The Studio
Upper Slaughter, Gloucestershire, The Cotswolds, UK
A time-travelling home tends to have a certain kind of oomph. Maybe it has cooing dovecotes, an ancient river, or stacks of storied stone that speak to its dairy days. Or perhaps it has Crittall walls, mid-century loungers, and punchy art installations that turn the living space into a loft. In the beating heart of Upper Slaughter, one of England’s “doubly-thankful” villages, The Studio brings creative energy to an unsuspecting pocket of the Cotswolds.
Introduction
It could be the real-life Repair Shop, every inch of it restored, retained, repointed, and resurrected. And yet, an elevation happened here that took this barn in the Cotswolds from humble cream-and-cheese beginnings to something that wouldn’t be out of place amidst the warehouses of artsy Tribeca. As much a lived-in exhibition as a couples’ residence, as much an upholding of heritage as the making of an honest-to-goodness personal space, The Studio put the Grade II rubric on a pedestal, then anointed it in pink cement tiles, poured concrete floors, and dark mustard cabinetry. You might expect Basquiat to be reclining in the Eames chair, or perhaps a certain Q.
Inside
Good design is a subtle phenomenon; using all sorts of genius, yet ensuring we don’t think much about those efforts at all. Here, the focal point is not the authenticated Eero Saarinen tulip table or the one-of-a-kind Fornasetti armoire, not the giant Stovax woodburner or the “stick em up” art from Frieze London. At The Studio, soul is the pearl in the oyster. An ode to the owner’s father — who came from the Highlands, tools in tow, to handpick and carve each beam and truss — the barn is the encore of a craftsman who introduced substance to style. Here, industrialism brings modernity to a heritage space; think of it as "museum meets Manhattan".
Outside
In one of the twin villages of Slaughter (from the Old English slohtre, meaning mudland), The Studio is one of just fifty homes in England’s fairest hamlet. Close to the market town of Stow-on-the-Wold — with its antiques stores, fine art galleries, and old inns — yet far enough from the bustle to hear the nuthatches. Its private walled yard, flanked by a slow-flowing river and outfitted with a pizza oven, brings Tuscan zhuzh to the county; a place for tearing mozzarella and swirling black-fruit Barolos. And just a mooch away, over an ancient footbridge and past a red telephone box, you'll find a revered eatery; not bad for a place where time stood still.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 2 guests from £1,650 per week
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThere is one bedroom with a king-size bed and en suite with walk-in rainfall shower and WC.
- FeaturesPizza oven and fire pits
- PetsSorry, no pets
- Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabes-in-arms twelve months and under are very welcome.
- PracticalitiesThere is parking for one car on the gravel next to the barn. The well-equipped kitchen has an oven, induction hob, dishwasher, and under-counter fridge and freezer, and there is underfloor heating throughout. Please note that there is one low original beam between the kitchen and dining area, so do mind your head. The property offers a private and secluded garden with a covered outdoor dining table. Please note guests will need to bring their own cot and high chair.
- Homestay includesA luxury welcome hamper with baked goods and little dailies sourced from Daylesford Organic, iPad, Wi-Fi internet, Apple Smart TV with Netflix and Amazon Prime, Bang & Olufsen speaker system, Miele bean-to-cup coffee machine, charcoal Weber barbecue, books and board games, luxury linens, and logs and kindling to get you started...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- RetreatsFrom foraging weekenders to crash courses in cold-water therapy, our bespoke retreats bridge the gap between luxury and back-to-nature philosophies. Create a hand-crafted stay that puts connectivity at the fore.
- Eco-friendly11kw EV charger
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Upper Slaughter
Burrowed in a sleepy Cotswolds valley, Upper Slaughter is oft-voted the prettiest village in England for a reason. Expect every quintessential biscuit tin scene, but without a hint of cliché; think local community, oodles of soul, and perhaps a sighting from the silver screen.
Getting there
- On the Map This luxury barn is located in Upper Slaughter near Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds, ideally located for visiting Bibury and Stow-on-the-Wold.
- By Car The Studio is thirty minutes from Cheltenham and Cirencester, one hour from Oxford, and two-and-a-half hours from London by car.
- By Train Kingham is twenty minutes away by car. There are regular trains from London Paddington with GWR with a journey time of under one-and-a-half hours.
- By Air Gloucestershire Airport is one hour away, whilst Birmingham, Bristol, and London Heathrow Airports are each less than two hours away by car. There are private airstrips and helipads nearby.
