The Forge at Smithy Cottage

4.9★

2 Guests
1 Bedroom
1 Bathroom
Pets No
Show on map

Features

Off road parking
Ground floor accommodation
Ground floor bedroom
Garden / Patio
Highchair available
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

39 Customer Review(s)

Anais
October 2024

“Fantastic property which has been done to great standards and with attention to detail.”

The amenities were modern, everything was clean and lovely. We could tell that Mark and Sue have put a lot of care and thoughts on the cottage! Our time at The Forge was amazing and we loved discovering the area.

The amenities were modern, everything was clean and lovely. We could tell that Mark and Sue have put a lot of care and thoughts on the cottage! Our time at The Forge was amazing and we loved discovering the area.

- Anais, October 2024
Diane October 2024

“Second time of staying here, so goes to show it's a lovely place to stay.”

Very well equipped with lots to do in the area, and lovely helpful, friendly hosts. Thank you Sue and Mark, lovely meeting you. Diane and Loz

- Diane, October 2024

nothing makes it more worthwhile than having happy adventurous guests. It was great to see you two again. Thank you Property Owner
Irene September 2024

“This beautiful and different accommodation is really special and tastefully restored and decorated in character.”

With the building With all mod cons the hosts sue and mark have added lots of extras so all you need is your personal stuff they live at top of garden and are friendly and knowledgeable of the area.there are nice pubs a short ride out.and its very assessable to most parts of the cotswolds . Its in a peaceful area so very relaxing .and cosy would recconmend it . Irene

- Irene, September 2024

Thank you Irene, we loved your feedback and always apreciate knowing we have provided a great place for both the adventurous and those who just want to relax. Property Owner
Kevin September 2024

“The cottage is charming and cozy.”

Not only did it meet our expectations it surpassed them. The cottage is quiet and secluded but locate close enough to see many attractions. The property owners very helpful and wonderful to spend time with. They will provide any information you may need as well the most amazing hospitality. They are there if you need them and you will not see them if you don’t

- Kevin, September 2024

great to know you had a great time, we wish you a safe journey back to USA. Property Owner
Susie August 2024

“Mark and Sue were wonderful hosts for our first time in the Cotswolds.”

The Forge has been refurbished to such a high standard, they should be very proud. Its location is lovely and peaceful but still within reach of a local shop and bus route. They even open up their garden for you to sit in and while away the day. Anything you need to know they are happy to share information on the local area. Thank you

- Susie, August 2024
Neil August 2024

“Outstanding Cottage worthy of its top rating.”

The Smithy has everything you need to make your visit memorable. Thoughtful kind hosts , location , internal fixtures and fittings an all round winner. Easy access to all the Cotwolds has on offer. Mike and Sue the owners on hand to ensure your holiday is one to treasure we will return in the future many thanks.

- Neil, August 2024

We are so pleased you had a great week. Thank you for the excellent review, always good to know our guests have had plenty to see and a restful stay in the Forge. It will be lovely to see you again. Property Owner
Chris June 2024

“A lovely cottage, full of character and comfy.”

Very helpful owners, thank you.

- Chris, June 2024

Thank you for your lovely feedback. We are so pleased you enjoyed your stay and look forward to welcoming you back again soon. Best Wishes Manor Cottages Property Owner
Raymond June 2024

“What a great little find for our week stay.”

We are from Qld. Australia making our way around Englang. The area is so quiet and full of charm and history and the location was perfect for our daily sightseeing of surrounding areas. Mark and Sue are wonderful friendly hosts and the cottage was very clean and spacious for our needs as well as being equipped with everything you could possibly need and more. The cottage has been beautifully renovated while keeping it's historic rustic charm. We would highly recommend a stay at The Forge at Smithy Cottage. Ray & Julie

- Raymond, June 2024

Delighted you enjoyed your stay and like many Australians adventurers you went out to find some of the many Gems we have in this area. We wish you safe travels on you onward journey. Property Owner
Alan June 2024

“The cottage is an ideal location for many of the sights in the surrounding areas.”

The cottage is very comfortable to stay in for two people. Mark and Sue have provided everything visitors could want. Mark was very helpful in recommending places to visit.

