If your ideal weekend involves great books, even better company and a generous splash of wine, then a Bookish Break in the Wye Valley might just be your perfect escape.

Imagine arriving at a beautiful big house with your book club or group of reader friends, dropping your bags, and immediately claiming the cosiest seat by the fire. No rushing, no schedules – just time to read, chat and relax in a stunning countryside setting.

Large holiday homes in the Wye Valley are made for gatherings like this. With spacious kitchens, grand dining tables and plenty of comfy seating, they provide the perfect backdrop for long, laughter-filled evenings spent debating plot twists, swooning over favourite characters, or passionately arguing about film adaptations.

Food and drink are a huge part of the experience. You could cook together, but many groups choose to book a private chef for at least one night, turning dinner into a real event. There’s something wonderfully indulgent about sitting down to a beautifully prepared meal without lifting a finger.

During the day, the Wye Valley offers plenty to explore. A vineyard tour makes for a sophisticated outing, while local cider orchards provide a more traditional (and equally enjoyable) tasting experience. If you’d rather stretch your legs, gentle riverside walks and woodland trails are ideal for clearing your head between chapters.

But you don’t have to be an official book club to enjoy this kind of weekend. It works just as well for friends who simply love reading, good food and relaxed conversation. Bring your favourite novels, swap recommendations, and enjoy the simple pleasure of uninterrupted time together.

There’s something special about the Wye Valley that lends itself to storytelling – rolling hills, ancient ruins and peaceful rivers all add to the sense of escape. Staying in a characterful big house only heightens that feeling.

Whether you spend your time deep in discussion, curled up with a novel, or chatting over a glass of wine late into the night, a Bookish Break here is about more than just books. It’s about friendship, laughter and making memories you’ll cherish long after the last page is turned.

So pack your paperbacks, gather your people, and let the literary weekend begin.