T: +44 (0) 1299 841 822 M: +44 (0) 797 026 0010 E: manorholding@gmail.com

Manor Holding Cottage

Main

The Cottage is a Grade II Listed, half timbered, Jacobean cottage farmhouse, dating from circa 1680.

The south facing cottage is naturally warm and full of sunlight in winter, but cool in summer (up to 7 degrees Celsius cooler than outside on a hot day). Inside, the exposed beams, already ancient when incorporated second hand into the cottage in the 1680s, are complimented by warm polished terracotta paving slabs downstairs and creaky oak floors upstairs

It has a separate, enclosed and sheltered front garden with two lawns, embracing an intimate, suntrap patio, as well as shady seating arbours for hotter days.

There are two bedrooms on the first floor (1 Super King sized double and 1 twin). Opening off the entrance hall downstairs there are: a cozy snug or study with WIFI, CD player and TV point, a larger sitting/dining room with DVD/TV and super efficient wood burning stove, and an understair cupboard crammed with useful things, including garden games equipment.

The chest of drawers in the entrance hall contains well organised and comprehensive literature on places to visit and things to do, together with games and toys for children.

The kitchen/scullery opens off the dining room, and is comprehensively equipped with double fan assisted ovens, 4 burner gas hob, multi speed fan extractor hood with high intensity lighting, capacious fridge and freezer, washing machine, double sink and drainers, microwave, toaster and hot beverage station. The traditional stone bread oven is no longer in use, but makes a convenient wine cellar. The kitchen is furnished with ample pots, pans, and cooking tools of all sorts for baking, roasting, stewing, steaming, poaching, frying, etc.

Smoking: We ask that guests refrain from smoking inside the house.

Character

Manor Holding Cottage is a Grade II Listed, half timbered, Jacobean cottage farmhouse built around 1680, using secondhand timbers from a nearby manor house. The cottage's old world charm is enhanced by crooked timber frame, leaning walls and low beams.

The cottage is naturally warm and full of sunlight, set off by white painted walls, pale terracotta and oak floor enhanced by invisible 24/7 under-floor central heating. But its excellent insulation also keeps it cool in summer. Up to 7 degrees Celsius cooler than outside on a hot day (over 30 degrees). The cottage is south facing with an enclosed, sheltered front garden and lawns, embracing an intimate, suntrap patio paved in antique bricks.

The cottage has two bedrooms and a bathroom on the first floor, with 3 living rooms and hall downstairs. It has been restored using appropriate materials such as earth daub, lime plaster and green oak, to regain much of it's original character, including inglenook with wood burning stove in the sitting room and old stone bread oven (still usable) in the kitchen.

The farm yard, terminus of the drive, is at the back, on the north side of the cottage. It is surrounded by a ruined stone and brick pig sty, a small converted barn, a high hedge bank, a stone outhouse undergoing renovation and a matching stone scullery leading off the east gable of the cottage.

Once here visitors notice the old world charm of the crooked timber frame, leaning walls, low beams and ceilings; and the many small details such as wrought iron windows dating from 1720, the sculptural wrought door handles and heavy 3 plank, ledged oak doors studded with rose-head cut iron nails.

Rustic seclusion is the characteristic that strikes most people first about Manor Holding, as it is located 100m off a rough forest track (max recommended speed 10mph), half a kilometre from the nearest winding country lane.

The cottage stands in 5 acres of wild flower grassland and ancient orchard, won from the forest before the Roman invasion and rich in wildlife including occasional Fallow Deer; and managed in accordance with a Higher Level Countryside Stewardship agreement in partnership with Natural England. The forest is home to the largest woodland National Nature Reserve in the country and one of England's largest Sites of Special Scientific Interest, which includes the two orchards beside the cottage. Manor Holding's fields are designated as having Archaeological Interest.

This ancient oak forest stands astride the River Severn, south of the Ironbridge Gorge, now a World Heritage Site. The beautiful countryside around it, much of it classified as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is rich in historic settlements and other places of interest. Manor Holding is situated in a scattered hamlet named after the royal forest of Wyre in whose centre it stands.

During the Iron Age this hamlet was a thriving small town, with several smaller satellite settlements scattered through the wider surrounding area, but now little more than traces of old earthworks can be seen in the neighbouring fields and forest. Under the Normans, the settlement, although initially remaining in Saxon hands, was then acquired by Henry I who granted it to his favourite, the Earl of Warwick, along with the village of Stottesdon. The two settlements being separate portions of one parish. The old parish boundary remains the northern boundary of Manor Holding.

