Dog friendly converted barn, sleeps 4 - English Bicknor, Gloucestershire

Make the delightful Wye Valley your temporary home with a stay as a couple or small family at this characterful home in English Bicknor, a village on the westerly edge of the Forest of Dean. From your doorstep, venture into the countryside and ancient woodlands, reaching the iconic Symonds Yat Rock (2 miles) and the River Wye's banks (4.5 miles). Cross the Wye on the hand-pulled ferry for a new experience, or head up to Biblins rope bridge (5 miles on foot) for another iconic option.

The barn, set within the owner's grounds in the forest, has a lovely stone exterior in a rustic style. Enter the open-plan living space, featuring tall ceilings and fully glazed, original barn doors allowing plenty of light to pour in. Thanks to the cheerful decor with artwork and splashes of colour, this space feels homely and welcoming.

Sink into the corner sofa for reading or some TV and gather at the central dining table for family meals cooked in the well-appointed kitchen that sits beneath a skylight. The games area will be hit with children with its table football, table tennis and darts. When it's time to turn in, you'll find the bedrooms, both with elegant, vaulted ceilings and lovely wooden beams, upstairs on the mezzanine.

Served by the family bathroom, these rooms include a twin bedroom and a king-size room that can be converted into a twin on request. You'll have a generous outdoor space, too, including an enclosed lawned garden, a table and chairs, and a charcoal BBQ for al fresco feasting. When it's time to explore, adventure seekers won't be disappointed – the river and its surrounding landscapes offer opportunities for caving, abseiling, rock climbing and canoeing.

Or how about a high wire rope course at Mallards Pike (8 miles)? Rent bikes to explore forest trails, visit the ancient Puzzlewood and Clearwell Caves (4.5 miles), or head to Ross-on-Wye (8.5 miles).