My name’s James, and I’m the Chief Brand Officer for Be.Here.
I grew up in the city, and whilst I love the energy of a bustling city centre, I have also come to understand the toll it takes to be amongst all that concrete and noise for too long. Sometimes you simply need to swap out the skyscrapers for oak trees in the countryside, and find that perfect space to switch off and finally breathe.
It’s one of the reasons that I’ve come to understand why farm stays are growing in popularity, people are craving space, stillness and a reminder of what life feels like when it moves a little slower. My life changed for the better when I moved to the Cotswolds.
There’s something grounding about being in the countryside. Even if you’re not out there working the land, just being surrounded by space and silence has an impact, and I find it often helps you to gain perspective again.
Let me intro you to Berry Farm Barn
It’s one of my favourite homes in our collection. A converted 17th-century threshing barn in South Cerney, it captures everything I believe makes a stay truly restorative. Homes like this have warmth and personality; they’ve been lived in, loved, and restored with purpose. From the moment you walk through that door, you can tell it’s created by people who care. It’s not one of those soulless repurposed spaces; there’s love and thought in every corner, with comfort that feels natural. It’s the kind of place we’re really proud to manage.
Berry Farm Barn’s restoration was a heartfelt project for owner Claire Jeffrey, whose family roots run deep in South Cerney. Her great-grandfather purchased the farm in 1932, and it’s remained a cherished family home ever since. That sense of heritage is tangible from the moment you arrive. While the farm is still very much alive with the everyday rhythms of rural life, it’s beautifully evolved into a place for wellbeing and celebration.
Berry Farm reflects something bigger that’s happening right now. We’ve seen more people looking for this kind of stay, not necessarily off-grid or remote, but grounded. The escapes where you can still enjoy good food, great company, and the comfort you’d expect from a luxury stay, without that relentless hum of city life.
That’s what we look for in every property we bring into our collection. Homes with honesty, atmosphere, and a sense of place. Spaces that make you feel instantly comfortable, that encourage you to be present, to put the phone down, pour a drink, and notice what’s in front of you. Because life’s all about those smaller moments.
Curious about trying something new?
Take a look through our collection whenever you like and see what catches your eye. Whatever you choose, we’ll make sure it feels like home from the moment you arrive. If you’re curious about something new, try a farm stay next time.
The open fields, gentle sounds of the countryside, and simple barn life can help you remember what it’s like to have room to breathe. It could be the break you didn’t realise you needed.
Berry Farm Barn can be booked – here
Photography by Jack Swords
