Anthology Farm
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, The Cotswolds, UK
Resurrected from old 18th century barns, the sensitive renovation of Anthology Farm near Cheltenham has seen it transform into a sprawling self-catering haven for up to 18 guests. An eclectic collection of furnishings present a feel of faraway travels; brass candlesticks hold tall taper candles on the banquet table and Moroccan tiles lay underfoot. Settled in 500 acres and with a heated indoor pool, this luxury wellbeing retreat was designed for creative modern travellers.
Introduction
Constructed from stone carved out of Doddles Hill mines nearby, Anthology Farm's recent renovation was designed with luxury and home comforts in mind, but not for one second have its agricultural roots been discarded. Guests will find 18th century graffiti engraved into the old stone walls, with many other signs paying homage to its heritage, from the exposed brick and claw-foot baths to perfectly gnarled wood beams and thick drapes in the bedrooms, plus the working grain farm setting itself. Booked together, there is more than enough space across Anthology Farm’s two barns for large groups families to unfurl in sheer comfort, knowing the beauty of Cheltenham and the Cotswolds is right there on the old stone doorstep.
Inside
The family worked in conjunction with local planners and an award-winning London design house to ensure Anthology Farm's ample interior was renovated in a style true to its rural Cotswolds setting: rooms are gabled with lead-paned windows looking out over patchwork farmland, natural materials have been used wherever possible and Scandic details give a contemporary nod to farmhouse chic. Two of the nine bedrooms have freestanding baths in the room itself for extra R&R, while all have clouds of luxury bedlinen and fine examples of antique furniture. Two large kitchens will appeal to multi-generational families, corporate or retreat groups – with space for additional caterers – and a long wooden table awaits in the dining room, dressed with brass candelabras and dried flower décor.
Outside
It’s the rural setting that gives this place its charm: 500 acres of picturesque farmland are a stunning backdrop for long walks past arable crops, fields piled high with hay in sultry summer months. The farm is part of a countryside stewardship scheme and much respect is paid to local arable life; including conservation of the rare Bee Orchid, thriving in nearby meadows. Guests can embrace their inner rambler by exploring the network of woodland walks, cooling hot feet in a local brook and pit-stopping in local inns for a game of cards and round of ales. While sports fans get stuck into rounds of tennis and croquet, diners can wander over to the outdoor eating area, drink in hand, as the sun sets over the Cotswold hills.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 18 guests
From £8,995 per week, £7,195 per short break
Day hire options are available - Alternative group optionUp to 10 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThe Cotswold barn has five bedrooms, two on the first floor with king-size beds and en suite shower rooms, two on the second floor with king-size beds and freestanding baths in the room, and an en suite WC and sink, one on the top floor with a king-size bed, as well as a separate WC on the first floor. The Meal barn has four bedrooms, one on the ground floor with a king-size bed, one twin bedroom on the ground floor and a shared family bathroom. On the first floor, there are two bedrooms with king-size beds and en suite bathrooms with standalone baths and showers, and one of these bedrooms has two single beds tucked into the eaves.
View bedrooms - FeaturesHeated indoor swimming pool, cinema room, tennis court, table tennis, gym equipment, purpose built yoga studio and electric car charging point
- PetsSorry, no pets
- Arrivals and departuresArrival Day: Friday or MondayArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children are very welcome. There is one cot and one highchair available.
- PracticalitiesThere is ample parking for ten cars. In the Cotswold barn, the kitchen has a large Rangemaster cooker with five-zone induction hob, a double oven and grill and two further ovens, plus a large double fridge and full-length fridge-freezer, wine cooler, coffee machine, kettle and two dishwashers. In the second barn, the kitchen has a double oven with four-zone induction hob, fridge-freezer, wine cooler, dishwasher, kettle and Nespresso machine. There is WiFi internet throughout each property and underfloor heating in the Cotswold barn, porch, hall and in all bathrooms. Please note that the owners live on-site should you need them during your stay. If arriving by air, helicopters are welcome to land on the grounds.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper, Sonos sound system in the main dining room, a projector screen, Smart TVs with Netflix, Amazon and Sky TV including Sky Sports, PlayStations and Bluetooth radios, iPad, gas barbecue, linen, towels, logs and kindling to get you started...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more little luxuries
- Private cateringDiscover your options for private dining and fully catered breaks.
- Additional extrasA handpicked selection of unique experiences are available at this property.
- Eco-friendlyElectric car charging point
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsEV charger locationsCheck mobile signalRecommend to a friend
Weddings
If this stunning set of luxury Cotswolds barns for the bridal party weren’t enough, Anthology Farm boasts 500 acres of private farmland for romantic elopements and all-out affairs for up to 50 guests, all finished off with stylish Sunday pool parties. For a weekend-long wedding in your own rural paradise, it’s got to be Anthology Farm.
Prices & Availability
Cheltenham
Cheltenham lies within the heart of Gloucestershire beneath Cleeve Hill – the highest point in the Cotswolds. With an interesting heritage and a full calendar of events throughout the year, a holiday in Cheltenham promises an enjoyable visit for couples and families alike.
Getting there
- On the Map Anthology Farm is in Whittington near Cheltenham, with easy access to several major Cotswold villages and about half an hour by car from Gloucester.
- By Car The property is around two hours drive from central London and about half an hour from the major city of Gloucester.
