The Larches Ledbury Bed and Breakfast

I have always been surrounded by family. Even after moving out of my parents’ house, I had tribes of people surrounding me everywhere I went: college, career, and my adult "framily." I am learning that, unfortunately, this is not everyone’s story. I think because I have always been so supported, it's made it easier to be brave when exploring this wonderous world.

The first leg of this trip has been no exception. I knew nothing about Ledbury, but it seemed to be a comfortable distance from Oxford, Stratford upon Avon, Stonehenge and all the other wonders of the Cotswolds I had on my list.

I booked through my credit card to try to earn points to offset any personal expenses of the trip. Being a single teacher, traveling abroad (even with a grant) requires much discernment. I made lists, compared amenities and distance, and of course price was a large factor. I ended up choosing The Larches Ledbury Bed and Breakfast.

The property is undeniably stunning, but the real treat is the precious family who lives here. Inga and Malcom are the owners, and they could not be anymore lovely if they tried. As we drove up on our first day, we ended up behind Malcolm on his tractor. They have about seven or eight acres of land that he manages. We parked, and he immediately welcomed us inside; even though, I’m sure we were too early for check in.

Once inside, we were greeted by Inga and their two dogs, Morak and Mable. Inga welcomed us with a warm smile, but the dogs stole the spotlight. They are both labs and as sweet as can be. Morak loves people more than dogs, and she just wants to rub against you while showing you her kong. Mable and Dani would be best friends!!! Mable is only ten months old and has yet to learn how to contain her excitement for people. I have tried to tell them that I can handle her because Dani is almost two and twice her size. Inga understands, but Malcolm stresses anytime Mable jumps, and he quickly grabs her. He’s a natural protector.

After the warm welcome, Inga kept rolled out even more red carpet. She showed us around and encouraged us to take the suite for no extra charge. (While she oriented us, Malcolm was busy bringing in our luggage) Then, she asked if we would like some tea. After I excitedly said yes, she encouraged us to get settled, and she’d meet us on the deck. She not only brought tea, but she brought some delicious cake. She talked with us for a while, and when she found out we didn’t have dinner plans, she asked if we’d like her to book us a table at a local inn.

I’ve spoken about their hospitality throughout the blog, but tonight’s my last night here, and I’m a bit emotional.

Inga has a beautifully soft strength to her. She’s so gracious and inviting. I’ve spent the last five mornings being taken care of by her. She fed me, asked about my previous day’s adventures, and wanted to know about my plans that day. We talked about our backgrounds, puppy training stories, love for this land, and much more. Yesterday morning, I told her I would be late because I was seeing a play that started at 7:45PM in Stratford upon Avon. Instead of just saying, “Okay,” she said, “Oh, thank you for letting me know. We would have been worried about you. Make sure you have our number in case you need us.” Plus, when I get home every evening, I have a cup of tea and eat two cookies she leaves in my room while :)

Inga and Malcolm have made me feel at home when I’m actually 4,000 miles away from my own little haven.

She is from Germany, and she and Malcolm met in Cologne when he was working for Toyota. Oh, Malcolm is from Liverpool, by the way. They could not be more opposite, but they make a precious couple. Their love is palpable. Understated but there. I love to watch their interchanges about chores or the pups. It’s even sweet to see their shorthand (I think I like to observe that in all couples); the give and take is gracious and lovely.

The bed and breakfast was her dream, and Malcolm built it for her. He said he was worried at first about having people in their home, but he admitted that 99% of their guests have been lovely! I'm thankful that they've had the same experience with humans as I have.

Tonight, they invited me to have dinner with them! I had already eaten an early supper at a local pub, but I could not turn down the invitation. They offered me wine or a cider, and I had to admit that my cider from earlier made me have to take a nap. So, Malcolm quickly remedied that with a low alcohol cider! He also cooked tonight! Inga cooks on the weekdays, and Malcolm cooks on the weekends. He made a delicious Japanese chicken curry with rice and roasted carrots.

This was my first time sitting down with them for a meal. This entire stay has felt like staying with family, but this was intimate. We sat at THEIR kitchen table, and Morak and Mable were in there with us. (The pups aren’t allowed in the kitchen when guests are in there – mainly because Mable is still a puppy) I’m tearing up just thinking about it. Just to be invited was touching, but having a family meal together at the table has affected me more than I imagined.

We discussed literature, cultural differences (not just the UK and US), politics, and travel experiences. We shared silly stories, laughed, and ate delicious food! Malcolm broke his rule of not discussing politics with guests. Somehow, he knew I was a Bernie lover! I’m thankful and proud that shows. I wear that badge with honor. Inga started cleaning when we started talking politics, but she didn’t miss a beat. That’s the quiet strength I was mentioning. Just the way she moves is loving, strong, and efficient. What a lovely spirit!

Malcolm said something that made me want to cry. He said, “Seeing what’s happening to your country is like watching an old friend hurt themselves.”

I swear he had tears in his eyes.

I just felt Inga and Malcolm deserved their own post. They have generously given me a safe space, so I can go and explore freely each day. It has been such a joy to be part of their home this week. If it wasn’t thousands of miles and dollars to visit them, I would be a regular!

If you ever find yourself looking for a place to stay in England, check out The Larches Ledbury Bed and Breakfast. The property, people, and pups are amazing.

Cheers!