Due to the Norman passion for hunting, Manor Holding was soon incorporated into the much larger "Clebury" deer park, which remained in royal ownership until Henry VIII presented it to the local squire, Sir John Blount, for services rendered by his beautiful daughter, Bessie, who bore Henry's eldest son, Henry Fitzroy; and gave her name (taken from Henry's mother) to Henry's second daughter, Queen Bess (aka QEI, the virgin queen, after whom the US State of Virginia is named).

The surrounding forest is interlaced with long and short distance cycling and horse riding trails as well as a comprehensive network of footpaths, connecting right to the door of the cottage.

Floor Plan

Plan of Manor Holding Cottage

All rooms feature carefully selected artwork, 240V power points, and efficient lighting.

Kitchen

The comprehensively equipped kitchen, is compact with everything immediately to hand, including:

  • Microwave
  • 4 burner gas hob
  • Programmable fan assisted ovens + grill
  • Multi speed cooker hood air extractor
  • Fridge & freezer
  • Large double sink and draining boards
  • Wide range of kitchen implements
  • Single and double handled sets of pots and pans
  • Roasting and baking dishes
  • Even a traditional stone bread oven!
  • Programmable washing machine
  • Overhead clothes airer
  • Boiler
  • Secure lockable doors to rest of the building
  • Secure lockable yard door
  • Accessible ground floor toilet off

Like the rest of the ground floor the kitchen has pale coloured terracotta flooring with under floor central heating. It has a separate thermostat timer set to a slightly lower temperature than the rest of the house to help keep food and hard working cooks fresh and comfortable. It has a higher ceiling to accommodate steam.

The kitchen has it's own back door onto the patio herb garden as well as doors into the sitting / dining room and boiler room / shared laundry.

Sitting Room / Dining Room

The central main living room is light and airy in summer but warm and cosy in winter. It has:

  • Inglenook fireplace with glass fronted wood burning stove, and log store
  • Comfortable leather sofas
  • Orthopaedic easy chair
  • Large kitchen style 4 drawer dining table and chairs
  • Chess, and nesting magazine tables
  • Selection of coffee table books
  • TV / DVD player

Like the rest of the ground floor the sitting room has pale coloured terracotta flooring with under floor central heating. It has a separate thermostat timer to keep it comfortable, when the super efficient log burner is not lit.

The sitting room has its own south door into the garden as well as doors to kitchen and hallway.

Independent switching and targeting of the 9 ceiling mounted spotlights permits infinite variation in lighting ambience.

Study

A cosy south facing 'snug' off the entrance hall, doubles as quiet retreat for reading and writing, or separate play and TV room for children.

It has:

  • comfortable leather sofa
  • adult writing table and chair
  • child's writing table and chair
  • wireless broadband
  • TV aerial point
  • Tape/CD player
  • selection of books
  • hooks for washing line

Like the rest of the ground floor the study has pale coloured terracotta flooring with under floor central heating. It has a thermostat timer, which also controls the hall.

Hall

The main entrance is at the west end of the cottage, and opens into a warm hallway equipped with coat and boot racks, bench and chest of drawers filled with things to do.

The stairs lead off the hall and there are doors to Study, Sitting Room and well stocked under stair cupboard. Both hall and landing have wall mirrors.

Like the rest of the ground floor the study has pale coloured terracotta flooring with under floor central heating. A large sunken door mat lies flush with the floor tiles.

Master Bedroom

The master bedroom has views to south and west over the garden and lower orchard. The wrought iron southern window dates from 1720, like several of those in the cottage, and is still in good working order.

The bedroom furniture includes:

  • Super King size double bed with firm 'graphite' mattresses
  • antique wardrobe and chest of drawers
  • two wall mirrors
  • selection of books
  • towel drying rack

The natural oak flooring has underfloor central heating and sound insulation.

Twin Bedroom (2 single beds)

The south facing twin bedroom overlooks the garden. Like the master bedroom the window dates from 1720.

The bedroom is furnished with:

  • two standard size single beds with firm 8" mattresses
  • large wardrobe
  • cupboard
  • two mirrors
  • selection of books
  • towel drying rack

The natural oak flooring has underfloor central heating and sound insulation.

Bathroom

The bathroom, whose window also dates from 1720, is furnished with:

  • 1.52m internal length (5') bath with hand shower and shower curtain
  • large wash basin & cupboard
  • Shaver point and mirror
  • toilet

Hot water is unlimited.

The natural oak flooring has underfloor central heating and sound insulation.

