Welcome to Spinney Retreat. This luxury, pet friendly, Grade II listed barn conversion cottage for 4 people is located in the village of Cardington near Church Stretton in Shropshire close to the towns of Shrewsbury, Ludlow and Bridgnorth.
Accommodation
All ground floor. Two bedrooms: 1 x double with en-suite shower, basin & WC, 1 x twin. Bathroom with bath, level access shower, basin & WC. Well-equipped fitted kitchen with dining area. Sitting room with exposed beams & woodburner.
Location
Spinney Retreat is a gorgeous property that has been sensitively converted from an old stable building into a charming holiday cottage. There's a lovely rustic wood burner in the sitting room, which is a great place to gather the family together. Whoever stays in this property has access to the owners' games room on the farm and the farm grounds too. The property is all laid out on one floor and comprises of 1 double bedroom with en suite, 1 twin bedroom, a bathroom with bath and a shower, a fully fitted kitchen and a neat sitting room. There are exposed wood beams dotted about the property as well, which adds an authentic rural feel to the house.
The fact that the village is in such unspoilt countryside means that it's a great location to have as a base for your holiday if you are fond of walking, cycling and nature spotting. Cardington is also famous for its pub, which is actually the oldest in Shropshire, so old in fact that it's even got a mention in the Domesday Book. Ironbridge Gorge is in close proximity too and is well worth a visit. It has 10 museums all housing different exhibitions and artefacts, so if the weather turns wet you can pack up the family and make the short driveto Iron Gorge safe in the knowledge that they will have plenty to explore.
A E Houseman once wrote that Shropshire was "the quietest place under the sun" and today the county remains something of a rural idyll, recognised as one of the least crowded and most peaceful regions in England.
Reviews of Spinney Retreat
"A lovely cottage which was very welcoming. It had absolutely everything you need and more! The tennis court, karts and pool table were a brilliant touch and the kids loved it. The morning after our arrival the owner rang to make sure everything was OK and to give us some tips which was a lovely touch as well."
Reviewed by Mrs Robson on 06/08/2016
"Travelled with my husband and two teenagers - 13 and 16 year olds. Packed my tiny car full to bursting only to find a well equipped cottage on our arrival. Gorgeous setting, lovely cottage, absolutely everything there that we needed and then some. The tennis court, pool tables and table tennis were an added bonus. There was a CD player in each room and a piano in one and my daughter felt it necessary to play her limited amount of tunes (about six) to us repeatedly although it was good practise for her upcoming exam! The go-karts were a huge success. My 16 year old son is extremely tall and we doubted there would be one to fit him but there was - they catered from the very tiny to the very grown-up big kid! These facilities are just a two or three minute walk from the cottage. When leaving the driveway, turn right and follow the road around the corner and the owners other rental properties are there along with the games - just go through the huge gate. We made the mistake of turning left the first time, I would definitely book here again and have no hesitation of recommending it. Thank you for a lovely vacation."
Reviewed by krobson4 on 06/08/2016
"Spinney Retreat was a great situation in beautiful countryside, which was delightful for walking the dog. The owners were very helpful and the cottage was extremely comfortable and cosy "
Reviewed by Mr Mills on 27/02/2016
"The cottage and the location are both excellent. We would definitely go back to this cottage."
Reviewed by Mrs Williams on 03/01/2016
"Accommodation far superior to what expected. Perfect home from home, lacking absolutely nothing. Owners very friendly and obliging. Perfect stable conversion well done to the owners. Beautiful surroundings. Would highly recommend this property. "
Reviewed by Mr Sampson on 07/09/2015
"Booked this stable conversion for a week in May. We were delighted with the property - much larger than we had expected with lots of thoughtful and kind extras from the shortcake biscuits and jar of wild flowers on arrival to the coffee/tea/milk supplies (very unusual for holiday cottages and much appreciated for an immediate cuppa and biscuit). Very quiet location in absolutely stunning countryside around Church Stretton which also can as a wonderful surprise to us as we did not know the area at all. Would recommend without hesitation but do look out for those narrow lanes in the area."
