House

The front door leads into the main living room with its large inglenook fireplace. There is a separate dining room and to the rear of the house there is a kitchen with an Aga and a utility room. Proceeding up the staircase, there is a landing with the family bathroom on it. The stairs then rise to the first floor, where the living room has exposed floorboards and an attractive stone fireplace. Also on this floor is the master bedroom with en-suite facilities and a further bedroom. The stairs rise again to the top floor, where there are two further bedrooms.

Hainault's beautiful gardens are built into the slope of a hill to the rear of the house and are accessed via steps up from the kitchen door. There are two flat lawned areas, with the upper lawn providing stunning views out over the Blockley valley. The lawned areas are surrounded by an abundance of established bushes, plants and trees. In total, from the kitchen door, there are approximately 51 steps leading up the side of the garden to the outhouse, complete with lighting and various handrails. At the top of the garden there is pedestrian access to an outhouse, behind which there is off street and on street parking.

Floorplan

Key Features

Security deposits

Security deposits are not required at Hainault House.

Pets

One medium sized dog, or two smaller dogs, are welcome to stay at Hainault House, at a cost of £20 per booking per dog.

For the comfort of future guests, we ask that dogs remain downstairs, stay off the furniture and that no trace of a dog remains after your departure.

Bed linen and towels

Bed linen, bath sheets and hand towels are provided for guests.

Arrival and departure times

Arrival time at Hainault House is after 3pm and departure time is by 10am. Access is via a key safe, therefore it does not matter if you are arriving late at night.

Bed sizes and configurations

• Bedroom 1: Either 2 single beds OR a super king size bed
• Bedroom 2: En-suite room, with either 2 single beds OR a super king size bed
• Bedroom 3: Double bed
• Bedroom 4: Double bed

Fuel and logs

Electricity and gas are included in the letting price. There is a large inglenook fireplace in the ground floor living room and logs are provided under a fair usage policy (there is an honesty box for contributions towards the cost of logs used).

There is a fireplace in the upper living room, but this is ornamental only.

Services provided

Hainault House has free wireless internet access and a Freeview TV with DVD player. A cordless telephone is also provided, with an honesty box for the cost of calls made.

Blockley is in a valley and guests should be aware that mobile phone reception can be very poor.

Parking

Hainault House is located on a quiet road and free on street parking is usually available directly outside the house. An additional parking space is available at the top of the garden, however, parking in front of the house is typically more convenient for guests.

Housekeeping

Where a letting exceeds seven nights, a mid-stay clean, bed and towel change are included in the price. Additional housekeeping services are available on request.

Child friendly facilities

A travel cot (without linen), high chair and safety gate are provided. The safety gate encloses the upper living room, creating a safe environment for young children.

Hainault House’s split level garden is enclosed, however, please note that it is accessed via steps from the back door and the main areas of the garden are not visible from the house.

Initial consumables

A small quantity of initial consumables is provided for your convenience (eg. tea, coffee, sugar, dishwasher tablets, washing up liquid, soap, washing powder, etc), however, you should not expect the quantity of these provisions to be sufficient for the duration of your stay.

Accessibility, health and safety

Hainault House is an old, Grade II listed property and has many character features, including narrow and steep stairs, low beams, multiple floors and 51 steps from the back door to the top of the garden, which could pose difficulty to guests with limited mobility, or carrying babies, both in terms of their general movement and their ability to quickly exit the house in the event of an emergency.

The smoke and CO detectors operate on a sound only basis and, therefore, those who have serious impairment of hearing may not be able to hear the alarm systems and could be at risk.

National Heritage

Along with many of Blockley's fine homes, English Heritage listed the property in August 1983 and a copy of the registered notes are shown below:

SP 1634 NW 9/94 BLOCKLEY HIGH STREET (North-West side)

The Old Royal Oak,Hainault and Bankside Cottages, GV II

Unusual late C18/early C19 remodelling of earlier C17 buildings and incorporating long mullion windows. Two and a half storeys, ashlar with band over ground floor, moulded eaves cornice, modern tile roof to front. Modern brick chimneys on ashlar bases. Three modern gabled dormers. 2:2:3 windows on 1st floor, with hollow chamfered mullions and surrounds, mostly 3-light (2-light near doorway to Old Royal Oak). Bankside Cottage and Hainault have angled bays on ground floor to right hand windows. Mostly glazing bar casements. The Old Royal Oak has a moulded doorcase, Hainault a raised surround, Bankside a plain edge beaded surround. Arched doorway with single fanlight to left (through passage alley to rear of Bankside with access to The Granary and The Silk Mill q.v.).

Listing NGR: SP1633634828

The above photograph was taken outside Hainault House in 1935 when Alberta Milton ran an infants and music school from home. Her husband, John Milton, was one of three brothers who ran the local grocery shop and Haberdashers.