Landing

The 1st floor landing (1st above ground floor) links both bedrooms, bathroom/toilet, and stairs to ground floor and attic. The latter is not let to guests as the stairs are too steep. The Landing is lit by a window overlooking the parking yard, and pair of wall lamps, as well as by the stairwell chandelier. A large Chinese chest holds spare bedding.

Facilities

  • Parking Parking
  • TV TV
  • Washing Machine Washing Machine
  • Children Welcome Children Welcome
  • Play Area Play Area
  • Grade II Listed Grade II Listed
  • Farm Farm
  • Radio Radio
  • Private Garden Private Garden
  • Walkers Welcome Walkers Welcome
  • SSSI SSSI
  • Office Facilities Office Facilities
  • Microwave Microwave
  • Clothes Drying Line Clothes Drying Line
  • Kadai Barbecue Kadai Barbecue
  • Cycle Hire Cycle Hire
  • Riders Welcome Riders Welcome
  • Pets Welcome Pets Welcome
  • Fibre Optic Internet Fibre Optic Internet
  • Iron & Board Iron & Board
  • Linen & Towels Included Linen & Towels Included
  • Fishing Nearby Fishing Nearby
  • Golf Nearby Golf Nearby
  • Telephone Telephone
  • Hair Dryer Hair Dryer
  • Central Heating Central Heating
  • Wide Book Selection Wide Book Selection
  • DVD & Video Player DVD & Video Player
  • 3 Stars 3 Stars

Garden

The enclosed and sheltered, private cottage garden includes an intimate suntrap patio and terrace; and broad brick paved footpaths meandering through densely planted flowering shrub and herbaceous borders and island beds, full of textural, colour and aromatic interest in every season; linking the central round ‘sun' lawn and crescent shaped ‘moon' lawn that wraps around it, with a shady paved seating arbour for hot days.

A traditional, portable 'Kadai' barbecue is provided, with a supply of fuel and cooking utensils.

Access

Convenient parking is available adjacent the cottage.

Ambulant Disabled: Suitable. Lever handles on doors.

Wheelchairs: Small wheelchairs downstairs. Bathroom upstairs.

Please click here to read the full access statement.

