Those who believe rural farmyard breaks aren’t for the super-stylish; think again. Farm Stay UK homes a huge variety of boutique B&Bs and chic cottage escapes on working farms, ideal for those after a tranquil countryside escape that doesn’t scrimp on style. From sleek kitchens with all the latest mod-cons to seriously stylish open plan living areas complete with statement wood-burners, the experts at Farm Stay UK have gathered seven seriously stylish farm stays exclusively for House of Coco.
Wheatacre Hall Barns, Norfolk
Set amidst the beauty of Norfolk’s southern broads on a peaceful working Arable and Dairy farm, Wheatacre Hall offers eight impressive converted barns, each featuring a handful of original features alongside plenty of uber-stylish touches. Living areas are kept light and spacious with large floor-to-ceiling windows and a neutral colour palette, whilst exposed brickwork, traditional beams and chic fur throws give the barns a quirky rustic touch. The barns each boast a private outdoor seating area for twilight BBQs and have access to the farm grounds where a luxurious hot tub, games barn and fitness area await, plus plenty of picturesque villages and sandy beaches nearby.
7 nights available from £420 (£210pp) based on two sharing Partridge or Pheasant Cottage on a self-catering basis.
Hare Farm Oast, Rye, East Sussex
Ever wanted to bring the Darling Buds of May to life? Well you’re in luck! Make like Marriette Larkin and head to this beautifully converted three-roundel oast house, sitting at the heart of a farmstead on a 500 acre working sheep farm in rural Sussex. Ideal for large groups (sleeping up to 12), this impressive conversion expertly blends contemporary fixtures and fittings with authentic relics from the building’s past – traditionally used to dry and store hops. Exposed brickwork, slate floors, an impressive kitchen and a cosy wood-burner in the lounge sit alongside original beams, hop pockets and hoists. A large oak refectory table sits at the heart of the house- the ideal spot for long, sumptuous dinner parties or simply sitting back for a good old chinwag, drink in hand. There’re also plenty of space for al-fresco dining, with the beautiful beaches of Sussex are just a short drive away.
7 nights available from £1000 (£83pp) based on twelve sharing Hare Farm Oast on a self-catering basis.
Middlewick Cottages, Glastonbury, Somerset
Surrounded by 16 acres of paddocks, orchards and gardens at the base of Glastonbury Tor, this 16th Century farmstead offers a cluster of chic country cottages; ideal for those after a rural escape with a simple yet stylish vibe. Charming interiors feature farmhouse-style kitchens and exposed beams alongside chic whitewashed brickwork, brightly upholstered furniture, supersized beds and stainless-steel wood-burners. Middlewick is also home to three super-cool E-Dens; taking glamping to the extreme with cosy double beds, Velux windows (for stargazing) and plenty of mod-cons. Outdoors there’re acres of green space to explore, whilst the pretty town of Glastonbury is just a short drive away- ideal for those yearning for a taste of festival life, without the portaloos…
7 nights available from £460 (£115pp) based on four sharing Bramley Cottage on a self-catering basis.
Airhouses, Lauder, Scottish Boarders
These five eco-friendly Airhouses offer ski-chalet chic wooden interiors and sweeping views across the Scottish countryside- the perfect taste of Switzerland right here on UK soil. Interiors are bright and airy with high vaulted ceilings, neutral colour pallets and floor-to-ceiling windows, whilst the modern kitchens, comfortable day beds and splashes of colour give the lodges a bright home away from home vibe. If eco-friendly is your thing then you’ll love it here- each Airhouse restricts water flow to the taps (from a natural spring) and uses plenty of thermal insulation to keep them toasty. Nearby Edinburgh offers boutique shops, cool cafes and amazing restaurants- or you can simply relax in the country air with a lazy BBQ lunch and dip in the private outdoor hot tub.
7 nights available from £550 (£225pp) based on two sharing The Lodge on a self-catering basis.
Cranmer Country Cottages, Fakenham, Norfolk
With high vaulted ceilings, open plan living areas (complete with full-wall bi-folding doors), cosy wood burners and kitchens bursting with the latest mod-cons, Cranmer Country Cottages are ideal for those after an countryside escape with some serious style cred. There’s no frill or chintz in sight- just classic, country-inspired interiors with modern touches- think underfloor heating, slate floors and impressive bathrooms. Activity-lovers will be happy with the cycle routes available straight from the front door, with nature reserves and beaches for lovers of the great outdoors just a stone’s throw away. Plus, there’s an indoor pool, a handful of tennis courts and a games room for rainy days.
7 nights available from £428 (£214pp) based on two sharing Coot Cottage on a self-catering basis.
Forest Barn Holidays, Orchard Barn, Gloucestershire
Set on the edge of its own seven-acre meadow in Gloucestershire, this lovingly restored barn conversion offers country-chic interiors, sweeping forest views and a handful of eco-friendly credentials. Orchard Barn boasts a cool kitchen, three marble-clad bathrooms and a large living area with shabby-chic decor, high vaulted ceilings and a super-cool glass-fronted statement log burner. As well as stylish decor, the warm ambiance throughout is supplied by underfloor heating courtesy of an eco-friendly ground-sourced heater. Set within rolling hills and green countryside, Orchard barn is a haven for walkers, with miles of magnificent terrain to explore from your doorstep including 27,000 acres of famous Forest of Dean trails – there’s even the option to soothe aching muscles with a variety of luxurious spa treatments in the comfort of the barn afterwards.
7 nights available from £963 (£161pp) based on six sharing Orchard Barn on a self-catering basis.
Downs Barn Farm Cottages, Penzance, Cornwall
Located near the buzzing towns of Penzance and St Ives on Cornwall’s furthest tip, Downs Barn Farm offers two luxurious barn conversions a deux – the perfect choice for couples looking for a contemporary seaside escape. Each cottage boasts state of the art kitchens, super-king-size beds, luxurious drench showers and light, bright receptions rooms with high beamed ceilings, large leather sofas and plenty of colourful splashes. Amazing views over the coastal farmland are made the most of by the cottages’ large triple glass doors and sunny south-facing patios – providing the ideal spot for al fresco lunches or sunset drinks. There’re plenty of pubs, cool cafes and antique shops nearby to keep guests busy, plus pretty Loy is a short 20 minute stroll away via a coastal path.
7 nights available from £400 (£200pp) based on two sharing Bridie’s Barn or Skylarks on a self-catering basis.