Reviewed by hethmar on 10/06/2015
"A great location for accessing the many tourist attractions in the area. Had a fabulous on-site play area and great short walks around the farm. It was fab to be able to collect eggs from the chickens, ride the pony, and look at all of the animals - overall a great family break!"
Reviewed by Mrs Parkins on 19/04/2015
"Cosy and comfortable cottage which was well equipped. Very friendly people and great local attractions."
Reviewed by Mrs Wejszko on 21/02/2015
"The accommodation was very comfortable, and perfect for our needs."
Reviewed by Mrs Large on 10/10/2014
"The quality of the Spinney Retreat was a pleasant surprise, very comfortable, everything we needed was there. "
Reviewed by Mr Rickson on 27/09/2014
"Particularly enjoyed the location.The more-than- adequately equipped cottage was a bonus.The wood-burner laid and ready to light - with more fuel available-so appreciated. The presentation of the cottage, with all its extras,definitely enhanced the enjoyment of the holiday."
Reviewed by Mrs Carruthers on 19/09/2014
"This was our first cottage holiday rental and we feel that the bar has been set so high that another won't ever be as good. Within minutes of arriving we were contacted by the owner and given local advice. The cottage was very well equipped. We were even given 2 vases of fresh flowers. We had access to the farm and were fortunate to see lambs born and bottle feed the orphans. If you wanted eggs, you helped yourself from the chickens."
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 08/08/2014
"Very homely. Nice small touches - fresh flowers etc. Fantastic activities for all ages. Open access to the farm, grounds etc. good information about walks etc. Having the information as to what to feed the various animals so we could get the fun and pleasure of feeding the pigs and horses. "
Reviewed by Burton on 19/07/2014
"We were made to feel welcome from the moment we arrived, with a phone call from the owner. The play area was outstanding and enjoyed by all 3 generations! During our stay, we were able to bottle feed orphan lambs and the highlight had to be witnessing the birth of some lambs. The children enjoyed collecting eggs and having a pony ride, we enjoyed the wood-burner in the evenings. This was our first Sykes holiday and we all felt that the bar has been set high."
Reviewed by Mr Friendship on 04/04/2014
"We enjoyed the peaceful location, and comfortable seating, which was enhanced by the cosy wood burning stove! We would be happy to come again. Plenty of local walks, and lots to do for families just down the road. Highly recommended! "
Reviewed by Mrs Barnes on 09/11/2013
"Spinney Retreat is an excellent holiday let. It has everything a family of four would need and more. Comfortable beds, well stocked kitchen, comfortable lounge. That last mile and half down the single track road proved annoying at night but fine during the day. Highly recommended."
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 24/10/2013
"Activities for children on farm were great. Beautiful setting. Fantastic accommodation, best equipped cottage ever!"
Reviewed by Mrs Hardingham on 30/08/2013
"Excellent accommodation for a family holiday."
Reviewed by Mrs Fazakerley on 04/08/2013
"A lovely place to stay in a very lovely area"
Reviewed by Mrs Wise on 09/05/2013
"Firstly I would like to say thank you to the agent and Sara the owner as we were let down by somebody else and this was done in extreme late notice! The cottage is extremely clean with all the amenitites you need, we were 4 minutes away from Plaish Farm where we enjoyed playing tennis, go karting (adult ones too), cycling and football. This is an ideal place for a family especially if you have 1 child, they will make friends in the play barn so you can enjoy a glass of wine by the wood fire like myself and my partner! Will definately return."
Reviewed by Heidi M on 05/03/2013
"Firstly I would like to say thank you to the agent and Sara the owner as we were let down by somebody else and this was done in extreme late notice! The cottage is extremely clean with all the amenitites you need, we were 4 minutes away from Plaish Farm where we enjoyed playing tennis, go karting (adult ones too), cycling and football. This is an ideal place for a family especially if you have 1 child, they will make friends in the play barn so you can enjoy a glass of wine by the wood fire like myself and my partner! Will definately return."
Reviewed by Heidi M on 04/03/2013
"It was one of the best holidays we have ever had. Everything has been perfect! Very cosy and the games room, tennis court, playground and the surrounding is amazing."
