Quirky-luxe barn for 2, enveloped by peaceful countryside for walks, bike rides and relaxing days
Space & setting.
Lovers of eclectic design will adore this dazzling conversion at the foot of the Mendip Hills. Once a derelict 250-year-old limestone barn, it has been cleverly reconfigured upside-down – a gorgeous bedroom downstairs, open-plan living above – giving centre stage to incredible countryside views, a panoramic sweep of sparkling Blagdon Lake and The Chew Valley. We spent hours on the balcony and in the garden, just lazing and gazing. Beautiful walks from the front door include a 6-mile circular walk/bike ride, part of the Yeo Valley Way, and there are pubs and foodie restaurants a short drive away. But if you just want unique design inspiration, look no further. Sink into boho cushions on the peacock-blue sofa and let your eyes feast: a starburst chandelier, Moroccan pouffes, kooky prints from Rockett St George, and the coolest leopard-print dining chairs we’ve ever seen.
Getting here: you’ll need to drive
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Sustainability.
The barn was restored using low-impact, sustainable and recycled materials wherever possible. It was designed to minimise energy usage, with high levels of insulation. Rainwater is harvested then delivered to the toilet cistern and boot wash. The BBQ uses coal from Yeo Valley’s biochar. Full recycling is in place.
Surrounds.
- You’re at the foot of the Mendips Hills and beautiful walks lead out from the front door, including the Yeo Valley Way.
- Nearby Blagdon is a lovely village, tumbling down the hill to the lake. Take a stroll around the lake then back up the hill for lunch at The Seymour Arms.
- The area’s great for cycling, and there are lock ups for your bikes at the barn.
- Climbers will love Burrington Coombe (2 miles) and Cheddar Gorge (7 miles). You can abseil at Cheddar, too. Wookey Hole caves is another rocky treat.
- Best followed by a pint at the Ring O’Bells in Compton Martin or Plume of Feathers in Rickford, both classic country pubs.
- We love the peaceful Yeo Organic Garden, a 6-acre patchwork of seasonal and edible plantings. The Crabapple tree-lined Avenue is particularly lovely in May when the blossom is out, and the cafe serves the best cakes.
- Pick up veg from the Community Farm and meat from The Story Butchers in Blagdon and BBQ back at the barn, looking out over the valley. There’s a huge firepit for marshmallow desserts and keeping warm as you stargaze.
- Bristol is an easy day trip. Stroll around the historic waterfront, explore foodie independents, visit Park Street’s boutiques and seek out Banksy murals; this is his hometown.
Specifics.
- Upside-down barn at the end of a country track, in fenced grounds
- Downstairs bedroom with kingsize bed
- Bathroom with walk-in shower and separate tub; Bramley toiletries provided
- Sofa area with woodburner
- Open-plan living upstairs
- Brilliantly equipped kitchen with induction hob; basic ingredients provided plus a few treats
- Dining table for 6
- Huge sofa area warmed by second woodburner, projector and drop-down screen (synch your laptop)
- Balcony with bistro dining furniture, and a safety glass screen
- Record player and Sonos
- Books, board games, jigsaws, walking maps
- Dog friendly – dog bed and bowls provided, plus Bramley’s Digby Dog Wash!
- Outdoor boot and dog wash
- Walk or drive to pubs and farm shops (45 mins/7 mins’ drive)
- Booking conditions: a 2-night minimum stay. Closed 24 Dec-4 Jan annually.
- Please note enquiries will only be answered during office hours Monday-Friday.
- Remember to pack: wellies or walking boots and bikes; a dog towel
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