Nestled between the rolling Cotswold hills and set within a pretty Oxfordshire village near Great Tew, The Snug is an exquisite, luxurious bolthole dating back to 1700 that once upon a time served as stables to the local manor house. Today, this wonderful detached cottage has been gloriously brought to life, becoming a welcoming home for couples and families alike.
Within the glowing golden sandstone exterior, you'll find an opulent yet welcoming dog-friendly retreat with beautiful bedrooms, a large kitchen for entertaining and a staggeringly opulent sitting room. Outside, gorgeous gardens with a large lawn lead down to a ha-ha and beyond that, sweeping views of the Swere Valley. Who could ask for more?
This dreamy retreat is just perfect for those seeking to explore this beautiful part of the world. Get your culture kicks in Oxford, home of the dreaming spires, whilst bask in the Bard at Shakespeare's hometown, Stratford-upon-Avon. Alternatively, lose yourself in the rolling countryside of the Cotswolds, whether it be exploring the fields and forests on foot, discovering chocolate-box pretty villages or hunkering down in a country pub - perfect.
Living
Just wow! The luxurious sitting room is just the place for long chats or just a snooze by the fire. With plumptuous Damask sofas, underfloor heating and a wood burner, this is a wonderful spot during the winter where you can cosy up with a bottle or two and enjoy a natter, whilst in the summer throw open the French windows and enjoy the soft country breeze and pretty views whilst the heat of the day magically turns into twilight and beyond.
Eating
The simply stunning kitchen is the ultimate space for entertaining. The vaulted ceiling and pale, calming tones make this a relaxing space, whilst eye catching artwork bedecks the walls. With an Everhot range cooker, dishwasher, fridge-freezer, double Belfast sink, microwave, washing machine and all-important Nespresso coffee machine, there's everything you need to rustle up meals, from lazy breakfasts on the terrace to late-night romantic meals a deux.
The large dining table for four sits within the kitchen, meaning the chef has company when cooking - the way it should be! And with underfloor heating should you need it, you'll be super-snug too.
Sleeping
Four steps lead up to the en suite master bedroom on the ground floor. This gorgeous room has a romantic king-size sleigh bed, built in wardrobe, drawers, and garden views.
Take the stairs up to the pretty second bedroom, tucked amongst the eaves. This room features a zip-and-link bed, meaning it can be made up as a twin (perfect for little ones) or another king size double.
All beds are swathed in pure white cotton linen, sumptuous bedding and cosy throws and cushions to ensure a blissful nights' sleep, with the gentle sound of birdsong to wake you in the morning - just idyllic!
Bathing
The master bedroom on the ground floor benefits from an en suite shower room, whilst the family bathroom on the ground floor has a stunning clawfoot bath for long soaks and a shower over it. Both come with underfloor heating for toasty toes whilst heated rails to keep towels warm and fluffy.
Outdoor space
Step through the French doors and you'll find a sun-soaked terrace leading to a sweeping lawn - perfect for picnics, games and your four-legged friends. There's a table, chairs and barbeque too, so alfresco dining is a must, with sigh-inducing valley views to gaze at beyond the ha-ha. Please note, there is an approx. 5ft drop below the ha-ha and a raised stone lip defines the edge of the lawn. Sun loungers, blankets and cushions are for those lazy days when you want to sunbathe, read and listen to the buzz of bees.
Parking
There is private parking for up to two cars.
Babies and children
Babes in arms and children over the age of 10 are very welcome. A travel cot, highchair and stairgates are available on request.
Dogs
Two dogs are very welcome at The Snug. Please note, there is an additional fee per dog, per week or short break.
WiFi
The Snug has WiFi so if you need to stay in touch with the outside world you can.
In the Area
Set within the Swere valley in the pretty village of Barford St John near Great Tew, The Snug is the perfect spot to explore, from the Cotswolds, Oxford and out towards Stratford-upon-Avon.
You'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out (or in). The Yurt at Nicholsons in North Aston serves organic, local ingredients for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it's a must any time of day. No stay would be complete without a visit to Daylesford Organic Farm, where you'll not only find an astonishing farm shop but a restaurant, spa and cookery school to. There are some excellent pubs and inns too - try The Boxing Hare near Swerford, the Castle Inn at Edge Hill and The George Inn which is within walking distance of The Snug.
For places to explore, take a day trip to Oxford to gaze at the dreamy colleges, wonderful parks and great shops and museums. For members of Soho Farmhouse, The Snug is just a short drive away, promising the perfect setting for dining, wellness and outdoor activities. Like to hike? Pull on your walking boots and take to the many paths and bridleways that snake across the Costwolds or attempt some of the Cotswold Way. Pay a visit to the many pretty Cotswold villages such as Chipping Norton, Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water and Moreton-in-Marsh. Head further afield and catch a play in Stratford, or head to Woodstock and the amazing Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Winston Churchill.
In the press
For those dreaming of escaping to our heavenly honey-hued homestay, read all about the magic of a staycation at The Snug in this editorial feature by The British Travel Journal...