Guest Comments

Manor Holding is such a peaceful place. A real pleasure to return to after visiting one of the many, many interesting historical sites in this area, many of which are in the very informative information folders in the hall. Thank you for these!
M&E - Gt Wakering, Essex - Jun 2019
I hope we have the opportunity to visit the Wyre Forest from this base next time. Good luck with the continuing restoration work adjacent!
M&E - Gt Wakering, Essex - Jun 2019
On the few sunny days it was great to relax in the peace of the metal seating overlooking the lovely orchard and talk to the sheep, who always looked really interested, but rarely made comments. Saw some Roe (?) deer too - they were not inclined to converse though.
M&E - Gt. Wakering, Essex - Jun 2019
Thank you to Nigel and Penny for your welcome and guide to the cottage on arrival. We found the accommodation very comfortable and the kitchen very well equipped to self-cater (not many home deliveries here!) (Ed. You might be surprised how many there are actually!)
- Jun 2019
We have enjoyed a wonderful week in this idyllic setting. Our two young daughters loved playing hide-and-seek in the house and gardens, and visiting their ‘neighbours’ (the sheep and lambs). Despite being late May there were a few chilly days and the wood burner kept us toasty. There is wildlife aplenty in the garden and nearby forest; we saw some fantastic birds and wood ants! There is a plethora of things to do in the area: we loved the varied cycle routes, picturesque and interesting NT properties and sampling the food in the local pubs (The Hop Pole Inn in Bewdley is particularly welcoming and good). Thanks for hosting us in this lonely cottage!
L, E, R(7) and C(2) - Jun 2019
Magical setting, comfortable bed, cosy cottage! Many thanks.
V+KW, NZ - Apr 2019
Revisiting after many years – lovely to see the cottage just as beautiful + cosy. Woodland walks amazing with Autumn colours. Many Thanks.
The Ts - Oct 2018
We had a great few days here in October, the cottage was very clean extremely well stocked with cutlery and cooking equipment. The beds were large and comfortable and this is a great location to explore the local area while being peaceful and remote enough to enjoy the calmness and serenity of the surrounding grounds and forest.
PS - Oct 2018
In the middle of Wyre Forest, a beautiful old cottage, with modern comforts, breathing history and nature. Yes, we have had a wonderful week. Splendid walks, the children enjoyed climbing trees, picking blackberries and so on, and so on. Thank you for this wonderful week.
GJS, EA, FS, HS - Leeuwarden, The Netherlands - Aug 2018
Our 4th visit and the kids are already planning what they’d like us to do next year. The safari / theme park is always a highlight but this year they’ve really enjoyed visiting the farm next door (turn left at the end of the lane) & helping D feed the animals + collect eggs (11am is a good time to go). We all love our walks in the woods + are pleased the rope swing is still there – go into the woods near the end of the lane + keep following the path down – go over 2 cross paths until the path bends to the left, then take a smaller path on the right. You may need wellies to cross the stream to get to the swing as the bridge is still broken – we did build stepping stones across. Once again we’ve enjoyed collecting apples + brambles for crumble – it always tastes better here! Many thanks for upgrading the washing machine. We’ve enjoyed playing table tennis in the sunshine – we’ve left extra balls we brought just in case… only one went into a tree this time! We hope future guests enjoy this place as much as we do. We’ll definitely be back!
R, A, P, + J – Newcastle - Aug 2018
Very nice and beautiful place with a big garden with different terraces and levels in the middle of an overwelming nature. From the house you can walk in to a beautiful forest with a fantastic wildlife. For us it means peace and quite after a hectic citylife in the west part of the Netherlands. The house is more lovelier and bigger then you see at the photo's of Airbnb. It's nice and cosy.
R&MK + family - Jul 2018
"Thanks for the lovely stay at your beautiful house! We enjoyed it so much!
Warm regards, R, M, Z & NK and C" - Jul 2018
We loved your place. In the middle of nature and so very quiet. My son loved your compass and map and was a real direction guide to us. Everything was very nice and all things we needed were present in the house. Thank you and maybe till another holiday!
R, M, J & N (and our dog C) - Jul 2018
It was a very cool time. It was our first holiday in England and I say it was very good. We was at Hartlebury Castle and on the Severn Valley Railway. We do a lots of other things in the near. We was in Bewdley and Stourport-on-Severn. The neighbours on the farm are very nice to us and the eggs are very tasty.
Family RM - Jul 2018
Quiet location, only a few animals from which you always hear something, such as sheep, chickens, dogs, turkeys. (Translated from German)
SKM & family - Jul 2018
9 Days at the beginning of July: Our aim was to spend two weekends at the 1940’s on the Severn Valley Railway with friends. And enjoy the week by ourselves, away from "it all". We have had a tremendous time. All of us enjoying discovering your cottage. Beatifully positioned, amidst a garden full of fruits and flowers. Thanks you for fresh cherries, gooseberries, & blackcurants. We have taken a little, and left you plenty more. During an exceedingly hot period, we loved the cool of the cottage. I’m sure it is just as welcoming in other seasons as well. We have visited ruined castles & stately homes (even saw "The Tempest" at Witley Court) and of course, more trips on the Severn Valley Railway. It has been a privilege to stay. Thank you.
