Award-winning Nuthatch Retreat | Cinema | Landscaped gardens | Bathe under stars

Slow down and share cherished time together in a unique, stylish holiday home.

Nuthatch Retreat is an architect-designed eco retreat on a Forest of Dean hillside, with stunning valley views, a private Japanese-style outdoor soaking bath, and everything thoughtfully considered for an unforgettable stay. Whether you're looking for a romantic couples retreat or a nurturing family getaway for four, Nuthatch is a place that allows you to exhale the moment you walk through the door.

Set amongst generous private gardens with far-reaching views, our award-winning single-storey lodge is light-filled, level-access, and pet-free - a genuinely rare combination of luxury, sustainability and calm. Two characterful bedrooms, a generous open-plan kitchen, lounge and dining space, and a beautifully designed wet-room complete a home that feels both indulgent and deeply restful. Nuthatch Retreat won best boutique stay with Muddy Stilettos (Glos & Worcs) in 2026, and three silver awards at the Bristol, Bath, Somerset & Glos tourism awards in 2025.

The decor has a homely mid-century vibe, with pieces by Heals and G-plan set off by modernist inspired fabrics, rustic ceramics and Scandi kitchen details. The plants aren’t just outside either, so you can relax, shower and sleep amongst funky foliage.

The spacious bathroom offers a contemporary walk-in rainfall shower, vintage vanity unit and floating WC set amid jungly plants, calming tones and a warm floor of terrazzo tiles. Again, organic Neals Yard Remedies products are there to enjoy.

The main bedroom has a Harrods' Visprung superking mattress with hemp, linen, cotton and wool bedding. Natural, sustainable and breathable fibres keep you warm when it’s cool and cool when it’s warm. Allergen free bedding can also be made available on request. The warm colour palette, contemplative artwork and handmade weaves bring warmth and character to the room and a glorious view from the bed greets you in the morning!

For a small supplement, there is a second bedroom that can be made up as a twin or double. This room is bookable for (younger and adult) family members and cannot be booked for a larger group of adults. For children, this room comes full of colourful books, games and puzzles.

Nuthatch has a kitchen ready for keen cooks yet also perfect for an easy meal after a day of exploring. It features a Neff hide-and-slide oven, induction hob, slimline dishwasher, sharp prep knives, and all the tools you’d miss from home. Coffee enthusiasts can enjoy a burr grinder, Aeropress, cafetière, and stovetop options. There are essentials like olive oil, spices, coffee beans and teas, plus the freezer holds Plump Hill Farm extras (bacon, sausages and sometimes burgers and chops) available via an honesty bar.

Optional added extras can be purchased to make your stay even more special and to discover some local delights. We can also help arrange delivery of other delicious foods from trusted local producers such as cheese and charcuterie. Just ask!

Outside, a large patio overlooks your own terraced gardens and breathtaking scenery amid the tree canopy. Spiral steps lead down past wildflower borders in summer to a private sunny lawn and the deep outdoor bath tub for two - think mini hot tub with bath salts and Neals Yard Remedies aromatic bath foam instead of chemicals. The bath doubles as a perfect place to cool down in the warmer months.

Cosy underfloor heating and triple-glazing mean Nuthatch is as welcoming in November as it is in June. With forest trails on the doorstep, the Cotswolds and Wye Valley castles within easy reach, there is plenty to explore all year round. Whether you are into forest or floatation-tank bathing or more active adventures like paddle-boarding or mountain biking, the Forest of Dean is full of amazing pleasures to discover.

You can visit the historic Tintern Abbey, Chepstow, Goodrich or Raglan castles or get down to earth with some foraging or stargazing. The quintessential English sites of the Cotswolds are just a short hop from the forest and many of our guests have enjoyed them during their stays.

Or simply take a wander from Nuthatch Retreat for a picnic by a forest stream or roam amongst the bluebells and ancient woodland on our doorstep.

There is a private driveway with EV charger (bring your own charging cable) and free parking.