Established in 2017, Bolthole Retreats markets and lets some of the finest luxury holiday properties throughout the Cotswolds, taking in the counties of Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, South Warwickshire and Worcestershire and parts of Wiltshire and Bath and northeast Somerset in the south. We have an ever-growing portfolio of beautiful homes, from cosy cottages that sleep two through to large properties that can accommodate up to 18 guests. We pride ourselves on the quality and location of our properties, offering our guests the perfect home-away-from-home experience in these beautiful areas of the UK.

Overlooking the peaceful green, in the oh-so-charming estate village of Preston on Stour, Locke’s Cottage is an enchanting, Grade II listed black and white cottage. Surrounded by wonderful walks, a delightful village shop and café, and the historical appeal of Stratford-upon-Avon on your doorstep, Locke’s is a gorgeous base for Shakespearean escapades and Cotswold adventures. Step inside and you’ll find a beautifully designed cottage packed with charm and personality by the bucket load! There’s a cosy living room with a wood-burning stove, whilst upstairs a spa-inspired shower room and indulgent four-poster bedroom awaits. Locke’s Cottage is a glorious 16th century hideaway that has been stunningly brought into the 21st century and is the perfect spot for romantic adventures in the countryside. A four-legged friend is also welcome to join you. As you enter Preston on Stour it really is as though time has stood still. Lying in the heart of a conservation area, the village remains beautifully unspoilt, under the gaze of the ancient medieval church of St Mary’s where sheep are still used to keep the grass in check and the yew trees date back more than 500 years. Lockes Cottage forms one third of a pair of black and white timber-framed cottages on the green. Inside the character and original features have been allowed to shine through with old timbers, polished flagstone floors and a fireplace with a wood burning stove. The clever use of colour and textures however ensures this is a beautifully contemporary place to stay. A sumptuous olive-green sofa is the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring and there’s a smart TV for cosy evenings in. The small but perfectly formed kitchen has everything practical needed for a self-catering stay. On the first floor is a stylish bathroom and pretty bedroom with a four-poster king-size bed. The cottage garden overlooking the green is a peaceful spot to relax with your morning coffee and there is parking for one car.

The pretty village of Preston on Stour forms part of the beautiful Alscot Estate and on your doorstep, you'll find the delightful village shop and café. Run by Ben and Hana, this is where you can find local produce, freshly baked bread and superb coffee from the multi-award-winning local artisan coffee roasters, Monsoon Estates and vegetable boxes can be pre-ordered. There is also a yoga studio in the old school. Stratford-upon-Avon is 3 miles away and a thriving town with an excellent dining scene, several festivals, and the world-famous Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre (RSC). The northern reaches of beautiful Cotswolds are just a few miles away with highlights such as Broadway, Chipping Campden, and Chipping Norton within a 30-minute drive. Farm shops, delis, and shopping: There is an excellent village shop and café in Preston on Stour. Run by Ben and Hana this is where you can find local produce, freshly baked bread and superb coffee from the multi-award-winning local artisan coffee roasters, Monsoon Estates and vegetable boxes can be pre-ordered. There is a yoga studio in the village too. On the Alscot estate there is also a pottery studio, a private trainer, and a beautician. Cafes, pubs, and restaurants: • The Bell at Alderminster – excellent food and service (2 miles) • Village Café, Preston on Stour – superb coffee and selection of wonderful cakes (1 minute walk) • The Boathouse, Stratford-upon-Avon – lovely riverside bistro (4 miles) • Howard Arms, Illmington – truly delightful Cotswold pub steeped in history, offering superb local ales and an interesting menu (5 miles) • The Chequers, Ettington – 18th century pub with good food and craft beers (7 miles) Stratford-upon Avon (3 miles) has an excellent selection of places to dine ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants and elegant bistros to gastro pubs, tearooms, and casual coffee houses.