- Alan, June 2024

Thank you for this lovely review. We're so glad that you found the cottage to be comfortable and loved the location too. We hope to welcome you again. Best wishes Manor Cottages Property Owner
Diane May 2024

“A lovely very well equipped cottage with lots of little extras available to use in the kitchen.”

A lovely couple who own it, who were very welcoming and friendly. The area is excellent for lots of interesting places to visit. Would definitely stay here again in the future. Thank you Sue and Mark

- Diane, May 2024

Thank you for your lovely review. We're delighted you enjoyed your stay and found the owners to be so welcoming and friendly. We look forward to welcoming you again in the future. Best wishes Manor Cottages Property Owner
Peter April 2024

“A warm, comfortable & very well.”

Equiped cottage. Mark & Sue are excellemt hosts. Would be happy to visit again.

- Peter, April 2024

Thank you for your kind words. We would love to welcome you again. Best wishes Manor Cottages Property Owner
Judith February 2024

“Owners friendly and welcoming.”

A lot of thought had obviously gone into equipping the cottage to a high standard. Well placed to tour the local area and into the Cotswolds.

- Judith, February 2024

Thank you for sharing your feedback. The owners will be delighted that their hard work is well appreciated and that you had a comfortable stay. We hope we can welcome you back again. Best wishes Manor Cottages Property Owner
Maureen November 2023

“Comfortable and very well equipped - it was cold and wet weather but we went out every day - coming back to a warm cottage.”

We used to live in Milcombe in the early 60's it was nice to revisit and meet up with our friends. Mark and Sue were very friendly and it was nice to meet them.

- Maureen, November 2023

Thank you for your feedback with regards to your stay at The Forge at Smithy Cottage. It's amazing to hear you enjoyed your your stay at the cottage and we hope you and your friends will return in the future for another gathering. Kind regards Manor Cottages. Property Owner
Derek November 2023

“Small but beautifully clean and well presented.”

Ideal for a short break for two.

- Derek, November 2023

Thank you for your kind review. We're so glad you enjoyed your short break and hope we can welcome you again. Best wishes Manor Cottages Property Owner
Susan September 2023

“The cottage was perfect for two on a quiet getaway break.”

The owners were really helpful and friendly with lots of useful ideas on what to do and see.

- Susan, September 2023
Sallie September 2023

“The property was immaculate and very welcoming.”

Our hosts Sue and Mark have made it feel like home from home with a beautifully equipped kitchen to the very comfortable bed. We found the history of the Forge fascinating and would highly recommend it.

- Sallie, September 2023

Thank you, we love what we do and always pleased to help whenever asked. We hope you had a swift journey home. Plenty of interesting history in England and around this area we have it by the bucket full. Property Owner
Frank September 2023

“We really enjoyed our stay and would recommend the forge as a great place to stay”

- Frank, September 2023
Esther August 2023

“We zijn verliefd geworden op de cotswold.”

Wat een heerlijke omgeving. Zoals Mark zei, lekker gaan verdwalen. Het wandelpad naar Bloxham is leuk, en ook burford, bibury en bourthon on the water. De Cottage is heerlijk! Goed bed, fijne douche en keuken. Schoon, compleet en mooi. We hebben het geweldig gehad. Dank voor de gastvrijheid!

- Esther, August 2023
Michael August 2023

“Mark and Sue were extremely nice people and made our stay one to remember.”

The cottage is very comfortable, the bed is also really comfortable, all the accessories were there and it's very clean, plus a ride and a drive of the Austin 10 Marks car. The cottage is in a perfect location central to all the places we visited. We highly recommend this property for it's cleanliness, location and comfortability. We will recommend to our friends and will be back.

- Michael, August 2023

Great fun to have you stay at the Forge. Pleased you found everything and searched out some great places to see. Always a bonus to us if our guests want a chat or advice. Look forward to see you two again. Property Owner
Christophe August 2023

“We have liked our stay at the Forge very much.”

