From spring chickens to dazzling daffodils, the sights and sounds of the new season are the perfect backdrop to a wholesome break with friends or family.
To help holidaymakers celebrate the warmer weather and reconnect with the great outdoors, Sykes Holiday Cottages has shared some of its favourite spring staycations set on the grounds of working farms.
From an 18th century cottage with resident alpacas in Cornwall to a barn conversion in Shropshire named one of Rick Stein’s Food Heroes, there’s something for everyone.
To book a farm staycation with Sykes, visit www.sykescottages.co.uk, call 01244 617 683, or download the new Sykes Holiday Cottages app.
Little Leighs – Warbstow, Cornwall
Sleeps: Six Price: Seven nights from £540
URL: https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Devon-Fentrigan/Little-Leighs-1062421.html
Little Leighs is one of several characterful 18th century cottages nestled within a wooded hollow in Warbstow.
Holidaymakers seeking a relaxing retreat in this popular part of Cornwall can meet the resident alpacas and free-range chickens on the three-acre country retreat, learning all about farming life from the property’s owners and collecting eggs for their breakfast from the resident hen houses.
On sunnier days, Crackington Haven, which is popular with surfers, is just five miles away, whilst nearby Bude has a choice of two sandy beaches.
The Tractor Shed – Weston-under-Redcastle, Shropshire
Sleeps: Four Price: Seven nights from £580
This stunning barn conversion is situated in the grounds of Maynard’s Farm, one of Rick Stein’s Food Heroes, and home to the renowned Maynard’s Bacon.
Large windows offer views of the surrounding fields which can be enjoyed from the mezzanine area with a morning cup of coffee. A contemporary kitchen and free-standing bath add a luxurious feel to this unique accommodation and guests can curl up in front of the woodburning stove with goodies from the onsite Farm Shop.
For a day out, holidaymakers can visit Hawkstone Park Follies, which is home to a number of walking routes, or head to the nearby medieval town of Shrewsbury to browse the quirky shops and Roman art gallery.
Millvale Cottage – Cootehill, County Cavan
Sleeps: Eight Price: Seven nights from £1,310
URL: https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/property-details.html?npropertyid=1107630
Millvale Cottage is tucked away on a working farm in the village of Tullyvin, County Cavan, which is known for its peaceful Lakelands.
The charming barn conversion has characterful stone walls, beamed high ceilings and traditional furniture. In the evening, large groups or families can kick off their walking boots and rest in front of the woodburning stove whilst the chef of the group prepares a feast in the kitchen.
Guests can make the most of the water sports available on Lough Oughter, including kayaking and paddle boarding. There is also an abundance of walks to explore in Turbot Island Nature Reserve and Killykeen Forest Park.
Brian’s Cottage – Alnmouth, Northumberland
Sleeps: Six Price: Seven nights from £563
URL: https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/Northumbria-Northumberland-Bilton/Brians-Cottage-208.html
This stone-built cottage is situated on a rural working farm two miles from the village of Alnmouth.
The modern property is an ideal base for families or groups of friends, with French doors that open onto a large lawned area where little ones can play while parents watch from the plush sofas.
After exploring the farm, wander into of the village of Almouth to try the local golf course or stock up on amenities at the variety of shops, pubs, and restaurants available.
Pendre Uchaf – Melin-y-Wig near Ruthin, Denbighshire
Sleeps: Six Price: Seven nights from £468
URL: https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/cottage/North-Wales-Snowdonia-Melin-y-Wig/Pendre-Uchaf-17683.html
Pendre Uchaf is a delightful, stone-built barn conversion set on a 320-acre working sheep and cattle farm.
Beautifully restored while maintaining its original character, including lofty ceilings and exposed beams, this property is the perfect home away from home, with three comfortable bedrooms for a family or group of friends.
For the perfect spring staycation, guests can feed the farm’s resident lambs or explore their surroundings on one of the local walking routes. There is also an open lake just five minutes away for an early morning swim or fishing session, as well as the historic market town of Ruthin.
