Peaceful Pigsty – Countryside Retreat near the Cotswolds & Cheltenham / Sleeps 6
THE COTTAGE
Set in the Worcestershire countryside on the edge of the Cotswolds, Peaceful Pigsty enjoys views of Bredon Hill, a beautiful English-style cottage garden and three bedrooms sleeping up to six guests.
Perfect for Cheltenham, the Malvern Hills, Pershore and the wider Cotswolds, it’s an ideal base for walkers, racegoers and explorers alike.
Relax in the open-plan living space, cook in the fully equipped kitchen or enjoy the BBQ after scenic walks from the door.
🌿 OUR SPACE & SETTING
Peaceful Pigsty is a beautifully converted former pigsty in the rural village of Birlingham, surrounded by countryside and tucked close to the River Avon. With no through-traffic, dark skies and birdsong at night, it’s a wonderfully tranquil place to unwind.
Converted in 1983 and set among historic cottages, the property enjoys uninterrupted views across the garden and river meadows to Bredon Hill, with spectacular sunsets towards Bredon and the Malvern Hills.
SOUTH FACING GARDEN & OUTDOOR LIVING
The cottage faces south and opens onto patios and an English-style cottage garden, perfect for morning coffee, evening drinks or firing up the BBQ.
You’ll find lawns for children to play, fresh herbs by the door, a rare gingko tree planted over 40 years ago, and several seating areas to follow the sun throughout the day.
LIVING SPACE & KITCHEN
Downstairs is bright and open-plan with wide garden views, bifold doors onto a covered patio, and a dining area with a wood burner for cosy evenings.
The fully equipped kitchen has everything you need for longer stays, including an induction hob, oven, microwave, fridge-freezer, dishwasher and washing machine.
Comfortable sofas and armchairs make it easy to relax with TV and a good book.
BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS
The cottage sleeps six across three bedrooms:
• Downstairs double bedroom with a well appointed en-suite shower room • Upstairs king-size bedroom and twin bedroom sharing a Jack-and-Jill family bathroom with bath and overhead shower.
📍 LOCATION HIGHLIGHTS
RIGHT FROM THE DOOR • Riverside walks along the River Avon • Paddleboarding nearby on the River Avon (just a few minutes away) • Scenic hikes up Bredon Hill, accessed via village footpaths • Watch for the resident barn owl, often seen hunting over the surrounding fields at dawn and dusk • Enjoy birdwatching from the garden – binoculars are provided for guest use • The excellent village pub, The Swan Inn, with beer garden (around a 15- minute walk)
NEARBY TOWNS & CULTURE • The dramatic landscapes of the Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty • Performances at Malvern Theatres • Independent shops, cafés and events in Pershore, including the Number 8 Arts Centre • Upton Marina, river cruises, riverside cafes and renowned music fesivals in nearby Upton upon Severn • Cheltenham races, boutiques and dining in Cheltenham
CLASSIC DAY TRIPS • Exploring the wider Cotswolds • Theatres and historic sights in Stratford-upon-Avon (around 45 minutes’ drive) • Shows and festivals at the Three Counties Showground • Croome Park (National Trust) — less than a 15-minute drive away, with landscaped parkland, lakes, walking trails and seasonal events, perfect for relaxed afternoons, picnics and scenic strolls.
FOOD & WINE EXPERIENCES NEARBY Guests can enjoy cookery courses at Eckington Manor Cookery School & Restaurant or wine tastings at Deer Park Hall Vineyards — both within easy driving distance and perfect for relaxed countryside days out.
PRACTICALITIES
• Free off-road parking for up to 4 cars • Professionally cleaned between stays • Fresh linen and towels provided • Easy self check-in • Support available during your stay.
Guest access Remote self check-in gives flexibility for late arrivals, and 24/7 guest support is on hand should you need any assistance during your stay.
Other things to note • Families with young children are welcome. Please note the cottage has stairs and we do not currently provide stair gates. • One highchair and one travel cot are available on request (please request in advance). • Nappies and wet wipes must not be flushed. Please use the nappy bin provided. • The cottage is not suitable for dogs or other pets as the garden is not fully fenced. • Please ensure your booking reflects the correct number of guests staying, as required for safety and insurance purposes in line with Airbnb’s policies. • The garden and patio are ideal for outdoor dining and relaxed gatherings.
Add dates for prices
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Registered Guests Only
Only guests included on the reservation may stay overnight. Any additional guests must be approved in advance.
BBQ
Please use the BBQ safely and leave it clean after use for the next guests.