Reviewed by Mrs Kraft on 13/02/2013
"The log fire was very much appreciated. We found the owners of the cottage very friendly. The overall impression of the cottage is very cosy and welcoming."
Reviewed by Mrs Panting on 16/09/2012
"The cottage was comfortable and it had everything we needed. The kitchen was exceptionally well equipped, the position was very quiet and secluded, to wake up to birdsong was fabulous."
Reviewed by Mrs Stevenson on 31/07/2012
"We have never been to Shropshire before and we found it to be a beautiful county. Plenty of things to do and see and we will certainly be making a second visit."
Reviewed by Mr Gooch on 24/07/2012
"Exactly as the brochure says - the property is in a peaceful location and the friendly owners could not do enough to look after our needs. We liked the fact that pets are welcome, and we have booked again for next year."
Reviewed by Mr Barlow on 24/07/2012
"Always a lovely place to stay. A very cosy cottage with beautiful surroundings."
Reviewed by Mr Gibbs on 26/04/2012
"Spinney retreat was exactly what we were looking for - a quiet place away from the hustle and bustle, with a cosy atmosphere, and stunning surroundings. The cottage had so many 'homely' details. The lovely decorated Christmas tree was a special touch too."
Reviewed by Ms Shaw on 09/01/2012
"Comfortable property with an excellent woodburner in a quiet farm setting but within easy reach of many attractions."
Reviewed by Mr Woodard on 05/12/2011
"We had fabulous weather for the time of year which probably enhanced our stay in this beautiful area of England. The cottage we rented was owned and run by a very friendly family, they invited us to be hands on with feeding their pigs and collecting fresh eggs from their chickens, this all added to our enjoyment. The little we saw of the other of the cottages they had for rent only confirmed that these owners were dedicated to ensuring their guests enjoyed a true country cottage experience. Our cottage was well equipped and more than met our expectations.I would highly recommend this area and these cottages to anyone, they were suitable for all ages and abilities."
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 02/12/2011
"It was a wonderful experience staying in this cottage, very well equipped, warm and welcoming decor and had pratically everything you need to make your stay comfortable."
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 02/12/2011
"The decor of the cottage was very warm, welcoming and made us feel at home. "
Reviewed by Ms Geeta Satija on 01/11/2011
"Hosts, location and accommodation were all lovely. The whole holiday was made lovely by the friendliness and atmosphere created by our host family."
Reviewed by Mrs Holt on 05/10/2011
"The quality of the accommodation and the location. This property was very good in accessibility for someone with mobility problems. The location gave plenty to see and do within easy reach in beautiful countryside - the farm gave added interest, The accommodation is amongst the best we have had in thirty years or more of self catering holidays."
Reviewed by Mrs Draper on 05/09/2011
"In an ideal location for visiting the many varied attractions and historic towns of Shrewsbury,Ludlow, Iron Bridge. Good local pubs and eating out. Accomodation was spacious, well fitted, clean and quiet in this country estate even the local dogs came to see us and make a fuss. The on-site wildlife ponds etc were a haven of tranquility and peace far away from the stresses of life. A great pity we only stayed a week, will be back."
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 20/08/2011
"Very lovely cottage - well kept. Great if you're not good on your feet - all level."
Reviewed by Mrs Jones on 03/08/2011
"The peaceful surroundings and the beautiful countryside. Lots of walking and places of interest to visit. Not many crowds at all. Good to get back to a surprisingly large and comfortable place after a tiring day. Very tranquil and relaxing."
Reviewed by Mrs Seel on 25/07/2011
"The whole holiday was fantastic."
Reviewed by Miss Redman on 17/07/2011
"Quiet, tranquil location, best cottage we have had in terms of space and comfort. Location was superb as all the major attractions; steam railway, Victorian farms, towns and villages and the views, were all within 15 miles. As a disabled person with walking difficulties, I was able to enjoy everything on offer. It was very clean and the people very friendly, chatty and helpful. A real quality holiday. throughout. "
Reviewed by Mr York on 22/06/2011
"We were all very pleased with the accommodation. A real home from home with everything you could need and more. Very quiet and peaceful location. Excellent and we will recommend to friends and family. "
Reviewed by Mr Ashley on 15/05/2011
"Spinney Retreat was a lovely, well equipped cottage in beautiful surroundings. Plenty of activities to do in the area with wonderful walks. A great little getaway."
