In a world that’s filled with technology, we’re often looking for ways to detox and take some time out from the fast-paced culture of the twenty-first century. Every element of our lives today is, or at least has the capacity to be, managed, monitored and controlled by computers, so it’s little surprise we often need some time out. One of the best ways to achieve this is to get back to nature. There’s something refreshing and grounding about being at one with the great outdoors, feeling the earth underfoot and the wind blowing through your hair. And what better opportunity to do this than while on holiday?
More travellers are discovering the joys of nature and being around animals and wildlife in a trend known as ‘farm charm’. In accommodation situated either on or near a farm, farm charm gives guests a glimpse into one of the oldest ways of life, where days are centred around nature, animals and the environment.
If you’re looking for a farm charm escape of your own in Cornwall, we’ve compiled a list of some of our holiday cottages set on a farm (be it a working farm or an old farmstead) for an essence of that farm idyll. We’ve also popped together a selection of properties near popular farm attractions, ideal for families and anyone who loves animals and the countryside.
Bluebell Down Farm, Morvah
Situated in a National Landscape comprised of fields and moorland, and speckled with ancient settlements and stone sites, sits Bluebell Down Farm, once a cow barn on this 400-year-old farmstead. Still a working farm today, you’ll get a real feel for farm life here, from the bumpy access lane to the herds of livestock grazing the fields. Located close to the coast, this quaint cottage also benefits from far-reaching sea views.
Internally, rustic and charming features create a homely feel, perfect to return to after days spent rambling through fields, moorland and along the coastline. Sleeping up to four guests, it's ideal for a couple or for friends looking to unwind in a quiet setting surrounded by nature. The Shepherd Hut at Bluebell Down Farm is also available to book, offering an even more rustic and cosy retreat.
Cob Cottage and James Cottage, Helford River
Located in a secluded valley on the Lizard Peninsula, neighbouring properties Cob Cottage and James Cottage offer an idyllic farm charm escape. Set in an eight-acre small holding, guests can enjoy roaming the private meadows, orchards and woodland, and are even welcome to help feed the resident sheep, pigs and poultry! Kids and adults alike will relish the opportunity to meet the animals and get hands-on with feeding time.
Cob Cottage sleeps six, while James Cottage sleeps five, making these beautifully restored barns perfect for a family holiday in the Cornish countryside. Extended families can book both properties and enjoy spending time together, with shared access to the outside spaces, while also benefiting from separate accommodation. The whole family will enjoy staying in this beautiful part of Cornwall.
The Cowshed, Helston
In a rural location amid fields and farms, The Cowshed is a dreamy countryside escape for four close to the historic market town of Helston. Winding lanes lead to this quaint property, which is situated in a quiet spot within the grounds of a farm. Adjacent to the building itself is a horse paddock, where horses and ponies graze and rabbits hop through the grass.
Inside, vaulted beamed ceilings and a large farmhouse kitchen allow you to embrace the essence of farm charm while on holiday here. Pop the kettle on and enjoy a cuppa while gazing across the meadows. Throw open the patio doors and listen to the gentle sound of birdsong and neighing of the happy horses. You’re sure to feel relaxed in this peaceful countryside home from home.
The Farmhouse, Wadebridge
As its name suggests, The Farmhouse near Wadebridge is a former Duchy farmhouse, tucked away down a rustic, unmade farm track. Once at the centre of a working farm, it boasts plentiful grounds that include an enclosed garden, meadows, woodland and even a lake! You’ll be surrounded by wildlife and nature in this rural spot, so be sure to listen out for birds and look for fish in the lake.
You’ll feel at home in this cosy yet spacious country home from home, where traditional features reflect the age of the property. Sleeping up to six guests, it’s perfect for the whole family, with plenty to keep everyone entertained. In addition to exploring the vast outside spaces and seeing what wildlife they can spot, kids will love playing with the outdoor games, play equipment and Wendy house. Meanwhile, the adults will relish some downtime in the wood-fired hot tub.
Botrea Hayloft, West Cornwall
Discover Botrea Hayloft, an enchanting countryside hideaway for two in west Cornwall. Attached to, but entirely separate from the main house on a working farm, the space was once used to store hay, before being lovingly converted into the apartment it is today. With every element of comfort considered, you’ll be able to relax and unwind, while also soaking up the atmosphere of life on a working farm, with cattle for neighbours!
Surrounded by 30 acres of fields and countryside, you’ll feel a world away from the stresses and strains of daily life. So, immerse yourself in nature as you stroll along footpaths, enjoy access to the pond and orchards, listen to the sound of birds and wildlife, and watch as the cows graze nearby.
Trevarnon Cottage, Gwithian
Make the most of both worlds at Trevarnon Cottage, a beautifully refurbished barn set on a working farm, while also being close to Cornwall’s beautiful beaches at Gwithian and Hayle. Cosy and filled with character features, such as inglenook fireplaces, this home-from-home has everything you need for a relaxing stay. As soon as you head down the single-track farm road, you’ll see the signs of farming, including farm machinery, which can be seen in the field opposite the cottage.
