Rewild and unwind in Worcestershire at Rowley Farm
If, like me, you’ve been feeling over-attached to technology and disconnected from nature lately, it might be time to rewild, ie take a break and get back to experiencing the natural world without any distractions.
When you do, the benefits are profound according to experts, improving both mental and physical health. With this in mind, I headed to rural Worcestershire for a weekend farm stay surrounded by nature (and met a lamb named Gary….).
Exactly how do I get back to nature here?
Nature’s all around when you check into one of these converted farm building cottages, with rolling hills, fields and woodland on your doorstep, so it’s kinda impossible not to feel a bit more connected to the planet. If you’re travelling with family or a group of mates, Hayloft (which sleeps four) is ideal - think red brick walls, immaculate kitchen with every utensil you could need and a wow upstair’s beamed living area with giant leather sofa (the cool Chesterfield kind, not the dodgy 80s kind), wood burner and rattan light shades. Outside, there’s a hot tub for lazy afternoon soaks in the (noticeably) fresh air.
If you’re travelling solo or with your OH, the farm’s new hideaway hut is perfect, a secluded bolthole with a smart little kitchen, underfloor heating and outside space ideal for ‘rewilding’, including a tripod charcoal grill for whipping up al fresco suppers (best eaten picnic-style barefoot on the grass) and a wood-fired, hot tub bath, a dreamy place to lie back, close your eyes and listen to nature by day or star-gaze at night.
It’s all tasteful, modern and no expense has been spared yet it’s actually super eco - a chat with lovely owner Clare revealed she used original or reclaimed materials for the cottages’ restoration, buys from local producers for things like guests’ food hampers and toiletries and installed Bertha, a biomass boiler, to provide all the hot water and heating. Impressive stuff.
Sounds wholesome, what else is on the agenda?
This is a family-run farm in 50 acres, so expect lots of opportunities to switch off devices and immerse yourself in your surroundings, from feeding a lambs and pygmy goats to walks through the farm’s meadows. I met Gary, beloved pet of Emily, the owner’s daughter, and was invited to feed him with a bottle of milk - it was the highlight of the stay! Off-site, l enjoyed a tranquil hike along the banks of the nearby River Severn (you can paddleboard on it at Bewdley) and yoga and reflexology at Worcester Wellness, set in ancient woodland on the edge of Shrawley village close by.
And when I’m not reconnecting with nature and myself?
It’s all about the food! Drop into Broomfields of Holt farm shop just up the road and gaze in awe at the counters of perfect locally-sourced vegetables, fruits, preserves, cheeses and meats. Pick up some bits to cook back at base, or treat yourself at the on-site Farm Kitchen - scoffing an afternoon tea while looking at the sky counts as connecting with nature, right?
What? Wellbeing and fun on the farm
Where? Rowley Farm Holidays, Worcestershire
How much? Hayloft from £299pn; Hideaway Hut from £199pn; book via The Wanderlist
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