Location

Blockley and The Cotswolds

Blockley

Blockley is a peaceful, charming Cotswold village, with raised pavements, a splendid church and some superb architecture strung out along the mile long High Street. Known by many locals as the "secret village", Blockley is well away from main roads and in some parts of the village the only noise is Blockley Brook, the mill stream that winds its way through the bottom of the valley.

Surrounded by beautiful countryside and with many very enjoyable walks leading from the village, Blockley has much to offer the holidaymaker. Its attractive village green overlooks the popular Bowling Green and beautiful Norman Church, and is a pleasant place to enjoy a picnic on sunny days.

History

Blockley first became established to the east of a Saxon church, which was replaced by the present church of St. Peter and St. Paul in 1170. The church has a Norman chancel and a Gothic-survival tower. The monuments include a brass of a priest in full mass vestments. There were twelve mills, some of which were first mentioned in the Domesday Book, turning out flour, flax, woodcutting and threshing. During the 18th century, with the wool industry in decline, Blockley turned to the manufacture of silk. Attracted by the fast flowing streams, many of the mills were converted and enlarged to accommodate the "throwsters", the workers who twisted the silk fibres into thread for the silk ribbon makers in Coventry. The largest was the Westmacott Mill, now converted into a residential home called Blockley Court.

To accommodate the workers, many more terraces of cottages were built, each set one behind the other. Up the hillsides, cottages for workers and the Northwick Terrace almshouses mingled with elegant Georgian Terraces and townhouses. The boom in silk making was short lived and most of the mills reverted back to their former functions, although two became piano making factories. Blockley has been left with a unique collection of buildings reflecting the past glory of silk making, which gives it a different character to other north Cotswold villages.

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are a range of hills in west-central England, sometimes called the "Heart of England". The name Cotswold means "sheep enclosure in rolling hillsides”.

The Cotswolds are characterised by attractive small towns and villages, built of the underlying Cotswold stone (a yellow oolitic limestone). In the Middle Ages the wool trade made the Cotswolds prosperous and some of this money was put into the building of churches, leaving the area with a number of large handsome Cotswold stone "wool churches". The area remains affluent, which has encouraged the establishment of many high quality pubs, restaurants and antique shops.

Cotswold towns include Bourton-on-the-Water, Broadway, Burford, Chipping Norton, Cirencester, Moreton-in-Marsh, Northleach, Stow-on-the-Wold, Stroud and Winchcombe. The town of Chipping Campden is notable for being the home of the Arts and Crafts movement, founded by William Morris at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries. William Morris lived occasionally in Broadway Tower, a folly, now part of a country park. Chipping Campden is also known for the annual Cotswold Olimpick Games, a celebration of sports and games dating back to the early 17th century.

The Cotswolds is the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England and Wales. Whilst the beauty of the Cotswold AONB is intertwined with the villages that seem to almost grow out of the landscape, the Cotswolds were primarily designated as an AONB for the rare limestone grassland habitats as well as the old growth beech woodlands that typify the area. These habitat areas are also the last refuge for many other flora and fauna with some so endangered they are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. The uniqueness and value of the Cotswolds is engendered in the fact that five European Special Areas of Conservation, three National Nature Reserves and over 80 Sites of Special Scientific Interest are contained within the Cotswold AONB.

Information on things to do in the Cotswolds is provided in the Activities tab and places to eat and drink are listed in the Food & Drink tab.

Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Blockley

For a relatively small village, Blockley is blessed with a number of places to eat and drink, all just a short walk from anywhere in the village.

• The Crown Inn (www.crownhotelblockley.co.uk): This 16th century country inn is situated in the heart of Blockley and features a restaurant serving dishes prepared with local produce, along with a bar with an open fire and a wide selection of real ales. This honey coloured historic inn is covered in Virginia creeper which turns a stunning red in Autumn. Walk inside to the scents of wood smoke from the open log fires and snuggle into a comfy chair by the fire, to view the daily papers with a coffee or something stronger. Dinner is served in the warm and friendly restaurant with lighter meals and snacks available in the bar.

• The Great Western Arms (www.greatwesternarms.com): The award winning Great Western Arms is the “Local” of Blockley. The “Western” as it is locally known, is a Hook Norton Brewery pub and is tenanted to Sharon Brace. It is right at the heart of the village both geographically and socially, and is where Sharon and her team serve up some of the finest food, drink and entertainment available. The pub has two rooms: one is used as the restaurant and the other houses a pool table, juke box and darts board (dogs are welcome in the pool room). The Pub has recently been extensively refurbished and now boasts 1st class facilities and comforts. The spacious lounge bar/restaurant retains its period "feel" but has been re-furnished and decorated with great taste and care. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming and friendly.

• Lower Brook House (www.lowerbrookhouse.com): Lower Brook House is home to a fine restaurant that welcomes non-residents. The restaurant offers seasonal menus of mouth-watering, home-cooked dishes, made with locally sourced ingredients for candlelit meals in intimate surroundings. Inside this 17th century historic country house, you'll find a real log fire, original flagstone floors and four-poster beds. The restaurant is open during the week and provides a Monday-Thursday menu, with a special weekend menu on Friday and Saturday evenings.