F&DM - Jul 2018
Manor Holdings is a truly lovely cottage, finished to an exceptionally high standard in polished hardwood everywhere. The building is hundreds of years old, yet has all modern comforts. The garden is secluded, and very natural, with a lot of fruit and berries growing. It is so peaceful and quiet, and well off the beaten track. We really loved our time there. Your cottage is really beautiful, and absolutely spot-on. Thank you.
D&FM - Jul 2018
My sister M and I have had a wonderful week in your cottage. The setting is idyllic and we have enjoyed some excellent forest walks, even when the weather has not always been at its best! Enjoyed our trip to Arley Arboretum and a day trip to Bridgnorth on the Severn Valley Railway. It’s worth noting though that you cannot park at Arley station, so we went from Bewdley. Excellent bird watching; pleased to see a Dipper on Dowles Brook and the many garden birds. The Blackbird nesting in the eaves of the cottage roof and the Spotted Flycatcher under the eaves of the new conversion are both very nervous of us using the patio seating area. Suspect both are sitting on eggs. The top (Moon) lawn made an excellent setting for croquet and mini bowls and we love the cottage garden; so many bees, 2 toads, butterflies (including a Brimstone), moths and the bats in the evening. The cottage had everything we needed so thanks very much.
R&MO (Kent) - Jun 2018
Thank you Nigel & Penny for your wonderful hospitality during our 1 month stay. We all loved your cottage very much and it was a perfect place for us to relax after our return from overseas after 7 years! Your cottage garden is delightful & we loved spending time in the garden with family & friends that visited & the bbqs. Your cottage is in an idyllic location! The peace & quiet & fantastic walks on our doorstep we loved exploring. The cottage is very well equipped and had everything we needed & we will highly recommend to anyone wanting to visit the area! All the very best & thanks again.
T, M, F, K - May 2018
A beautiful cottage in very tranquil, peaceful surroundings with a gorgeous cottage country garden. The cottage is really well equipped and Nigel and Penny are great hosts. There are many great walks through the forest and along the brook which are fantastic! Even though it is very rural you are not far from towns nearby with all the amenities you could need. Thanks so much to you both for your hospitality and everything we had a wonderful time and loved your cottage.
TP&M - May 2018
Despite being our wettest holiday for 30 years we loved the cottage; warm deep baths, well equipped kitchen, each room a delight to be in. Just sorry we could not enjoy the garden more. Both Cleobury & Bewdley good ports of call for bread, local beer & other essentials. Loved "bumping into" the Severn Valley trains on our river walks. Very dramatic with the swollen waters & speeding currents.
C&PC - Apr 2018
Wonderfully comfortable cottage. Beautiful countryside, hope to visit again.
S, D, J +A - Apr 2018
Thank you for a wonderful stay here in this lovely cottage. It was an escape for us from our busy lives and we feel rested and replenished after just two days away.
J & C, Oxford - Feb 2018
Very relaxing weekend, weather lovely. Cottage very cosy and with everything we needed. Thank you very much.
B, A M & B - Feb 2018
Lovely cottage in a lovely spot – not too deterred by frequent heavy snow showers – Thank you!
H + P / Cambridge - Feb 2018
We had a lovely stay at Nigel and Penny’s place in the country. The cottage was very cosy (particularly the wood burner) and it was perfectly placed to explore the local area. Thank you - we had a lovely stay!
RE - Feb 2018
A fabulous, relaxing home from home experience. Beautiful walks from the door, very relaxing. Highly recommended. Thank you both for a real home from home experience. A relaxing weekend with a super comfy bed - just what we needed. We especially appreciated the little extras that made it special - feather duvet, fresh garden flowers and maps!
HE&J - Feb 2018
So enjoyed our stay in this lovely and generously equipped cottage. Idyllically located. Just sorry we didn’t have more time to walk in the surrounding woods. Nigel made us feel very welcome.
HS - Feb 2018
This is a beautiful restored house with lots of modern amenities like well equipped kitchen for cooking at home, beautiful and cosy log burner in the lounge/dining area, and comfy bedding with luxury feather duvets and pillows. The underfloor heating is subtle and makes the tiles and floorboards comfy. We walked into the woods from the house, and walked through the woods to the Wyre Forest Visitor Centre for lunch which was a great 7mile walk. Very quiet area, very peaceful, lovely thick curtains for a lie in, and enough distance between the house and neighbours to be able to listen to music at a reasonable level in the evenings. We asked for some more toilet roll and a non-feather pillow for our friend who was allergic, and our hosts were very helpful and went out of their way to be accommodating. Thanks!
AW - Jan 2018
Its been great being able to access the forest so easily. Ted the dog has appreciated the walks and freedom!
J, P and T the dog.
It is so peaceful here, just the sound of the birds and animals to wake you up in the morning, and no light pollution, Its my husbands birthday today and I could not think of a more stunning location to spend it. Thank you.
