Bolthole Retreats was founded in 2017 by Martin McWilliam and is based in Cheltenham. We are the leading independent agency for Cotswold holiday rental properties. We work closely with owners and housekeepers to ensure that guests have a truly memorable stay. We pride ourselves on our local knowledge, whether it be of a local farm shop, cycle routes or events. Our aim is to enable guests to have the opportunity to enjoy authentic Cotswold experiences, from the Cotswold experts, in a lovely Cotswold property that suits their needs.

Tucked away down an inconspicuous lane leading to a beautiful National Trust valley lies Bellhouse, the south-west wing of the spectacular Grade II listed Woodchester Park House. Sleeping 8 guests, the house has 4 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms, a cosy sitting room, well-equipped kitchen, and high-ceilinged dining room. This unique holiday home emanates a sense of understated grandeur, perfectly complimented by its old-English charm. As well as benefitting from its own private garden and courtyard, Bellhouse is perched on the edge of the National Trust owned Woodchester Park, with direct access to around 500 acres of wonderful woodland, fields and five beautiful lakes. Dog friendly: accepts up to 2 well-behaved, mature dogs for an additional fee. Please advise on booking if bringing a dog. It is the policy of this property not to take bookings for groups where the majority of guests are under the age of 25, or single-sex group celebrations, including stag/hen parties. Please note that additional guests above the maximum capacity are not permitted.

The closest village to Bellhouse is Nympsfield, with a very good pub, The Rose & Crown, offering a lunch and dinner food service. You can walk to the pub from Bellhouse, it is just over a mile. For something a little bit different, turn left and visit the fabulous café at Thistledown Campsite, serving fresh, home-made food inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine (much of which is vegetarian/vegan) using locally grown produce and a clay oven. The café is open Wednesday – Sunday for food, serving brunch and lunch throughout the year, with pizza evenings on Friday and Saturday nights from April – October. A little further down the lane and you’ll arrive in the artistic town of Nailsworth. It is home to a fantastic and unspoiled selection of boutiques, bars, pubs and cafes, and it really does offer some of the best food for miles around. There’s also often live music events, so it’s always worth keeping an eye on what’s going on! In Nailsworth town centre you will find a Morrisons open Mon–Sat 7am – 9pm, and Sun 10am-4pm.