Welcome to The Old Barn. This luxury, detached, stone built barn conversion with a hot tub sleeps 7 people in two acres of grounds, just outside the historic market town of Bishops Castle in the South West Shropshire Hills.
Accommodation
Three bedrooms with TV: 1 x king-size handmade four poster bed, 1 x double with en-suite shower with seat, basin and WC, 1 x family room with 1 single and 1 adult bunks. Bathroom with bath, jet shower, basin and WC. First floor reading area on landing with double sofa bed. Kitchen with dining area. Dining hall. Sitting room (seats 6) with electric log-effect fire. Electric underfloor heating in sitting room, hall and bathrooms, electric heater in kitchen, wall-mounted oil radiators in bedrooms and electric fire. Electric double oven, ceramic hob, microwave, fridge/freezer and ice maker, washer/dryer, dishwasher, 5 x TVs, full Sky inc. movies and sport, DVD, CD, WiFi. Fuel and power inc. in rent. Bed linen and towels inc. in rent, please bring own hot tub towels. Cot, highchair and 2 stairgates on request. Off road parking for 4 cars. Large rear patio with hot tub, furniture and BBQ. Sorry, no pets and no smoking. Shops 7 mins walk, pub 5 mins walk. Note: Owner is an electrician, two light work vans will leave yard between 8-9 am during the week. Note: No mobile signal for O2.
Location
The Old Barn is a luxurious detached stone built detached barn conversion located close to the owners' home in two acres of grounds, just five minutes stroll from the centre of the historic town of Bishops Castle and a superb real ale pub. This holiday property successfully blends original character with contemporary fixtures and fittings - including a covered hot tub that is lit up at night. The accommodation includes three bedrooms, one of which has en-suite facilities and a luxury four poster bed; 'all body' jet showers; an attractive walnut kitchen, and a convivial dining hall and living room. There is also a large patio area for enjoyable al fresco eating and relaxing after a long day's exploring.
Bishop's Castle is a lovely market town located in the stunning natural splendour of the South West Shropshire Hills. The town holds a weekly market which showcases local produce, and there is also a superb choice of shops, pubs and eateries. The Annual Real Ale Festival is famous, and regular Fairs - the most popular of which is the Michaelmas Fair - are regularly held in the town. Bishop's Castle is in an ideal spot for touring the beautiful Welsh Marches and rural Shropshire, with walks along Offa's Dyke and Shropshire Way. The lively towns of Ludlow and Shrewsbury are an easy drive away, and the area offers many visitor attractions for the whole family, including the Severn Valley Railway and the fascinating Powys Castle.
A E Houseman once wrote that Shropshire was "the quietest place under the sun" and today the county remains something of a rural idyll, recognised as one of the least crowded and most peaceful regions in England.
Reviews of The Old Barn
"We stayed as a family with ages ranging from 4 to 72 and everyone would agree this was a fantastic house. The owners were very helpful and friendly and everything we could possibly need was provided. The house is situated a few minutes walk to a good play park for the children and just a couple of minutes further to the village. For a quiet drink in a real village pub with roaring fire I strongly recommend the Boars Head, family friendly and very welcoming. On the whole the work vans were not a problem although some mornings noisier than others, however the last morning of our holiday was a different matter. We were woken at 6.40 by a small white car which pulled up and left the engine running for about 15 minutes, along with a small white van and then doors being opened and closed constantly, right next to the cottage. There was also a young man on the phone, I presume speaking to someone with poor hearing as he was speaking so loud I could hear every word in the bedroom. I would like to return and have already recommended to two friends. In fact it has even got us thinking about a house move it was so lovely. "
Reviewed by home457 on 04/11/2018
"We've lost count of exactly how many times we've stayed here but we believe it to have been our fourth Christmas staying at the Old Barn. As always, everything was perfect. The under floor heating means you will find it super cosy and the recliner sofa adds the icing to the cake when you can put your feet up at the end of a busy day before you relax in the secluded outdoor hot tub. The kitchen is well equipped, with everything from a sandwich toaster to a large American style fridge freezer that has ice on tap. There is garden furniture and a BBQ outside so we are hoping for a good summer as we have already booked to go again in July. Mr and Mrs Lennox are lovely people and nothing is too much trouble. For Christmas, we found the house fully decorated inside and fabulous Christmas lights outside too. There was also a beautiful hamper of goodies for our arrival and the children loved the Christmas bedding and the ginger bread house! We are sad that this has to be our last Christmas here for the near future, as family Ill health means that in future years, we are needed at home over Christmas. This is an amazing property and worth every penny so if you're thinking of booking, do as we know you won't regret it."
