This year, stay-cations have been more popular than ever due to the Covid-19 pandemic and Brits have been vacationing in the UK rather than searching for holidays abroad. By searching for accommodation closer to home, these stay-cations have shown us that actually we can have stunning breaks closer to home than we may have realised.
Based in Cambridgeshire, The Yard at Pringle Farm has everything you need to unwind and enjoy a luxury self-catering stay without the hassle of going abroad. Surrounded by stunning decor, a calming view and a superb location, this is sure to be one that you won’t want to miss.
About The Yard
The Yard is a collection of self catering barns that are situated on the beautiful grounds of Pringle Farm. Once upon a time, the grounds were stables that were used as a halfway house where horses were kept until their new owner came and collected them. The team at Pringle Farm wanted to keep a nod to the equestrian history, so named each converted room after some of the UK’s finest racecourses.
When the team first purchased The Yard, the horses were still even located on the site. The team could see the potential and were so excited to get to work on the barn. The yard is run by Naomi and Anna, Naomi lives on the property with her family so is always around the area to say hello to guests. Anna also lives close by and is always on-hand to help with any queries you may have. Both are extremely friendly and helpful, nothing is too much trouble for them which adds a lovely personal touch to the visit!
The Yard has been fully refurbished and was finally able to open up to the public in January 2020. They started by renovating the main house, where Naomi currently lives with her family, then they moved on to renovate the barns.
Six of the barns that were originally stables have been converted into new-build beautiful barns. These are perfect for a couples getaway and for business people who are looking for a more luxurious overnight accommodation.
Like many businesses, Naomi and Anna were worried how the pandemic may affect their business. However, during lockdown key workers had booked to stay at the property, making it a lovely upmarket stay during a tough time. The Yard is now fully back up and running and they even have bookings for wedding parties – making it the perfect place to create memories for a true special occasion.
Another great thing about the barns is that they work for all weather types – when it’s cold you can snuggle up and relax, and when the sun is shining you can open the doors and chill out in the sunshine. There’s plenty of room to sit outside the barns with safe social distancing, so visitors won’t have to worry about not having their own space. It’s the perfect location if you’re bored of your own home, fed up of working from home, or fancy change of scenery.
The Boutique Rooms
All the beautiful boutique rooms are furnished to the highest standard with fully equipped kitchens. Upon arrival guests are given a beautiful basket full of essentials for your stay. Products include eggs, bread, water, juice, biscuits and even some delicious fruit cake. Each barn also includes tea, coffee, and milk – so you have everything you need for the perfect breakfast with a view. The two premium suites – Cheltenham and Goodwood also include coffee machines.
Each barn is made up of bedrooms, a kitchen, a lounge, and a dining area. When we visited we stayed in The Goodwood and we would highly recommend this brilliant barn. We were so impressed with every aspect of the lodge. From the cleanliness of the rooms through to every part of the decor, we were in awe from the minute we stepped foot into the property.
The barns have an element of modern interior mixed with an elegant country feel. The team have created somewhere that feels just like a home away from home. It’s kitted out to take you away from all the stresses of life and to enjoy the moment you’re in.
Attention to detail is also fab – the little touches such as the colours of the kitchen, the quirky accessories, through to even the light fittings, everything has been thought about with great detail.
The kitchen has absolutely everything that you need for your stay – from pots and pans, to cutlery, utensils and a fridge, there’s nothing that the accommodation doesn’t have.
We have to also add that the beds are so comfortable – if you’re looking for somewhere that’ll give you a fabulous night’s sleep then these guys have got you covered!
Things to do
If you’re looking for a day out whilst staying at Pringle Farm, then there’s lots around the area that will keep you busy as popular tourist attractions are just a short distance away. The team have popped some literature in the rooms that help you navigate your way around the area. You could pop into Cambridge for the day and take up some punting along the river. Or how about visiting Huntingdon Racecourse and learning about the heritage?
For those who would like a cosy get away, the rooms are perfect for staying in and relaxing, reading a book, catching up on films, or even cooking up your favourite meal in the fabulous kitchen.
If you’re looking for somewhere to go out to eat there are lots of local pubs nearby serving delicious food. We popped to The Crown Inn and we’d highly recommend this pub – they served mouth-watering food with a very friendly service!
The verdict
To close; we’d absolutely recommend this beautiful, quaint, self-catering, countryside location. You really won’t regret it and you’ll be booking to go back before you know it!
There’s no passing traffic and it’s a really chilled getaway that we all need! In the morning it’s lovely to just hear the birds, take yourself away from normal busy lifestyle and let go of any pressure.
Book your stay today on their website or email reservations@pringlefarm.co.uk.