Respect The Property
Please treat the property, furnishings and grounds with care and leave in a clean and tidy condition on departure.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 441266
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the area
Pershore
Located in Pershore, this cottage is in a rural area and on a river. High Street and The Brewery Quarter are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Tiddesley Wood Nature Reserve and Malvern Hills. Travelling with kids? Consider Three Counties Showground, or check out an event or a game at Spiers and Hartwell Jubilee Stadium. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and waterskiing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and cycling.
Tiddesley Wood Nature Reserve - 11 min drive - 6.6 km
Pershore Leisure Centre - 11 min drive - 6.6 km
Number 8 Community Arts centre - 11 min drive - 6.6 km
Showborough House Sculpture Garden - 18 min drive - 9.7 km
Croome Park - 21 min drive - 10.1 km
Getting around
Pershore Station - 10 min drive
Birmingham Airport (BHX) - 67 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 25 min drive
McDonald's - 12 min drive
LEON - 25 min drive
Wild Bean Cafe - 25 min drive
Wild Bean Cafe - 25 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Peaceful Pigsty – Countryside Retreat near the Cotswolds & Cheltenham / Sleeps 6 pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Peaceful Pigsty – Countryside Retreat near the Cotswolds & Cheltenham / Sleeps 6?
As of 22 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Peaceful Pigsty – Countryside Retreat near the Cotswolds & Cheltenham / Sleeps 6 on 2 November 2026 start from NZ$616, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Peaceful Pigsty – Countryside Retreat near the Cotswolds & Cheltenham / Sleeps 6?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Peaceful Pigsty – Countryside Retreat near the Cotswolds & Cheltenham / Sleeps 6?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Peaceful Pigsty – Countryside Retreat near the Cotswolds & Cheltenham / Sleeps 6?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Peaceful Pigsty – Countryside Retreat near the Cotswolds & Cheltenham / Sleeps 6 located?
Located on a river, this family-friendly cottage is within 6 mi (10 km) of Tiddesley Wood Nature Reserve, Number 8 Community Arts centre, and Pershore Leisure Centre. Croome Park and Showborough House Sculpture Garden are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
in a fantastic location, with many walking trails and close by picturesque .
Verified traveller
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
So delighted you all enjoyed New Year, our first since the cottage has been extended.
I’m pleased you were cosy with the underfloor heating and the wood burner.
Thank you for leaving the cottage so nicely we look forward to your return visit .
Lovely week spent here. Well equipped cottage in good location. Lovely garden and views from the cottage. Not wheelchair accessible as advertised - steps up to gravel path, step down from dinning area to lounge, and bedroom & ensuite too small.
Fiona L.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
.A lot of thought has been put into enabling wheelchair users to stay in the cottage.
There is a separate access up the side of the garden.. This leads to the ramp and across the west patio to a double bifold doors .. No step and straight into open plan ground floor . The bedroom is off this space
The bedroom is small but visitors in wheelchairs have managed using a walker.
There is a standard double bed. Although the bedroom is small the shower is spacious. It has room for two people and a proper shower chair.
The aim of the extension has been to provide accommodation for people with mobility difficulties.
The TV. can be viewed from the higher level There is a step down because of the extension but the visitors with wheelchair have been able to negotiate this and have made return visits.
The Pigsty was the perfect location to get away and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the English countryside while being within distance of a fantastic pub. The house was lovely, clean, comfortable and well appointed and equipped. It had everything we needed. Everything went very smoothly. We would definitely stay again.
Claire S.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
It was great to have Claire and her family to stay. They had a great family reunion. Do hope they will come again They left the cottage beautifully .
The property is in a lovely quiet location not far from the cotswolds. There are some lovely walks close by and the walk to the top of Bredon Hill is definitely worth it. The property is really nicely done, warm and has everything you need to self-cater which isn't always the case. The bathrooms are clean, the shower is good and the beds are also comfortable so all in all a great relaxing place to stay. The host was very welcoming and easy to contact and we would come back and stay again
Stuart W.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
Thanks Stuart I’m so pleased you all enjoyed yourselves. It would be great to see you again. Thank you too for leaving the cottage so clean and tidy.
We had a wonderful stay in the Pig Sty. The owner was welcoming and informative and keen to ensure that we had a good time. My wife is in a wheelchair and the owner communicated with us and made accommodations such as facilitating a wheelchair accessible entry to the property so that, with support, my wife was able to enjoy the beautiful location. The property is situated in a great location to explore the Cotswolds and surrounding areas and the views from within and outside the property were stunning. We would happily recommend staying at The Pig Sty.
Samantha G.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Sharon K.
