Nuthatch Retreat, The Forest of Dean

A Forest Hideaway for Romance, Rest and Reconnecting

A two-bedroom eco lodge for 2-4 with a deep Japanese outdoor bathtub, firepit and forest views – peaceful, private and made for slow, romantic days.

Perched on a quiet hillside in the Forest of Dean, surrounded by trees and sweeping views, Nuthatch Retreat is a contemporary, single-storey eco lodge with big windows, even bigger skies, and interiors that invite you to curl up and stay a while. With ancient woodland stretching out below and birdsong drifting through the open doors, this is a place that gently asks you to slow down.

Created by owners Nemia and Rod as a soulful, sustainable escape, every detail has been carefully considered – the way the morning light moves across the floor, the perfect spot for your first coffee, the softness of a lazy afternoon during a downpour. The forest is always just beyond the glass – shifting, breathing, quietly present.

Inside, it’s all calming tones, soft textures and plant-filled corners – a warm, design-led space that balances simplicity with soul. Outside, the views roll endlessly over treetops and hills. It’s peaceful, grounding and quietly luxurious – a forest hideaway made for deep rest, slow mornings, and the kind of romance that lingers.

The Accommodation

Step inside and you’ll find a laid-back, design-focused space that blends comfort with character. Think soft lighting, tactile weaves, contemplative art and lots of lovely houseplants.

Inside the Retreat

Master bedroom – superking bed dressed in natural bedding (hemp, linen, cotton and wool) and a glorious view to wake up to
Second bedroom – option to set up as a king or twin
Wet room – comes with rainfall shower, basin, WC and Neal’s Yard toiletries
Open-plan spaces – living, kitchen and dining space with soft furnishings, large windows and plant-filled corners
Fully equipped kitchen – NEFF hide-and-slide oven, induction hob, dishwasher, sharp knives and the perfect coffee setup for coffee lovers
Large screen cinematic TV – for relaxed evenings in
Thoughtful extras – think soft towels, organic toiletries and a generous welcome hamper with locally sourced treats

Outside the Retreat

Step straight out from the living space onto your private terrace, where the forest and hills stretch out in front of you. It’s the kind of space that makes you want to linger – sunny breakfasts, long lunches, and evenings by the firepit.

Expansive patio with uninterrupted views
Comfy outdoor seating and alfresco dining area
BBQ and firepit for relaxed evening cooking and marshmallow toasting
Deep Japanese soaking tub for two – pure heaven after a long forest walk
Beautifully planted garden and lawn, buzzing with life in every season

Accessibility

Nuthatch Retreat is designed to be as inclusive and accessible as possible, so everyone can enjoy a comfortable, worry-free stay.

Accessibility features include:

Step-free access and ramped entry
Single-storey layout throughout
Wet room with grab rails, loo support frame, and shower stool
Wide doorways and easy flow between rooms

If you have specific accessibility needs or questions, Nemia and Rod are happy to chat through the setup ahead of your stay.

Sustainability at Nuthatch

Sustainability was part of the vision for Nuthatch from the very beginning. Every detail from the insulation to the cleaning products used has been chosen with care to minimise impact and support the local environment.

Triple glazing and full insulation for energy efficiency
Heating and hot water via air source heat pump
Electricity powered by 100% renewable sources
EV charger onsite
High-efficiency appliances throughout
No single-use plastics (except bin liners)
Locally sourced welcome hamper produce and meat
Ethically sourced, environmentally friendly toiletries and cleaning products
Biodiverse garden designed to support wildlife
Bat box installed on the property

Location

Nuthatch Retreat is tucked into the heart of the Forest of Dean – a timeless stretch of ancient woodland between the River Severn and the River Wye, right on the edge of the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s a peaceful, unspoilt part of Gloucestershire, known for mossy trails, hidden streams and towering trees – the kind of place that helps you breathe a little deeper.

This is proper forest – wild, magical and full of character. Walk or cycle straight from the door, whether you’re after a gentle woodland wander or a hike with a view. Look out for deer, wild boar and birds flitting through the trees, or head down to the River Wye for canoeing, wild swimming, or just a quiet moment with a coffee by the water.

If you’re in the mood to explore, you’re close to some of the area’s best-loved spots – from the cinematic tangle of Puzzlewood to the underground world of Clearwell Caves. And when the day’s done, your peaceful hillside hideaway will be waiting.

Getting Here

Nuthatch Retreat is just outside the village of Blakeney, tucked into a secluded hillside spot that feels blissfully off-grid – but is surprisingly easy to get to.

Easy access by road – 33 mins from Junction 3 of the M50 & 35 mins from Junction 11 of the M5
35 minutes from Gloucester
Nearest train stations: Lydney and Gloucester
Nearest airport: Bristol (BRS)

Local Attractions & Activities

From wild forest days to pottering through local towns, there’s something for every mood nearby:

Beechenhurst – forest trails and sculptures
Mallards Pike – scenic picnic spot with a lake
Wenchford – riverside paddle and picnic
Puzzlewood – enchanting ancient woodland
Symonds Yat – dramatic views and riverside strolls
Go Ape – treetop adventures for all ages
Dean Heritage Centre – explore local history and crafts
Perrygrove Railway – a fun ride through the woods
Butterfly Zoo & Maze – great for kids
Nearby market towns: Lydney, Cinderford, Ross-on-Wye

Your Forest Escape Awaits

Nuthatch Retreat is all about quiet, soul-soothing escapes – a romantic hillside haven where luxury meets nature and everything slows down.

Soak in the deep Japanese tub, wake to birdsong and morning light, or curl up with a glass of wine by the fire. With its thoughtful design, generous bedrooms, wraparound terrace and forest views from almost every room, it’s the kind of place that stays with you.

Come for the views. Stay for the stillness. Leave feeling like you’ve had a proper break.

Whether you’re here for wild walks, cosy weekends or long, lazy lie-ins, Nuthatch is the kind of place that lingers long after you’ve left.