Under Catswood

Wow!

We had a fantastic time at Under Catswood we decided to stay for longer. The house is very comfortable well equipped. Sun lounge looking over the valley was a great favourite. Just chilling and watching the view. Beds comfortable and nice to have bathroom for each room. Lounge with wood burner nice and cosy. Meg (dog) loved the woodland up behind, nice to be able to walk her from the house, it is quite steep. Would stay again and hopefully going to back for daughters graduation in November.

Beautiful location and a lovely house.

Great for sharing with others as each bedroom has an ensuite bathroom and there is plenty of space for cooking and relaxing. As others have mentioned it's a narrow lane and a steep drive to reach the property. Nothing particularly unusual for those used to rural driving but if you're not used to that or it's likely to be icy weather I would take that into account. Good well-equipped kitchen. Walkable to Slad and the Woolpack for a delicious lunch. I think my only feedback would be that it might be helpful to have a handle to hold onto for the getting in and out of the baths with overhead showers.

Lovely property with fantastic views.

Lots of space for sitting and relaxing. Kitchen was well equipped and had everything we needed. Some good walks from the property. The road up to the house was quite narrow but also quiet. We loved watching the pheasants and squirrels in the garden.

Master bedroom needs a shower mat and a privacy curtain next to the bedroom door.

Dishwasher works but facility for stacking plates is unstable. Couldn’t get the top oven to work Overall we thought the cottage was beautifully situated and lovely with amazing views

We had a marvellous time at under Catswood, and although we had a small problem opening the rear door Amanda from the facilities team was very helpful and had it rectified immediately.

There was six adults and two infants and we had a very comfortable stay thank you.

Beautiful house, stunning views, the photos don't do it justice.

Well equipped, comfortable, clean. Lovely garden furniture. As previous people have commented it is up and very steep drive and windingvroad, but not really a problem with today's cars, and we'll worth it when you arrive. There are steps up to the house but also a ramp. Unfortunately there is a wasp nest at the rear that is a bit troublesome. Lovely listening to the owls in the evening

Location excellent.

Lovely house and mature gardens but you are let down by the maintenance and cleaning. Broken glass light fitting in the bedroom had resulted in sharp glass shard under the mattress protector and glass sherds on the floor. We have been offered compensation. Bed remade by Marc, very nice chap - I made him coffee, but broken light fitting still in place on ceiling, which remains a danger and he left coffee drips in the bedroom - pictures available if required. Many dead flies in sun rooms - pictures available if required. Bedroom off the sunroom had not been cleaned so that faeces stains were still in place - pictures available if required. Curtains in sitting room partly down - a fact noted in the visitor's book by a previous client. Such a lovely property and location. What a shame it is let down by those who should be caring for it. Helpful suggestions: Salt cellars were empty - salt would have been useful. Foil would be helpful. Biscuits left as welcome pack were smashed/broken - we left those for you!

Lovely large accommodation, however the access is extremely narrow, steep and overgrown.

Our vehicle paint work now has scratches down the sides. You’re also asked to sort out all of your rubbish and recycling which is fine, but the bins are at the bottom of the lane which is quite inconvenient when trying to relax on holiday. We ordered a food delivery after checking that the access and location was suitable. The driver left his van at the bottom of the lane and walked the food to us due to the access, this then meant we weren’t given our full order. We stayed during lovely weather which was great, and the views are amazing. However there were no fans/cooling systems available. We turned the heating right down and opened any windows/doors we were able to, but it was sweltering inside the property. We requested a cot and high chair during our stay and they weren’t there. We went on a hunt and eventually found them covered in dust. My husband had to spend time putting them together. We were also instructed to disable the alarm on arrival and it wasn’t set. There are a lot of steep steps outside the property which made things a bit awkward with a baby. Internally the wooden steps giving access to the living room were quite easy to slip on. Wifi is a bit hit and miss. If you are relying on it for a baby monitor it can make things tricky. We did have a good time, the views were great and the property is spacious. We appreciated the welcome gifts and the kitchen had everything we needed. However after spending over £900 for 3 nights we weren’t expecting the negatives above.

Exceptional place, wonderful views, fantastic house in general, stylish, comfortable

The most beautiful house we have ever stayed in.

The true wow factor. Clean, very comfortable, calm location, stunning views. Pretty perfect. Thank you

We had the most fabulous stay at Under Catswood.

The situation of the property is stunning and to be able to walk from the house and enjoy the beautiful Laurie Lee countryside was a bonus. The property was spacious enough for us 3 couples to be together but never on top of each other and we were able to take ourselves off to another part of the house if needs be for some quiet time- such as completing a jigsaw! The garden is perfect for dogs. We chose this place to escape the noise of fireworks and that worked perfectly. At night the only sound we heard was the hooting of an owl. I've given the property 4stars as a few improvements would elevate it to complete perfection! The windows in the bedrooms and bathrooms being locked shut. Why? To open and ventilate would mean less condensation which was beginning to rot the seals. Also to sleep with the window open would be better as it felt a bit stuffy. We were there in November but can imagine this being a problem in the summer. We also didn't have instructions for recycling and rubbish. We sorted our recycling in the bins provided in the kitchen drawer but had to leave it for the cleaners to deal with as we didn't have any instructions on where to put it from there. We also had to leave our rubbish in the kitchen too through lack of instructions. The weather was mild and so heating was not a huge issue but the right hand part of the house was quite cold at times. In the cold weather this could be an issue especially in the bedrooms. These are minor improvements. In no way did any of this hamper our enjoyment of our stay. We were all very sad to leave and would definitely book to return. Highly recommended.

Ideal property and exactly as the pictures reflected.

Super view which is exactly what I was looking for. Great kitchen and living spaces. The kitchen had everything we needed. Beds were comfy and warm. Showers were super. I can find little to complain about. As some other reviews have mentioned, the road in is a little funky, but the whatthreewords took us right there, so great info shared prior to the stay. We didn’t use any local facilities but can’t fault the info shared around the property. All very easy and a great experience. Recommend this property for anyone looking for great views and a peaceful location for exploring the Cotswolds area.

We were very pleased with the lovely property, the garden and the weather.

Our suggested improvements: 1. New non allergenic pillows for beds in all rooms. 2. Improved ventilation in all three bathrooms, due to sealed windows. 3. Regular removal of mould from blind in bathroom attached to master bedroom. 4. Instructions to be provided for induction hob. One of our party is asthmatic and was challenged by the pillows, ventilation and mould. We all felt the pillows had seen better days. However - we were very pleased with the response of Amanda when the microwave oven broke down and she provided a replacement in hours. We mentioned that we had a teapot lid but no tea pot, and she sent one from Amazon - unfortunately when it arrived it was a two-person pot that was not suitable for a six person property.

The property is lovely but we found the cooking appliances a little tricky to operate and there was no manual for the hob which we struggled with.

There were no instructions on exiting the property either on bedding or on clearing out the rubbish and re-cycling. We had one major problem with a pre planned power outage we were not aware of. The views however from the property are stunning.

This is a beautiful home with outstanding views.

It is not the easiest of vehicle access and we definitely wouldn’t want to attempt it in the winter. The kitchen and bathrooms were all modern and clean. The beds were really comfortable and clean too. However the main living room sofa and chair were extremely uncomfortable, so much so that we avoided using them. The sun room was lovely but not enough comfortable seating for everyone. We normally clean and vacuum everywhere before we leave but the cleaner was old, rusty and disgusting as well as not working so had to do our best with the broom. The hob needs instructions as it was missing, you would be lucky to figure it out without them! Thankfully one of our younger members worked it out by accident! (the knob left on the back of the hob actually goes on the hob magnetically and controls it). It was a lovely stay but we wouldn’t go back.

On the face of it this property was satisfactory in that it had the right number of bedrooms and bathrooms, had a magnificent outlook across the valley and provided plenty of space for 6 adults to move around and socialise.

However, it was totally let down by the condition we found it in. The BBQ was full of dirty used coals and a greasy grill. Two glasses were chipped and dangerously sharp. Surfaces were not clean. Bags of rubbish were still inside the property. The twin beds that we had requested (and had confirmed in writing) to be made up into a double, had not been done. A chair was broken and unusable. The lounge area chair and sofa were covered in hairs (animal and human) and looked like they had never been vacuumed. The vacuum cleaner was so full it stopped working until we emptied it. The dishwasher still had mugs and cutlery inside. One of the bedrooms had no towels and we had to go looking for some. The patio chairs and tables were not provided with a sun umbrella so we could not sit outside comfortably. For the sake of not interrupting our holiday, and because we are all resourceful people, we rectified everything we were able to and got on with things. All of the above have been reported through e-mail to, and seen by, Sykes, but no action has been taken and nothing heard from them for more tha 3 weeks now. Hence the need for this unsatisfactory feedback.

An absolutely amazing property with fantastic views.

Definitely looking at next visit

I booked Under Catswood to celebrate my 60th birthday and as a treat for my family, and what an utter treat it was.

