Blame it on the rise of cottagecore or restrictions on international travel but it seems the allure of getting back to nature has brought a wave of new holidaymakers to farm stays this year, particularly younger people.
Ask any millennial what they're into and they'll likely tell you: house plants, wine, figuring out which Harry Potter house they belong to and now, farm stays. Since the UK government announced that tourism businesses could reopen on July 4, Farm Stay UK (a non-profit cooperative of rural accommodations) said it's seen its website traffic go through the roof with an increase of more than 200% from last year, the vast majority of visitors being 25 - 35 year-olds.
“Younger people are being attracted to the countryside for the wider experiences that are on offer, while at the same time offering a secluded place for them to relax," said Farm Stay chairman Kay Barriball. "Post-lockdown, instead of visiting cities, they're looking for rural accommodations close to outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling and those that have swimming pools and hot tubs, so they can create similar memories to going abroad but staying right here in the UK."
Whatever your age, farm stays offer a real change from the grind of urban living and convenient access to nature. If you're planning to try one out this year, here are seven farm stays throughout the UK that are particularly popular with guests; giving them the chance to take part in picking, preparing and eating the produce on site, or exploring nearby nature spots and getting back to basics.
Moorparks Holiday Cottages, Devon
These two self-catering cottages come with their own private garden overlooking farmland and paddocks filled with pet sheep, alpacas, chickens and ducks. Ideal for friends and families. Sandy beaches including Exmoor and Dartmoor are within driving distance. See more here.
Mill Farm, Lincolnshire
Located in the quiet village of Barkstone, Mill Farm is home to holiday cottages, log cabins and on-site fishing. It's close to National Trust property, Belton House, Heritage Site Easton Walled Gardens and within walking distance of The Stag – an award-winning local pub. You can hop on the bus to Lincoln from the village and explore the ancient walled city or simply relax on the farm with gorgeous views across the Midlands. See more here.
Moonrise Lodges, West Midlands
Just east of the Welsh border, Moonrise Lodges are two stunning lakeside lodges located on a family farm in a quiet and secluded location, surrounded by natural beauty and ideal for families to run around. See more here.
Round the Woods, Norfolk
Round the Woods are two yurts set in an 18-acre nature reserve in North Norfolk and owned by Kate and Seb who are self-sufficient on-site and grow most of their own food. Visitors can relax in their own private corner of woodland, overlooking a wildflower meadow and eat al fresco or enjoy all the comforts of the yurt which come with a comfy bed, log burner and private bathroom facilities. See more here.
Pickersgill Manor Farm, Yorkshire
The perfect spot for exploring the Yorkshire Dales, Pickersgill Manor is an award-winning bed-and-breakfast on a working farm in North Yorkshire. Guests get to wake up to a full-English breakfast, served around the table in the farmhouse kitchen. See more here.
Hoe Grange Holidays, Peak District
An eco and accessible multi-award-winning site with self-catering facilities to suit all group sizes and preferences - from accessible cabins to a cozy caravan for two. Situated just inside the Peak District National Park, it's the perfect place to stay to explore one of the UK's most stunning landscapes. See more here.
Creeside Escape, Scotland
Creeside Escape is an off-grid shepherd's hut with uninterrupted views of south-west Scotland. Experience fresh air, starry skies, and peace and tranquillity with gorgeous views of the River Cree and the Galloway Hills in the distance. Get back to the basics of life and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. See more here.
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