Never has a place been more aptly named than Woodland Escapes. Set within 45 unspoiled acres on the edge of the Shropshire Hills AONB, each dwelling here enjoys its own private slice of wildlife-rich woodland so guests can truly relax in the utmost sylvan seclusion. Home to badgers, foxes and all manner of squawking birdlife, Bowketts Wood is awash with vibrant flora including dazzling bluebells at spring – the perfect setting for re-connecting with the great outdoors.
Helmed by three generations of the Bowkett family (Fern, Penny and Janet), this tranquil retreat offers an array of accommodation from a charming bed and breakfast to a couple-friendly woodland lodge. But the star of the show (in name and nature) is undoubtedly The Star Dome. The perfect marriage of innovation and style, this luxury dome sleeps up to four on a king-sized bed plus two singles, with cosy duvets and pillows provided as standard. Its geodesic design means the dome is well ventilated and nicely temperate, and the expansive front window allows the dawn light to flood in when the drapes are drawn. A proper log-burner warms the interior, while solar power provides some limited juice for devices. Despite its eco-friendly credentials, facilities are far from primitive with a private gas-powered shower delivering piping hot water and sleek furnishings throughout. Outside atop the wooden veranda, the gas-powered button-operated wood burner and comfy outside furniture sets the scene nicely while the Scandinavian wood-fired hot tub calls for an indulgent evening soak under the star-studded night skies.
While woodland walks and general idleness onsite should be top of your agenda, the local area boasts a wealth of attractions to draw you out. Innumerable charming towns and villages dot this corridor between the Severn and Teme valleys, and its proximity to the Welsh border means the region is rich in history. Sate your castle cravings at Stokesay, Croft and Ludlow, the latter town decreed by Poet Laureate John Betjeman as the 'loveliest town in England'.