The Pigsty Cottage

Rural Shropshire on the Welsh border, close to Jones' Rough Nature Reserve, is where The Pigsty Cottage sits. This single-bedroom property works as a private base for two, with a double bed, shower room and an open-plan living space that includes a kitchen, dining area and sitting room. An electric stove provides warmth; there's a TV and DVD player for evenings. The essentials – heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and wifi – are all covered, and one car can park on site.

The cottage has an enclosed garden with patio and barbecue, plus secure bike storage. One pet stays free. The kitchen has an electric cooker, microwave and washer-dryer, so self-catering is straightforward. There is a pond on the grounds and steps within the garden. Smoking is not permitted. This is the kind of place suited to a couple or two friends wanting somewhere quiet to base themselves, whether walking in the hills or exploring the border country. Arrive after 4pm and depart by 10am.