Stableside at Shaws Farm
A Horse-Lover’s Haven and Romantic Retreat next to the river Severn in the Forest of Dean
A just launched one-bedroom luxury holiday cottage for two, with a private hot tub, fabulous interiors and a wonderfully romantic countryside setting in the heart of the Forest of Dean and just a few minutes walk to the River Severn Estuary.
Situated on a peaceful dressage yard in the Forest of Dean, Stableside at Shaws Farm offers a quiet, luxurious escape for two. Once the old tack room, this beautiful stone cottage has been thoughtfully transformed into a hideaway made for slow mornings, long walks and evenings under the stars. Exposed beams, soft green tones and rustic-luxe touches create a warm, cocooning feel – the perfect backdrop for reconnecting, celebrating, or simply unwinding together.
Here, life moves at a gentler pace. You’ll hear the sound of hooves in the yard and birdsong drifting through the trees. The river Severn is just a few minutes walk from Stableside, which is surrounded by farmland and smaller woodland. Just a 20 minute walk away is the Forest of Dean. Wander woodland trails, pause for unhurried lunches in nearby villages or seek out hidden viewpoints over the valley. Later, head back to your private hot tub, watch the sky deepen into night and let the stillness wrap around you.
Whether you’re marking a special occasion, escaping for a romantic weekend or just craving a slower pace, this adult-only retreat gives you the space – and the setting – to truly switch off.
The Cottage
Stableside has been thoughtfully converted from the original tack room, blending rustic touches with a calm, contemporary feel. Muted greens, soft textures and exposed beams create a soothing space to retreat to after a day outdoors.
Sleeping and Bathroom Arrangements
- 1 king-sized bed with a premium mattress
- Luxury linens throughout
- Modern bathroom with walk-in shower
- Underfloor heating, fluffy towels and a Bluetooth mirror
Reception Areas
The cottage’s open-plan layout creates a warm and inviting space to spend time together, from slow, gentle mornings to cosy evenings curled up inside.
- Cosy two-seater sofa
- Holographic woodburner for a soft, ambient glow
- Smart TV for relaxing nights in
- Country-style kitchen with modern appliances
- Dining table for two
Outside at Stableside
Step through the French doors into your own private garden – a peaceful, secluded space made for long, lazy mornings and starlit evenings.
- Private hot tub — the perfect spot to sink into warm bubbles with a glass of fizz and watch the night sky deepen above you.
- Outdoor seating — ideal for slow coffee mornings, reading in the sunshine or simply enjoying the quiet.
- Secure enclosed garden — giving you complete privacy throughout your stay.
- Handy outdoor tap — perfect for rinsing off muddy boots after days spent exploring the Forest of Dean.
Guests with horses are also welcome to arrange on-site stabling directly with the owners, making Stableside a peaceful base for equestrian breaks.
Sustainable Touches for a Greener Stay
Stableside has been created with comfort in mind, but also with care for its surroundings. The owners have taken steps to ensure your stay treads lightly on this beautiful corner of the Forest of Dean.
- Solar panels help power the cottage with clean energy
- Air source heat pump and underfloor heating provide efficient, steady warmth
- EV charger on site makes it easy for guests with electric vehicles
- A focus on low-impact systems and materials throughout the conversion
It’s a cosy, indulgent escape – just one that respects the landscape it sits within.
Your Peaceful Retreat in the Forest of Dean
Stableside sits in one of Gloucestershire’s most enchanting landscapes, nestled between the river Severn and the Forest of Dean and starting as part of a settlement recorded in the Domesday Book. Local legend notes that the small hamlet on the River Severn may have been residence to Sir Francis Drake, known locally as Drakes House, just a 5 minute walk away.
Shaws Farm is a collection of traditional stone barns that once formed part of a working farm. Today, the farm is home to owner Tracey’s family and a small number of dressage horses, chickens and dogs blending its rich agricultural past with a peaceful rural lifestyle.
The cottage is just a 15-minute walk from Blakeney, where you’ll find a handy village shop and a welcoming pub – perfect for a relaxed drink after a day outdoors. Venture a little further and you’ll uncover everything from rustic country inns to celebrated dining spots such as The Whitebrook, No. 3, and Severn & Wye Smokery, all adding their own flavour to the region.
You might spend your days hiking beside the river Severn, exploring by bike or simply ambling between viewpoints, but however you choose to unwind, this landscape encourages you to take things gently and enjoy the beauty around you.
Local Attractions
The Forest of Dean is packed with memorable days out, from peaceful woodland wanders to hands-on adventures.
- Beechenhurst – forest trails, outdoor sculptures and a brilliant café.
- Mallards Pike – lakeside strolls, paddleboarding and Go Ape high ropes.
- Wyedean Canoe & Adventure – explore the River Wye by canoe, kayak or raft.
- Puzzlewood – atmospheric ancient woodland that feels like stepping into a storybook.
- Dean Heritage Centre – a look into the area’s rich history and craft traditions.
- Severn Cider – sample award-winning ciders in a charming rural setting.
- Hopewell Colliery – underground mining tours guided by former Forest miners.
- Clearwell Caves – dramatic caverns and fascinating subterranean passages.
From peaceful moments to adrenaline-filled outings, there’s always something to make your stay feel special.
Your Forest Escape Awaits
Stableside at Shaws Farm offers a romantic escape shaped by nature, comfort and a touch of countryside magic. With forest trails on the doorstep, horses grazing just beyond the garden, and a hot tub waiting for you under star-sprinkled skies, this rural retreat is made for slowing down and reconnecting.
Perfect for special celebrations, peaceful weekends or those precious moments when you just want time together in a beautiful setting, this enchanting hideaway promises a stay you’ll treasure long after you leave.