• Blockley Village Shop & Café (blockleyshop.com):The community owned shop and café is the hub of the village. The shop offers a wide range of basic groceries and necessities, and a tempting array of local products, including farm meat and free-range eggs, daily deliveries of local fruit and veg, freshly baked bread and locally made ready meals. Logs are generally stocked in winter. The licensed café is open all day, serving breakfasts, lunches, coffees and teas, and home-baked cakes. Take-away hot and cold food, including croissants, pastries and baguettes, is also very popular. The café, where free broadband is available, is a popular meeting place for locals and visitors of all ages. It also stocks a selection of reasonably priced gifts, accessories and paperbacks from the local bookshop.

There are many excellent places to eat and drink in the wider North Cotswolds area, with the major towns of Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water, Moreton-in-Marsh, Chipping Campden, Broadway, Burford and Chipping Norton containing a wide variety of tea shops, pubs and restaurants, catering for most tastes and budgets.

The list below focuses on the traditional Cotswold pubs located in the lovely villages throughout the North Cotswolds:

• Ebrington Arms, Ebrington (www.theebringtonarms.co.uk)
• Churchill Arms, Paxford (www.thechurchillarms.com)
• Crown Inn, Church Enstone
• Fox Inn, Broadwell
• Hollow Bottom, Guiting Power (www.hollowbottom.com)
• Horse & Groom, Bourton-on-the-Hill (www.horseandgroom.info)
• Horse & Groom, Upper Oddington (www.horseandgroom.uk.com)
• King’s Head Inn, Bledington (www.thekingsheadinn.net)
• Lamb Inn, Great Rissington (www.thelambinn.com)
• Plough Inn, Ford (www.theploughinnatford.co.uk)
• Red Lion, Long Compton (www.redlion-longcompton.co.uk)
• Swan Inn, Swinbrook (www.theswanswinbrook.co.uk)
• Tollgate Inn, Kingham (www.thetollgate.com)

We recommend phoning in advance, to check opening times and availability of food, especially during the quieter months of the year. Many pubs accept children and dogs, but you should always check this in advance.

Activities

Activities

There are numerous tourist activities in and around the Cotswolds and the list below is a small sample to give you a flavour for the wide range of attractions and activities that are available. Further information is available from Tourist Information centres, which are located in the following North Cotswold towns:

• Stow-on-the-Wold
• Bourton-in-the-Water
• Moreton-in-Marsh
• Broadway
• Chipping Campden
• Burford
• Chipping Norton

Historical buildings, stately homes and gardens

• Batsford Arboretum & Wild Garden, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9AB (www.batsarb.co.uk): Set in 56 acres of natural beauty and once home to the famous Mitford family. Meandering paths wander through glades and alongside streams. A garden of peace and tranquillity for all seasons;
• Berkeley Castle, Berkeley GL13 9BQ (www.berkeley-castle.com): England’s oldest inhabited castle. Over 24 generations of Berkeleys have transformed a savage Norman fortress into a stately home full of treasures. Learn about murder, mystery and plotting, then enjoy the grounds, adjacent Butterfly Farm and church;
• Blenheim Palace, Woodstock OX20 1PX (www.blenheimpalace.com): A World Heritage site and the birthplace of Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace is one of the finest private houses in England. It is surrounded by over 2,000 acres of spectacular Capability Brown parkland and award-winning formal gardens;
• Broadway Tower Country Park, Broadway WR12 7LB (www.broadwaytower.co.uk): A unique Capability Brown Folly Tower open to visitors wanting to experience great English heritage in an inspiring location. Displays, roof viewing platform, shop and Red Deer Park are a must for Cotswold visits. Broadway Tower is one of England’s outstanding viewpoints and offers unrivalled views over a 62 mile radius and as many as 16 counties;
• Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucester GL1 2LX (www.gloucestercathedral.org.uk): A warm welcome awaits you at Gloucester Cathedral – one of the finest medieval buildings in the country. Here you will discover magnificent stained glass, royal tombs, fan-vaulted medieval cloisters and a rich musical heritage. Admission free but £5 donation requested;
• Hailes Abbey, near Winchcombe GL54 5PB (www.english-heritage.org.uk/hailes): Set in the beautiful western fringe of the Cotswolds surrounded by wooded pasture, the Abbey was one of the main centres of pilgrimage due to a phial said to contain the blood of Christ. The museum displays fine examples of sculpture and decorated tiles;
• Hidcote, Chipping Campden GL55 6LR (www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hidcote): Relax and unwind in one of the country's great gardens and experience for yourself the fulfilment of a quiet American's English fantasy. You'll never forget the exquisite garden rooms, each with its own unique character. Discover rare shrubs and trees, herbaceous borders and unusual plants from around the world. The garden changes in harmony with the seasons, from vibrant spring bulbs to autumn's spectacular Red Border. Nestled in the Cotswolds with sweeping views across the Vale of Evesham, a visit to Hidcote is inspirational at any time of year;
• Painswick Rococo Garden, Painswick GL6 6TH (www.rococogarden.org.uk): The garden is situated in a hidden Cotswold valley. Its flamboyant design combines formality and informality and is a magical experience at any time of the year. Charming garden structures nestle next to informal plantings, herbaceous borders and a striking kitchen garden;
• Rodmarton Manor, Cirencester GL7 6PF (www.rodmarton-manor.co.uk): Attractive Arts and Crafts House with original hand made furniture, painted pottery, wall hangings. A large garden of outdoor rooms with many parts including topiary, herbaceous borders and plenty of places to sit;
• Snowshill Manor & Garden, Snowshill WR12 7JU (www.nationaltrust.org.uk/snowshillmanor): Explore the treasures collected by one man with an eye for the unusual. Be intrigued by the story of Charles Wade, be amazed by his huge and varied collection from around the world and relax in the peaceful hillside garden;
• Upton House & Gardens, Near Banbury OX15 6HT (www.nationaltrust.org.uk/uptonhouse): Presented in its 1930s heyday, this handsome country mansion contains world-class art collections. Delve into the story of a millionaire’s life, hear stories, play games, relax and read magazines or journals. Wander through the beautiful gardens, with sweeping lawns, terraced borders and a kitchen garden which supplies the restaurant;
• Warwick Castle, Warwick CV34 4QU (www.warwick-castle.com): Britain's greatest mediaeval experience. From a mediaeval household in the Kingmaker exhibition to a Victorian 'Royal Weekend Party'. Kingmaker feasts and Highwayman Suppers most Fridays and Saturdays;
• Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, Tetbury GL8 8QS (www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt): Spectacular all year round, the Forestry Commission’s National Arboretum contains one of Europe’s finest collections of trees and shrubs. 17 miles of paths to explore, it is a magical place to visit for the whole family. Famous for its beautiful displays of autumn colour, a popular place to visit in spring for the flowering rhododendrons and in the summer for the Festival of the Tree.

