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If your idea of a perfect escape includes rolling hills, fresh air, and a few friendly farm animals, you’re not alone. Across the UK, a new wave of countryside retreats are offering more than just chic interiors and stunning views, they’re inviting guests to get hands-on, mucked into the country way of life, and meet the animals who call it home. Whether you're collecting eggs from free-roaming hens in Perthshire, picnicking with ponies in the Cairngorms, or waking up to the soft bleats of sheep in Devon, these getaways blend five-star comfort with the simple joys of rural life. Here are six of our favourite spots where luxury meets the country, and where every visit is a chance to slow down, meander, and make a few four-legged friends along the way.
Location: Kinnaird, By Inchture, Perthshire, PH14 9QZ
Booking and info: Click here.
On a 150 acre hillside in beautiful Perthshire, sits Guardswell Farm. Each space to stay on family-run Guardswell, from hilltop huts, to the five-bedroom modern country farmhouse, offers guests a cosy countryside escape, with a homely feel. Enjoy your stay with a soak in a wood-burning hot tub, or cook up a storm in your very own Big Green Egg. Each day you’ll wake up to one of Guardswell’s artisan breakfast baskets, including eggs from the farm, homemade granola, sourdough, preserves, coffee, and apple juice from the cider orchard.
Guardswell farm is home to many, including Hebridean sheep, Shetland cattle, Angora goats, and, of course, the free-ranging hens who kindly gift their eggs to guests every morning. Guests are always welcome to explore the farm, whether it’s saying hello to the animals, or having a wander through the orchard. For those craving a bit more adventure, the team can arrange nature walks, foraging workshops, or even a chef to cook up something delicious.
Location: Killiehuntly Farmhouse, Killiehuntly, Kingussie PH21 1NZ
Booking and info: Click here.
Killiehuntly is set in the dramatic backdrop of the Cairngorm National Park. There’s the option of staying in their self catering cottages, or their catered farmhouse, which houses up to eight people, and is described as an “easy-going home from home”. Family-style dinners and an honesty bar equipped with beers and negronis for whenever your heart desires are all on offer. Guests at Killiehuntly also have access to their wild sauna yurt, and outdoor plunge pool if you’re feeling brave.
Guests at Killiehuntly are encouraged to venture into the wild, and the bookings team are always on hand to recommend unforgettable local experiences, from leisurely hikes to more tailored adventures. However, there is a standout experience on offer at Killiehuntly; their pony picnics. Arguably one of the most unique ways to experience the Cairngorms, these ponies (once used for hill work) now guide guests through glens and trails, carrying supplies for an unforgettable picnic. Alongside them, expert keepers lead the way, sharing tales about the stunning surroundings.
Location: Fowlescombe Farm, Ugborough, Devon, PL21 0HW
Booking and info: Click here.
Rooted in a rich farming history that dates back to 1537, Fowlescombe Farm in Dartmoor is a forward-thinking organic farm that raises animals slowly, regenerates the soil underfoot, and serves up the freshest of food.
Fowlescombe is home to some of Britain’s rarest and most characterful animals: English Longhorns, Beef Shorthorns, Tamworth pigs, and arguably the stars of the show, Manx Loaghtan sheep, with their super soft wool. Once considered endangered, they now make up the largest flock of their kind in the UK, living their best lives on Fowlescombe Farm.
Each of Fowlescombe’s ten dreamy suites features a hand-crafted bed made from the wool sheared on the farm. These rooms are pure countryside chic, with oak, stone and wool interiors, and breathtaking views. Guests are also invited to dine from a daily-changing menu, which is packed with dishes that use produce grown on the farm.
Location: Glen Orchy Farm, Dalmally PA33 1BD
Booking and info: Click here.
Hidden in a highland Glen, you’ll find Glenorchy Farm. Run by duo Tristan and Fiona, Glenorchy is a working farm, where the two strive for their livestock and nature to thrive in complete harmony.
What was once a large-scale sheep farm, Glenorchy has evolved into a more mindful, scaled-back steading, with Oxford Sandy and Black pigs (a breed saved from near-extinction), hardy Swaledale sheep, and Black Galloway cattle. As well as farm animals, Glenorchy has swathes of wildlife to behold.
Glenorchy’s luxury log cabins provide a cosy escape amongst wild surroundings, with wood burners, powerful showers, a fire pit, and a stunning view of the Glen and River Orchy. They are the perfect hideout for spotting Scotland’s wildlife. Think pine martens, red squirrels, and roe and red deer just to name a few. Venture slightly further afield to Oban, and hop on a sea safari to spot puffins, seals, and if you’re lucky, maybe even some dolphins and whales.
Location: Louma Farm & Retreat, Bridport, DT6 6DF
Booking and info: Click here.
Perched above the Jurassic Coast, Louma is a peaceful retreat set amongst a rugged, wild backdrop. Louma’s luxury accommodation ranges from the Main House, to converted barns and stables, and even woodland cabins. When it’s time to unwind, pay a visit to the Wellness Barn and Spa. There’s a pool, a state-of-the-art gym, and sauna and treatment huts for those embracing full relaxation mode.
Louma is a working farm, and guests are invited to join the daily rounds, meeting the hens, sheep, cattle, and pigs, all thriving under regenerative farming methods that honour the land as much as the animals. No two days on the farm are ever quite the same, which makes each visit feel like a little adventure of its own. Tour Louma’s stables too, and whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider looking to explore West Dorset, the horseback experience is unforgettable.
Location: Annat, By Achnasheen, Wester Ross IV22 2EY
Booking and info: Click here.
This historic Victorian-era mansion turned five-star hotel is the perfect place to spot quintessentially Scottish wildlife. Known for its award-winning service and stunning location, The Torridon is perfect for those seeking to explore the Scottish Highland’s stunning landscapes. Many rooms offer views over Loch Torridon or the mountains, allowing guests to wake up to the beauty of their surroundings each day. The hotel also offers The Boathouse, a separate self-catering cottage right on the loch’s edge, as well as ‘The Stables at Torridon’. These cosy, on-site retreats are perfect for small groups or families.
The hotel has some adorable resident Highland Cows, and plenty of wild deer to spot in the surrounding area. A range of guided activities are on offer, including mountain biking, and guided hill walks. For those who wish to explore the waters of Loch Torridon, kayaking and paddle boarding are available.
Whether you're after a peaceful retreat with a view, a more hands-on farm experience, or simply the joy of being surrounded by animals, these countryside stays offer something truly special. So, if you're looking to escape the noise and embrace the charm of rural life (without sacrificing on comfort), these farms and retreats might just be your next favourite getaway. Be sure to let us know if you manage to visit any!
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