Nightingale Retreat, Oswestry

Nightingale Retreat is a luxurious 5-star lodge sitting just 6 miles south of Oswestry in gorgeous Shropshire. This spacious woodland hideaway sleeps 8 across 4 bedrooms - perfect for that family gathering where you're all secretly hoping to avoid each other at some point. The lodge sits within 3 acres of private grounds, offering that rare combination of privacy and space that's harder to find than a taxi on New Year's Eve.

The surrounding Shropshire countryside delivers postcard-worthy views from every window. Footpaths and cycling routes along Offa's Dyke and the Tanat Valley are right on your doorstep. Tennis enthusiasts can smash balls around on the private court, while kids can burn off energy in the play area. After exploring the market towns of Oswestry or Shrewsbury, you'll appreciate sinking into your exclusive hot tub with a glass of something cold.

The accommodation features three king-size bedrooms and one twin zip-link room, all with their own bathrooms - meaning no awkward corridor dashes wrapped in a towel. The open-plan lounge has comfy sofas and picture windows, while the fully-equipped kitchen includes an electric oven, microwave, fridge/freezer and dishwasher. French doors lead to a veranda with both shaded and sunny spots, perfect for outdoor dining using the George Foreman electric grill.

Explore Llangollen with its horse-drawn canal rides (15 miles, 25 minutes). Visit Ellesmere and its picturesque lake (10 miles, 20 minutes). Wander through medieval Shrewsbury (20 miles, 35 minutes). The Cross Keys pub serves excellent Sunday lunches just minutes away. Several supermarkets nearby mean you won't go hungry.

Nightingale Retreat works brilliantly for multi-generational families, with downstairs bedroom and bathroom for those who find stairs challenging. Just watch young children near the garden edges - unlike your in-laws, they might actually escape!