We were all delighted with the open spaced, comfortable accommodation. To all have our own gorgeous bathrooms, well thought out spaces to be either all together or comfortably apart in all the reading nooks. Clearly the most incredible feature of this property is its position drinking in Slad Valley and way beyond, just beautiful. Fantastic walking, running back up the lane definitely counted as hill training. We became regulars at the Wolfpack. One of my best moments at Under Catswood was looking up from my copy of Cider with Rosie to see all my children reading rather than being on their devises…it’s just that kind of place. Magical.

We had a great time at under catswood.

The cottage itself is lovely and spacious and the views are outstanding. We particularly enjoyed the sun room when the weather wasn't so good as we could still enjoy the views. The roads to the property are quite narrow although we only came across two cars when driving around them so it wasn't an issue. The drive entrance is also narrow and also slightly difficult to enter if you come from the other direction but don't let this or the narrow roads put you off if you want to enjoy this lovely property and those marvellous views. Would recommend to family and friends and hope to return again in the future.

Beautiful property but quite ridiculous access, to the point of questioning whether or not to go out by car.

Horrendous if icy or snowing. The turn off at the end of the drive is ridiculous. Stunning in every other way, loved being in the house but wouldn't book again.

A beautiful house, in an absolutely magical setting, right in the epicentre of Cider With Rosie country.

We spent a wonderfully relaxing week at Under Catswood with our older dog in early December. The location is magnificent with spectacular views over the Slad valley, and south towards Stroud and Selsley Common; ending somewhere near the bridges over the River Severn. The Midcentury Modern house is equally spectacular. It is warm, well equipped and superbly laid out. Even though we are fussy people with high standards, we immediately felt at home. At night it is silent, except for the occasional Tawny Owls, by day the valley is peaceful and quiet. Perfect to get away from it all. I grew up in Painswick as a kid, just in the next valley, and it was a treat to be back in the hills and valleys of Stroud. It was particularly magical to be able to re-read Cider With Rosie in the sunroom and glance up from the pages and see the places Laurie Lee describes in the book. A truly unique experience - thankfully we saw no two-headed sheep in Catswood! Stroud is a very short drive down the valley and has all the amenities you might need if civilisation is required for any reason. The odd thing about Under Catswood is that while you are in the property, civilisation feels much, much further away than it actually is. Our break was over way too quickly and we really hope to return again soon. I would recommend this property without hesitation. Thanks for a great stay.

Hi, It is a great place, I would be very interested in knowing the history of the building.

Just 2 things 1) The coating ( teflon?) on the cooking pots is flaking off and they should be replaced 2) An expresso machine would be a great addition to the place......the final piece of icing on the cake! Best wishes David

This was a delightful house,the view outstanding.

The beds are comfortable. The house was clean.Loved staying there.One little thing the road upto the house is very narrow we had to reverse a few times as no where to pull in. Very easy to get to places out and about.

Lots of thoughtful extras.

Fantastic property. Great views . Very tastefully decorated adding to a peaceful break .

We had a a glorious week staying at Under Catswood Fab House, all mod cons, we were very comfortable So well equipped We did eventually find out how to work the hob

A wonderfull property with simply amazing views over Slad valley.

I would certainly recommend the property to anyone looking for a relaxing/walking holiday.

What a lovely property; perfect for a respite break for full-time carers where you can relax, unwind and soak-up/walk the glorious Gloucestershire countryside.

The house and grounds were striking in it's design and elevated position. Though many good touches in evidence (welcome pack, plentiful firewood, warm and clean on arrival), I would like to offer a little constructive criticism: some of the kitchen amenities (e.g. cooker) were a little over complicated and please update house instructions (esp. tv operation), but minor niggles only. Otherwise, Under Catswood provides a terrific environment in which to recharge your batteries and soothe your soul. We very much look forward to our next visit.

An amazing property with spectacular views.

Well laid out and well furnished/equipped. The small step from the hallway to the kitchen is dangerous. Suggest you add on chamfered thresholds to avoid injury. Same to the middle bedroom. We stumbled a few times before we got used to it. Window handles need replacing as some are broken. Some basic instructions on operating the hob and oven/micro would help. Would have no hesitation to recommend this place.

Probably one of the most beautiful staycation places we have been.

We regularly stay in the Cotswolds in ‘traditional’ cottages, so this was a break from the norm. We cannot wait to come back! Yes the drive in is challenging, but well worth it. We found it best going out for the day then enjoying the house in the evening was best for darker, winter evenings. The house was warm, comfortable and well equipped. Views were unforgettable and quite frankly incredible! Owners if you ever think of selling, please drop me a message! What a house!

Great place, thank you.

