The Grinding Barn

The highlights

• Set amidst the rolling hills and fields of rural Oxfordshire, this beautifully converted farm building is perfect for get-togethers with friends and family.
• Inside, you’ll find a bright and spacious living area, complete with an open fire for cosy evenings in.
• On sunny days, head out to the garden and relax in the hot tub while lunch sizzles away on the BBQ.
• There’s plenty to do in the local area, from walking and cycling in the Thames Valley, to exploring historic Oxford and charming Cotswold villages.

You should know

• Not suitable for parties.

The detail

Nestled in the picturesque Vale of White Horse in Oxfordshire, with the ancient Ridgeway and the Thames Valley as its backdrop, you’ll find The Grinding Barn at at The Old Farmyard. Offering breathtaking views over rolling hills and fields, this is the perfect spot for a peaceful get-together with friends and family. The beautifully designed and converted barn features seven bedrooms, comfortably accommodating up to 14 guests and has been tastefully furnished with a mix of contemporary and country-classic styles. The result is a welcoming and relaxed space, perfect for large groups. After a busy day exploring Oxford or pretty Cotswolds villages, gather in front of the open fire with a board game or sit back in the hot tub and watch the sunset over the stunning surroundings.

Step inside the barn and you’ll find yourself in a spacious hallway that invites you on towards the garden. On your left, you’ll find a lobby that leads through to two bedrooms and a shower room, making a lovely family suite. On the right, you’ll find another bedroom with an ensuite bathroom as well as a large pantry with room for washing and drying clothes. Carry on through to the large open-plan living space which feels bright and airy thanks to tall windows and high vaulted ceilings supported by exposed wooden beams. At one end, you’ll find the well-equipped kitchen with its large central island, ideal for catering for large groups. In the centre of the room, the long dining table has plenty of space for everyone, while at the other end, large comfy sofas are gathered around an open fire, perfect for cosy evenings in.

Head upstairs to find the rest of the bedrooms, two of which have ensuites and the other two share a family bathroom. All of the bedrooms have comfy zip and link beds from Dormy House, offering plenty of flexibility for groups to have as many twin or double rooms as they need. The bathrooms have underfloor heating, luxurious in the winter, and have been stylishly decorated with vibrant tiles.

Outside, you’ll find a large terrace, designed for lazy afternoons in the sunshine. Get a late lunch going on the BBQ while the kids run around on the lawn or explore the old tractor shed that’s been converted into a games area. During the warmer months, sit out late into the evening with a glass of wine or sit back and relax in the hot tub.

If you can tear yourself away from your peaceful hideaway, there’s plenty to do in the area. The Grinding Barn makes a great base for exploring The Cotswolds or the historic city of Oxford. Take a stroll down to the village of Little Coxwell where you’ll find charming thatched cottages covered in wisteria and roses. Lace up your walking boots and head out to explore the Ridgeway National Trail or Ashdown Woods nearby. Head to Uffington to see the Bronze Age chalk horse the area is named after and take in the views across six counties from the top of the hill. There are also National Trust properties to visit and markets to peruse in quaint Cotswolds towns as well as outdoor sports and activities at Cotswold Water Park.

Features

Essential