When the weight of London life feels heavy, fresh air and tranquility is only ever a train ride away. In fact, the journey to Herfordshire’s gorgeous Tewinbury Farm may even take less time than your daily commute. Head north out of London King’s Cross, and you’ll soon arrive at Welwyn North Station, which is just a five minute taxi ride away from the perfect countryside escape. Aaaaand breathe.
Home to lakeside cabins, hot tubs, and some really good food, this 700-acre, 17th century working farm will welcome you with open arms. Once a dairy farm, then a farm shop, it slowly started its first foray into hospitality – initially offering just four rooms inside the family home out to guests.
Accommodation at Tewinbury Farm
Nowadays, Tewinbury Farm boasts 43 countryside hotel rooms, four lake huts, three woodland huts, two lodges, and a shepherd’s hut. While all options offer something different, from romantic getaways to wholesome family breaks, they each offer some level of luxury for anyone (or any dog!) staying in them.
The Lake Huts are essentially swanky studio apartments set beside a beautiful fishing lake, each with their own alfresco hot tub. The Woodland and Shepherd’s Huts are further inland amongst the trees, offering a peaceful woodland getaway. Meanwhile, inside the farm buildings are more traditional rooms in various sizes, including large family accommodation spread over two floors.
Food and drink at Tewinbury Farm
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to food, with a number of dining options to choose from. Executive Chef Alistair Dibbs, who has worked in Michelin-starred kitchens and brushed shoulders with the likes of Tom Kerridge and Hélène Darroze, oversees the kitchens – so you know it’s going to be good.
The farm’s original chicken shed is now the Granary Kitchen, serving up hearty breakfasts and Sunday lunches. The former cowshed is now the aptly named Cowshed, which is the main restaurant on site at Tewinbury. Here you can expect a menu of British classics that change with the seasons. It’s also home to an award-winning afternoon tea.
The Stable, too, is a cosy little spot with comfy sofas, reclaimed furniture and work by talented local artists adorning the walls. It’s the perfect hideaway to get stuck into a good book with a cocktail in hand, or wile away a rainy afternoon with a board game and a beer. It also boasts a lovely, heated terrace overlooking the River Mimram.
Activities at and around Tewinbury Farm
There’s plenty to do at Tewinbury Farm, from spa treatments and wellness classes, to catching a film at their brilliant boutique cinema.
If you do want to leave the grounds though, they will forgive you. After all, Tewinbury has loads of wonderful walking routes nearby, as well as plenty of local pubs. And, if you’re after a little more magic, the Harry Potter Studio Tour is just half an hour away.