Tucked along a tree-lined lane on the outskirts of Winchcombe, this sweet cottage is as cosy as it looks. The red brick exterior exudes a simple country charm, but step inside and you'll be surprised by the sophisticated living space and contemporary comforts. From the honey-coloured rug to the blue velvet sofa, pops of bold colour are everywhere you look. The roomy kitchen is a dream for home cooks – it's stocked with bakeware, crockery and everything else you'll need to rustle up family suppers to share around the dining table. Another surprise is the private sun-dappled terrace. It calls for barbecues and sundowners in the fresh air, while the shared pasture is perfect for dogs. But our favourite part is by far the decadent bathroom. End the day with a bubble-filled soak in the freestanding tub – a glass of wine in hand – or if you're not one for baths, the rainfall feature in the walk-in shower is just as lush. Outside, Winchcombe's medieval charms and rolling countryside are begging to be explored. Don your comfiest shoes and set off towards Sudeley Castle or the Cotswold Way – there's a public footpath just off the lane that connects to it – followed by a pint and pub grub at the local taverns in the village. For a change of scenery, Cheltenham, Bourton-on-the-Water and many other chocolate-box Cotswolds villages are within driving distance.