Wildlife

• Birdland – Park & Gardens, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2BN (www.birdland.co.uk): A natural setting of woodland, river and gardens inhabited by over 500 birds; flamingos, pelicans, penguins and cranes in various water habitats. Over 50 aviaries of parrots, hornbills, toucans and many more. Discovery Zone (indoor education area) and Marshmouth Reserve (2.5 acre nature reserve). Take time to wander and relax in this tranquil environment. Plus Penguin Café, picnic areas, play area and gift shop. The only group of King Penguins in England;
• Cotswold Falconry Centre, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9AB (www.cotswold-falconry.co.uk): Eagles, hawks, kites, owls, vultures and falcons are flown throughout the day giving you a chance to appreciate their speed, grace, agility and their close relationship with the falconer. You can enjoy these wonderful birds and think positively about their conservation;
• Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power GL54 5UG (www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk): As featured on BBC’s Countryfile, this is a rare farm treat for all the family, offering the chance to meet over 50 breeding flocks and herds of farm animals. Seasonal demonstrations, adventure playground, Touch Barn, Fun Barn, Maze Quest and Jumping Pillows. Gift shop and Cotswold Kitchen;
• Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, Burford OX18 4JW (www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk): The Park is set in 160 acres of parkland and is an attraction for all members of the family. There are over 250 species of animals from Leaf-cutting ants to White rhinos; giraffes were a major addition in 2010. You can walk with lemurs in the Madagascar enclosure, ride on the train and be inspired by the beautiful landscaping and seasonal displays throughout the Park;
• Longleat Safari Park, Warminster BA12 7NW (www.longleat.co.uk): As featured on BBC’s Animal Park, Longleat is a “must do” for visitors of all ages! From Safari Park to Safari Boats, Hedge Maze to Adventure Castle and so much more.

Museums

• Corinium Museum, Cirencester GL7 2BX (www.cotswold.gov.uk/go/museum): Discover the ‘Treasures of the Cotswolds’ at the award-winning Corinium Museum. Trace the story of the Cotswolds from pre-history to the 19th century. See what life was like in Corinium, Roman Britain’s second largest town. Come face to face with Anglo-Saxons. Something for all the family. Also home to Cirencester Visitor Information Centre;
• Cotswold Motoring Museum and Toy Collection, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2BY (www.cotswold-motor-museum.co.uk): Multi award-winning museum for all ages and ideal for families. Home to Brum – star of the children’s TV series. Classic cars. Quizzes, old fashioned toys and hands-on activities;
• Roman Baths, Bath BA1 1LZ (www.romanbaths.co.uk): Around Britain’s only hot springs, the Romans built the finest religious spa in Northern Europe. This great temple and bathing complex still flows with natural hot water and its extensive remains lie beneath the centre of Bath. Brand new displays, costumed characters and free audioguides in 8 languages.

