We wish to let you all know that it is retirement time for us! We have recently agreed the sale of Long Barn and the new owners, Geoff and Hayley, have now taken over. We have so many happy memories from our eleven years of running the business and will especially miss greeting our guests when they arrive for their stay with us – many of whom we now regard as dear friends.  Long Barn is...

When properly prepared, a picnic is one of summer’s great joys. Eating al fresco seems to intensify the flavours in food. Meanwhile, the soft light and natural scenery work their magic. Kids go free-range and adults are off-duty. Everyone relaxes. Follow our simple steps below then enjoy an effortless family picnic or a romantic date night. We’re sharing the picnic recipes we’ve...

What have you learnt from 9 weeks of lockdown? Likely what Zoom is, alongside a few fibs to dodge the 4th quiz of the week. Perhaps how to make your own tagliatelle, or what a burpee is (thanks very much Joe Wicks). We’ve learnt – or rather re-learnt – the irrepressible draw of the outdoors. Lockdown policy on exercise has highlighted its role in our physical and mental health. ...

Springtime is perfect for easy-going family baking, and pottering in the garden under the gentle sun. Whilst there is often rush to get something on the table, holidays offer time to discover the potential for growing and preparing food to be fun and immersive family activities. With this in mind, here are three delicious family-friendly home recipes: Eggless Easter Chocolate Cake, Indonesian-style...

Most of us have read or watched the fantasy epic the Lord of the Rings. A little hobbit named Frodo leaves his rural home and sets off on a dangerous journey far away, to hostile shadow lands with a magical ring in tow. During his journey he often misses his home, with its lush rolling hills, moreish ale, country cooking, pretty gardens, and chill way of life. This is exactly what it feels like leaving...