Sleeping five guests, Trevarnon Cottage is ideal for a family looking for a peaceful holiday in Cornwall, away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular areas. Well located for visiting attractions, villages and beaches, you’ll be able to enjoy days out before returning to the comfort of this cosy, homely cottage.
Properties near farm attractions
Discover a selection of farm-based animal attractions across the county, from small family-owned farms to attractions where you can spend the day, and 'farm-to-food' style restaurants and cafes.
Gunvor Cottage, Coverack – near Roskilly’s
Situated in a traditional Cornish village in Coverack on the Lizard Peninsula, Gunvor Cottage is a stunning traditional thatched cottage that has been thoughtfully modernised while maintaining the character and history of the place. Set in a pretty fishing village, the cottage, which sleeps four, overlooks the beach and harbour, offering beautiful views in a scenic setting.
This area of Cornwall is also rich in farming, and just a short drive inland from Coverack is Roskilly’s Farm, well known for its production of ice cream, which is sold throughout Cornwall. Visit the farm and meet an array of farm animals, including goats, pigs, poultry, and, of course, cows (and calves), famous for their milk that goes into the ice creams!
After days spent exploring the area, both coastal and inland, head back to Gunvor Cottage for an evening of relaxation, snuggled in front of the woodburner, good book in hand.
Goose Cottage, Gwinear – near Trevaskis Farm
In a sleepy Cornish village not far from Hayle, Goose Cottage, a quaint holiday home for six, has been carefully refurbished, effortlessly blending modern design with traditional features. Enjoy the quiet of this rural village, which features a church, community hall and an up-and-coming village pub.
You’ll be surrounded by signs of farming here, from the many fields to the passing tractors. And, just a short drive from the village, you’ll find Trevaskis Farm, a complete countryside experience that includes a restaurant, farm shop, seasonal pick-your-own and of course, animals to see, including donkeys, ponies, pigs (and, depending on the time of year, piglets!) and chickens.
Return to the luxury of Goose Cottage, freshly picked berries in hand, ready to enjoy with some Cornish clotted cream in the garden. Why not enjoy a dip in the hot tub before retiring inside to fire up one of the log burners?
The Oyster Bed, Mawgan Porth – near Macdonald’s Farm
On the north coast of Cornwall, in an elevated position overlooking Mawgan Porth beach, The Oyster Bed awaits, a stunning modern home away from home for four guests. Perfect for a family holiday, the spacious reverse-level accommodation is ideal for spending time together, making memories by the sea while soaking up the stunning views from the balcony.
As well as being within walking distance to the beach, you’ll also be just a short drive or bus ride away from a fantastic family day out at Macdonald’s Farm. For just a few pounds per person, visitors can experience everything on offer at the farm, including meeting the farm animals, indoor and outdoor play areas, cafes and live music. For a more hands-on experience with the animals, additional experiences and encounters can be purchased on the day.
You’re sure to have a fun-filled day that will leave the kids tired and ready for bed! While they sleep, enjoy a drink on the balcony at The Oyster Bed as the sun sets.
Boskennal Barn – near Castle Brea farm
Tucked away in a secluded spot in west Cornwall, but still within easy reach of St Ives and Penzance, Boskennal Barn is a beautifully converted barn sheltered by tranquil trees and boasting a babbling stream at the bottom of the garden. Modern and stylish interiors create a calming oasis inside, reflecting the property’s peaceful setting. Sleeping up to four guests, families will love relaxing here; parents can relax with a cuppa while kids run around the garden.
Just a short drive away, a lovely little family-run farm, Castle Brea Farm, holds regular sessions for children to come along and meet and greet the animals, for just a small fee. In comparison to some farm attractions, Castle Brea is a quiet place with numbers limited per session, meaning children get to take their time handling and feeding the rabbits, chicks, sheep, pigs, goats and other resident animals.
Families seeking a quieter retreat will love both the property and the farm, while still having easy access to nearby towns and facilities.
1 The Old Corn Store – Healey's Cyder Farm
In the charming coastal village of St Agnes, 1 The Old Corn Store is a delightful place to stay that exudes luxury, charm and character. Sleeping eight, the surprisingly spacious property is well-suited to larger parties, with multiple sitting rooms and socialising spaces.
Not far from St Agnes, Healeys Cornish Cyder Farm is a fantastic choice for an afternoon out. Home to Cornwall’s favourite cider, there’s plenty to do and see on the farm, which has free entry. As well as tours and tastings, visitors can enjoy vintage tractor rides and meet a range of animals, including shire horses, pygmy goats, donkeys, pigs, chickens and even peacocks!
Be sure to sample some of the delicious food at the restaurant before heading back to relax and unwind at 1 The Old Corn Store.
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Tags: Animals