Bude Barns – solitude with style

If you’re a fan of self-catering holidays in the UK (particularly Cornwall), and are looking for unspoiled countryside, peace and quiet, and nearby beaches – but don’t want to forgo comfort, luxury and style – then Bude Barns might be very much your cup of tea. Details of these beautifully converted barns dropped into my in-box recently courtesy of  i-escapes, and I thought they were just too lovely to keep to myself, particularly as truly stylish holiday lets can be so hard to find.

Ideal for families and groups of friends, the 2 barns are the work of Conrad and Karen Allen who left London for the country life, and combine careers in the fashion industry with raising a family and running their 7-acre smallholding. Guests are welcome to explore its wild flower meadow, wade across the stream, and meet the resident chickens in a nearby clearing beyond a small patch of woodland.

The couple’s first project, the Red Barn, opened in 2009, followed by the larger, architect-designed Cob in 2012. Both barns have home comforts and modern facilities – underfloor heating, wood-burners, modern bathrooms and free WiFi internet access plus simple, bright contemporary décor – white walls, rainbow-hued Eames chairs, plus a touch of cool wallpaper and Orly Kiely pattern here and there too.

When it’s beach weather, the dramatic cliffs and surf beaches of the north Cornish coast are a short drive away, plus nearby villages and beauty spots provide lots of scope for days out exploring the surrounding area.

The barns are open all year round, and all the seasons have something to offer.  Summer means long days and, fingers crossed, the best of the weather. Go in autumn for serious surfing and woodland colours, in winter for the wild empty beaches, and in April for the bluebells. And don’t forget the Bude Jazz Festival, which takes place in early September.

The minimum stay is one week in high season, but shorter breaks are available at other times; personally, I’m seriously thinking of moving in permanently.

Visit i-escapes for more information, availability, special offers and to book.