The Barn at Roundhurst, Surrey – Review

It`s a Family Affair at the Barn at Roundhurst.

Many of us spend Friday afternoons at our desks longing to escape from the crowds for a weekend in a tranquil idyll, but are put off by the thought of a three or four hour drive to the West Country. This made discovering the Barn at Roundhurst truly special. And it feels like a discovery, located as it is down a winding lane deep into the Sussex countryside yet just an hour from London. Set in a stunning 250 acres of organic farm, the newly converted barn and 6 guest rooms offer a truly luxurious experience with a personal touch.

Owners Moya and Richard have spent the last 2 years converting the barn and outhouses into exclusive guest accommodation, and the attention to detail shines through the renovation From carefully chosen colour schemes, high specification fixtures and fittings and quirky artwork, Moya`s flair for interior design ensures the guestrooms are stylish as well as comfortable. The rooms have a rustic feel, with cosy blankets on the beds and jolly pig charcoals on the wall, and yet the consideration of guests` needs is second to none. Sky T.V, remote controlled blinds and enormous walk-in showers were all aspects that delighted my children, and the wonderfully comfortable beds and range of speciality teas satisfied the grown-ups.

Whilst the renovation and location of the Barn at Roundhurst is truly stunning, it is the welcome from the family that makes it a truly special place to visit. From homemade Victoria sponge and a cup of tea on arrival, to an early morning visit collecting the chicken`s eggs we were to have for breakfast, the owners make you feel as if you are a family friend rather than a guest. The comfortable sofas and guide books in the 17th century barn invite you to curl up by the woodburner as you decide which ramble to take to one of the splendid local pubs. The centrepiece of the barn is an undulating staircase which leads to the library, where guests are encouraged to help themselves to books as long as they leave one in return , creating an ambience of warmth and trust.

The breakfast was cooked and served by the hosts` relatives, and an errant dog running in during proceedings added to the sense of a big, welcoming family who have invited you in to their lives. My children were delighted when they were allowed to choose some eggs to take home and are already asking when we can go and visit their ‘friends` again. I’m asking myself the same question.