Forest King

Nestled on two acres of land in the Royal Forest of Dean, stepping into this Grade II-listed characterful lodge might feel like entering a time machine. Originally built by order of King Charles II himself, the antique furnishings and original oak beams hearken back to its history, but we're sure Charles didn't envision a swimming pool, hot tub, or cinema room. Those modern amenities feel very far away in the attic, accessed via a secret bookcase door – make yourself at home with a novel, and try not to get distracted by the views. Or, snuggle up by the fireplace. Nearby, there are plenty of walking trails to satisfy adults, little ones, and dogs alike, and for a more leisurely afternoon, it's just a short walk to the pub in Yorkley.

Home truths:
*Your host has a private, self-contained flat in the coach house, and you may encounter the groundskeepers during your stay.
*At full occupancy, two guests will sleep on a double sofa bed in the snug, which has direct access to one first-floor bedroom via a bookcase door.
*If you're travelling with little ones, your host can provide two cots and two high chairs for free on request.
*There's off-road parking available for up to six cars.
*Two well-behaved dogs are welcome at this home, but not upstairs or in carpeted areas.
*In addition to the unfenced swimming pool, there's an unfenced pond in the garden, so little ones should be supervised at all times.
*There is a steep staircase leading to the second floor, and limited headroom in the second-floor bedrooms.
*The twin rooms can be set up as double beds or twin beds on request.
*The swimming pool is only heated in summer, normally between May and October, but this depends on the weather. It is closed at the end of October.