Travel | the malt house

www.periodhomesandinteriors.com106 | April 2015

Renowned for its traditional stone buildings, outstanding scenery and links to the Arts and Crafts movement, the Cotswolds is a popular

getaway for couples and families alike. Our destination was the quaint village of Broad Campden, south of Stratford-upon-Avon and a stone’s throw from its better-known neighbours Chipping Campden, Moreton-in-Marsh and Burford. Nestled into the surrounding countryside is The Malt House, a beautiful Grade II-listed building. Its impressive frontage is composed of the original malt house with a classic Cotswold facade. Parts of the building date back to the 17th century, with adjoining cottages incorporated into the building in 1905. Over the past year the old timbered guesthouse has been completely

refurbished by owner June Denton, while retaining its charming character and history. Each room has been thoughtfully styled with luxury, comfort and relaxation in mind. With a background in architectural projects, June was perfectly placed to bring the guesthouse up to modern standards with the help of her sons, Peter and Paul. She has created a welcoming and homely feel with a mixture of handpicked vintage furniture, floral patterns and luxurious fabrics.

The decor throughout The Malt House is a mix of old and new. From

hidden gemFor a country escape with a picture-perfect backdrop, this converted guesthouse in the

heart of the Cotswolds is just the ticket

‘The Malt House offers a welcoming and homely

feel with a mixture of handpicked vintage furniture, floral patterns

and luxurious fabrics’FEAT

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the four-poster bed and toile de Jouy wallpaper in Windrush to the exposed beams and shabby chic furniture in Kiftsgate, the seven individually designed bedrooms have something for everyone. Downstairs, the bright and airy dining room has a more contemporary feel, which is juxtaposed against the cosy reception room featuring an inglenook fireplace. We stayed in Hidcote, a spacious room with a super-king bed, crisp Egyptian cotton sheets and a sublime en suite. Hidcote also has views of the beautifully manicured garden with its croquet lawn and cottage-garden borders planted with an abundance of perennials. Behind the formal garden sits a paddock that’s home to some rare-breed sheep and beyond that an orchard – great for taking an afternoon stroll.

June describes The Malt House as a luxury B&B rather than a boutique hotel, and the breakfast menu is worth the trip alone. Its signature dishes include

Classic toile de Jouy decor in Windrush

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the malt house | travel

April 2015 | 107www.periodhomesandinteriors.com

Out and abOut in the lOcal areaA must-see part of your Cotswold itinerary is Lapstone, a converted 18th-century barn that houses an extensive range of homewares and gifts, a delightful café and a relaxing day spa. Idyllically set a short drive from Broad Campden, it has everything you need for a restful day out. We enjoyed perusing the mix of traditional and contemporary outdoor furniture, elegant planters and sculptures, and exquisite interiors ideas. We visited on a particularly hot summer’s day and enjoyed a tasty light lunch at the Meg Rivers Café seated outside on the patio. We thoroughly recommend this spot for the feeling of calm and tranquillity – and that was before we had even visited the spa!

craft & designIf the Arts and Crafts movement has piqued your interest, the Court Barn Museum in Chipping Campden is a must. As well as the static display of beautiful objects, from jewellery by CR Ashbee and silverware by Robert Welch to furniture by Gordon Russell, there are also regular exhibitions and lectures running throughout the year. And if you are inspired by the clean lines and classic designs of Robert Welch’s pieces, you can visit the store just down the road in Chipping Campden’s high street to purchase your own signature cutlery set or tableware.

home & gardenFor a truly all-encompassing shopping experience, visit Burford Garden Centre. The expansive, family-run store started life as a simple plant nursery and has now grown to one of the UK’s largest shopping destinations. As well as inspirational ranges for the home and garden, it boasts the biggest collection of David Austen roses in the UK, and has a kitchen garden that sells homemade produce in its shop and café. The store’s focus is on British brands, and it aims to support local suppliers.

eating out You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to good restaurants and artisan food shops in and around Chipping Campden. For a relaxed atmosphere, try the Eight Bells Inn. We particularly liked the homemade puddings and would highly recommend Mr Hawker’s sticky toffee pudding with vanilla ice cream and butterscotch sauce. If you’re feeling more adventurous, head to the Noel Arms Hotel and sample one of head chef Indunil Upatissa’s award-winning curries, which are full of flavour and packed with spices – not for the faint-hearted! For a cream tea that rivals The Ritz, check out 17th-century inn The Ebrington Arms, which also has communal food nights dedicated to regional cuisine and foodie fare.

blueberry pancakes, rhubarb compote and fresh fruit salad, and for those with a larger appetite there’s a full English on offer. Much of the produce used comes from local suppliers or from June’s kitchen garden. We were tempted by the smoked salmon and scrambled eggs – a real treat to start the day.

For a luxury getaway in stunning surroundings, The Malt House can’t be beaten. Its rural setting and well-thought-out design makes it a restful place that keeps seasoned guests returning year after year.

◆ Double rooms start from £140 per night with breakfast, 01386 840295, www.thecotswoldmalthouse.com. PH&I

clockwise from this page The scenic setting of The Malt House. The airy dining room.

Distinctive William Morris wallpaper in Heythrop. Relax in

the cosy reception room.

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