- By Train The journey time to nearby Moreton-in-Marsh from London Paddington is approximately an hour and a half, followed by a 30-minute cab ride to the house.
- By Air Gloucestershire Airport is the closest runway, at around 20 minutes by car, while Heathrow Airport is under two hours by car. Helicopters are welcome to land on the grounds of Anthology Farm.
From the owner
“What a dramatic first impression Anthology Farm makes, to us and to our guests as well. With the majestic backdrop of Doddle´s Hill and a huge arched window set into the end wall, we think it´s a truly stunning building for a relaxing weekend.”
The Barns were originally built in 1740 and built of traditional Cotswold stone from the mines opposite the barns. The dressed stone and straight beams of the Cotswold barn indicate it was built to the highest standards of the time.
Its original use would have been agricultural, built to store the grain harvested on the farm from the surrounding fields, facing East to West with slit openings to let the prevailing wind in to dry and preserve the grains, which would of been used to feed the livestock, to make bread or to be sold at the local markets.
We purchased the farm in 2016 and relocated from Staffordshire, bringing with us over 30 years of hospitality experience. With the help of some funding from the European Agricultural fund for rural development, we lovingly converted the barns into what they are now; a fabulous space for luxury group gatherings in seclusion and comfort.
We worked with interior designers, to help us create a modern and stylish feel to the interiors yet with the feeling of cosiness and comfort you would want from a luxury stay in the Cotswold countryside. A great starting point to explore the beautiful Cotswold countryside yet a stone's throw from Cheltenham and surrounding picturesque villages, with plenty to do for young and old alike.
The Barnes Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Cheltenham with an insider’s perspective.
To See
Sudeley Castle & Gardens, Winchcombe
Visit the 10 stunning gardens and estate at Sudeley Castle, a hidden gem just 20 minutes by car, where the 15th century west wing is open to explorers and the South Hall contains exquisite examples of Dutch painted glass. There’s a restaurant on-site and a big activity area for children keen to re-enact historical scenes.
To Do
Cheltenham Racecourse, Cheltenham
Pack a race hat and head to Cheltenham Racecourse for a day of equine action. Book a restaurant package and soak up the atmosphere over lunch: the Panoramic Restaurant has views across the course and makes a great base for the day. Keep an eye out for seasonal events.
To Eat
Slaughters Country Inn, Lower Slaughter
Sitting right on the River Eye, this sprawling Cotswold stone pub has spacious grounds meandering down to the water, boasts local meats and generous Sunday roasts on the menu, and has plenty of interesting ales to sample. With board games and books available, this place was made for lazy afternoons.
To Do
Wine Tasting with Charlie Womersley, Whittington
Charlie has enjoyed a career indulging in his wine obsession since 1981, travelling the world and discovering fabulous wines. Whether it´s providing a family-friendly tasting or simply supplying and delivering wines to the house for you to enjoy during your stay, Charlie is more than happy to help.
Guest Testimonials
It was entirely the best weekend we could have had to celebrate my husband´s 60th. All the guests thought Anthology Farm was outstanding, the quality of the rooms, the shared spaces, the grounds and the swimming pool. The owner was really easy to deal with and texted me throughout the stay to check all was well. We had an incredible time and will definitely use Unique Homestays again. Thank you to everyone for all your assistance throughout the booking process - it felt really easy and seamless.
We absolutely loved our stay at Anthology Farm. What struck me most about the property was the generosity and attention to detail permeating every part of our stay. The indoor pool was lovely and warm, the children discovered a toy cupboard and we had everything we could possibly need in terms of kitchen equipment and provisions. It felt like being in a luxury hotel. We will definitely be back!
Anthology Farm is something very special and we instantly felt relaxed the moment we walked through the door. We enjoyed wonderful meals at the amazing dining room table, we cooked in the beautiful kitchen and relaxed on the comfy sofas. Waking up to pheasants at the window and endless rolling countryside was such a treat. We didn´t want to leave!
Anthology Farm is just stunning. It was everything we hoped for and so much more, and it exceeded all expectations! All mod-cons and appliances throughout are top-notch, all kitchenware and utensils of great quality and all soft furnishings and linen and towels felt luxurious. Everything has been thought of and nothing forgotten. All of this whilst still making the property feel cosy, homely, and relaxed. It is just gorgeous!
The owners have not only created a beautifully styled space but a truly peaceful sanctuary. It’s rare to find somewhere that’s so luxurious yet also manages to make you feel as relaxed as if you are at home. We loved waking up to the secluded views and watching the mist lift over the fields. I arrived back home and met my cottage with a sigh. We would love to return!
Unique extras
Enhance your stay with a unique experience from one of our preferred suppliers. From professional in-house chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and wine delivered to the door, see what’s on offer for your bespoke escape.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Anthology Farm has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
All together
25 Beautiful Homes
December 2022Cosy sleep spaces
Living Etc.
June 2022The best UK wedding venues
Harper´s Bazaar
February 2022Soaring demand for converted barns
Tatler
January 2022Twin barns reborn
Country Living
January 2022Contemporary 18th century farmhouse
Country Living
December 2021A Modern Rustic Barn Conversion
Living Etc.
July 2021A Cotswold Christmas
Country Homes & Interiors
December 2020
Collections > Luxury New Year Breaks > UK > Gloucestershire > Cheltenham > Anthology Farm
Related Collections
Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