From the owner
“Our story in the village started in 2008, when we fell in love with both the pristine beauty and local community of Upper Slaughter; The Studio is our biggest labour of love, restored with warmth and integrity.”
The barn was originally built in the 18th century to support the dairy farm, which was operational until the late 80s. Its previous owners began renovations of the main farmhouse and grounds, but The Studio lay largely untouched.
After we acquired Lower Farmhouse, we set about extensive and sensitive renovations, with the barn being the final project. Our brief was to retain its history and design integrity, whilst making it a warm, cosy, and inviting space.
We took inspiration from local barns and places we love like The Newt and Soho Farmhouse, styling it with classic Cotswolds materials, but mixing in statement contemporary art and iconic pieces like the Vitra Eames Lounge Chair and Knoll Saarinen table. The shower room is a spa haven, with cocooning Bert & May tiles and underfloor heating that helps ease you into the day.
There are walks from the door, and quintessential market towns all around. The area is a magnet for foodies; for those who like to cook, there are delis, bakeries, and one-stop farm shops like Daylesford. Those who prefer swilling and chatting to chopping and stirring will find lively pubs and Michelin-starred restaurants just minutes away.
Lee
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Upper Slaughter with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
The Fox at Oddington
With a central village setting and organic food from the Daylesford estate, it has open fires, a choice of places to eat and drink, and a private garden; call it a Cotswolds institution.
To See
Broadway Tower, Worcestershire
The brainchild of the great 18th Century landscape gardener Capability Brown, Broadway Tower is an iconic landmark and the Cotswolds´ official highest castle.
To Do
Daylesford Organic Farm
Visit the farm, garden, and shop before settling down for a feast in the Trough Café. For those who wish to delve a little deeper, spend an afternoon learning new skills on a cookery course.
To See
Arlington Row, Bibury
Set in the parish of Bibury, Arlington Row has its roots in the 14th-century; once a wool store, then a row of weavers houses, and today one of the most photographed National Trust properties.
Guest Testimonials
Our stay at The Studio was an absolute delight. The combination of the stunning location, the impeccable quality of the unit, and the extraordinary hospitality of the owners made for an experience that we will cherish for years to come. If you’re seeking a memorable getaway in the Cotswolds, The Studio is an absolute must-visit. We can’t wait to return and experience the magic all over again.
The facilities at The Studio are second to none. From the high-speed Wi-Fi to the luxurious bathroom amenities, every aspect of our stay was designed for maximum comfort and convenience. The outdoor space is a highlight, featuring a beautifully landscaped garden and a fantastic pizza oven, perfect for enjoying homemade pizzas under the stars. It’s clear that Lee and James have put a great deal of thought into creating a space that caters to every possible need.
The location of The Studio is simply unbeatable. Surrounded by rolling hills and serene landscapes, it offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Despite its tranquil setting, it is conveniently situated near charming villages, local pubs, and scenic walking trails, making it the perfect base for exploring the Cotswolds. Each morning, we enjoyed our coffee on the private patio, soaking in the breathtaking views and the soothing sounds of nature.
Lee and James are the epitome of gracious hosts. Their genuine care for their guests is palpable, and they went above and beyond to ensure our stay was nothing short of perfect. Whether it was providing local recommendations, arranging reservations, or simply checking in to see if we needed anything, their dedication to excellence was unwavering. It’s clear that they take great pride in their work, and their passion for hospitality shines through in every interaction.
The Studio itself is a masterpiece of comfort and style. Immaculately maintained, the unit boasts a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. The cozy interiors are tastefully decorated, offering a welcoming atmosphere that immediately made us feel at home. The attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the plush bedding to the well-equipped kitchenette, ensuring that every need is met with thoughtful consideration.
Unique extras
From private chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and adrenalin-fuelled retreats, once you’ve booked your stay we’ll introduce you to our owner-recommended suppliers to create a truly bespoke, memorable escape.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Highland fling
25 Beautiful Homes
September 202429 of the best beach retreats in the UK
The Times
September 2024The best last-minute breaks for summer
The Telegraph
August 2024The best Cornwall beaches to visit this summer
Condé Nast Traveller
August 2024Surf´s up
25 Beautiful Homes
August 2024The best underrated trips to take in the UK
Condé Nast Traveller
July 2024The best UK staycation ideas according to Condé Nast editors
Condé Nast Traveller
July 2024The loveliest remote hotels, huts and castles in the UK for a road trip
House & Garden
June 2024
Collections > Pet-Free Holiday Cottages > UK > Gloucestershire > Upper Slaughter > The Studio
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
