As morning mist gently lifts from the honey-hued stone houses of the North Cotswolds, the quaint village of Bledington near Kingham reveals itself as a hidden gem. At the village’s core stands The Old Reading Room, a historic Grade II-listed cottage brimming with charm—ideal for couples seeking a peaceful Cotswolds getaway.
Once a humble schoolroom where local children practiced their reading and music, The Old Reading Room has been beautifully restored into a luxurious self-catering retreat for two. Seamlessly blending its rich heritage with modern amenities, guests describe the one-bedroom cottage as “a true home away from home.”
Available through Sykes Cottages, this compact yet perfectly formed cottage sits beside Bledington’s idyllic village green with its serenely flowing stream and resident ducks. The acclaimed King’s Head pub is just a short stroll away, adding to the village allure.
For fans of Jeremy Clarkson’s Amazon Prime series “Clarkson’s Farm,” the cottage offers convenient access to Diddly Squat Farm in Chadlington. Visitors can enjoy locally sourced produce from the farm shop, panoramic views at the Big View Café, and a British-centric menu at The Farmer’s Dog pub in nearby Asthall Barrow—though arriving early is advised to avoid weekend crowds.
Inside, The Old Reading Room exudes warmth and relaxation. The vaulted ceiling over the living area creates an airy atmosphere, complemented by a cozy leather sofa and a crackling wood-burning stove, complete with a starter pack of logs to keep guests snug through the colder months. The kitchen, equipped with modern appliances including a dishwasher and washing machine, is thoughtfully integrated within the cottage’s historic fabric. Upstairs, a mezzanine-style bedroom features a king-sized bed and an en-suite bathroom, perfect for restful nights.
Outside, a private garden opens onto a tranquil meadow with a greenhouse and fire pit—inviting guests to unwind in the peaceful countryside. Nearby, the iconic Cotswolds towns of Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water offer delightful day trips just a short drive away.
With travel uncertainties prompting many Britons to favor staycations, The Old Reading Room offers a quintessential countryside escape—where timeless charm meets comfort amidst stunning scenery. Bledington’s location along the Oxfordshire Way provides ample opportunities for leisurely country walks, while nearby attractions like Daylesford Organic offer world-class dining experiences.
For those seeking alternative options in the area, nearby Moreton-in-Marsh features Oma’s Cottage, a stone-built retreat blending garden views with market town conveniences, while Crumble Cottage in Stow-on-the-Wold offers spacious, character-filled accommodation for larger groups.
Glowing with a 4.9-star rating and praised for its “home from home” hospitality, The Old Reading Room has left a lasting impression on visitors. One guest summed it up beautifully: “The place is full of charm, beautifully maintained, and offers the perfect balance of comfort and character. Everything was spotless and thoughtfully arranged—it truly exceeded our expectations.”
Another honeymooning couple shared, “The cottage is stunning with everything we needed and more. The giant comfy bed and log burner made it so cozy, especially on rainy afternoons. The village pub and shop are just minutes away, and close to Stow and Bourton-on-the-Water. Excellent value and highly recommended!”
While reviews are overwhelmingly positive, one guest did mention the kitchen knives being blunt, a minor inconvenience amid an otherwise flawless stay.
Overall, The Old Reading Room’s prime location, comfort, and inviting atmosphere make it an irresistible choice for those seeking an authentic Cotswolds experience—close enough to explore renowned landmarks and enjoy local culture, yet quiet enough to relax and unwind.