Ecocabin, Shropshire, England

Ecocabin strives to both protect and promote the surrounding countryside by combining traditional practicality with technical innovation. The simple wooden frame is insulated with sheep’s wool. Externally it is clad with larch and on the inside lined with reedboard and limeplastered. Environment friendly paints; natural wood finishes; organic fabrics, natural dyes and pigments have been used to create a healthy and chemical-free living space. Much of the furniture is from a local recycling scheme and the kitchen work surface is made from waste yoghurt pots and coffee cups. Solar energy provides hot water and a wood pellet stove keeps the cabin cosy in winter. Renewable electricity is used and appliances and lighting have been chosen for their energy efficiency. All recyclable materials (glass, tins and plastics) are collected and there is a worm assisted composting system for biodegradable waste.

Ecocabin offers the perfect opportunity to escape and you could be forgiven for wanting to spend the whole of your holiday in Obley. In warm weather relaxing on the verandah with a glass of local wine or cider listening to the calls of the curlews and buzzards. In colder weather snuggle up in front of the pellet stove and wind up the radio or choose a book from the eclectic ecocabin library. If you feel you need a little exercise, there is endless unspoilt countryside to explore on foot or by bicycle direct from your front door.

Although Obley feels very remote it is actually within easy access of the more conventional tourist trail. Hereford, with its famous cathedral and the World Heritage Site of Ironbridge can be reached within an hour and the castle and acclaimed restaurants of Ludlow are only half an hour away. There are many National Trust and English Heritage properties nearby, including Stokesay Castle and Powis Estate and gardens. There are also unique local attractions to visit such as The Judge’s Lodging, The Land of Lost Content museum and Acton Scott (BBC2's Victorian Farm).

Ecocabin is 4 miles from the nearest village, so it has a small honesty shop that stocks larder basics and local treats and a milkman also delivers to the door. I am very happy to advise you on where to buy the best local produce and on the farmers’ markets during your stay. The simplicity of a stay at Ecocabin is an experience that will capture the very essence of the South Shropshire Hills and help protect this beautiful area for future generations.

Reviewed by Catherine Mack.

"Judging by the repeat visits in her impressively full guest book, this back to basics philosophy is now not only sustainable for her, but also a huge hit with wandering Waltons like me."

Read Catherine's full Review of The Ecocabin, as featured in the Irish Times.

Watch this short video of Catherine Mack's weekend at The Ecocabin: