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Cottage escape

Uniquely secluded

We’ve spent years walking through the little hamlet of White Leaved Oak, so we knew ‘Elsie’s’ cottage and that it would make the perfect cottage escape for exploring the Malvern Hills. When it came up for sale we had no hesitation in buying it. The hamlet is named after the ancient tree said to mark the crossing of ley lines, marking the meeting of the three counties of Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire. This place emanates a kind of magic, which you can’t fail to fall in love with. Elsie’s Sits in an acre of wild tiered gardens, with views across the valley between Ragged stone and Chase End hill. Replacing the old wooden terrace structure for something more robust was our first job. We hard landscaped it, paved and made it big enough to dine, BBQ, soak in the hot tub and immerse yourself in the peace and quiet of this secluded spot.

Stripped back cottage style

Elsie’s was a one bedroom stone cottage with a sad lean-to conservatory and a series of little rooms, low doorways and in need of a decorative update. Elsie’s (named after the formidable former owner), definitely needed an overhaul. The fireplace had a false brick wall covering up a huge inglenook, and many of the original features had been plastered over. The outside space was difficult to navigate, So we set to work with a plan to create an authentic cottage escape with rustic charm and little luxuries for an indulgent holiday experience. We set about designing an extension with our architect with the aim of making it as ‘quiet’ as possible. Clad with burnt larch and a low roof its subtlety means you can still glimpse the original stone on the gable. The space provides for a useful entrance hallway for muddy boots and dog drying, As well as a second bedroom, with doors providing views across the valley and access to the terrace and garden.

Wooded tracks and craggy hills

The beauty of this place is its setting. propped on the side of Ragged Stone Hill, with wild woods outside the door and utter seclusion. Step out of your front door onto open trails, with the Malvern Hills on your doorstep. Enjoy seasonal shows of a carpet of bluebell or the heady smell of wild garlic.

A touch of luxury

Our take on luxury in the bathroom is all about texture. We used old oak beams, copper and natural stone. Soak in the roll top bath with essential oils and tea lights for a magical atmosphere. The greens reflect nature with verdigris copper panels and handmade green crackle glazed tiles. Oak and glass surround the walk in rainfall shower. limestone floors, warm underfoot run throughout. We’ll provide a selection of natural toiletries, white fluffy towels and robes, for the full boutique experience.

Cooking up a feast

Why not embrace rural seclusion and cook up a storm both inside and out. The kitchen is finished with marble tops and forest green oak cabinets with reclaimed copper lights a cosy dining table, and rustic elm bench to lounge on. This kitchen diner is a the place to hole up and indulge your taste buds. If cooking is not your scene, we can help. Our wood fired pizza kit will get you cooking outdoors, or request a BBQ hamper if you’d prefer.

You’ll arrive to fresh sourdough bread, milk, juice, ground coffee, tea, sugar and marshmallows for toasting, olive oil and eggs. There’ll be chilled wine in the fridge, so you can pour yourself a glass and unwind before the unpacking.

Slumber

Time away should deliver long lie-ins and leave you well rested.. This cottage escape offers you a choice of two bedrooms; the garden room, with doors out to the terrace. Or upstairs in the eves is an oak framed double room, a perfect little hideaway.

Both are styled with rustic reclaimed and vintage decor, with repurposed elm door planks as headboards, carved Indonesian wall hangings and floor standing mirror. Chandeliers, or quirky boho lighting added to the mix. Deep mattresses, feather duvets and white linen ensure a deep sleep in either bedroom.

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