Reviewed by Helen R on 03/01/2018
"A great location and a lovely cottage. The was kitchen fully stocked with plates/glasses/cutlery and it was great to have a washer dryer and 2 bathrooms. All rooms were a brilliant size, even the bunk-bed room! There were plenty of games to keep us busy when it rained or if we weren't in the hot tub."
Reviewed by Mrs Kennell on 01/08/2016
"Wonderful property in a very quiet area with great access to walks in the surrounding hills. Everything you need to have a relaxing time in the countryside."
Reviewed by Mr Kamper on 17/05/2016
"The owners were wonderful hosts, they made our Christmas perfect. We particularly liked the fully equipped kitchen which made cooking Christmas dinner and baking with the children so easy. We love the old barn so much that we have already booked for Christmas next year."
Reviewed by Mrs Robinson on 06/01/2016
"Everything was ideal, from the hot tub to the sky package. The cottage was great and the owners friendly and helpful."
Reviewed by Mr Rogers on 12/12/2015
"This property is the best place we have ever stayed in. Nice owners and nothing was too much trouble for them. "
Reviewed by Mr Barratt on 25/10/2015
"We stayed here with my parents and three month old daughter in the last week of September. It was very difficult to find as it is located down a very small lane with no sign. The locals however were more than happy to point us in the right direction. The owners were fabulous! They even sorted out a puncture for us. The cottage was beautiful, clean and had everything we could want or need. The hot tub was wonderful and as the weather was great we were able to sit out on the patio every evening. It was a great place to explore the local area. "
Reviewed by Miss_sunshine24 on 04/10/2015
"The cottage was clean and tidy and the owners were very helpful and friendly."
Reviewed by Mrs Follett on 19/08/2015
"An excellent holiday cottage which was well equipped for 7 people. Had a great hot tub and the owners were on hand if needed. There were good local shops, pubs and restaurants."
Reviewed by Ms Bentley on 08/08/2015
"This property thoroughly deserves its star rating. An outstanding location for visiting the local, and not too local, areas as A-roads are easily accessible. We would go back without any concerns whatsoever. The hot tub was extremely private - the silence at night is profound. Top rate!"
Reviewed by Mr Williams on 17/06/2015
"We enjoyed the warm welcome from the owners, the great condition of the house and the lovely quiet surroundings. The hot tub was a fantastic adult treat for when the kids had gone to sleep and was the icing on the holiday cake!"
Reviewed by Mr Rippon on 17/06/2015
"The hot tub was fantastic. The cottage was lovely and clean and in a good location within walking distance of the village and also lovely walks and scenery."
Reviewed by Mrs Needham on 10/03/2015
"Fantastic all round! Such a lovely place which catered for all ages."
Reviewed by Skates on 21/02/2015
"This was our second visit to the old barn and as we enjoyed the first stay so much, we decided to go for Christmas. We were certainly not disappointed! We arrived to find that the house had been tastefully decorated throughout and they had put up a beautiful tree which mesmorised my children. The tree had also safely been secured to the ceiling at the top by string and this was definite bonus where my four year old is concerned as he liked to have "one last look at the tree" on a very regular basis! This is a holiday home where the owners consider every detail to ensure your total comfort. One of the things we like best about the old barn is how comfortable the beds are, this time we decided to have a look at what the mattress was. It is a flexcell, solid memory foam mattress and it is like sleeping on a cloud supported by angels. When we came home, we ordered one for ourselves. Outside, there was another tree and more lights. Needless to say, soaking in the hot tub on Christmas day was total bliss, my children especially like that there are "disco lights" on the hot tub too. I could go on and on about all the other details about this property but I already wrote a detailed review of that after our first stay. I will only add that this is perfect, worth every penny and if you are looking to book then do, you will not be disappointed - that is unless you are hoping for Christmas, sorry we got there first since we can't wait to repeat the experience."