The heating is very efficient and the solar and heat pump make great sense. Once we’d controlled the heat level (we don’t do very hot houses) the timing couldn’t be controlled. It was on (pumps running) during the night. If the timing was reset or was controllable by tenants you could save energy output cost and the environment. Other wise we had a great family get together. You probably won’t want to publish these comments online but very happy to say that Under Catswood is a fantastic holiday let.

Beautiful relaxing getaway superb location with amazing views.

The property is one of my favourites this being our second stay.

Under Catswood was perfect for a long overdue family gathering.

Extremely comfortable, incredible views and very cosy in the winter. Access is not for the faint hearted and the snow and ice presented some challenges but worth it once you get there.

The pictures don’t do this house justice!

It was truly stunning, with amazing views and idyllic setting. It’s a really comfortable, relaxing and wonderful place to stay. We will definitely be returning. There’s lots to do in the area, great walks and places to eat. One of the best holiday let’s we’ve ever stayed in

The property was lovely and the views fantastic.

It was a great stay. Three minor points that didn’t detract from our lovely weekend: Windows locked so couldn’t be opened No hairdryer And quite difficult roads to the property However all in all a beautiful property.

The house was stunning,everything was high standard and it exceeded our expectations.

The house was actually much bigger than we th5from the photographs, amazing views out from the house. Overall we wanted somewhere to relax for a few days and that is what we got, the time flew by. We will definitely book again in the future

Thoroughly enjoyed our stay due mainly to the fantastic property (Under Catswood) and the spectacular views over the valley.

The accommodation and facilities are amongst the best we’ve ever experienced and there has clearly been a great deal of thought to the layout of the property and the high quality interior. Although access up the lane is tight it is well worth the challenge.

Undercats Wood is a beautiful property- spacious, comfortable and very well equipped.

We found the house clean and loved the views from many of the rooms and terrace. The peaceful location was worth the slightly challenging roads to reach it. A fantastic holiday home. Thank you.

Property was amazing value for money, providing all the little things helped.

Fyi I thing the washing machine is leaking as the outside of the building was wet, but didn't see inside wet.

There were a few issues with the water pressure and lack of hot water, even after pressing the extra hour on the boiler.

On the final day the kitchen sink developed a leak. The house was set in a stunning location. Just a suggestion to improve the stay would have more information about walking routes, local restaurants, pubs etc.

Superb location and views, beautiful position in its own wood.

The décor was a perfect match for the design of the building. Perfect for a walking weekend with friends. Very impressive kitchen and I personally loved the library and Charles Aimmes chair! Outside space great and the local pub The Woolpack had excellent food. Highly recommended. Don’t be out off by any negative reviews we experienced no issues at all.

We felt completely at home in the cottage from the moment we arrived.

The property is spacious, comfortable and full of personal touches. Sadly we did not have time of explore the gardens but the views are spectacular. The split level lounge is real luxury. The location is idylic and quiet but within easy reach of Stroud if civilisation is required!

I booked this holiday as a 50th birthday celebration and it was the most expensive holiday we have had and probably the worst !

The holiday property was dirty and had apparently had a 9 hour clean before we arrived. I've sent a very large number of photos to sykes who have passed on to the owners and yet, I've had no response. The property was in a very unacceptable state of cleanliness and it ruined our whole holiday, so much so that my son wanted to leave the very next day after arrival. We definitely won't be going back !

Whilst the cottage is in a stunning location and could be a very desireable property it was the dirtiest we have ever stayed in and we have stayed in a lot!

Given the current situation we expected great care would have been taken to prepare holiday cottages for guests at this time, in-line with your cleaning guidelines. This was certainly not the case. All kitchen surfaces were covered in layer of grease, taps had fingerprints, bins filthy, layers of dust on appliances, crockery dirty and stained, bedding Unironed, bathrooms in a similar condition. We complained to Manor cottages who arranged for a ‘reclean’ to take place. Two ladies turned up who were extremely rude and unhappy at being called back. They stayed for 20 minutes. There was some improvement but not much. Given the rudeness of the women we didn’t want to call them back again so spent the rest of the day shopping for cleaning articles and cleaning the property ourselves and washing all of the cutlery, crockery, land and utensils. The ladies said the previous guests had left the property in a bad state and they had run out of time to clean the property properly for our stay. This was not out fault and should not have impacted on our stay. We certainly lost one whole day of our much needed ‘holiday’ due to this. Having paid for what we thought was a luxury property at luxury prices we feel deeply disappointed.

The house is amazing, very well eat with everything you need.

The views are breathtaking. Would definitely recommend.