With Good Company

Centuries of Cotswold stone make themselves felt in this house – the living room in particular has the kind of worn-in warmth that takes no time to settle into. Bedrooms look out across the Painswick valley, and when the whole group is together, the long dining table and full-size pool table see plenty of use. Step outside and independent cafes, traditional pubs, and restaurants are within easy walking distance, with the famous Rococo Garden and the wider Cotswolds countryside close at hand for days that call for fresh air.

Home truths:
* You'll need to be able to manage stairs to get around this home.
* If you're travelling with little ones, your host can provide a cot and high chair. Request these in advance to make sure everything is ready when you arrive.
* The main bedroom includes two single sofa beds alongside the king-size bed – handy if you're travelling with children who need to be close by.
* Painswick is a village, so having a car gives you the flexibility to explore the wider Cotswolds at your own pace – though the village itself has enough on its doorstep to fill a relaxed few days without driving.
* While the third and fourth bathrooms photographed, expect the style and quality to be consistent with the rest of the home.