EDITION ESCAPES
It’s easy to forget central Cambridge lies just a 20-minute drive away
Rural romance Inside, the barn is flooded with natural light thanks to the vast bifold doors opening straight from the open-plan kitchen/living room out onto the garden. It has been furnished with an eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional interiors, designed to give a Shoreditch-warehouse feel. Bold canvas prints hang on the walls, while vibrant patterned cushions adorn the sumptuous king-sized bed where I spend a silent night’s sleep. The industrial-chic vibe continues outside, where a vintage typewriter sits in the communal barn alongside faded mirrors and quirky prints on walls strung with fairy lights. A spot ripe for romance, you can see why an increasing number of couples are using the courtyard for micro weddings, with up to 24 guests staying on-site afterwards. The quirky interiors are the work of owner Cathy, who – alongside husband Duncan – took over the property as a dilapidated farmhouse back in 2015 and subsequently transformed the barn complex into the tasteful haven it is today.
Although our hosts are unfortunately away at the time of our stay, Cathy checks in, confirming everything is to our satisfaction before apologising for not being there to greet us while taking her family down to Norfolk for a summer break. It’s clearly a well-deserved holiday if the leagues of positive reviews about her attentive hosting are anything to go by. Easy escape Built with an eco-conscious ethos, the six barns feature timber frames and recycled materials, and are powered by a biomass boiler for cosy underfloor heating. Meanwhile, the rain shower is perfect for rinsing off an evening soaking in the hot tub. The main bedroom in Alice is enclosed behind enormous sliding doors, which are perfect for the next morning over coffee in bed, enjoyed with the doors and windows thrown open looking straight out over the beautiful fields. Although the handy welcome guide points to a generous selection of local watering holes and eateries to try –
QUIRKY STYLE A mix of modern and traditional decor brings a unique charm with cosy furnishings
including tastings at Cranes Cider, just a stroll away along scenic countryside footpaths – we eat in and make use of the immaculate, well-equipped kitchen. Dining on the large oak table while gazing out to the fields as night creeps in, we keep the tub warm by topping up with fresh logs. In this peaceful spot, it’s easy to forget that the hustle and bustle of central Cambridge lies just a 20-minute drive away. Phoebe Harper stayed as a guest at Alice Barn, Clopton Courtyard. With a minimum two-night stay, rates for Alice Barn start at £176 per night. Check availability and book your stay now at cloptoncourtyard.com
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK SEPTEMBER 2024 49
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