Business Details
Your Home Away From Home in Northumberland
Brackenside is a family-run holiday cottage nestled on Brackenside Farm, a traditional working farm with over 70 years of Barber family heritage. Our property offers comfortable self-catering accommodation for up to six guests, combining modern amenities with original features like the restored forge chimney. Located in Northumberland's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, we provide wheelchair accessibility and pet-friendly stays.Our guests enjoy panoramic views of the Cheviot Hills, proximity to historic sites like Bamburgh Castle, and unique experiences including farm safaris and lambing season visits. As stewards of the land, we actively participate in environmental conservation through habitat restoration and sustainable farming practices.
Services
Holiday cottage rentals
Farm safaris
Wheelchair accessibility
Pet-friendly stays
Conservation tours
Highlights and features
- Family-run farm with 70+ years of local heritage
- Fully wheelchair-accessible holiday accommodation
- Pet-friendly stays with secure garden access
- Award-winning conservation and sustainable farming practices
- Direct access to farm tours and seasonal activities
Associations and certifications
- Higher Level Stewardship Scheme
Services
Holiday cottage rentals
Our fully equipped holiday cottage sleeps six across three bedrooms, featuring a spacious living area with original forge chimney, modern kitchen appliances, and two bathrooms. The property offers wheelchair accessibility and a secure walled garden with Cheviot Hills views, providing comfortable accommodation for families and groups.
Farm safaris
Guided farm tours offer insights into our 120-cow herd, 300-sheep flock, and crop rotation practices. Visitors can observe daily farming operations, meet working collies, and learn about our conservation efforts. These educational experiences are available during guest stays, providing unique access to traditional farming methods and modern sustainability practices.
Conservation tours
Explore our award-winning conservation projects including restored hedgerows, woodland pastures, and wilding areas. These guided walks showcase our Higher Level Stewardship Scheme achievements, demonstrating habitat creation for native wildlife. Guests learn about our biodiversity initiatives while enjoying diverse landscapes from grasslands to mixed-species woodlands.
Pet-friendly stays
We welcome well-behaved pets with designated secure areas and walking routes. Our policy includes clear guidelines for livestock safety, with pet amenities like feeding stations and waste disposal facilities. The walled garden provides safe outdoor access, while nearby trails offer scenic walks with stunning countryside views.
Wheelchair accessibility
Our single-level layout features wide doorways, accessible shower room, and adaptable furniture. The property includes emergency call systems and non-slip flooring, with step-free access to the garden. All amenities are designed for ease of use, ensuring comfortable stays for guests with mobility requirements while maintaining the cottage's traditional character.
People
John Barber
Farm Owner
Third-generation farmer managing Brackenside Farm's operations for over 40 years. Specialises in sustainable livestock management and conservation practices that balance tradition with modern agricultural needs.
George Barber
Farm Manager
Second-generation farmer overseeing daily agricultural activities. Focuses on maintaining herd health and implementing crop rotation systems that support both productivity and environmental stewardship.
James Barber
Assistant Farmer
Youngest Barber son recently joining the farming partnership. Brings fresh perspectives on sustainable practices while maintaining family traditions in livestock care and land management.
Alastair
Senior Farmhand
Experienced worker with 40+ years at Brackenside Farm. Provides continuity in traditional farming methods while mentoring younger staff in modern conservation techniques and animal husbandry standards.
Questions
What is the minimum stay requirement?
We require a minimum one-week booking from March to October. Shorter stays may be available outside these months.
Are pets allowed at The Old Smithy?
Yes, we welcome well-behaved pets. Please inform us at booking and keep dogs on leads around livestock.
Is the cottage accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, our single-level layout includes wheelchair-accessible facilities and step-free garden access.
Can visitors tour the farm?
Farm safaris are available for guests, offering insights into our livestock, crops, and conservation projects.
What nearby attractions are accessible?
We're near Bamburgh Castle, Alnwick Gardens, and the Northumberland Coast. Ford and Etal Estates offer additional local attractions.
What conservation efforts are in place?
We participate in the Higher Level Stewardship Scheme, maintaining hedgerows, creating wildlife habitats, and diversifying woodland species.
