We visited in October for a short stay, just 3 nights with the 4 of us and our dog and we stayed in the Bull Pen. On arrival we were greeted by Denise who had been super helpful in organising our stay and was very welcoming when we arrived. She even helped us book dinner at a local restaurant the first evening which made it even easier to settle in.
Inside, the welcome pack was just that, very welcome and just the thing to get our stay off to a good start with fresh local products - bread, butter, milk, orange juice, bacon and eggs. Everything needed for a lovely breakfast.
It was an ideal retreat from Covid and when we closed the gate to the Bull Pen that first evening it felt like we were separated from the rest of the world and we could breathe and relax.
The weather those few days was variable but we managed to cross the fields with a walk to the local village on the day when the sun was out and it was lovely to be outside in the fresh air. We also managed to do some exploring of nearby pubs and villages and the info pack was very helpful.
One of the days was wet and windy so we stayed inside the Bull Pen most of the day - closed off from the world, warm inside and relaxed - wood fire burning, some music playing on the Sonos - and the family close but spread enough we could be together but not on top of each other. We even played some of the board games which had been provided - a rare occasion given the usual distractions when we are at home. Just the thing, accompanied by a glass or two of wine and some of the local cheeses we had purchased at the market in Cirencester.
The barn itself was luxurious and completed to the highest standard, everything immaculate, clean and in perfect condition. At the same time very inviting and comfortable. We bumped into the owner George on the weekend as he was dropping an emergency supply of nappies to one of the barns - and when he asked for feedback we were hard pressed to think of anything which could make our stay better - he has really done an amazing job in preparing the barns for his guests and has thought of everything.
We are looking forward to another visit when we intend to give the bbq a good workout! The local pubs and restaurants in the area are so good we never got the...
Read moreAnother Wonderful Stay — Perfect for a Special Celebration!
We spent five nights at the barns as a family group spanning three generations, celebrating a 70th birthday, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. The property was exceptionally well equipped, with huge attention to detail in every room — everything you could possibly need was thought of.
The setting is beautiful, with fantastic walks straight from the door and plenty of wildlife to enjoy — we spotted deer and all sorts of birds during our stay. One of the highlights was a special catered evening with Luke Strutt, who was absolutely excellent and made the celebration really memorable.
We also became regulars at 11 Coffee Shop, which was excellent every time — great coffee, delicious food, and friendly service.
This was our third visit to the barns, each time staying in a different one, and it has always lived up to expectations. Consistently high standards, welcoming hosts, and a real home-from-home feel.
We honestly can’t recommend it enough and are already looking forward to...
Read moreWe booked a 4 day stay here and the day before arrival, George rang to advise me that due to the recent storm, there would be work going on to fix the roof of the main farmhouse. The property I had originally booked was right next door to the main house, and the work would have impinged on our privacy, so he very generously offered me The Bull Pen as an alternative as it wasn't booked for the duration of our stay. When we arrived, I had fully expected to be blown away when I made the original booking, but my expectations were surpassed. There is honestly no room for improvement. It is a stunning property - every detail is so perfectly thought out. I love to cook and it is the most well equipped kitchen of any property I've ever rented. The surrounding area is beautiful too - perfect for walks with our dog, the towns of Burford and Cirencester a short drive away, and so many farm shops nearby. I can't recommend the Barns enough, and we will definitely be back -...
Read more