We’ve just concluded the most wonderful weekend we’ve had here in our little slice of National Landscape paradise, and we felt we must share it with you:
The sun shone bright (mostly – it is the UK after all), the drinks were flowing, the music was uplifting, conversations buzzed, laughter echoed, and the aroma of woodsmoke and delicious food filled the whole site. It was one of those weekends that reminds us exactly why we do what we do.
We had the pleasure of hosting something very special: a 70th birthday celebration for a wonderful woman and 40 of her lovely family and friends. They booked the entire site for the weekend, and it was a joy to see them make Brackenthwaite Farm their own special haven for a few glorious days.
Friday afternoon kicked off in the Rose Garden – usually a tranquil spot for a quiet moment, but on this occasion we fired up our hand-built cobb pizza oven (for its first run of the year) and entertained maybe 15 of the nearest and dearest, treating them to a crackling fire from the pizza oven (and a couple of chimeneas by the table for some added night-time warmth). There’s something special about the anticipation of a hand-made pizza from freshly kneaded dough, topped by your own hand with fresh, local ingredients and cooked to perfection (okay, fine; with ‘minimal’ charring, then). It was all eaten with lots of people coming back for more, so we’d certainly call that a resounding success! By the way, if you’ve never tried brie on a pizza before, you’re missing out!
Our guests spent the early evening chatting away, drinks in hand, and with an occasional blanket for extra warmth. After watching the setting sun dip behind the Lake District hills, the farm’s night lights came on to create a magical scene for the revellers still enjoying the company and night-time air. Regardless of what your pizza preferences might be, the Rose Garden was filled with love, laughter, and the satisfying crunch of the perfect pizza crust, all against a superb backdrop of carefully crafted gardens and striking hills beyond. It was the perfect, relaxing start to a weekend celebration.
Saturday was the big day, the 70th birthday itself. We’re so proud of The Long Barn – our multi-purpose group space. An ongoing regeneration project, it is spacious, characterful, and truly versatile… limited by imaginations only. This weekend it was utilised as a party space for dining, drinking, and mingling. We had a bountiful display of balloons and decorations in a rose gold theme, and the atmosphere was electric. Everybody stated how fantastic the Long Barn looked and how well it worked for an occasion like this. The food was buffet style with mostly sandwiches and cold foods, but some hot finger-foods were cooked in the Long Barn’s wood burning oven, which is a nice little novelty that people always seem to appreciate.
It’s such a beautiful space, with its high ceilings and exposed beams, limestone walls that could surely tell a story or two from times gone by, comfy seating, table seating, and even outdoor seating. We have a fantastically grand open fireplace at one end for when a bit of real flame ambience is needed and the whole space can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. This weekend it was all peaches and roses, and it was wonderful to see the space transform into a special venue for once very special birthday.
And what a celebration it was! There were heartfelt speeches, plenty of reminiscing, music to set the mood, and of course lots of beautifully prepared and delicious food (and drink). It’s moments like these, seeing families and friends connect and create lasting memories in our spaces, that truly make what we do at Brackenthwaite Farm so very, very rewarding.
As the afternoon drew to a close and the twilight hours approached, we were delighted that the party naturally migrated outdoors. Where better to gather as the sun sets than around our grand fire pit? It’s a real focal point here at Brackenthwaite Farm, a place for sharing stories, warmth and the breathtaking views as day melts into evening.
Saturday night around the fire pit was nothing short of magical. The flames danced and crackled. We shared stories and laughter, the vast expanse of the Lake District stretching out before us in all its glory. There’s something so comforting about gathering around a fire… it was an unforgettable experience. The air was crisp, the stars began to pepper the darkening sky, and the warmth of the fire created a lovely, cosy atmosphere. That is until charades started up… then things got a little more competitive, but no less fun!
Sunday morning arrived with a gentle mist hanging over the fields, promising another typically beautiful, Lake District day. And what better way to start a Sunday (especially one after a party) than with a hearty, traditional English breakfast? Back in the Long Barn, the aroma of sizzling bacon, plump sausages, and perfectly fried eggs filled the air, courtesy of our trusty wood-burning oven.
There’s something special that comes from cooking on a wood-burning oven, a subtle smokiness that elevates even the simplest of dishes. Our guests certainly seemed to agree, tucking into their breakfast favourites. It was relaxed, the perfect way to bid farewell after a weekend of celebrations. We loved seeing everyone gathered around the long table, sharing highlights from the weekend, and making plans to come back soon.
As our guests packed up and said their goodbyes, there was a real sense of warmth and contentment in the air. They thanked us for our hospitality, and honestly, the pleasure was all ours. To witness such a joyful occasion unfold here at Brackenthwaite, to see our spaces embraced and filled with so much happiness, is what it’s all about for us.
This weekend was a wonderful reminder of the magic that can happen when people come together in a beautiful setting. It showcased the versatility of Brackenthwaite Farm, from intimate pizza evenings in the Rose Garden to lively celebrations in the Long Barn and cosy gatherings around the fire pit. And of course, the simple pleasure of a delicious, home-cooked meal enjoyed in good company.
We feel so privileged to be in charge of this special place, and we’re always thrilled to welcome guests who appreciate the beauty and tranquillity of the Lake District as much as we do. Whether you’re planning a milestone birthday, a family get-together, a corporate retreat, or simply a peaceful escape, Brackenthwaite Farm offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
So, if you’re dreaming of your own Lake District getaway, a place where you can create lasting memories surrounded by stunning scenery and warm hospitality, we’d love to hear from you. Come and experience the magic of Brackenthwaite Farm for yourself. We promise you a warm welcome, breathtaking views, and maybe even a freshly baked pizza or two!
Until next time, happy travels!
Harry & Matt