The Details...

Suspend your disbelief and enter into the realms of sci-fi fantasy at this steampunk-inspired shepherd’s hut in Shropshire’s magical Clun Valley. With a mysterious title and a fantastical location, Aether’s Tilt is destined to inspire your real-life adventures. Hike along the stunning Shropshire Way or down the enchanting Offa’s Dyke, winding through open pastures, river valleys and never-ending inclines. Wonder at the star-encrusted skies and make life-changing plans, soaking in the log-fired hot tub and talking till sunrise.

Aether’s Tilt is nestled in an idyllic, farmland paddock, set along a one-track country lane in rural Mardu hamlet. Skilfully handcrafted from crooked elm timbers, it has a natural rusticity at home in the rugged, pastoral scenery. Behind its vintage façade, lies a stylish, studio retreat which fuses its historic, industrial roots with hi-tech home comforts. Expect curious sci-fi artwork and agricultural cogs, along with a 12” iPad, Bluetooth speaker and WIFI with Sky Go.

The open-plan design is perfect for couples and boasts a bespoke kitchen, bijou lounge and a sumptuous king-size bed. A contemporary en-suite bathroom is the only separate area and is complete with a steaming hot shower and thick, fluffy towels. Underfloor heating keeps the hut uber-cosy, along with comfy robes, designer bedding and super-soft throws.

The sleek kitchen has everything you’d expect, including a modern cooker, fridge/freezer and built-in dishwasher. There’s even a deluxe coffee machine for that much-needed caffeine fix, next to a chilled bottle of wine and gourmet chocolate treats. Curl up on the sofa and play nostalgic board games or queue up the movies and while away rainy days.

Outside, the hut has its own lush, private gardens where you’ll find the Scandinavian hot tub looking out across the breath-taking backdrop. Wonderfully secluded and set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the only company you’ll have is from the onlooking cattle. Bask in the dreamy hot waters and admire the rolling Shropshire hills, or light the crackling firepit and toast marshmallows till late. The clear night skies have got to be seen to be believed, with endless stars lighting up the pitch-black scenes.

Bring your walking boots and head to the Welsh-English border, ticking a must-do off your wish-list and becoming an Offa’s Dyke explorer. Its gentle walks and mountain hikes are just a few minutes from your door, and are a much-loved trail offering wildlife galore. Discover picture-perfect towns hidden amongst the flourishing, rolling hills, scattered with ancient castles, stately houses and landscaped, country gardens. Visit the foodie town of Ludlow for its gourmet scene, or head further out to discover Wales’ sublime, sandy beaches.