When the temperature starts climbing towards heatwave territory, most sensible people head for shade, cold drinks and a slower pace of life. Unfortunately, nobody has explained this concept to Syd. Coco understands perfectly.

As resident Wye Valley pugs, the pair have very different approaches to coping with hot weather.

Coco's strategy is simple:

• Find shade.
• Stay in shade.
• Refuse to move from shade.
• Accept snacks if delivered directly.

It's a solid plan.

Syd, meanwhile, spends the first hour of every warm day convinced he can still chase butterflies, investigate every hedge and patrol every corner of the garden before eventually admitting Coco may have had a point.

Luckily, the Wye Valley is full of ways for humans and pugs alike to stay cool.

The River Wye provides welcome breezes along many of its riverside paths, while the nearby Forest of Dean offers miles of shaded woodland trails where temperatures can feel noticeably lower.

Early mornings are particularly beautiful.

Before the heat builds, families can enjoy gentle walks, wildlife spotting and peaceful riverside views without feeling like they're walking through an oven.

When the sun reaches its hottest point, it's time to slow things down.

Many visitors retreat to one of the area's large holiday homes where spacious lounges, shaded gardens and cool indoor spaces provide the perfect escape from the midday heat.

That's usually when Coco settles into a comfortable spot and refuses to acknowledge the outside world.

Syd tends to position himself near whoever might be preparing lunch.

Pure coincidence, apparently.

As evening arrives and temperatures begin to fall, the Wye Valley comes alive again.

BBQs are lit, drinks appear, conversations stretch into the evening and gardens become the perfect place to relax after a warm day.

Even Syd finally slows down.

For at least five minutes.

Please feel for us, we at BHHL have to live with them.

So if this week's forecast looks a little dramatic, don't worry.

The Wye Valley has plenty of cool woodland, riverside walks and comfortable holiday homes ready to help you beat the heat.

Just remember to take plenty of water.

And if you see two black pugs in sunglasses heading purposefully towards the nearest shady spot, follow their lead.

They know what they're doing.

Big House Holiday Lets:
www.bhhl.co.uk
enquiries@bhhl.co.uk
01600 732 050