Other attractions

• Cheltenham Racecourse, Cheltenham GL50 4SH (www.cheltenham.co.uk): One of Europe’s top racecourses, hosting the three day Open Meeting and the four day Festival in March. The Centaur is the region’s largest facility for exhibitions, conferences and concerts;
• Clearwell Caves, near Coleford GL16 8JR (www.clearwellcaves.com): An incredible natural cave system tunnelled into by miners for more than 4,000 years in their search for iron ore and ochre pigments. Nine impressive caverns with mining equipment and displays throughout. ‘A great underground experience’ for all the family;
• Cotswold Water Park, South Cerney GL7 5TL (www.waterpark.org): Explore this watery landscape, with loads of lakes, offering watersports, fishing, birdwatching and much, much more. Call in to the Gateway Information Centre to discover where to go and what to do;

• Daylesford Organic Farm, near Kingham GL56 0YG (www.daylesfordorganic.com): The Harrods of farm shops! One of the most sustainable farms in the UK, located in 2,000 acres of beautiful countryside of the English Cotswolds, owned by Sir Anthony and Lady Bamford. Award-winning food in the farm shop and café and a host of things to see and do: farm tours and farm walks, cookery school and organic farm school, and relaxing treatments at the Hay Barn Spa;

• Gloucester Antiques Centre, Gloucester GL1 5SF (www.gacl.co.uk): Gloucester Antiques Centre is one of the largest and longest established antiques centres in the UK. Over 100 specialist antiques dealers offering the widest range of antiques and collectables in the West of England. Enjoy light lunches, homemade cakes and refreshments in the café;
• Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway, Toddington GL54 5DT (www.gwsr.com): The ‘Friendly Line in the Cotswolds’ offers a scenic 20 mile round trip between Toddington and Cheltenham Racecourse, including the exciting Greet Tunnel, one of the longest on a preserved railway. Pop along and see the driver in his cab. Break your journey at picturesque Winchcombe station. Special events all year;
• The Model Village, Bourton-on-the-Water GL54 2AF (www.theoldnewinn.co.uk/village.htm): A model of the actual village built of Cotswold stone to 1/9 scale in 1937. The River Windrush flows under Bourton’s famous bridges. The beeches, cherries and chestnuts are all in miniature. Music in the churches and of course, the model of the model;
• Stratford-upon-Avon: The birthplace of William Shakespeare and home to the Royal Shakespeare Company. Set in the beautiful rural Warwickshire countryside, on the banks of the river Avon, Stratford is one of the most important tourist destinations in the UK.

Activities

• Walking: Most people who visit the Cotswolds do some walking, even if it is just a stroll to the village pub! The area contains some of England’s most beautiful countryside and there are over 3,000 miles of public footpaths, to enable visitors to fully discover this rich landscape. Long distance trails in, or passing through, the Cotswolds include:

• • The Cotswold Way;
  • The Heart of England Way;
  • The Oxfordshire Way;
  • The Gloucestershire Way;
  • The Wardens' Way and Windrush Way;
  • The Macmillan Way;
  • The Monarchs Way;
  • The Wysis Way.

Further information and maps can be obtained from the local tourist information centres.

• Cycling: The Cotswolds is criss-crossed with quiet country roads and lanes, as well as more challenging mountain biking terrain, making it perfect for all types of cycling. There are a number of places to hire bikes from, including:
  • Hartwell’s Cycle Hire, Bourton-on-the-Water (www.hartwells.supanet.com);
  • Bourton Cycles, Bourton-on-the-Water (www.bourtoncycles.co.uk);
• Golf: There are many golf clubs in and around the North Cotswolds, including:
  • Naunton Downs Golf Club, Naunton (www.nauntondowns.co.uk);
  • The Wychwood Golf Club, Lyneham (www.thewychwood.com);
  • Broadway Golf Club, Broadway (www.broadwaygolfclub.co.uk);
  • Chipping Norton Golf Club, Chipping Norton (www.chippingnortongolfclub.com);
  • Burford Golf Club, Burford (www.burfordgolfclub.co.uk).
• Swimming: Public swimming pools are available at the following leisure centres:
  • Cotswold Leisure – Bourton (www.cotswold.gov.uk/nqcontent.cfm?a_id=172);
  • Cotswold Leisure – Chipping Campden (www.cotswold.gov.uk/nqcontent.cfm?a_id=173);
  • Chipping Norton Leisure Centre (www.nexuscommunity.org/my-nearest-site/west-oxfordshire/chipping-norton-leisure-centre.html);
  • Shipston Leisure Centre (www.everyoneactive.com/Home/OurCentres/Shipston/tabid/630/Default.aspx).
• Horse riding: The Cotswolds has always been associated with horse riding and there are a number of equestrian centres, catering for all ages and levels of experience:
  • Overdale Equestrian Centre, Nether Westcote (www.overdale-equestrian.co.uk);
  • Bourton Vale Equestrian Centre, Bourton-on-the-Water (www.bourtonvaleequestrian.co.uk);
  • Mill Farm Stables, Winchcombe (www.millfarmstables.co.uk);
  • Hall Place Stables, Prestbury (www.passivehorsemanship.com) – specialising in the Western Riding style.
• Climbing: Wild Rock Climbing Centre (www.wildrockclimbing.co.uk).

