5 Countryside Retreats

Did you know that Telford is over 75% rural? That means, as well as historic market towns and world-class sights, we’ve got plenty of unspoilt countryside and quaint villages to explore. In summer, every inch of Telford comes alive with that summer energy, from the bees buzzing in the hedgerows to the delis brimming with local honey. 

Pick up a picnic from the local shops and stroll along footpaths scented by summer flowers. Sit outside for a spot of people watching or take a seat by a quiet canal and watch the ducks drift by – whatever suits your mood. 

At the end of the day, make sure your accommodation is equally idyllic. Whether you want a cottage a stone’s throw from the pub or somewhere where the loudest noise is the dawn chorus, here are five places for a summertime countryside break. 

1. Escape to Courtyard Cottage’s period charm

You can’t get much more English than Courtyard Cottage. It’s a 17th-century cottage tucked behind Meeson Hall, a manor house hotel surrounded by eight acres of gardens, grounds and paddocks. The timber-framed, red-brick building forms one side of a pretty walled courtyard that’s filled with pot plants. Inside, you’ll find a cosy wood-burning stove beneath a galleried landing, three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a well-equipped kitchen.

While you’re staying here, stroll or cycle out into the summertime countryside (hire bikes from the owner), stock up on local produce to cook in your pretty-as-a-picture kitchen, or explore the museums of nearby Ironbridge Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Mingle with friends at Fairview by The Wrekin

Looking for a countryside retreat with a group of family and friends? Check out this comfy, modern home with a sociable heart. Fairview by The Wrekin sleeps 10 guests who can easily gather in the open-plan kitchen/diner with floor-to-ceiling oak-framed glass windows. 

Fairview manages to be that rarest of things in accommodations. It’s both sleek and cosy. In the summer, throw open the bi-fold doors to let the outside in. There’s a built-in charcoal barbeque and plenty of garden furniture to lounge on. If the weather’s less than friendly, snuggle up in the lounge and watch a film together on the Smart TV. Whatever the weather, the hot tub is always inviting.

If you can, tear yourselves away to stroll along the footpaths and cycleways on your doorstep. You won’t even need to jump in the car as you’re already on the edge of the Wrekin Forest.

3. Relax by the river at Puddle Duck Cottage

You can’t get a better location – or a cuter name – than Puddle Duck Cottage. It’s one of three holiday cottages tucked between the River Severn and the Wrekin Way footpath. Several pubs and restaurants are within walking distance, as well as some of Ironbridge Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site’s top attractions, and Maws Craft Centre. Inside the cottage, there’s an inglenook fireplace with a wood-burning stove, three bedrooms that sleep six guests, two bathrooms. The décor is clean, fresh and interesting, without detracting from the cottage’s original features. Think ornate brickwork at the back of that gorgeous fireplace, exposed beams and sparkling white tiles. The pretty front garden has dreamy views across the river. On a summer’s evening, it’s the perfect setting for a barbeque or pizza oven shindig.

4. Chill out at Tub Boat Cottage

Yes, Tub Boat Cottage is as romantic as it sounds! This cute-as-a-button red-brick cottage is right next to the canal in Coalport. Downstairs is an open-plan living room, dining room and kitchen. Upstairs, there’s a double bedroom and bathroom with bath and shower. It’s all beautifully furnished and equipped for two to retreat to.

In summer, sit out on the enclosed patio, or step outside to watch life on the canal drift by. We can’t think of a better way to cool off on a hot summery day than sitting with your feet dangling in the canal. There’s a pub across the street and Maws Craft Centre and some of the Ironbridge Museums are an easy half-mile walk away. Iron Bridge is just 1.5 miles away.  

5. Tune in to nature at Shepherd’s Rest

Follow the sounds of a babbling stream and birdsong and stroll beneath an archway of rambling roses to find Shepherd’s Rest, a sage-green shepherd’s hut nestled among the trees on a working farm. If you want the complete surround-sound experience, sit out on the elevated decking, which floats above the brook and the woodland canopy below. It’s bliss! 

Inside, the shepherd’s hut is all cosiness, with a wood-burning stove, a burnished Chesterfield sofa and a TV. There’s a double bed and a kitchen area. The en-suite shower room is an old hen house!