The space, equipment and the location are perfect for visiting the countryside around. Sue and Mark are very kind and helpful hosts. Nous avons beaucoup apprécié notre séjour à The Forge. L'espace, l'équipement et la situation sont parfaits pour rayonner dans la campagne environnante. Sue et Mark sont des hôtes très gentils et prévenants.

- Christophe, August 2023

Thank you, we are so pleased you enjoyed your stay. Your enthusiasm for the art and architecture was clear each time we met. Always pleased to give advice and quick half in a local pub in the 1938 austin when possible. Property Owner
Martin June 2023

“We had a wonderful week staying in this well appointed and extremely clean cottage.”

The owners, Mark and Sue were very welcoming and couldn't do enough to make our stay easy, they were knowledgeable of the area and were very helpful. I would happily recommend The Forge at Smithy Cottage. Lots of local places to dine and visit, we especially enjoyed a lovely meal at the Joiners Arms in Bloxham and found Chipping Norton absolutely delightful, the serving staff at every pub and eatery we visited were so welcoming and inviting. Overall we give five stars to every aspect of our holiday in Milcombe.

- Martin, June 2023

Great to know you enjoyed your adventures. And hope you two have many more adventures and discoveries. So much to be found in this area of England. We love having you here. Property Owner
Lynda May 2023

“What a gem!”

A very, very comfortable stay with everything we needed and more for our Cotswold explorations. Mark and Sue are lovely hosts and have gone to great effort to ensure the perfect stay. The Forge is spotlessly clean, has a comfortable bed with1st class linens and a fully equipped kitchen, and importantly everything in the kitchen works (I appreciated sharp knives). I would not hesitate to recommend The Forge for your next stay, I will be telling all our Aussie travelling friends.

- Lynda, May 2023

Thank you for your fantastic feedback. We are so pleased to hear that you enjoyed your stay and hope to welcome your friends! Best wishes, Manor Cottages Property Owner
Marc April 2023

“Very well appointed property.”

Has everything you need for a mini break. Host extremely helpful and welcoming. Clean, tidy, and comfortable. Would recommend and would definitely stay again.

- Marc, April 2023

Thank you for providing us with such lovely feedback on your stay. It's great to hear that you enjoyed your break and that you would stay with us again! Best wishes, Manor Cottages. Property Owner
Peter October 2022

“An amazingly stunning property.”

very comfortable and well equipped with everything anybody could possibly need. The hosts, Mark and Sue, were very welcoming and happy to help at any time. Our stay at Forge Cottage was most enjoyable and highly recommended. Pete and Carol Fleming October 2022

- Peter, October 2022

Thank you for your wonderful feedback. We are so glad that you had a comfortable stay and were well looked after. We hope to welcome you back again. Best wishes Manor Cottages Property Owner
Chris September 2022

“Lovely hosts.”

Wonderful accommodation. Sofa was a little hard after a while. Nothing more to say.

- Chris, September 2022

Thank you for your feedback, it's wonderful to hear you had a lovely time and we hope to welcome you back in the future. Kind regards Manor Cottages Property Owner
Michael August 2022

“Had a great stay and enjoyed the quiet area.”

Property had everything you need (a iron and ironing board would be useful) if you use the washing machine as we did. Kitchen is a great size and had a plentiful supply of herbs in the cupboards. Open plan living / bedroom works well and great to see the very old beams. We had great weather and a slight shame there is no private outdoor space to enjoy the peace and quiet. We were offered to use the owners swing seat, but we would have felt awkward in their private garden, but thanks for the offer. There is a shop a a pub within 5/10 min walk, the pub food was great. Great value for money, would highly recommend.

- Michael, August 2022

Thank you for providing this feedback and we're delighted you enjoyed your stay and the location too. We will pass on your comment regarding the iron and ironing board to the owners and hope the lack of private outdoor space didn't impact on your stay. We would love to welcome you again. Manor Cottages Property Owner
Ann July 2022

“A fantastic week spent at The Forge, with stunning weather and amazing hosts who went out of their way to make our stay so enjoyable.”

A comprehensive range of equipment if you are cooking for yourselves. We spent a number of evenings with Mark and Sue in their garden even giving up their swing chair for our comfort. Highlight of the week was the trip to a local pub in the Austin10. Looking forward to returning in the future. Terry and Ann.

