Steanbridge Farm

Author Laurie Lee lived in his beloved Slad Valley, and today you can follow in his footsteps along the Laurie Lee Wildlife Way, with direct access from the farm. Rambling paths on the Cotswolds Way (15 minutes’ drive) snake through typically soft-stone Cotswolds villages, where you’ll come upon traditional pubs, thatched houses and (if you arrive on the right day) even the odd duck race. If you’d like to explore further afield, there are lots of pretty villages and market towns within striking distance. Painswick (15 minutes) holds an award-winning farmers’ market every Saturday morning and a weekday covered market for all your foodie treats, and Stroud (10 minutes) is packed with indie art galleries. For more lively action, Cheltenham (30 minutes) is a good option. This elegant Regency spa town holds year-around festivals and events, and has plenty of boutiques, bars and restaurants. Things really comes alive in Cheltenham Week, held in March and one of the biggest events in the horse-racing calendar.