One of the questions we’re asked from time to time is:
“Why can’t we have a fire pit?”
It’s a fair question. After all, there’s something rather lovely about sitting outside on a summer’s evening with a flickering flame, good company and a glass of something cold.
Normally, we’d agree.
But this summer has reminded us all just how quickly the countryside can change.
After weeks of warm, dry weather, our fields have gone from lush green to… well… somewhere between golden meadow and crispy cornflake! Beautiful in their own way, perhaps, but also incredibly dry.
Like so many people, we’ve watched the heartbreaking scenes of wildfires here in the UK and across Europe this summer. Seeing families evacuated, countryside destroyed and firefighters working around the clock is a sobering reminder that it doesn’t take much for a small spark to become something far more serious.
Here at Hall Farm, our adults-only holiday cottages offer peaceful countryside escapes in the heart of the Midlands. While our guests come here to relax, unwind and enjoy romantic breaks or hot tub getaways, Hall Farm is also our home.
It’s also home to our horses, alpacas, sheep, countless birds, hedgehogs, insects and all the wonderful wildlife that shares this little corner of Leicestershire with us.
That’s why we ask guests not to bring fire pits, disposable or charcoal barbecues, chimineas, fire torches, Chinese lanterns, fireworks, sparklers or, in fact, anything that goes whoosh, bang or fizz.
It’s never about spoiling anyone’s holiday. It’s about protecting a place we all love.
Whether you’re here for a romantic weekend, a relaxing hot tub break or simply to slow down and reconnect with nature, you can still enjoy those long summer evenings outdoors. Every cottage has a large gas barbecue ready to use, complete with gas and proper barbecue tools, so you can cook dinner, watch the sun set over the fields and enjoy everything a summer evening at Hall Farm has to offer—just a little more safely. And if you don’t fancy firing up the BBQ there’s a host of pubs, restaurants and takeaways in our area so you could kick back and order a delivery.
The only exception to our no-fire rule is The Old Tractor Shed, which has its beautiful log burner inside for cosy autumn and winter evenings. There’s nothing quite like curling up on the sofa while the fire crackles away, and logs can be added to your booking during the cooler months.
If you’re a smoker, you’ll also find a lidded ash bucket on each patio. We’d really appreciate cigarette ends being popped in there rather than the patios, hedges or surrounding countryside. It only takes a moment, but it makes a real difference.
We know that every guest who stays with us cares about the countryside as much as we do, and we’re so grateful for your understanding. By following these simple Countryside Code guidelines, you’re helping to protect our animals, neighbouring farmland, local wildlife and the peaceful landscape that makes Hall Farm such a special place to escape to. Take a look at our Out & About guide to see what this gorgeous part of The Midlands surrounding Hall Farm has to offer.
After all, we’d much rather the only thing glowing at the end of your stay is your five-star review.
We hope your stay leaves you with wonderful memories of peaceful evenings, star-filled skies and the tranquillity that makes Hall Farm one of the most relaxing countryside retreats in the Midlands.
Thank you for helping us look after Hall Farm ❤️🌿
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