A Wenlock couple who turned to the holiday letting business after a change of circumstance have just put a final lick of paint on their latest labour of love.
Doug and Julie Lewis, who opened Wenlock Studios in 2012 when they decided to launch a new holiday letting career together, have been hard at work creating a setting for the ultimate county get-together: Westwood Lodge in picturesque Stretton Westwood.
“We’ve run Wenlock Studios for nearly seven years now, but we realised that people also like to go away in larger groups,” explains Julie. “Westwood Lodge was three long years in the making, and we put our heart and soul into every detail to create a place that’s ideal for birthday parties, anniversary get-togethers and family Christmases.”
And visitors to the luxury lodge can now reap the benefits of the couple’s dedication. The lodge encapsulates Shropshire’s rural beauty, marrying enviable views over rolling hills with state-of-the-art specifications in a property that’s just perfect for groups of up to 16.
“We’re passionate about Shropshire, and we love the idea of providing a stylish space for large groups in the heart of our stunning hills,” says Doug. “We’ve worked really hard to create a home away from home where people can relax and have fun; where family and friends can share time together, reconnect, and completely unwind.”
The impressive outside space boasts a wood-fired hot tub, a fire bowl barbecue, and a contemporary deck that gazes over the countryside…
Westwood Lodge’s eight bedrooms are individually decorated in a contemporary, boutique-hotel style. Doug and Julie have used local suppliers wherever they can, supporting the county’s creative industries and delivering an experience that’s wholly Shropshire. They’ve also racked up commendable green credentials, with renewable energy used throughout, including solar panels and solar thermal panels, and a charger for electric cars; the American-made slates on the walls are made from upcycled rubber.
The lodge is kitted out with features including a log burner for cosy nights in after long walks, and a 52-inch smart TV; there’s also an Xbox One to keep the kids (and big kids!) happy, and a full-sized pool table, which means that even when the British weather does its worst, everyone will find something to occupy them. And the dining area is a compellingly convivial space where the whole party can gather and enjoy a meal.
If you fancy yourself as a bit of a Masterchef, Westwood Lodge’s kitchen is a cook’s dream, with a cutting-edge electric oven and hob, plus a dishwasher so no one need fear the short straw when it comes to washing up. Or, if you don’t fancy cooking, Doug and Julie have a top tip for a local caterer who can whip up a bespoke dinner to die for.A Wenlock couple who turned to the holiday letting business after a change of circumstance have just put a final lick of paint on their latest labour of love.
“We’re passionate about Shropshire, and we love the idea of providing a stylish space for large groups in the heart of our stunning hills…”
The impressive outside space boasts a wood-fired hot tub, a fire bowl barbecue, and a contemporary deck that gazes over the countryside. And, for the four-legged members of the family, there’s even a doggy shower and a stable: “It’s a great starting point to walk or ride the Shropshire Way,” concludes Julie. “We wanted Westwood Lodge to have everything – and we really think it does.”
Doug and Julie are offering readers of What’s What! a special deal, with an introductory offerof £1,500 for a four-night mid-week stay.* Call 07980 016740 or email holidays@wenlockstudios.co.ukfor details or to book online, visit www.wenlockstudios.co.uk.*until the end of May 2020 and exc. Xmas and New Year