18 May 2016
Perfect house with beautiful view
The "Pig Sty" as it is called is anything but! The house is small and cozy but plenty of room for 4 people. Marian is very nice and helpful. The view from the patio is beautiful and the setting is bucolic. The house is in a small town near a larger village with all conveniences and is well situated for exploring the Cotswolds. The setting is a little slice of heaven! We highly recommend.
Sharon K.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
Many thanks for taking the time to send a review.. We loved having you all to stay and thank you for leaving the cottage so tidy.
Reviews are so important as I know prospective guests read them very carefully.
The most charming house, gardens, property and host!!
We could not have asked for a better house in the middle of what I think of as a kind of Eden! If you like nature, beauty and tranquility, this is the place for you. There is a unique feeling about this property, it's just a wonderful piece of land in the midst of true natural splendor. And the garden and views are just incredible. I've never stayed at a more beautiful place using VRBO.
This is the second time we have been here and we could not have had a better stay and we could not have had a better host than Marian. She's simply wonderful and goes out of her way to help with whatever one would need or want. I highly recommend the Pigsty for anyone wanting to stay someplace very special and unforgettable!
I can't say enough about the majestic and natural beauty of this property. It's so special! The views are phenomenal and the stillness and quiet are something to behold--you won't hear any man-made noises, anything you hear is from the natural world. It's beyond peaceful. It's restorative. It's healing.
I also can't say enough about Marian, the owner of the house. She goes ABOVE and BEYOND for her guests in a multitude of ways. She is beyond helpful and just a lovely woman.
I cannot recommend this house enough, it's a piece of heaven on Earth in Birlingham! It's perfection.
We stayed with Mirian throughout the Cheltenham Festival week whilst working on a tradestand. From the off Mirian was extremely welcoming even leaving the fire on for our arrival that was much needed after a 4 hour drive from Norfolk. All rooms were clean with all of the appliances required for a much needed getaway. Great location that if we had more time I would of loved to explore being set in a lovely location. Highly recommend.
Benjamin B.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
Thank you Ben for your kind review. I realise how hard you have all worked at the festival and I so appreciated how well you had left the cottage. I hope we’ll meet next time.
Marian
This is a truly lovely property. Very comfortable with fantastic views and local walks. We had a wonderfully restful stay. Marian the host was very welcoming and helpful. The garden is perfect for children. We would certainly return to this property and highly recommend it.
This cottage is a perfect escape from real life. It’s set amongst rolling countryside and fields from every vista and everything is perfectly designed to give you many perfect vantage points to enjoy the views.
Key features
Lovely modern style
Great kitchen, bathrooms and facilities
Fantastic parking
Great location to visit near-by attractions eg Croome, Hidcote, Lavender Farm, Malvern Hills
10 minute drive to local Asda in Pershore
Lovely big gardens to enjoy
We had 4 adults and 2 young children and there was plenty of space for us all.
Dee B.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
So pleased you all enjoyed your stay This birthday will be memorable!
Hope to see you all again.
So pleased you all enjoyed your stay and as you write in my Visitors Book the Swan was a great success. We are lucky to have such a super pub that you can walk to.
Do come again and thank you for leaving the cottage so clean and tidy.
Everything was just perfect - straight from dealing with the owner - to smooth check-in process
Cottage was immaculate & well stocked with everything needed — Extra care was taken in light of COVID-19 with respect to cleanliness & amenities left for us such as eggs, bread, etc
Such a bright lovely place to stay - everything newly renovated
Will be back to this location again! So pleased!
tiina t.
Stayed 15 nights in Oct 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
Thank you so much Tina for such a positive review.
Even though we haven’t met due to COVID I feel I know you. I look forward to the New Year when hopefully we will meet up.
We had a perfect holiday at the cottage. Marian has been very friendly and welcoming from the early days of our enquiry to the end of our stay. The cottage is great for families with kids, was very spacious and clean inside and the garden and outdoor areas were nicely set up and well kept. We would highly recommend it for a nice break away from the city.
Utku T.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
So pleased you all enjoyed your stay.
We are making improvements all the time.
The wild flower garden has been a successand the western patio has a large table for suppers watching the sun set.
This cottage exceeded our expectations in terms of the quality of fixtures, fittings and decor. The double-bed bedrooms are small but the open plan design of the rest of the cottage is light and spacious with glorious views out over the countryside. The whole cottage was spotlessly clean. The garden was an unexpected bonus, with lots of interesting flowers, and nooks and crannies that the two year old in our group loved. We took lots of long walks next to rivers and through local towns and villages, and didn’t need to use our car while we were staying here. We loved our stay
A fantastic location with lots of outside seating to admire the stunning views. Marian was extremely helpful and welcoming. The property has been modernised to a high standard. Perfect for a couple!
