Blackbarn Wood  |  Cottage in Howlett End

Blackbarn Wood is a stunning luxury barn conversion set in 7 acres of idyllic woodland and wildflower meadow. With views across the gently rolling Cambridgeshire – Suffolk border it’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge. In the summer you’ll hear the gentle buzz of happy bees pottering around on the meadow. In the winter you’ll wake up to the beauty of clear sunlight through the morning mist as you make your cosy coffee.
Recently completed to eco passivhaus standards, and designed by award winning architects ‘Mole’, the barn will keep you cosy in winter and cool in summer. The stress will melt away when you enter its light, airy interior, with the old beams featuring in the roof.
The stunning charcoal kitchen is equipped to the highest standard with everything you’ll need for a perfect break away – full oven, induction hob, full dishwasher, washer/dryer, fridge with icebox and seating for four. If you have little ones with you, we’ve got a lovely wooden Baby Dan highchair and a travel cot to make your stay as relaxing as possible.
In the lounge you’ll find a touch of luxury style as you take in views of the countryside and woodland as you snuggle on the divine velvet sofa and arm chair. It’s fully equipped with a digital TV and sound doc for you to relax with. Doors open onto the generous Indian sandstone patio with stylish rattan garden sofa to spend a lazy day with a book on. When evening comes you can light the firepit and toast some marshmallows or use its grill to BBQ dinner. The patio can be safely enclosed so small children won’t wander off while you’re relaxing.
The stunning master bedroom, with king-size bed, is decorated with fresh pastel tones which create an uplifting feel in this light airy room. It has its own private patio - a quiet shaded spot where you can enjoy the 2 seater bistro set away from the heat of the day.
The twin room is fully furnished with style elements of industrial design blended with natural images and shapes. It has two comfortable single beds, a set of draws and side tables. In this room the curtains are lined with blackout fabric to help any younger guests sleep well.
All beds at Blackbarn Wood have luxury Silent Night Eco Mattresses to help you get that perfect night’s sleep.
The luxury family bathroom has a bath, waterfall shower and heated towel rail. The barn is also equipped with hairdryer and GHD hair straighteners.
Beautifully decorated for the whole of December to make your Christmas stay perfectly magical. Including adorable Royal Stafford Christmas crockery for you to enjoy during your stay.
When you stay at Blackbarn, you’ll be able to explore the 7 acres of private woodland. All year round you’ll spot hares, deer, badgers and red kites gracefully circling.
If you’re wanting a day out there’s plenty on the doorstep.
Just 10 minutes away is the adorable Linton Zoo which has just gained its breeding recommendation for its snow leopards. Or 15 mins away is Duxford Imperial War Museum – Europe’s largest air museum. Blackbarn is under its practice path so you’ll often spot the planes flying over.
National Trust property Anglesey Abbey is 15 mins away from Blackbarn Wood and Wimpole Hall, Wicken Fen and Ickworth House are all about half an hour away. Each one a fabulous day out.
English Heritage Audley End House and Gardens is just 20 minutes away. And of course, a day out in Cambridge (20mins away) is not to be missed.
If you’re coming to the racecourse at Newmarket, Blackbarn is just 20 minutes away from there too.
If you really don’t want to drive, it’s a 5 minute walk into the village of Balsham where you’ll find The Old Butchers coffee shop, serving delicious coffee and cakes, the village store, the glorious 13th century church to look round and two fantastic pubs.
If you’re bringing you’re bikes there’s plenty of amazing cycle routes locally – both on and off road. Or, if you’re looking for walks, the oldest trail in Britain – The Icknield Way – runs right past the door.
If you’re a wild swimmer, you’ll not want to miss the opportunity of dipping at the famous Grantchester Meadows (30minutes away) and you can combine the journey with a trip to the equally renown Grantchester Orchard Tearooms.
Booking terms
Sorry no dogs (lots of wildlife around). No smoking in any part of the property at any time. Plenty of parking on site.
For guests looking to check out on a Sunday, a flexible check out time is offered to allow for a relaxed departure!
Cot/crib is available by request, but please bring your own cot bedding.