Reviewed by Helen R on 17/01/2015
"The owners have paid a lot of attention to detail to ensure the property was set up perfectly for a holiday. This was by far the best holiday cottage that we have stayed at."
Reviewed by Mr Oldham on 22/11/2014
"The property was in an excellent spot for visitng either Wales or the Shropshire countryside. The hot tub was really appreciated at the end of a busy day. The house was in a brilliant spot if there were any small children as the area surrounding the house was child friendly. Great views out of the bedroom window. Lounge was comfortable and there were TV's in bedrooms, kitchen and lounge. Great time was had by young and old "
Reviewed by Mrs Bland on 25/10/2014
"This cottage is beautifully equipped and maintained and the hot tub is a definite added bonus."
Reviewed by Mrs Madder on 15/10/2014
"Property very well equipped. Good location for walking. Within walking distance of town centre but quiet."
Reviewed by Mrs Down on 13/09/2014
"My husband & I stayed here for a week after getting married earlier this year. The cottage provided the PERFECT escape to the country we were after - lovely decor, 4-poster bed, well equipped kitchen, views of the fields and of course the hot tub! Walking distance to some lovely pubs & restaurants, and with a well-stocked Co-Op in the village for the necessary supplies. We will visit again!"
Reviewed by Kate R on 26/08/2014
"We loved the property, especially the hot tub. The set up for a family was brilliant and the kids enjoyed the board games and DVDs on occasions when the weather wasn't great. The owners were fantastic, perfect balance of welcoming and helpful but providing privacy and space. Would recommend to anyone looking for a luxury base for exploring or just time to relax with the family."
Reviewed by Mrs Dei Rossi on 23/08/2014
"Loved the hot tub and the kitchen was great as loved having ice on tap and the dishwasher was a great saver of my time. My husband loved the huge TV in the sitting room especially as he could watch the world cup and the tennis. We all loved the games that were available and had great fun playing these. The village the property is in is lovely and the surrounding area was great for walking and exploring."
Reviewed by Mrs Godfrey on 05/07/2014
"This was an amazing place to stay. Everywhere was beautifully clean and the kitchen was extremely well equipped."
Reviewed by Mrs Bradley on 21/02/2014
"We have just got back from a fabulous week here, we didn't want to leave! The bed is blissfully comfortable (red room) and as I often suffer from backache, I was relieved to be able to sleep pain free. The property is clearly geared up for families, they supplied us a lovely clean highchair and stairgates and the owners have thoughtfully included a large selection of games and books for children, as well as a draw full of videos and sky television so that even when it was throwing it down with rain, the kids were still happy. The kitchen is well stocked, there is a dishwasher and a combined washer-drier. The fridge freezer is huge and even has an icemaker. I was so impressed with the attention to detail, we wanted for nothing - there is even a sandwich toaster. They have also included other items such as hairdriers and an electric fan to make such that all your needs are taken care of. The owners are extremely attentive, we discovered a problem with a blocked sink when we arrived and it was immediately dealt with whilst we went out for the day and we had no further problems. The cottage is surrounded by a little courtyard which as well as having a barbeque and lovely patio furniture, it is well away from any roads so very safe for the kids to play outside on their scooters. It was very nice for us to relax with a cup of tea and have some peace! The hot tub is great and is in a secluded position with a view out onto a large field and trees, you can nip straight out of the kitchen door so even in october, we never felt cold using it, a wonderful addition after a day sightseeing. The property is just a short walk down a footpath into the local village of Bishops Castle where there are many shops and pubs. Our favourite pub for both value and good food was the Kings Head, they do a fab Sunday dinner with lovely fresh veg and homemade puddings. I could write lots more, all of it positive but I will end by saying, if you are wondering whether or not to book here, do. I promise you will not regret it."
Reviewed by Helen R on 26/10/2013
"The Old Barn was a fantastic place, and suited all our needs. "
Reviewed by Mr Dawes on 30/08/2013
"We had a fabulous time at the Cottage, really enjoyed visiting the village and the surrounding area. The hot-tub was wonderful and put the lid on a fabulous weekend. We will be booking again."
