The 99 Yew Trees in Gloucester, Gloucestershire

The 99 Yew Trees Self-Catering

The honey-coloured stone buildings, wisteria-adorned doorways and misty green hills of pretty Painswick couldn't get more Hollywood movie set if it tried. In fact, this town is so disarmingly attractive that it's known as the Queen of the Cotswolds. Well, adjust your crown because we've got a very princely stay right here for you. This 16th-century cottage is in the heart of the town, opposite the legendary 99 Yew Trees Church with its magnificent yew trees – can you take a wild guess how many?

Once inside you'll feel like a modern-day Henry VII thanks to exposed stonework, regal purple sofas, aged wooden beams and hefty wooden beds. In the second living room you'll find an honesty bar where your host has thoughtfully provided a selection of spirits – all donations made by you for the drinks you make are given to Emmaus, a local homelessness charity.

Outside you'll find the very private, very sunny courtyard garden is a delight, with lush, mature trees and immaculately manicured shrubs creating that Hampton Court Palace garden feel - albeit on a much smaller scale. It's a right royal escape.

Home truths:
*It is possible to get the train to Stroud or a taxi, but we highly recommend having a car if you want to explore further afield than Painswick
*The home has free on-street parking, first come first served, and there is a free car park in the village a few minutes walk away
*There is additional parking near the stocks on St Mary's Street
*The mobile phone signal can be patchy, but luckily there's strong Wi-Fi here so connect as soon as you arrive
*You will need to bring your own mixers for the honesty bar