THE FACTS ABOUT THE DOVECOTE

England

About 30 minutes' drive south-west of Oxford you turn down a tree-fringed lane and after half a mile find yourself at an almost implausibly idyllic hideaway. The Dovecote is an elegant, octagonal building dating from the late-18th century. In 1996, after years of near dereliction, it was rescued and painstakingly converted into a self-catering rural retreat. The original 1,100 brick nesting boxes feature as part of the striking decor; the bedroom area is spectacularly situated under the exposed timbers of a lantern roof; spiral stairs lead from a well-equipped kitchen and dining area to a sauna and double shower room. You can walk to the neighbouring village of Hatford along a bridleway practically from the doorstep, visit Blenheim Palace near by or savour village life and hearty cooking at the local Lamb Inn; but most guests at The Dovecot simply sink into the comfort and romance of the building and leave only when they have to. BOOKING Contact 01235 772 809; www.the-dovecote.co.uk. Sleeps four (although a cot can also be provided), and costs from £230 per two-night midweek break. Minimum stay of two nights