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 21/08/2013
"It is a lovely, spacious, well-appointed cottage in a beautiful, friendly village, in a beautiful area of the country."
Reviewed by Mrs Hitchen on 19/07/2013
"This is our second visit to the Old Barn. Visitors may be a bit surprised on arrival as the property is part of a business, with commercial property and vehicles close by. Don't let that put you off. The property is excellent, with excellent underfloor heating, power showers, 4 poster bed and a hot tub among many features. The owners are on site and if there are any problems they can assist virtually immediately. What more can I say? Ah yes, the hot tub. I wonder how much they cost."
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 19/07/2013
"Lovely location, really nice holiday home, we all loved it."
Reviewed by Miss Walker on 06/07/2013
"We really enjoyed the whole experience. The spaciousness of the cottage and the hot tub definitely added to our enjoyment. The village is stunning, and had a most enjoyable walk around the area."
Reviewed by Miss Langdale on 10/06/2013
"The property was lovely and we all enjoyed the hot tub. Everything provided for our toddler (cot, high chair and stair gates). Location was great. Lots to do especially for families. "
Reviewed by Mrs Brownsword on 10/05/2013
"Wonderful accommodation, very warm, everything you needed for cooking and feeding 6 adults."
Reviewed by Mrs Cairns on 07/04/2013
"Second stay and will be back again!"
Reviewed by Mr Steele on 23/11/2012
"The owners gave our party a lovely welcome and explained everything clearly. The house was well equipped and it was very presentable. HOT TUB was amazing!"
Reviewed by Miss Gay on 11/11/2012
"Hot tub was appreciated by all of us. Very cosy, beautifully quiet and dark at night! NO STREETLIGHTS! Total bliss."
Reviewed by Mrs Berry on 13/10/2012
"We had a fantastic time at the old barn. The owners are on hand to help but are not intrusive. The Hot tub is amazing! The locals are all very friendly & welcoming. We would definitely return, loved every minute of our stay. "
Reviewed by Mrs Foster on 16/08/2012
"Quality and amenities of the house were lovely and the location was fabulous. "
Reviewed by Ms Thompson on 12/08/2012
"A lovely cottage in a lovely village. An ideal base for exploring the area. We had a lovely week and we hope to go back next year."
Reviewed by Mrs Hitchen on 06/08/2012
"The hot tub was a great feature. Very clean and inviting. Had a lovely time. The cleanest cottage I have been to. Would use again."
Reviewed by Mrs Hindson on 06/08/2012
"The holiday was brilliant! Cottage and hot tub were perfect and when we asked the owners questions they were more than helpful. We had a lovely time and would have no problem recommending this to other people."
Reviewed by Mrs Burnell on 25/07/2012
"Hot tub was excellent as was Sky package. Easy to walk into town."
Reviewed by Ms Salomon on 22/07/2012
"After reading previous reviews about this cottage we were a little concerned. However our fears were unfounded. We found the cottage spotless, well equipped, had a well maintained hot tub and the full Sky Package was a real bonus! The cottage was very warm and cosy with a lovely homely atmosphere. The owners were very friendly and helpful. Try the six bells pub and micro brewery, and the nearby Powis Arms for Sunday Lunch, very limited menu (Pork or Beef) but very good!"
Reviewed by globetrotters021 on 11/03/2012
"We enjoyed the space the cottage offered, especially having two dining tables. Bishops Castle was a most delightful village to visit with lovely shops, good food and friendly people. The hot tub was great too! "
Reviewed by Miss McDonagh on 04/12/2011
"The setting was lovely and quiet and close to walks, shops and pubs. The location was very good and the property was lovely. Hot tub was a massive bonus. It was worth the money. "
Reviewed by Miss Challans on 27/11/2011
"We loved this cottage, the hot tub was used daily! Plenty of board games and playstation games to keep the children entertained plus a lovely large patio for them to run around and play on. The facilities were flawless, the shower was amazing, everything had been thought of. The owners were polite and even though they lived close they never interfered. The village is a short walk away with lots of lovely pubs serving delicious food. The village shops were ideal and there was a large park and playfield within a short stroll. Would love to visit again soon."
Reviewed by Mrs Mcmullen on 21/11/2011
"Cottage had everything needed and it was in a lovely quiet location. Lots of information given in welcome pack."