Spas

• Cotswold House Hotel & Spa, Chipping Campden (www.cotswoldhouse.com): Set in a converted coach house in the gardens, the Cotswold House Spa features treatment rooms, a superb hydrotherapy pool and Turkish hammam room;
• Wyck Hill House Hotel & Spa, Stow-on-the-Wold (www.wyckhillhousehotel.co.uk): Six therapy rooms, including one dual room. There is also a 12-seater steam room and sauna and relaxation area;
• M Spa at Lapstone, Chipping Campden (www.mspa.so): Spoil yourself with the most progressive, comprehensive range of spa facial, bath and body experiences that deliver the most amazing results every time. Indulge in signature treatments to reconnect body, mind and soul, from head to toe and from outside in.

Map

Map

Hainault House is located on a very quiet lane, not accessible by cars, in the peaceful, picturesque village of Blockley.

Travelling by car

Blockley is easily accessed by car, being located approximately 1 mile away from the A44 and approximately 3 miles away from the A429 (Fosse Way), which are two of the main roads through the North Cotswolds.

Travelling by train

The nearest railway station to Blockley is Moreton-in-Marsh (approximately 3 miles away), which has regular, direct services to London Paddington, with a typical journey time of approximately 90 minutes. A chauffeur transfer to and from the station can be arranged upon request.

Travelling by Plane

Stow is within easy reach of a number of international airports:

• Birmingham International Airport: 42 miles, approximately 60 minute drive;
• Heathrow International Airport: 76 miles, approximately 90 minute drive;
• Bristol International Airport: 75 miles, approximately 90 minute drive.

A chauffeur transfer to and from the airport can be arranged upon request.

Guestbook

Guest Feedback

Click logo for Hainault's Tripadvisor Reviews

Other Guest Comments Prior to Tripadvisor (July 2008-July 2011)

- "Fantastic house, deeply impressed. Blockley is a village of dreams!" - David & Frances Soye, July 2008

- "Lovely to escape the sounds of the city! Hainault is extremely peaceful and a welcome break. We loved the fireplace!!" - Tessa & John, August 2008

- "A place of pure tranquility with amazing walking and a piece of history. We'll be here next year!" - Carla & Adam, August 2008

- "Lovely quirky cottage surroundings with fabulous views. As lovers of history we were bowled over by the house (especially the fireplace) and the village of Blockley. Oh, and the wine in the hamper was refreshingly good quality. I would recommend anyone to stay here!" - John & Rachel, September 2008

- "Very comfortable cottage, well equipped, lovely setting. We will recommend this! Thank you - we have had a lovely time and would love to come back." - Sue & Ian Bywaters (Dorset), Heather & Keith Rimington (Kent), September 2008

- "Towards thy house 'a chick of good repute played the tune in the car she dreamed of" - Unknown, September 2008

- "Beautiful house! Scenic villages and countryside! We have had a great weekend. Many thanks." - The Moens (Norway), September 2008

- "Fantastic house, lovley village and exceptional food from The Crown Inn." - The Merrifields & Co, October 2008

- "Wonderful house - great views. Great time had by all. Many thanks." - Various, October 2008

- "Beautiful house with wonderful features. Thoroughly enjoyed the weekend and would love to come back again." - Various, November 2008

- "Just perfect! Everything that you could possibly want. Many thanks." - The Quintons, December 2008

- Superb house, well equipped with lovely views and great weather. The Crown Inn will remember us!! Thanks." - The Beeches, December 2008

- "Lovely house, lovely setting with everything we could possibly need. We'll be back next year. Thank you." - The Langdales, December 2008

- "Beautiful weather, scenery and walks. Lovely accommodation and village." - The Smiths, January 2009

- "When searching for a 6 week rental in the Cotswolds, I happened upon Hainault House. The owner was extremely helpful, answering questions directly, offering suggestions and responding quickly to my needs. This was far and above the impersonal business tone one often experiences over the internet. The entire matter instilled a sense of trust in the decision making process, so important for internet transactions. I can't say enough good things about my experience." - S.E/U.S., January 2009

- "Super house & facilities - can't think of anything else that could be provided. We had to delay 1 day due to snow but it made it all very very pretty when we did arrive!" - Nickless, Jones, Ryan Families, February 2009

- "We had a wonderful time - lovely home, great facilities and lots to explore - we hope to be back!" - Helen Towne & Family, February 2009

- "A wonderful time had by all - thank you!" - Gina Brazier (Australia), March 2009

- "Fantastic house and location. Very well stocked and great facilities. Fabulous weekend had by all!" - Danni Johns & Friends, April 2009

- "Beautiful views and great walks. Very comfy beds!" - 9 girls from Manchester, April 2009

- "We had a great time! We will be back, thanks for having us", Andy (Sale), April 2009

