Leafy lanes wind through the beautiful Herefordshire countryside to the very edge of the county and there, lying quite literally on the Welsh border, is the utterly lovely Lower Lodge, an 18th-century gatehouse on the magnificent Kentchurch Estate. It's the perfect spot for a countryside escape.
Pass through the huge gates and you're in your very own private sanctuary. The ground floor of the gatehouse is now home to three gorgeous bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom. Ascend the steep wooden stairs, which will make you feel a little like Rapunzel, and you'll find the open-plan kitchen, dining and living space stretching across the top floor. The wood-burning stove makes this a cosy hideaway during the cooler weather, but when the sun shines, the icing on the cake is the private roof terrace complete with glorious rural views. It's a fabulous hideaway atop your own castle and particularly lovely as dusk falls. The thoughtful refurbishment and interior design of this atmospheric building retains original beams and windows and ensures the character and charm have been allowed to shine.
Lower Lodge Gatehouse sits within its own private grounds, an enclosed garden with a terrace, outside furniture and a charcoal barbecue ensures there is plenty of space to relax. Beyond the parking area is a private lane track through the Kentchurch Estate, which guests are welcome to wander at their leisure.
*Dogs: 2 well-behaved dogs are welcome at the cottage at an additional cost each. Please let us know if you will be bringing a dog and we will then revise your booking confirmation. The pet fee is NOT included in your booking fee. A request for an additional fee per pet will be sent to you after you have placed your booking. Your pet fee must be paid for before your arrival date.
Ground Floor
Under the gatehouse arch are two entrances. One leads to bedroom three, the other door takes you to two further bedrooms and the stairs to the first floor.
Bedroom Three:
Three stone steps lead you into this simple but elegant super-king size bedroom. Chalk white walls, and timber cladding which opens to reveal the wardrobe are highlighted by a vibrant orange velvet headboard and drapes, which frame the original windows. There's a wall-mounted Smart TV and underfloor heating throughout to keep things warm and cosy.
En-suite:
Green and white tiles add a splash of colour to the en-suite which features a walk-in shower with both a rainfall shower and a handheld shower head, WC, and hand basin. There's a large, lit wall mirror, shaver point and storage beneath the hand basin.
Across the covered entrance three shallow stone steps lead into the second wing.
Bedroom Two:
Boasting the same vibrant colour scheme as bedroom three, this lovely room has a king-size bed which can be two small twins on request. Storage, including hanging space and shelves, can be found behind the door.
En-suite:
Frosted sliding doors reveal a stylish en-suite with a walk-in shower, WC, and hand basin. There is a large, well-lit mirror and shaver points.
Bedroom One:
Lying at the end of the hall, this spacious bedroom has a super-king bed with a fabulous emerald, green velvet headboard, and wardrobe storage within the timber-clad rear wall. A dressing area with windows on both sides leads to the en-suite.
En-suite:
Beautifully finished with green and white tiles, this en-suite features a large walk-in shower and a deep, soaking bathtub that sits under the window, it's the perfect place for long bubble-filled soaks after a day of exploring. There's also a WC and hand basin, a large wall mirror and shaving points.
First Floor
Steep wooden stairs lead up to the first floor.
Kitchen-Living Area:
Stretching across the top of the gatehouse, the open-plan living space is filled with light and is a warm and social area with everything needed for a self-catering stay. The well-appointed kitchen includes a full oven and hob, fridge-freezer, and dishwasher and hidden away there's also a washing machine and tumble dryer. A comfy corner sofa sits in front of the wood-burning stove, along with two chairs and a wall-mounted Smart TV. The antique dining table and chairs create a lovely place for relaxed meals, or if the weather is kind head out to the roof terrace.
Roof Terrace:
This private space features a wooden dining table and chairs and wonderful views over the surrounding countryside.
Outside
The huge portcullis-style gates can be closed fully, and the entrance leads to a parking area with plenty of space for several cars. Beyond this is a woodland track through the Kentchurch Estate. A metal gate leads into the gatehouse garden, which is enclosed. The large lawn is perfect for garden games, and the little wooden bridge across the culvert takes you into Wales. The sunny terrace features a large outdoor sofa and low table which just invite you to relax with a drink in the sunshine. There's also a charcoal barbecue.