Reviewed by Miss Holland on 15/09/2011
"The whole place was lovely, the hot tub was perfect. The beds were very comfortable, the whole experience was brilliant!"
Reviewed by Mr Murfitt on 11/07/2011
"On arival told the washing Machine was broke and basically do with out or find a launderette, On having a look around we found dirt and dust everywhere, and the shower was totally disgusting, kids room was well battered and the dust on window sills and wardrobes not to mention on the four poster bed was at least an inch thick!! the garden was covered in weeds and the surrounding area was a scrap yard for the owners! Advertised as luxury and it falls way short of luxury! Hot tub was good but not working fully, owners not interested or overly helpful. Sky only in one room not all rooms, This property is in need of a good clean and some repairs made, Also in need of new or clean towels and bed linen."
Reviewed by Steve1203 on 07/07/2011
"The standard of accommodation was really good and we really enjoyed the hot tub!"
Reviewed by Mrs Davies on 27/06/2011
"The Sky tv package and internet access - as we were travelling with teenagers it was what they wanted! The hot tub was fantastic. The general peace and quiet."
Reviewed by Mrs Smith on 13/06/2011
"We enjoyed a fantastic holiday at The Old Barn. The owners were delightful people who gave us a very warm welcome and checked we were happy with everything. They did not impose on us but were there if we needed them. The Old Barn was a home-from-home, everything you could wish for and the hot tub was excellent! A great holiday base for sightseeing the local area."
Reviewed by Mrs Smith on 28/04/2011
"What a fantastic holiday home. It was very relaxing and quiet where we stayed and the hot tub was amazing! Loved the big kitchen and the sky TV in all the rooms! Beautiful place would highly recommend this to anyone! "
Reviewed by Mr Bates on 28/03/2011
"Four of us stayed here at the end of February for a week. Some aspects of the cottage were great - Hot tub, Sky TV, ice maker for drinks and comfy suite in lounge. Some things not so good - plastic under sheets on the beds - for a luxury property?! Wasn`t spotless inside, found other peoples dirty clothes under one bed. Shower was gimicky, could not wash hair properly as jet not strong enough. CD player in the kitchen does not work properly so you cannot play cds, 2 lightbulbs out in the bathroom, water did not drain away for ages in the bathroom sink. Did not like the view of next door from the hot tub, looks like a scrap yard. I think this cottage is trying to be a luxury cottage and is marketed as such, but taking the good points and the bad points together, it only comes out average in our opinion. Must tell you about the flies, my daughter had 3 flies in her room late at night, my husband opened her window to let them out and about 30 flew in! It was like Amityville Horror lol. After he had killed them all she didn`t want to sleep in there. Don`t know why there were so many flies just waiting to come in. Weird."
Reviewed by Squeaker13 on 28/02/2011
"Comfortable accommodation, exactly as expected from your brochure and website. It was a pleasure to stay there, albeit for just a few days."
Reviewed by Mr Thompson on 10/01/2011
"Very peaceful and a lovely base for touring the area. Added bonus the hot tub and tvs in the bedrooms"
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 09/11/2010
"Very friendly owners. Property spacious and very well equipped, particularly liked kitchen & outside hot tub. Showers perhaps a bit gimmicky, would have preferred normal power showers. Iarea outside of property boundary could perhaps do with a little tidying, lots of bits & pieces lying around. Owner has large collection of old cars. Loved Bishops Castle, a quaint little old border town which has a good selection of small shops & local rustic pubs which serve good food. Very close to Welsh borders & lots to see and do in area. All in all would thoroughly recommend!"
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 05/11/2010
"This is a fantastic cottage, well equipped to a high standard. Wonderful bathroom & en suite, Sky TV everywhere, Wi Fi, and a beautiful hot tub in the private garden. The little town of Bishops Castle is a short walk away and has everything that's needed. Friendly helpful owners. Cannot praise it enough."
Reviewed by Mrs Whitfield on 06/09/2010
"The owners were especially helpful and friendly - the hot tub was lovely! A good property in a beautiful and quiet area - felt like England 50 years ago .... and all the better for that !"
Reviewed by Mr Richardson on 09/08/2010
"Cottage had everything you could need plus a fanatstic hot tub. Within walking distance of the small town which had 2 micro breweries. Owners and locals made us very welcome."