Reviewed by Mr Cross on 30/03/2011
"Very well equipped cottage, the kitchen in particular. Overall it was well thought through which is not often the case. The owners clearly have made an effort to make the stay as enjoyable and problem free as possible by attention to detail. "
Reviewed by Dr Rowe on 29/11/2010
"This is a fantastic cottage - absolutely ideal. The family are delightful owners and the pony ride and egg collecting was a big hit with my daughter!"
Reviewed by Ms Richardson on 23/08/2010
"Beautiful countryside. Loved the woodburner! "
Reviewed by Mrs Davison on 25/03/2010
"Location and the cottage was lovely and everything I expected. I enjoyed having my dogs with me in an excellent area for walks. "
Reviewed by Miss Brown on 11/02/2010
"My husband, myself and our two labradors enjoyed a very pleasant short break at this very pleasant cottage. The property was great if you have dogs as there was abit of rough ground opposite for late night and early morning outings and some fabulous and interesting farm walks. Cottage was well equipped ideal if you'd had a less abled guest as there was a wet room and only one or two steps between the rooms. Our only excitement was when the smoke alarm went off and positioned up in the rafters we couldn't switch it off! Luckily help arrived in the form of the landlord! Wouldn't hesitate to recommend to others."
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 17/12/2009
"A really well equipped cottage in a peaceful location, possibly the best we have stayed in."
Reviewed by Mr Desjardins on 14/12/2009
"Extremely friendly contact with owner by phone in no way intrusive but obviously very thoughtful. The cottage was so cosy and welcoming, just felt like home from the moment we arrived.All the lovely nick nacks and pictures around the property were remarkable, never been to a holiday home as nice as the spinney before . The location is lovely we know the area very well from childhood days. Loved everything about it complete privacy,log fire and lovely for our 16 year old blind dog plenty of freedom for her thank you"
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 04/12/2009
"Excellent converted stables block, very comfortable bedrooms and lounge and well appointed bathroom and kitchen with everything needed for self catering holidays. Location is extremely peaceful and the surrounding area is beautiful, plenty to do with lots of good places to eat, nice pubs, etc. Very narrow lane to get to the cottage but good fun to drive, and you do need transport as it is two miles from the main road. Excellent holiday, everything went smoothly right from the initial booking."
Reviewed by Eve and Pat on 02/12/2009
"Great all round property in good location with a lovely fireplace. Hope to go again! "
Reviewed by Mrs Edwards on 13/11/2009
"The property was clean and tidy and very well equipped with everything you would need. The landscape was very picturesque with lots to see and visit with ample walks."
Reviewed by Mr Murray on 20/07/2009
"This is a lovely holiday house, Charming, well equipped and in a location which offers many opportunities for holiday makers."
Reviewed by Mrs Oakden on 02/06/2009
"Total privacy and excellent accommodation. Many thanks for being on the web which is where we found you and yes, we will be back."
Reviewed by Miss Hinckley on 13/05/2009
"Peace and quiet and natural surroundings."
Reviewed by Mrs Swindlehurst on 25/01/2009
"In excellent condition and had all the facilities needed. "
Reviewed by Mrs Cotton on 18/08/2008
"Best equipped Cottage we have ever stayed in!"
Reviewed by Mr Wingert on 17/07/2008
"Spinney Retreat was very comfortable and met our needs perfectly. It was very peaceful and the birdlife kept us intrigued for ages. The local pubs served wonderful food and everywhere the people were very pleasant and helpful. There were plenty of things to do, Ironbridge was great with loads of interesting things to see but our favourite was Much Wenlock, where we found the best butchers in the country!!"
Reviewed by Mrs Ives on 24/06/2008
"Location, scenery, easy access to places to visit and and excellent for the dogs."
