Wild & Water
Congrove Cottage is a west-facing hillside retreat set at the head of its own private valley, five miles from Bath. Once a gamekeeper’s cottage, it has been sensitively restored and now sits within a small estate of kitchen gardens, orchards and woodland. When paired with Congrove Barns, the estate sleeps up to 14 and works well for slow stays, food-led weekends and small retreat groups.
Highlights
- Kitchen garden, orchard and Herborium
- Estate arboretum with quiet trails and valley viewpoints
- Seats 14 when paired with Congrove Barns
- Hidden outdoor dining spots and optional bell tents
- Garden studio with ping-pong
- Walk to The Upton pub
- 5.5 miles to Bath
About
About
Congrove Cottage sits in a long, sheltered valley that has remained largely untouched. The owners have restored the house with a light hand, keeping its character while creating a place that feels rooted and unhurried. The estate includes Congrove Barns, allowing larger groups to take both properties for workshops, family gatherings or food-focused weekends.
The kitchen garden has been newly recreated and is densely planted through the seasons, complemented by an orchard and a purpose-built Herborium. Guests can forage, cook with estate produce and pair meals with lamb and venison from the land. It is a place that rewards anyone who enjoys growing, gathering and cooking.
The private arboretum sits further up the valley. Trails weave through woodland and open clearings, with small dining spots tucked into the landscape. A 25-minute walk leads to The Upton, the local pub. Wellness sessions, chef-led dinners and outdoor workshops all work well here.
Inside
Rooms keep their original scale: warm, calm and looking out over the valley. The kitchen dining room is the main gathering space and seats 14 when the cottage is combined with Congrove Barns. Interiors lean towards natural materials and quiet colours, with bedrooms arranged for simple, comfortable stays.
Outside
The garden is central to the experience: the kitchen garden, orchard and Herborium sit directly beside the house. The arboretum trails lead to hidden seating and dining spots, and bell tents can be added for retreat formats or overflow sleeping. The cottage faces west, catching long evening light and valley sunsets.
Find the house
A private estate within walking distance of a local pub and a short drive to Bath. Woodland paths begin at the door, and Bath Racecourse sits just under six miles away.