Time for more magic: 9 special ways to enjoy your extra hour at Long Barn

As the clocks fall back on Sunday 27th October, there's something magical about having more time to savour those precious moments away.

Whether you're an early bird ready to catch a spectacular autumn sunrise, or you're planning to snuggle deeper under the duvet, we've gathered some wonderful ways to make the most of your bonus hour at Long Barn Holiday Cottages. After all, holiday memories are made of these stolen moments of peace, joy and connection...

1. Press snooze

There’s a local belief that Devon air makes you sleep deeply. Like many old wives’ tales, there is something in it. Woodlands and greenery are natural sources of phytoncides, chemicals which boost our immune system and lower our stress hormone levels. Meanwhile, the high salt content of coastal air has a decongesting effect. Combined, they’re an airborne sleep elixir.

If you’re an early bird, take advantage of the darkening evenings and cosy down with a book or podcast and a herbal tea and get yourself an extra early night. Night owls, enjoy a luxurious lie in.

2. Listen to the birdsong

Right outside your kitchen door, you can hear the gentle chirp of birds. Wrap up in a jumper and hug a mug of tea while sitting outside with them.

After just a minute or so the general chitter-chatter will acquire distinction. You’ll be able to discern the calls of different birds such as wood pigeons and great tits. Their call and response is lovely, a calming antidote to the rush of modern life.

The BBC have produced a free beginner’s audio guide to help you identify them.

3. Enjoy a digital detox

Want to reduce your screen time? Why not put your phone away for the hour and wean yourself off the need to be constantly connected and responsive.

Want to go one further? Swap your favourite show for an hour reading a book or playing cards.

4. Go for a wild swim

Ever noticed how a quick dip in the sea feels like a whole adventure packed into just a few minutes? Trust us, that refreshing splash of cold water isn't just invigorating - it's actually doing you a world of good!

Let's be honest, we weren't built to live in perfect temperature-controlled bubbles (though we do love our cosy cottages!). There's something incredibly alive about feeling that first rush of cool water - gets your heart racing and floods your body with those feel-good endorphins.

Here's a little secret: if you're thinking about giving it a try, autumn is actually the sweet spot for sea swimming in the UK. The water's at its warmest in September and October - who would've thought? Pop in for just a few exhilarating minutes and you'll see what we mean.

Top tip: wetsuit? Totally up to you. But that flask of hot chocolate or coffee for afterwards? Now that's non-negotiable!

5. Make the most of our play barn

Our play barn and grounds contain everything the little ones need for many hours of fun and games. And the more free-range fun they have, the more time you have to relax. The play area includes a play house, pool table, table tennis and table football ready for rainy days.

6. Take a dip in our pool

If swimming outside in the autumn isn't for you, why not enjoy an hour’s gentle exercise in our indoor heated swimming pool instead? Swimming is the perfect way to move your body in a low impact way which engages your main muscle groups and helps to calm your mind.

We operate an hourly booking system for the pool so you can enjoy private use. No more lane wars. Simply go at your own pace, find your rhythm and steady your breathing. 

7. Go on a welly walk

There’s something lovely about the sight of muddy wellies lined up by the door. It’s something we see a lot of around here – wellies being a non-negotiable in many country lanes. Why not don yours and stride (or splash) out for a walk in the green rolling hills around Long Barn?

See how many plants you can name. You can identify others using PictureThis, an app used by foragers. In our local area you can forage for blackberries, pineapple weed (wild chamomile) and samphire at this time of year.

Or go further afield. The dramatic hills of Dartmoor loom to our north-west, spend the extra hour out in the wild.

8. Sit by the fire

Can't stop checking your emails? Finding it hard to put down your phone? Trust us - there's nothing quite like a crackling fire to make you forget all about that digital world!

There's just something magical about watching those flames dance, isn't there? Each one telling its own little story, flickering and swaying in a way that no Netflix show can compete with. That gorgeous golden glow has a way of melting away the day's worries, gently nudging you into that perfect state of 'ahhh...'

So go on, sink into that comfy chair, leave your phone in another room (we dare you!), and let nature's own entertainment system work its cosy magic. Sometimes the best way to reset isn't hitting refresh - it's watching the embers glow.

9. Run a bubble bath

Let's talk about that simple luxury we all keep promising ourselves but never quite get around to... yes, we're looking at you, bubble bath! 

You know that moment when you finally sink into those warm bubbles and think 'why don't I do this more often?' Pure bliss, right? There's something almost magical about letting that warm water wash away the day (or those Devon hills you conquered on your afternoon walk).

So here's your permission slip to make this extra hour all about YOU. Run that bath until it's just perfect, drop in those bubbles, light your favourite candle, and yes - that glass of wine absolutely counts as self-care.

After all, isn't this what holiday time is all about? Those deliciously slow moments where the outside world can wait while you just... float away. Go on, you know you want to...

Autumn breaks at Long Barn

Pack up the family for an Autumn holiday, or even a holiday with family and friends in Devon. Our beautiful rural location and fantastic amenities give you the space you need to relax, reconnect and make wonderful memories.