The Old Cheese Press, Eckington

Take it easy at this unique and tranquil getaway. The Old Cheese Press, Eckington, is a beautifully converted stone and timber building with a magical garden in a quiet village surrounded by lovely countryside. The space This property is a former 18th Century cheese press. Recently updated to include a modern kitchen, spacious living room, with dining space, and one generous bedroom with a super king bed (or two singles). The Old Cheese Press accommodates one or two people comfortably. The property is attached to the owners' cottage, Willow Pond, but is accessed independently. Guests have their own private gardens and outside dining spaces. You're surrounded by an acre of informal garden, created by James and his partner Mike. It is laid out as a series of 'rooms' with spaces for sitting and having a picnic or just a drink – you're encouraged to stay as long as you like. Wildlife is plentiful and includes bats, hedgehogs, frogs, toads and many birds and butterflies – the whole garden is organic, including the veg patch. You'll find shade under mature trees, summer houses for a glass of wine and a pond for gazing at dragonflies and newts. Walkers can tackle Bredon Hill or The Malverns, which are on the doorstep; cyclists can discover the pretty yellow-stone villages round the hill or go further into the Cotswolds. There are two pubs within a five-minute walk and Eckington Manor in the village has a cookery school and good restaurant. On sunny days you can eat in the garden; if the weather turns foul you can cosy up indoors by the wood-burner with extra cushions and blankets - open the wine and watch films or box sets. Guest access You enter via a stable door to the kitchen, brimming with good kit and with plenty of room for preparing and cooking. A generous welcome hamper will be waiting for you with all the basics plus a cake, a bottle of wine , snacks and gorgeous seasonal veg from the garden when available. Parking is free and on-site.