- "Thanks, loved the house and the views. Had a brilliant weekend!" - Baikole Family, April 2009

- "Had a lovely break in a beautiful area. Hidcote gardens, and absolute must for anyone who loves gardening and do eat at The Crown Inn - food was excellent." - Gill & Stephen Faraday, May 2009

- "My kinda place - yes and I like it" - Cliff Richard, Weybridge, May 2009

- "Family holiday for Mum's 70th and Rae's 40th birthdays - what a beautiful house and village - wonderful!" - David & Jay (Scotland) & friends, May 2009

- "Great house - wonderful area. Lots to do - great family holiday!!" - Murphy Family, June 2009

- "A most wonderful 3 generation holiday! Hainault House, Blockley and the Cotswolds were perfect and we leave after 3 weeks filled with special life long memories. We shall miss the friendly village and beautiful views from the upper garden!!!" - June/July 2009

- "Me, my wife and our five children all loved this holiday. The cottage was more than big enough and we found so much to do in the local area. Blenheim Palace, Warwick Castle and Straford-upon-Avon were all reachable and all great days out. The village pub was most accommodating and served us some great food. The cottage was excellent, the owners had thought of everything. They even left us two bottles of wine and a pint of milk for our arrival. The location was absolutely stunning beautiful views." - Unsigned, July 2009

- "Had a wonderful time here! Amazing scenery, lovely people, villages and pubs. Fantastic house! Everything we could have hoped for! Thanks!" - Springbord (Denmark) July 2009

- "We had an amazing time. A beautiful house in a beautiful village. The owners of Hainault have thought of everything. 5*" - The Barnett & Watson families, Grantham, Lincolnshire, July 2009

- "Great house and fantasic views! We all enjoyed our week here and there was lots to do in the Cotswolds! Thank you!!" - The Bant Clan! East Yorkshire, July 2009

- "I enjoyed being here. Lots to do!" - Hannah N, Hong Kong, July/August 2009

- "Lovely cottage with everything we needed for an excellent holiday, even sunny weather!" - The Lennox family, August 2009

- "We very much enjoyed our stay here. Very comfortable house in this beautiful village. We love the Cotswolds!" - The Pearce familiy & Cara (Surrey), August 2009

- "Time passed too quickly, loved the house. Fabulous! Will bring a hard hat next time!" - Hanulfon family from Scotland, Bulgaria, Jamacia and Libya, September 2009

- "Had a great time in the house & in the Cotswolds. Very quaint village." - Jones, Perry & Mahney families (Australia), September 2009

- "Spent my 40th birthday week in this perfect location. Blockley is gorgeous & the house the ideal base for the Cotswolds. Thanks x" - The Howard family & clan (Hampshire), Sept 2009

- "We've has a fantastic weekend celebrating David's 30th in this gorgeous house - thank you, it was perfect!" - The Carrs, London, Bath, Oxford & Baisingstoke, September 2009

- "Had a brilliant weekend. Beautiful house. Thank you for the loan of it!" - The Gallup Girls, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Buckinghamshire & Somerset, October 2009

- "Lovely house, lovely village, lovely weather! We've had a great weekend. Thank you!" - Holden family, London & Aitchinson family, Preston, October 2009

- "I had a nice time and I liked going on the big walks and I liked sleeping in the bedroom with nanhies Iris!" - Gruffddvies, October 2009

- "Four generations had a wonderful time!" - The West, Davies & Chantry families, October 2009

- "Great friends, food, wine, house & locations. An enjoyable combination!" - The Wittshire Weekenders, November 2009

- "Great time, despite the weather: lovely house. Quaint village. Pitty about no mobile phone signal!" - Thomas family, Indiana, November 2009

- "A good place to celebrate Christmas a little early! House comfortable & well equipped. Beds excellent! Wine & mince pies very much appreciated – thank you! The Crown – good; The Bell at Walford on Avon – very good; The Horseshoes at Shipston – very good as is The Queens Head at Stow! Arabian Nights at The Courtyard by the RSC at Stratford is not to be missed. Weather could have been better so home a day early! No mobile phone signal or FM radio because signals do not come in the valley. Sue (housekeeper) was a great help when the TV picture went one evening – thank you Sue!!" – The Rees and Collins families, Kent & Deanshanger, December 2009

- “Beautiful house, beautiful location! We had such wonderful time – a perfect place to celebrate a perfect birthday! Thank you so much xx” - Liberty’s 21st birthday party, December 2009

- “What a wonderful way to celebrate New Year! Lovely house, beautiful village and pub 30 seconds away, excellent! Thank you for a wonderful stay.” – James & Edmond party, Surrey, December 2009

- “We had a lovely week in your beautiful house. Thank you x” – The Fox Family, January 2010

- “Fantastic weekend. Beautiful house & facilities, lovely comfy beds + warm! Beautiful views & village. Thank you for accommodating us!” – A group of friends, Birmingham/London/Oxford, January 2010

- “Fantastic time, lovely cottage, lovely village with great views and great history. Thank you for accommodating us all” – Group of friends from Watford/Essex, January 2010