Reviewed by Mr Whitehouse on 30/03/2008
"Lots of great touches - pen and paper, flowers in cottage, cosy, great location, very quiet, good for dog, open farm land was accessible. I was thrilled when I looked around the cottage by how lovely it was - and I thought that the brochure undersold its location, not mentioning it was right next to a lovely little wood that formed the garden. "
Reviewed by Dr Hindley on 11/02/2008
"A beautiful 5 star cottage, freedom to roam the farmlands with the dogs, being able to smoke and the peace and tranquility of the area. The owners are admirable hosts who give that bit extra to their guests."
Reviewed by Mrs Jones on 17/09/2007
"Comfortable cottage in very peaceful surroundings. Enjoyable walks in beautiful countryside and plenty of interesting and varied places to visit."
Reviewed by Mrs Hartley on 15/08/2007
"Friendly welcome from owners who were very helpful with suggestions for things to see and do both on their farm (where we were free to roam at will)and in the neighbourhood. Extremely comfortable and tastefully furnished accommodation, a real home from home. "
Reviewed by Mrs Aitken on 01/08/2007
"Good location with walking and wildlife on the door step. Peace and tranquillity was much appreciated as was the friendliness of the locals."
Reviewed by Mr Cogger on 05/07/2007
"Lovely base to explore Shropshire. Stunning views, beautiful countryside."
Reviewed by Mr Holmes on 30/05/2007
"Beautiful property in a lovely location, the owner was extremely friendly and helpful. I would recommend this property to any one. We will definitely be re-booking."
Reviewed by Mr Tyler on 12/02/2007
"Great base for exploring and walking."
Reviewed by Mrs Mouland on 02/12/2006
"A superb cottage in a lovely hamlet. Pleasant walks."
Reviewed by Mrs Boulter on 01/11/2006
"Everything was of a very high standard, from the decor to the fittings. Even though the location is a little further out than what we would normally choose it was excellent. The setting, on the farm, was perfect for the family with the lovely pools etc. A great base for exploring the surrounding areas, such as Ludlow, Much Wenlock, Shrewsbury and Ironbridge."
Reviewed by Mr Dallimore on 19/09/2006
"The cottage was excellent, everything was there, also plenty of wood for the woodburner. The surroundings are beautiful and as frequent GB visitors, Shropshire is a paradise for churches, castles, little country roads, nice pubs, car boot sales. We will recommend this property to everybody who asks us for a good cottage in England. "
Reviewed by Mr von Ommeren on 06/09/2006
"The cottage was like home from home. We all really enjoyed our stay."
Reviewed by Miss O’Grady on 26/03/2006
"The cottage was the best we have stayed in - a very relaxing place. The standard of the cottage was fantastic, it was really well maintained and very comfortable. The unusual linear layout just added to the appeal. The Joneses were very helpful and sorted a couple of queries promptly, and kept us supplied with wood for the log burner! There was lots of information about the surrounding area supplied which was very useful. The surrounding countryside is superb, and it is an ideal base for walkers and nature lovers - or if you just want to get away from everything."
Reviewed by Mr Hortin on 27/02/2006
"A lovely area for walking - superb views."
Reviewed by Dr Woodcock on 23/11/2005
"Lovely quiet setting near to plenty of attractions. Excellent standard of decor and comfort in the cottage."
Reviewed by Mrs Lowe on 02/11/2005
"This property is so nice and so well appointed that one is tempted to try to stay there permanently! The owners were incredibly helpful and nice as were the other residents. The dog loved the farm and surrounding environs."
Reviewed by Mr Morris on 13/09/2005
"The location of Spinney Retreat is rural and quiet without being isolated. The accommodation was well laid out. It was clean and well appointed with plenty of utensils in the kitchen. There are plenty of walking opportunities in the locality and lots of maps and information from the owners with advice on walks. Our three dogs were made very welcome and loved the area as much as we did. I'd certainly like to return for another stay."
Reviewed by Miss Compobassi on 01/08/2005
"A peaceful retreat. Wonderful to wonder over the 700-acre farm. Spent a day by the pools watching the bird life! Great food at the Royal Oak Cardingdon."
Reviewed by Mrs Wheeler on 23/06/2005
"A perfect place for the dog. The walking and scenery are very good. "
Reviewed by Mr Horton on 06/06/2005