K&K
We love the cottage and found it to be very comfortable and well equipped We really appreciated the well organised & comprehensive information on the cottage and surrounding area. The garden and surrounding countryside are absolutely lovely.
A, P& M
Thanks for letting us stay in your gorgeous cottage. We had a fab holiday
J, L, N, G & G.
Too short a stay! Lovely, peaceful time. Fire is hot man! :)
A + M
Thanks for a relaxing break away from it all! What a fantastic location, nothing but birds and sheep, bliss! The first time we've slept past 9am on a weekend! :) The bats at dusk were lovely to see too.
Hamish
Visited Ludlow, Bridgnorth, Bewdley, Stourport + took a return trip to Kidderminster on the Severn Valley Railway.
S, A, A, S + R (Lab) from Sutton Coldfield - C
We enjoyed our stay – mostly every day sunny. Spent a lot of time relaxing in the garden listening to the birds and sheep.
S and D+ C and T
A lovely warm cottage in an amazing situation – couldn’t fault the facilities.
J, S, L + M.
Thanks for another lovely Christmas at Manor Holding. We were very cozy with the wood burning stove and cooked a great xmas dinner in the new oven (for 11 people! Ed.) All hoping to return before too long.
S, N, R, F + T
What a lovely cottage in a very peaceful spot - we'd love to return in better weather! The wood burner made us feel very cosy though. Apologies - we've broken one of the tall glasses.
A, B, W & S from Bristol
I think that the work that has been done on the cottage shows great sensitivity to the history of the building. Thank you for allowing us to share your
super property for a little while.
Thank you for a wonderful stay! You were SO accommodating to us. We enjoyed our stay in this pretty, peaceful place so much + we hope to be back one day!
J, M(4) & A(1) (Canada)
We have had a lovely relaxing stay in the cottage.
M + A + X
An enjoyable visit – setting and cottage delightful
S and P
We had a really cosy + quiet week in this fabulous cottage. Evenings by the wood-burning stove were really atmospheric.
S, A, A, S + R (Lab) - A
Fantastic week. The weather was terrible but the cottage kept us nice and warm. 2 Power cuts did not cause much trouble as we just read and talked. Nigel is very helpful and it was nice to know he was around to help if needed. Thank you so much.
G and P with J woof - B
Fantastic, charismatic cottage. A beautifully loved home. So sad to leave. We both truly enjoyed the respite and quiet tranquility of the surrounding countryside. The pheasants, robins, blackbirds and other wildlife were a joy, and of course the sheep!
S and S
Best shops were in Ludlow, Bridgnorth + Bewdley - and we even had lunch underwater" thanks to the amazing flood barrier in Bewdley.
S, A, A, S + R(Lab) from Sutton Coldfield = E
We have loved our stay here and will be back in January 2015. A beautiful cottage, so peaceful and homely. Loved the kitchen with everything I needed. Thank you for your hospitality and kindness.
T&K
Lovely old house – needs an Aga/Rayburn and a log burner to make it really cosy when it’s cold outside – our winter was just arriving as we got here. (Log burning stove now installed and oven upgraded. Ed)
J, S, J + N a
We will miss this place but take away some very happy memories. Many Thanks,
M, N, M + L
Fantastic week. The kitchen had everything and more than you would need. We will visit again in the summer to see the garden and woods when the mud has gone. :-)
G and P with J (woof)
Loved watching the wildlife and birds, was upset not to see the badgers though.
J, B, V, S and dogs E and M
We along with our 2 dogs have had the most wonderful time. We would like to thank Nigel and Penny for giving people the opportunity to stay in this fantastic cottage.
Mand N, M + L 5.
Thanks for letting us stay in your gorgeous cottage. We had a fab holiday.
J, L, N, G & G 2.
I think we all were very impressed and would all love to return soon!
MR, NR & The Bs.
We have had a fantastic time. You have obviously tried to make this a home from home and it has really worked. We arrived on the 1st night at 8pm and we all immediately felt cosy and relaxed. Jovi (3 1/2) went into every room and announced, ’This is nice!’ Angelique (1 ½) also had a fabulous time shrieking to her heart’s content. Well done you have thought of everything, and we definitely want to visit again very soon. (PS) We too have stayed in many a holiday cottage and we love this one.
S, L, J and A
We have all loved it. It is tranquillity base. We will return.
M, S, H and V
Thanks for a very peaceful, relaxing holiday. The cottage is immediately homely with a feelgood factor. We are so relieved that our first holiday in 4 1/2 years turned out to be in a place we would want to return to!
T and D(and G of course!)
A gem in a wonderful corner of England! Time flies... Au revoir,
M + L + family. Brussels.
We have had a fantastic time, the cottage is absolutely lovely, really comfortable The garden is fab, I love the different sections, one for me to read, one for the girls to play in. All in all we have had a lovely holiday and are sorry to be going back to reality. rested, relaxed and restored, exactly what we needed. Thank you so much for the use of your well equipped, comfortable cottage We would love to come again.
K, F, L and S
What excitement we had when we woke up to see a stag under the apple tree outside the front door We were pleased to meet with Baby, the hand reared sheep who wanders down the lane like a pet dog – belongs to the neighbour. The holly bushes are in bloom and beautiful. In the field ahead of the lonely building we found an apple tree with an abundance of mistletoe. It was lovely seeing the real deal. Thank you for allowing us to share this special piece of countryside
