The now serene Devon residence, once inspiring the ominous locale of "The Hound of the Baskervilles," has been transformed into a tranquil farmyard sanctuary.
An Unforgettable Retreat at Fowlescombe Farm
Nestled in the heart of a secret valley, Fowlescombe Farm provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This hidden gem offers a complete change of pace, where the only sounds you'll hear are birds chirping and sheep bleating. With roots dating back to 1537, this historic farm is not just a piece of history, but a sustainable haven that houses slow and regenerative farming methods.
The farm's transformation into a luxury retreat was led by Caitlin Owens, who took over the farm in 2019, and Paul Glade, a creative director with a background in architecture. Their team offers an intimate and family-like atmosphere where guests are encouraged to partake in daily farm activities, such as collecting eggs, foraging for wild garlic, and petting adorable Basil the dog.
Fowlescombe Farm is all about the total experience. Food and most activities are included in the room rate, ensuring a stress-free and immersive stay. Before your visit, someone from the team will reach out to curate a bespoke itinerary tailored to your preferences. You can indulge in activities like bread baking, animal feeding, preserving sessions, or flower press workshops. Plus, there's always paddleboarding, foraging, beach swims, and yoga classes, just to name a few.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted with homemade scones and a tour led by farm manager Rosie. Meet the English longhorn cattle, friendly Boer goats, and Manx Loaghtan sheep, and learn about their sustainable farming and soil management approach.
Meals at Fowlescombe Farm are served in The Refectory, a charming shed converted into a communal dining space. Guests are encouraged to engage with the chefs, select their own ingredients, and even try their hand at cooking a meal. Breakfast is a hearty affair, featuring pastries, toast, and homemade preserves, followed by hot options that will satisfy your hunger. The all-day menu consists of soup, sandwiches, and no-waste croquettes, suitable for picnics or early-morning or late-night indulgence in your suite. In the evenings, guests gather for a seasonal set menu, highlighting farm-fresh meat and garden-grown vegetables.
Fowlescombe Farm's gardens are a sight to behold, offering an array of produce from the typical vegetables like broad beans and rainbow chard to the more unusual kiwi fruit and chickpeas. The team's dedication to sustainability can be seen in the prosperous polytunnels, greenhouses teeming with seedlings, and perennial and annual produce beds. Herbs are thoughtfully positioned near the kitchen for convenient gathering by the chefs and guests.
Fowlescombe Farm takes pride in being a retreat rather than a traditional hotel. Guests can enjoy long lie-ins and breakfast in bed, if desired. The 10 unique suites scattered across the farmyard buildings offer comfortable spaces designed for relaxation, complete with cozy seating areas, stone furniture carved from the farm's quarry, and spacious bathtubs for unwinding. Amenities include Pelegrims' antioxidant bathing salts, and each suite boasts architectural features that are hard to miss, like the panoramic window in the Valley suite and the oversized, crooked oak door in Long Barn.
Fowlescombe Farm might be a new addition to the UK hospitality scene, but its exceptional offerings, stunning location, and commitment to sustainability are sure to make it a standout destination.
Experiences at Fowlescombe Farm
- The Millbrook Inn: Caitlin also manages The Millbrook Inn in nearby South Pool. Ask the team to reserve a table for lunch.
- Art Gallery: Fowlescombe Farm showcases over thirty contemporary artists, curated by Claudia Kennaugh of Art & People.
- Dartmoor Exploration: Take advantage of beautiful Dartmoor National Park, with activities like stargazing, gravel biking, and hiking.
- Personalized Menus: Vegetarian or gluten-free? No problem! The Refectory's evening menu is adaptable to cater to each guest's dietary requirements, with delicious substitutes like chargrilled golden beetroot.
- Cooking Experiences: If you prefer cooking for yourself, most suites are equipped with kitchenettes or access to the farm's communal kitchen where you can try out the 'cook your own' kits.
Explore the local culture by visiting The Millbrook Inn, a charming pub managed by Caitlin Owens in nearby South Pool.
For art enthusiasts, Fowlescombe Farm showcases over thirty contemporary artists, curated by Claudia Kennaugh of Art & People, providing a home-and-garden experience that extends beyond the farm.
Embark on a travel adventure with activities like hiking, stargazing, and gravel biking within the picturesque Dartmoor National Park.
Tailor your dining experience to Accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free, or other dietary preferences at The Refectory, where the evening menu is adaptable to each guest's specific dietary requirements.
Indulge in cooking experiences by using 'cook your own' kits available in most suites or the farm's communal kitchen, combining travel, lifestyle, and a touch of home-and-garden to create a truly unique experience.
