Walking and Rambling : for many the most compelling reason to choose Garden Cottage; from the garden you can walk straight onto the hills. A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Expedia recently described The Malverns as one of the “Hidden Gems On The Planet” and the Malvern Hills were also recently voted “Best View in Britain 2009” by the Ramblers Association. To the east lies Bredon Hill, the Severn Valley and the Cotswolds ridge. To the west you can see the famous Sugarloaf peak above Abergavenny, the distinctive outline of Hay Bluff above Hay-on –Wye and the Brecon Beacons disappearing into Wales. In May the hills are famed for their wild bluebells. OS map for planning your walks is Explorer 190 or look up suggestions here.

Canoeing:  The Wye and Severn are both navigable in sections and canoes can be hired for the day with transport included (so that you don’t have to paddle back upstream for instance). The closest place to hire and launch on the Wye is close to Fownhope and there are several  hire companies close to Hay on Wye.

Swimming:  Malvern Hills “Splash” indoor pool is nearby in Great Malvern, close to the Theatre.

Cycling: Garden Cottage is well placed for cyclists looking for quiet lanes and byways. Routes in the Malvern Hills are suggested here by The Malvern Hills Conservators. There are lots of options for cycle hire if you don’t want to bring your own.

Bird Watching: in additional to the immediate countryside, bird lovers can see fantastic displays at the nearby International Birds of Prey Centre in Newent and spot many wetland species a little further afield at Slimbridge Wetland Centre.

Horse Riding: There are several Riding Stables around the Malverns, these are the nearest – Walnut Equestrian Centre, Birch Farm Livery, Court Equestrian.

Fishing: there are several local lakes for angling and sports fishing. The closest, just a couple of miles away in Colwall offers half days, full days, night fishing and lessons and can provide equipment. Alternatives at Leigh Sinton and Bransford.

Theatre: Malvern Theatre & Cinema, a varied programme including some West End trials. The Swan Theatre, Worcester or visit Hereford's Art Centre, The Courtyard, to extend your choices.

Art Galleries: Hereford, Gloucester and Worcester have local authority run galleries and collections. For those interested in the Arts and Crafts Movement, Cheltenham Museum and Art Gallery may be of particular interest. Please check details before setting off.

Music:  there are lots of local pubs that host bands and recitals in the local churches and cathedrals. We recommend that you get a copy of “Broad Sheep” a monthly, local free magazine with comprehensive listings or look at the weekly local paper – The Malvern Gazette.