N and D
A lovely setting for a lovely cottage, our 2 young daughters particularly liked the 'lumpy' journey to and from every day as well as exploring the woods and lanes.
R&S, Bakewell
We enjoyed our week in the cottage which has a unique charm.
C, F, O and Z
We had a lovely week at Manor Holding! Few sunny days at the back garden just enjoying ourselves. Really impressed with Ludlow medieval town & Bewdley. Went to the Wyre Forest visitor centre and the very close and lovely Ray's Farm. Thank you Guys! Everything was great!
S, V, BR + T the dog
The holly bushes are in bloom and beautiful. In the field ahead of the lonely building we found an apple tree with an abundance of mistletoe. It was lovely seeing the real deal. Thank you for allowing us to share this special piece of countryside
N and D
Thank you for a wonderful stay, as usual we love coming for family holidays in your cottage. Everything is so beautiful out here and, as our holiday family traditions include to cook good meals from local ingredients, your well equipped kitchen is always such a pleasure! Hopefully we'll see you again. Fond regards
Family M
We had a wonderful short break here. It is a stunning cottage in a brilliant location.
N, J + M the dog.
We have spent a lovely weekend in your cottage. Very Peaceful and homely - exactly what we were after! Wish we had more time to enjoy it! Definetely will recomend.
I+ T+ M+ J
Thank you for a wonderful stay! You were SO accommodating to us. We enjoyed our stay in this pretty, peaceful place so much + we hope to be back one day!
Jessica, Michaela (4), & Alyssa (1) (Canada)
Felt privileged to have stayed in such an interesting house in a fantastic location. Nice to see a copy of the Brunskill book on timber framing. Many thanks for a memorable stay.
S and B.
Thank you for a wonderful relaxing & peaceful stay in your cottage. The week has been magical.
J & S. Wimington Kent
Altogether a wonderful stay. We hope to be back soon.
N, J + M the dog
Wish we were staying longer! We have had a great stay. Cottage is so well equipped, comfy, homely and has so much character! We got a bit lost in the woods, as predicted, but was part of the fun of exploring them. Thank you.
S & B from Liverpool
A most enjoyable stay in the cottage We would love to know more about its history and plans for the future, but loved the oak doors and attention to detail on the handles
C and B
Thanks for a peaceful rest.
Unknown
We have had a lovely 3 night stay at Manor holding Cottage. The tranquility and quaint charm of the place has captured our hearts and we would love to visit again.
K&N (+ T the dog)
Enjoyed the cottage and the north trail greatly! Having such a young one (1yr old) it was very kid friendly and plenty of room in garden for her to run and discover!
The Bs, NR + MR.
Loved watching the wildlife and birds, was upset not to see the badgers though.
J, B, V, S and dogs E and M
Have nothing to complain about, everything worked perfectly and was all we needed.
J, B, V, S and dogs E and M
Thanks for a lovely visit to Shropshire. Great surroundings. Cottage nice and well equipped.
D& P
The walking in the Wyre Forest is great - especially for a walk-positive labrador :)
S, A, A, S + R (Lab) from Sutton Coldfield - D
A very restful week in spite of very wet weather. An ideal spot to relax.
P and A, Mendlesham, Suffolk.
We've loved our stay here and will definately be back! Wish we were here for longer!
H+J - London
We've had another lovely stay. Thank you for having us.
N, S, & family again
Two nights was enough to fall in love with this fabulous cottage. It was also enough to ensure we shall return to the tranquility, the wildlife and the beer from the local brewery.
P and K
We have all relaxed and the two children (4 and 2) have loved the outdoors
R, A, C and F
This is the best equipped cottage for kitchen gear we have ever stayed in, even beating the Landmark Trust. Though it would be nice if the cooker and sink were in the same room! (We have now upgraded the cooker to fan assisted dual fuel and put it in the same room as the sink. Ed)
H & A, Littlehampton
We have had a very good week, both weather –wise and in our enjoyment of this lovely cottage and surrounding area. the book about Kinlet in the upstairs library is fascinating.
Hamish
What can we say that hasn't already been said? We along with our 2 dogs have had the most wonderful time. We would like the thank Nigel and Penny for giving people the opportunity to stay in this fantastic cottage. From the moment we arrived it felt like home (a home only a lottery win could provide on a permanent basis) and we are feeling very sad to leave. The facilities provided were first class and everything we needed is here. We will miss this place but take away some very happy memories. Many Thanks.
MandN, M + L
Our last visit was January 05 – even more beautiful. What excitement we had when we woke up to see a stag under the apple tree outside the front door
N and D -A
We very much enjoyed our stay in this amazing cottage and hill country! The gardens were lovely and I personally feel I could live here!
Bs, MR, NR 2.
The photos on the website do not do the cottage justice.
J&M
Had another lovely week here despite the weather. However we have one major complaint, we have got to go back to reality! Thanks for everything.
L & T
We had such a nice time, your house is really enchanting, and in such a gorgeous location. we arrived home to pouring rain. We had much better weather with you, it had been raining all day here.- always such a bonus to cheat the weather. Thank you once again (By email)
C, J and J + N(Labrador)
Our fifth holiday here in this wonderful cottage and surroundings. Here, the intersection of the timeless moment Is England and nowhere. Never and always (TS Eliot: Little Gidding)
P and A
This is the best equipped cottage for kitchen gear we have ever stayed in, even beating the Landmark Trust. Though it would be nice if the cooker and sink were in the same room! (We have now moved the cooker as requested, and added a log burning stove in the sitting room inglenook. Ed)
H & A, Littlehampton.
We have really enjoyed our break, cottage was lovely
J, B, V, S and dogs Eand M
We were delighted by the walks in the forest and the profusion of wild plants and birds. We would like to know more of the history of the restoration of the propertyExcellent selection of books.
G and M
We enjoyed the riding at Bagginswood and the great walks from the cottage door. The snowdrops everywhere were magical. We also enjoyed lunch in Cleobury Mortimer + tea in Bewdley. Gobbetts nursery is well worth a visit (if you can find it ...) Altogether a wonderful stay. We hope to be back soon.
N, J + M dog
A lovely setting for a lovely cottage. Excellent array of books and information to help plan many varied days out. We even had snow! And a real cold snap, but this didn’t dampen spirits.
P & S, Bakewell.
What a beautiful cottage, in idyllic surroundings. It is heaven here!
K and K
What an impressive labout of love this cottage & buildings are.
J & G, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
We enjoyed our stay here. The quirky cottage is lovely, the kitchen is well equipped
D, D, W, H
Thank you for letting us stay in your cottage. It was a very pleasant stay. We loved the cosiness of this cottage. Maybe will return in the future, if that is okay? We also will recommend this cottage to our family and friends. Thanks,
M, S, R, L and D, Weert, The Netherlands
Oh, it's sweet! How lovely! (Exclaimed on arrival)
Unknown
Cottage beautifully restored and very comfortable set off by the cottage garden. Many thanks for allowing us to share your little cottage.
K& A & W. Bishops Offley, Staffs
we soon settled in and came to love the antique charm of the place. Thank you.
G and A.
We love this cottage. As two old locals returning from the smoke we really felt miles from anywhere.
S, N, R, Fand T 2.
Lovely secluded location well situated for touring Shropshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire and the Marshes. We also had an airy walk over Titersford Clee Hill from Cleeton St Mary. Several runs through the forest and back over the fields from Buttonbridge have helped to maintain fitness! Meal out at the Plough was good value for money, although the pseudo-themed interior rather spoiled the anticipation evoked by the authentic exterior.
D, L and N the geriatric dog
Wish we were staying longer! We have had a great stay. Cottage is so well equipped, comfy, homely, and has so much character.
S & B, from Liverpool
This is a lovely cottage, warm, cosy, and quiet. We enjoyed our stay here immensely, and will remember the lovely views we woke up to every morning.
S & S, Lancaster, Lancs.
What a privelige to have stayed in a beautifully restored Grade II Listed cottage. We’re full of admiration in the amount of work that’s gone into the place to achieve the level of accommodation on offer.
J+ J
Thank you for letting us use your amazing cottage it’s brilliant. We all love it! We are terribly sorry but my Daddy dropped a plate and broke it so SORRY. xxxx. (Drawing of house with tree and smiling birds)
Love from G, G, A+ R
We moved in and felt very much at home, lovely property and enjoyed our forest walks, hope to come back.
N and H.
Never seen such a well organised drawer with information
V family (Holland)
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay, lovely cottage, thoughtfully provided, good to know it has been rescued and restored sympathetically. Wildlife in garden a great bonus. We hope to be back.
T and E
We and the dogs have enjoyed playing in the charming garden. Thank you,
E, R, T + J, Stockport. + P+M
Very comfortable cottage in fantastic location. Beautifully planted garden.
H Family, Havant, Hampshire.
We had a lovely week at Manor Holding! Few lovely sunny days at the back garden just enjoying ourselves. Really impressed with Ludlow medieval town & Bewdley. Went to Wyre Forest visitor centre and to the very close and lovely Rays Farm. Thank you guys! Everything was great!
S, V, BR + T the dog
From the moment we arrived it felt like home ( a home only a lottery win could provide on a permanent basis) and we are feeling very sad to leave. The facilities provided were first class and everything we needed is here.
M and N, M + L
Our dog Trev has particularly appreciated the log fire and garden, although I think we've tired him out with all the walking.
K & N (+T the dog)
Thank you for a lovely stay in your lovely cottage! Amazing! It was a pleasure to have a cottage that is so dog friendly. I will recommend it to friends back home! Many thanks.
E, P, B & S.
We were pleased to meet with Baby, the hand reared sheep who wanders down the lane like a pet dog – belongs to the neighbour.
NandD
We enjoyed our stay here and were comfortable in the cottage. We would like to know more of the history of the restoration of the property Excellent selection of books.
G and M