- Ann, July 2022

Thank you for your excellent review. We are so pleased that you had such an enjoyable and memorable stay. We look forward to welcoming you back again in the future. Property Owner
Julie June 2022

“We had a wonderful stay in the lovely forge, Mark and Sue made us feel very welcome and were extremely helpful and friendly, couldn't of asked for better hosts.”

The forge had everything you could possibly imagine you needed and probably more. The instructions and information were clear and plentiful. The kitchen had all the utensils and equipment you could need and even provided spices & herbs if fancied cooking. It was a great base to visit the Cotswold area and is located in a quiet village not far from a good road to Banbury and Chipping Norton.

- Julie, June 2022

Thank you for your kind review. Fabulous to hear you had a lovely stay, enjoyed the cottage and the Cotswolds. Property Owner
Richard March 2022

“We had a most enjoyable stay in a comfortable and well appointed cotttage, Mark and Sue, our hosts, could not have done more to make us feel welcome.”

They also provided lots of information on the local amenities, which included a useful village shop and an inn serving excellent food less than five minutes walk away. The cottage is well situated for the Cotswolds and there are several National Trust properties within easy reach.

- Richard, March 2022

Thank you Richard for your review. If you two are ever this way again and my 1938 Austin 10 is running, we will drive off for an adventure on the local lanes. Property Owner
Sue November 2021

“Cottage was ideal for a cosy winter's break - very comfortably furnished and Milcombe is a good base for walks and visits out and very handy for Compton Verney, Upton House etc.”

We appreciated the well equipped kitchen and very comfortable bed.

- Sue, November 2021

Thank you for providing us with your feedback. We are so glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay and would love to welcome you back any time in the future. Property Owner
P November 2021

“A lovely property in a nice village setting, just right for a couple.”

Excellent information provided by the owners about the facilities and the local area.

- P, November 2021

Thank you for your feedback. We are so glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay and would love to welcome you back any time in the future. Property Owner
Alex November 2021

“The Forge was an amazing place to stay at.”

It looks exactly like the pictures and was a great destination for a weekend away. I couldn’t ask for more from somewhere to stay

- Alex, November 2021

Thank you for your feedback. We are so glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay and would love to welcome you back any time in the future. Property Owner
Susan October 2021

“A lovely cottage beautifully presented and Mark and Sue were more than helpful , ...”

A lovely cottage beautifully presented and Mark and Sue were more than helpful , our only issue was the Tv which we discussed with Mark I hope he can resolve it soon to make the cottage perfect

- Susan, October 2021

Thank you for your feedback! Property Owner
Stephen October 2021

“Fabulous stay.”

Thanks for the warm welcome and all the help with places to visit. Everything we could have wanted in The Forge. Exactly what we wanted after a year of lockdown. Thank you. Lyn & Steve

- Stephen, October 2021
David October 2021

“The Forge is a charming and comfortable property located in the quiet village of Milcombe about 5 minutes drive from Banbury.”

We found it ideally located for walking and exploring the local countryside as well as visit’s to Cotswold villages such as Hook Norton, Chipping Norton, Stow-on-the Wold and Bourton-on-the Water. We found it spotlessly clean and very well equipped, ideal for those like us who wanted mainly to self cater. The owners Mark and Sue were welcoming and friendly and are close at hand should there have been any problems, which there weren’t. We recommend this property without hesitation. Dave and Christine Rushworth

- David, October 2021
Simon September 2021

“We are drawn to historic cottages and this sympathetic restoration of the old forge did not disappoint.”

The hosts, Mark & Sue, made sure we had everything we needed and were close on hand if we had any issues (which we didn't). The local pub was excellent with very friendly, courteous staff and quality food. A very comfortable home from home for two people.

- Simon, September 2021
John September 2021

“Very helpful and friendly couple.”

Made us feel at home.

- John, September 2021
Susan September 2021

“We are an elderly couple who like to go out and about and when we return have a meal and relax watching live television, this was not possible as the TVs is connected via the internet and all we could get was catch up, this was so annoying we left on the Monday we expressed our feelings to the owner, we feel we should have been informed of this.”