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 03/06/2010
"Very homely, we all felt very relaxed and at ease as soon as we arrived. The owners were really helpful, and the hot tub was excellent....we did not want to come home!"
Reviewed by Mr Bethell on 12/04/2010
"Fantastic location. Lovely town within easy walk. The Old Barn is excellent ... fantastic hot tub."
Reviewed by Mrs Jones on 06/04/2010
"This was an excellent cottage. It was warm, comfortable and very well equipped. The beds and sofas were the best we have had and helped make for a relaxing break. "
Reviewed by Mrs Ashbolt on 26/03/2010
"Ideally situated for walks, pubs and shops. The hot tub is fantastic and most enjoyable after a long walk. "
Reviewed by Mrs George on 25/03/2010
"The property was fantastic - a home from home with everything we needed. Would recommend highly."
Reviewed by Mr & Mrs McInnes on 22/03/2010
"Has everything for a family's needs. Spacious grounds, a nearby park, including play areas, coffee shops, a great family pub '3 Tuns', walks nearby. Bonus house facilities are a hot-tub, SKY TV, PlayStation, free internet access. "
Reviewed by Mr Maynard on 19/03/2010
"The luxury and warmth of the cottage. The hot tub was brilliant. The owner was really helpful - lovely man."
Reviewed by Ms Kirkham on 07/12/2009
"I did write a full review not long after this stay which was never published. I again sent an email to Sykes customer services enquiring why my review was not published but got no response. The accommodation was nice but nothing more than that. In fact the location was very disappointing and whilst in the rear garden it often felt like being too near a building site with agricultural machinery in constant view. Good size bathrooms and kitchen but limited space for family of six in main lounge. Quality of lounge furniture was not special. However, overall cost was reasonable."
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 02/12/2009
"Perfect, clean, tidy, everything catered for. Sky TV everywhere, gorgeous rooms, fab heating and fab Hot tub! We'll definitely be returning! Tahnk you"
Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 02/12/2009
"Liked everything. Attention to detail."
Reviewed by Mr Grigg on 23/11/2009
"Absolutely excellent short break - the owners were very friendly and helpful, we all loved the hot tub, will definitely recommend to friends."
Reviewed by Dr Punt on 23/11/2009
"Warm and friendly owners who showed us round on arrival and made us feel very welcome."
Reviewed by Mr Thornton on 04/11/2009
"Hot tub was fantastic, and the owners have thought of little extras which made all the difference."
Reviewed by Mr England on 18/08/2009
"The hot tub was fantastic! Wonderful property would consider a re-visit! "
Reviewed by Mr Willey on 04/08/2009
"Absolutely everything you could possibly need in the cottage. The hot tub was wonderful and really missing it now we're home again!"
Reviewed by Mr & Mrs Gamble on 26/07/2009
"Ease of access to both countryside and village. Ideal for cycling."
Reviewed by Mr & Mrs Angus on 01/07/2009
"Excellent cottage with lovely homely touches. Great area with lots to do."
Reviewed by Mrs Burnett on 21/06/2009
"Excellent property with friendly and helpful hosts. Good location for access to the town and for visiting the local area."
Reviewed by Mr Burke on 19/05/2009
"Well furnished property. I would definitely recommend the cottage to friends and family."
Reviewed by Mr Rai on 07/05/2009
"Exceptional, friendly owners. Every possible thing in the cottage provided for."
Reviewed by Ms O'brien on 23/02/2009
"The holiday overall was very nice. The property was to a very high standard and Bishops Castle was beautiful and very friendly. I would come back again and stay at the Barn, we just loved it. "
Reviewed by Mrs Greenwood on 17/02/2009
"Hot tub is wonderful and the cottage is well equipped and furnished to a high standard."
Reviewed by Mrs Lovett on 14/02/2009
"This is a fantastic property. It is immaculate and caters for all your needs. The hot tub is superb and the surrounding area is great, with the nearby village able to supply all you would require including some great pubs. Highly recommended!"
Reviewed by Mr McCarthy on 31/12/2008
"The hot tub was very relaxing"
Reviewed by Mrs Dobson on 22/12/2008