The Freeth

The highlights

• This renovated hunting lodge still has plenty of its original character in the wooden beams criss-crossing the ceilings and beautiful fireplaces alongside lots of modern luxuries to keep you in complete comfort.
• Whatever the weather, you’ll be able to go for a dip in the indoor heated swimming pool with lovely south-facing views from the pool house.
• Explore the garden, designed by a Chelsea Flower Show gold medal winner, you’ll find something new around every corner.
• Head out into Herefordshire’s rolling countryside for long walks in the Malvern Hills and along the River Wye before stopping off for a cider tasting or to pick up some treats for dinner at one of the local farmers’ markets.

You should know

• Not suitable for stag parties.

The detail

The Freeth is set on the edge of the historic Netherwood Estate in the heart of the Herefordshire countryside. Tucked away down a quiet country lane, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including the estate’s own deer park which dates back to the medieval era. The house was once a hunting lodge and has now been transformed into a luxurious holiday home for up to 18 guests, making it perfect for celebrations with the whole family or get-togethers with friends. You’ll be able to relax together in the garden, designed by a Chelsea Flower Show multi-gold medal winner, put your feet up in front of a log fire or go for a swim in the private indoor heated swimming pool.

Inside, you’ll find the renovation of the house has preserved many of the period features such as the wooden beams and the kitchen’s range fireplace, while adding plenty of modern luxuries. For example, in the kitchen there’s a four door AGA and an additional cooker along with two dishwashers, all fully equipped for large groups. The big kitchen table has beautiful south-facing views out to the fields beyond the garden and there’s a separate dining room with plenty of room for everyone. You can cook for yourselves, use one of the local in-house chef services or even dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant on the estate.

After dinner, head through to the sitting room where you’ll find comfy sofas gathered around a log fire and get stuck into a board game. When it’s time for bed, there are nine bedrooms to choose from, all with comfy beds and crisp, white bed linen. Some of the rooms can be made up as king size doubles or twins, offering plenty of flexibility for groups.

The Freeth also has its own indoor heated swimming pool. The pool house is a lovely, bright space with big glass doors that face south over the garden. There’s a seating area where you can sit and relax with a book after a dip and a changing area, shower and even a tumble dryer to keep your towels dry. Head out into the garden and you’ll be surrounded by borders bursting with flowers, ponds, an orchard, a terrace for alfresco dining and a walled garden, which is the perfect spot for a glass of something before dinner.

There’s lots to explore in the area with the rugged Malvern Hills and the beautiful Wye Valley offering hiking trails and stunning views. Get a different perspective by canoeing or kayaking down the River Wye. You might prefer to explore the historic streets of Hereford, with its medieval treasures or to visit castles like Goodrich and Eastnor. There are plenty of culinary treats in the area, from cider tasting at one of the nearby orchards to bustling farmers’ markets offering locally sourced produce to take back to the house for a delicious dinner.

Features

Essential