the only sound we heard was the hooting of an owl. I've given the property 4stars as a few improvements would elevate it to complete perfection! The windows in the bedrooms and bathrooms being locked shut. Why? To open and ventilate would mean less condensation which was beginning to rot the seals. Also to sleep with the window open would be better as it felt a bit stuffy. We were there in November but can imagine this being a problem in the summer. We also didn't have instructions for recycling and rubbish. We sorted our recycling in the bins provided in the kitchen drawer but had to leave it for the cleaners to deal with as we didn't have any instructions on where to put it from there. We also had to leave our rubbish in the kitchen too through lack of instructions. The weather was mild and so heating was not a huge issue but the right hand part of the house was quite cold at times. In the cold weather this could be an issue especially in the bedrooms. These are minor improvements. In no way did any of this hamper our enjoyment of our stay. We were all very sad to leave and would definitely book to return. Highly recommended.
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Edan
Super view which is exactly what I was looking for. Great kitchen and living spaces. The kitchen had everything we needed. Beds were comfy and warm. Showers were super. I can find little to complain about. As some other reviews have mentioned, the road in is a little funky, but the whatthreewords took us right there, so great info shared prior to the stay. We didnât use any local facilities but canât fault the info shared around the property. All very easy and a great experience. Recommend this property for anyone looking for great views and a peaceful location for exploring the Cotswolds area.
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Elaine
There were no instructions on exiting the property either on bedding or on clearing out the rubbish and re-cycling. We had one major problem with a pre planned power outage we were not aware of. The views however from the property are stunning.