- “Beautiful cottage, very homely, fantastic retreat after a very busy 2009. Thank you!” – Sam & Lisa from Watford, January 2010

- “We had a lovely weekend in a comfortable, well equipped house. Thank you for allowing the dogs!” – The Walenleys & D’Anones, January 2010

- “A very enjoyable weekend – good weather, good walks and excellent cottage!” – Ruberton family, February 2010

- “Great place, great location. Had a great time!” – Webster family, February 2010

- “Great house, superb location, excellent time.” – Group of friends from Reigate/Birmingham/Bedford/Manchester, February 2010

- “Peaceful and relaxing house, warm welcome (thanks!), lovely views, good walks, beautiful location. Fabulous weather – sunny & snow!” – Group of friends from Bolton/Haslemere/Shefford, February 2010

- “I loved the accommodation, it was most enjoyable with a cosy fire and lovely warm beds! If you wish to visit anywhere, I recommend Oxford which was great! TIP: Try the local pubs, they are lovely!” – Alex, Olivia & Spencer family, February 2010

- “Blockley, a beautiful part of the Cotswolds! Hainault Cottage was the perfect base for a week in the Cotswolds. Recommend the Great Western Arms for good food and a warm welcome. Don’t miss the walks around Blockley, stunning! Fabulous weather too!” – Richer and Von Haartman families, March 2010

- “Fabulous! Thank you very much. Shame about the weather!” – Claire Cox & Friends, March 2010

- "Great location & house for our family reunion. Thank you very much" - Browning Family, Lewes East Sussex, April 2010

- "We had a smashing time! 4 boys aged 2.5, 5, 6 & 6 yrs - all loved the house & garden (and us parents!) and the local playpark, shop/cafe, walks, park farm and Cotswolds wildlife park! Thank you!!" - Payne & Wilcock Families, Nr Chichester, April 2010

- "Beautiful village, lovely cottage, nice touches. We were celebrating a 30th and a 60th birthdays and we had a wonderful time, walks & Park Farm, Boughton on the Water, all fab. Thanks" - Middleton & Craddock families, Walsall/London, April 2010

- "Lovely Cotswold village unspoilt by too many tourists. Beautiful house with everything we needed, provided for 3 generations. Thanks. PS: some info on walks around the area would have been appreciated." - Ribchester & Kingsford families, Wales, May 2010

- "Wow! What a great place to spend some rest, relaxation, wine and walks with the girls. Fab accommodation, lovely location, great pub down the road too - perfect! :) - Sam, Sheel, Nicky, Natalie, Katy and Andrea, from London(ish) & Archie the Dog, May 2010

- "Lovely weekend & we were lucky with the weather. Walked to Morten and was appaling at the traffic and so retreated to the delightful Blockley. Cottage very comfortable, but the men are tall and so they bumped their heads!" - Marson Family reunion, June 2010

- "The Perfect house in the perfect village for enjoying the Cotswolds!" - Kiss-Rupe Family, for 4 weeks in July and August 2010

- Beautiful village and cottage, so comfortable. Enjoyed the garden, barbeque, Aga and fire and also walks 1 and 2 from the booklet. Very good golf course at Broadway. Thank you! Wonderful holiday for all the family – Don, Leanie, Ben, Annie, Kathy and Baby Ava, August 2010

- Great central location for exploring the Cotswolds. Good walks locally, but never made the local pub! Smashing holiday & relaxing break – no mobile signal was a real bonus! – Humphries Family, September 2010

- We enjoyed a great week at Hainault House. We appreciated the excellent facilities, appliances, cleanliness and the fact that everything worked. Thanks for the cake and wine and for the welcoming warmth of the house. – McWilliam family, September 2010

- Idyllic location, lovely house – what a find. Had a fabulous weekend, perfect start with a cup of tea and cake! Really enjoyed the fire, my Dad says “wine was good too!” – Mooney and Wilson families, October 2010

- Lovely house and beautiful village. Everybody was friendly, as others have said! Nice to sit by the fire at night and play board games – makes a change from TV! – Willie, Ruth, Hamish & Imes, October 2010

- The house, village & surroundings exceeded our expectations. Thank you enormously from all of us! – Jane & party, October 2010

- Nice house & village. We had a great time, thanks from everybody. We enjoyed the walks around the village and being part of a lovely community – Pete, November 2010

- Great family get together in a great family house – Unsigned, December 2010

- Excellent, unfussy & beautiful location, no pressure here! Moria, December 2010

- Great house, everything we needed. Making the fire was fun. Aga great. Beds comfy and getting snowed in here was no real problem. Just wondering now if we will get out of the village tomorrow! Lovely house, would certainly recommend to others and considering returning, perhaps spring or summer when we can get about more. – Helen & family, December 2010

Inventory

Inventory

Our aim is for you to enjoy Hainault as if it was your own home and this information is provided to ensure that you are aware of, and are able to use, all the facilities that are available.