I will definitely not recommend this property to anyone.

- Susan, September 2021

We are sorry you were not able to watch 'live' pre-recorded television 'soaps' as it was broadcast whilst on holiday. As soon as we were made aware of your problem we enabled you to watch 'neighbours' moments after it had started to be broadcast. Later you're need to watch 'Emmerdale' which would have required you to wait 60 seconds following its broadcast. I would like to note that you did in fact watch the programs you wanted when you wanted using our internet to your own device, we apologise for that inconvenience, however all other aspects of your stay, facilities and the Cottage itself received your positive recommendation. Property Owner
Adrian August 2021

“A very comfortable cottage in a quiet Village setting but lots of walks nearby and places to visit.”

Mark and Sue were very helpful from the start, nothing was too much trouble for them. Lots of knowledge of the local area with some interesting tales to tell. The cottage is very well equipped for self catering however there is a village pub should you wish to eat out. Very clean, well prepared and it was nice to have milk, tea and coffee so we could have a drink when we arrived. The bed was warm and comfortable and the shower was powerful with plenty of hot water. We especially enjoyed our evenings in the garden on the swing seat with a candle and glass of wine, so peaceful and relaxing. It was like visiting friends and we would certainly recommend the Forge at Smithy cottage for your staycation.

- Adrian, August 2021

Thank you for taking the time to leave a feedback, we are thrilled you enjoyed your stay and made good use of the facilities available inside & out, looking forward to welcoming you again soon Property Owner

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Summary

Studio-style open-plan living space with king-size bed, dining area and sitting area
Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC
Kitchen
Oil central heating with under-floor heating in open-plan living space
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washer/dryer, Smart TV, WiFi and a selection of books
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Highchair available on request
Off-road parking for 1 car
Rear patio garden with seating
Sorry, no pets and no smoking
Shop 0.2 miles, pub 0.2 miles

The property

This charming, historic detached single storey dwelling is residing in Milcombe, Oxfordshire.

Once a blacksmith's workshop, the property has been finished to a high standard and showcases rustic original features, whilst being a superb dwelling for a couple looking to escape to the Cotswolds.

A private off-road parking space awaits you on the gravel drive, before you enjoy an alfresco coffee on the bench outside.

Wooden beams and exposed stonework are perfectly showcased within the open-plan living space, where you can rest those post-walk soles while relaxing in front of the smart TV with a well-earned beer or glass of wine.

Adjoining the space is the fabulously equipped, modern kitchen, complete with every appliance imaginable to ensure that your time here is as relaxing and enjoyable as it can be; enjoy the dishes you can create at the dining table for two.

Common spices and oils are supplied, as are the basic starter essentials, so you can enjoy a cuppa on arrival.

The king size bed is just a few short steps away and is partly partitioned from the rest of the room by the clever use of open shelving.

The cottage also benefits from a contemporary shower room, where you can soak away the strenuous day of exploring.

If cooking isn't your thing then don't worry, as the highly regarded village pub, The Horse and Groom, with its extensive bar menu, is found just a few hundred yards away.

If you want to get out and explore the area, travel a short distance to the quaint village of Bloxham and explore the fascinating Bloxham Village Museum, play a game of eighteen holes at Hillside Farm Golf Range, or embark on the Bloxham Circular Walk amongst others.

The market town of Banbury is less than six miles away, home to a good selection of shops, convenience stores and pubs, as well as a museum & gallery, arts centre and pretty park.

Close by, the fortified manor house of Broughton Castle is surrounded by parkland and boasts pristine gardens that are well-worth exploring.

Further afield, the market town of Chipping Norton provides a gateway into the Cotswolds AONB, alongside a popular weekly market, a fabulous theatre, as well as cafés and welcoming pubs serving food and real ales.

Make the most of the Cotswolds and explore more of its picturesque villages, many built from Cotswold or honey-coloured Horton stone, before checking out the thriving city of Oxford and the popular Bicester Shopping Outlet.

The Forge at Smithy Cottage provides endless opportunities to explore the magnificent Cotswolds with your loved one.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £100.