Daniel
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
Many thanks Dan for your kind comments.
So pleased you enjoyed the views. Outside seating is there to follow the sun!
I gather the pub has got fantastic new outside protected seating. Look forward to seeing you both again.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Beverley E.
21 November 2017
Lovely romantic hide away in a very peaceful setting
My husband and I needed to get away to recharge our batteries and this was the perfect setting to do just that. The property was so peaceful and we had a great stay. I can highly recommend this cottage.
Beverley E.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
Thank you Bev for such a kind review. I hope to see you both again when the cottage is extended and there is a new kitchen,bathroom etc
Marian
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Martin C.
10 October 2017
Lovely cottage and garden, stunning views.
We were three adults and a 1 year old baby and the cottage was ideal for us. It was cosy and well equipped with all we needed. Marian was very welcoming and kindly provided us with a welcome pack of bread, milk and eggs. The garden is large and well kept, a perfect place to relax and enjoy the views. We recommend 'The Swan' pub and restaurant for its great but inexpensive menu and it is only a 10 minute walk away. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Martin C.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2017
Archival
8/10 Good
Kai-Uwe S.
21 August 2017
Sehr schöne Unterkunft in ländlicher Umgebung
Wir haben uns sehr wohl gefühlt und hatten sehr schöne Ferien. Die Umgebung bietet viel Kultur, Natur und schöne Ausflugsziele. Die Unterkunft ist gemütlich eingerichtet, nichts fehlte. Fantastischer Garten und Terrasse mit tollem Blick über die Landschaft. Nettes kleines Dorf mit Gastwirtschaft und Kirche.
Kai-Uwe S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Lucy S.
25 July 2017
Beautiful cottage in a superb location. Garden and view is stunning.
A lovely homely cottage in a picturesque location. Our boys loved waking up to bunnnies on the lawn, and playing in the tree house at the end of the garden. Views are stunning across to Brendon, saw a deer in the lane, and a resident pheasant every evening in the garden. Very peaceful break.
Lucy S.
Stayed 30 nights in May 2017
Archival
8/10 Good
andy w.
9 June 2017
So peaceful. Great views. Comfortable bed. Great location.
Such a great location, with a great choice of walks directly from the house. The pub (The Swan) only ten minutes walk away with good choice of food.
Recommend Revills Farm Shop. Lovely Walled garden at Kemerton and a good place to stop to walk up Bredon Hill.
Really enjoyed our stay in this lovely part of England. Marian was very helpful and welcoming.
andy w.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2017
Archival
8/10 Good
Colleen C.
5 June 2017
Pig Sty a treat!
So enjoyed meeting Marian and staying in her cottage! Such a lovely garden! Great views and setting. The home was clean and as advertised. Can't miss with a stay here.
Colleen C.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 22 June 2023
Hi Colleen
Thank you so much for your review So pleased you both enjoyed yourselves . I hope your stay in London went well
All the best
Marian
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Beatrice M.
14 April 2017
A little oasis
We had such a lovely stay. The cottage is charming and equiped with all necessary items. Everything was very clean and there is a really cosy vibe to the whole property. We felt at home and Marian made sure we had everything we needed. There were even bread, milk and eggs waiting for our arrival. The garden is amazing and the perfect place to relax, eat and enjoy the views. Our children loved running around and exploring; indoors they were happy to find some toys and lego to play with. The pub/restaurant is a short, lovely walk away and serves great food. Overall a wonderful little holiday!
Beatrice M.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2017
About the host
Hosted by Marian Kirkland
Charles and I converted the pigsty 40 years ago and I have been running an enjoyable business ever since.
We have loved meeting all our visitors.There was no bathroom upstairs and there was need for upgrading.
There has been a demand for a ground floor bedroom and shower room. Upstairs the bathroom is a little different as it combines with a dressing room.. But very relaxing to lie in the bath and look out of the dormer window. Although the bedrooms are small there is plenty of cupboard space. The third bedroom is at the gable end. It is very versatile There are two single beds enjoying the fabulous view to BredonHill. There are also two small chairs which convert into children’s beds. Shaped electric blinds ensure that the room is blacked out I’ ve always enjoyed helping guests Many have travelled from all over the world. I like to welcome guests but if this is not possible there is a key in the wall.
Why they chose this property
The location is second to none. The cottage offers peace and privacy. The village only road ensures only local traffic. Nevertheless Birlingham is close to M5/M50 making most areas in the country accessible. There is no pollution of any kind.
What makes this property unique
A genuine conversion. The views The Garden Private car- park LOCATION Peaceful Walk to Pub Wonderful walks Bird Sanctuary River Avon and nearby lock