View on map

About the location

MILCOMBE

Bloxham 1.6 miles; Banbury 5 miles.

Set amongst the rural landscapes of Oxford is the peaceful village of Milcombe, a pretty settlement that boasts honey-coloured ironstone buildings and is sure to be a haven for those looking to escape from it all. Milcombe is served by a convenience store, a historic church and the 17th century Horse & Groom Inn, a great spot that provides a welcoming atmosphere and tasty dishes! Visitors looking for nearby attractions should visit the Rye Hill and Tadmarton Heath golf clubs for a game of putty. Nature lovers will benefit from taking a furry friend for a stroll around the close-by Oaklands Secure Dog Walking route, before enjoying an afternoon of fishing in the tranquil Fernhill Farm's waters. The village of Bloxham isn't far and history fans can enjoy wandering through the Bloxham Village Museum, before exploring the breathtaking grounds of Broughton Castle. The village is additionally within easy reach of the historic market town of Banbury and the Cotswolds AONB, allowing visitors to relish what the wider area has to offer, before coming back to relax in a quaint location.

Please Note; this cottage does not have any allocated private outside space, but you are welcome to enjoy your morning coffee, or an evening glass of wine in the owners' garden.
Please Note: the cottage requires a Good House-Keeping Bond of £100.00.
Please Note: Due to its size the cottage is not suitable for children. However, babes in arms only are welcome.
Please Note: TV is accessed via 'catch up' and not all channels can be watched 'live'.

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Fantastic property which has been done to great standards and with attention to detail.”

“Second time of staying here, so goes to show it's a lovely place to stay.”

“This beautiful and different accommodation is really special and tastefully restored and decorated in character.”

“The cottage is charming and cozy.”

“Mark and Sue were wonderful hosts for our first time in the Cotswolds.”

“Outstanding Cottage worthy of its top rating.”

“A lovely cottage, full of character and comfy.”

“What a great little find for our week stay.”

“The cottage is an ideal location for many of the sights in the surrounding areas.”

“A lovely very well equipped cottage with lots of little extras available to use in the kitchen.”

“A warm, comfortable & very well.”

“Owners friendly and welcoming.”

“Comfortable and very well equipped - it was cold and wet weather but we went out every day - coming back to a warm cottage.”

“Small but beautifully clean and well presented.”

“The cottage was perfect for two on a quiet getaway break.”

“The property was immaculate and very welcoming.”

“We really enjoyed our stay and would recommend the forge as a great place to stay”

“We zijn verliefd geworden op de cotswold.”

“Mark and Sue were extremely nice people and made our stay one to remember.”

“We have liked our stay at the Forge very much.”

“We had a wonderful week staying in this well appointed and extremely clean cottage.”

“What a gem!”

“Very well appointed property.”

“An amazingly stunning property.”

“Lovely hosts.”

“Had a great stay and enjoyed the quiet area.”

“A fantastic week spent at The Forge, with stunning weather and amazing hosts who went out of their way to make our stay so enjoyable.”

“We had a wonderful stay in the lovely forge, Mark and Sue made us feel very welcome and were extremely helpful and friendly, couldn't of asked for better hosts.”

“We had a most enjoyable stay in a comfortable and well appointed cotttage, Mark and Sue, our hosts, could not have done more to make us feel welcome.”

“Cottage was ideal for a cosy winter's break - very comfortably furnished and Milcombe is a good base for walks and visits out and very handy for Compton Verney, Upton House etc.”

“A lovely property in a nice village setting, just right for a couple.”

“The Forge was an amazing place to stay at.”

“A lovely cottage beautifully presented and Mark and Sue were more than helpful , ...”

“Fabulous stay.”

“The Forge is a charming and comfortable property located in the quiet village of Milcombe about 5 minutes drive from Banbury.”

“We are drawn to historic cottages and this sympathetic restoration of the old forge did not disappoint.”

“Very helpful and friendly couple.”

“A very comfortable cottage in a quiet Village setting but lots of walks nearby and places to visit.”

Summary

The property

View on map

About the location

MILCOMBE