Top 10% of guest reviews in this areaTop 10% of guest reviews in this area
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4
Popular amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Outdoor space
Parking available
Explore the area
Upper Farringdon
South Downs National Park
Place, South Downs National Park
1 min walk
Gunwharf Quays
Place, Gunwharf Quays
43 min drive
Southampton Cruise Terminal
Place, Southampton Cruise Terminal
44 min drive
Southampton (SOU)
Airport, Southampton (SOU)
37 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)
Bedroom 2
1 King Bed
Yellow Bedroom
2 Single Beds
1 bathroom
Shower Room
Toilet · Shower only
Spaces
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area
About this property
The Hay Barn - located in South Downs National Park & Jane Austen country
Set in idyllic countryside, our beautiful barn conversion is located in a peaceful setting on the edge of the quintessential English village of Upper Farringdon, with its ancient church, thatched cottages and fantastic pub, The Rose and Crown.
Our cosy barn has a spacious, open plan, newly fitted kitchen, dining area and sitting room on the ground floor with double bedroom (Kingsize bed), twin bedroom and shower room on the first floor. Complimentary soaps from The Lavender Fields at Selborne and welcome pack featuring local goodies. Free Wi-fi and Freeview television.
The set up: Our barn is located on a quiet country lane. The barn is self contained and adjoins my creative studio from where I paint and manage my interior design consultancy. It is situated next to (but detached from) our family home and whilst it enjoys a large amount of privacy, we are on hand to offer advice or to answer any questions during your stay. There is an outside seating area exclusively for the use of our guests.
Getting here: Alton is the closest town (less than 10 minutes drive), with direct trains to London Waterloo in just over an hour. Guildford is a half hour drive with direct trains to London Gatwick Airport. For drivers, the village is located off the A32, approximately an hours drive from South West London.
Things to do and places to visit: Set on the edge of The South Downs National Park, on the "Writers Way" the barn is an ideal base for walkers, with several beautiful walks straight from the front door.
We are also in the heart of Jane Austen country with the pretty village of Chawton a leisurely half hour walk away through woodland and open fields (or short drive), where the Jane Austen House Museum and Chawton House are located.
The naturalist, Gilbert White's House and the Oates Collection is located in the pretty village of Selborne, a short drive away, where more beautiful walks can be found and an excellent cafe.
A 20 minute drive to the south is the stunning market town of Alresford and for opera fans, we are ideally located for the Grange Festival. The nationally acclaimed annual Alresford Watercress Festival which takes place in May, is an event not to be missed! Just 10 minutes further down the road is historic Winchester with its beautiful cathedral and a plethora of independent shops.
The south coast is approximately 50 minutes drive, with an extensive number of beaches to choose from.
There are a number of National Trust properties within easy reach, such as Hinton Ampner, Uppark House and The Vyne.
For train enthusiasts, the heritage Watercress Line runs steam train trips between Alton and Alresford.
Food and drink: Waitrose, Sainsburys, Aldi, Lidl and M&S Food are located in Alton with delivery available to the barn from Waitrose and Sainsburys. If you don't fancy cooking, the atmospheric Rose and Crown is a short and pleasant stroll away through the village and offers delicious lunches and dinners, but be sure to book in advance as they do get very busy. There are plenty of other dining experiences available within a short drive and I am more than happy to provide recommendations.
Please note that we only accept bookings for a maximum of two week holiday stays. We are not available for short term lets or for contract workers.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Outdoor space
Parking available
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Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Frequently asked questions
Is The Hay Barn - located in South Downs National Park & Jane Austen country pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at The Hay Barn - located in South Downs National Park & Jane Austen country?
As of 7 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Hay Barn - located in South Downs National Park & Jane Austen country on 1 June 2026 start from NZ$364, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at The Hay Barn - located in South Downs National Park & Jane Austen country?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Hay Barn - located in South Downs National Park & Jane Austen country?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Hay Barn - located in South Downs National Park & Jane Austen country?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is The Hay Barn - located in South Downs National Park & Jane Austen country located?
This family-friendly Alton holiday home is located in a rural location, within 2 mi (3 km) of South Downs National Park and Jane Austen's House Museum. Four Marks Golf and Gilbert White's House and Garden and The Oates are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
The Hay Barn was perfect for our stay. Clean,quiet and had everything we needed. Susannah was pleasant and easy to communicate with. I would highly recommend this property.
Mary S.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 July 2025
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay - it was a pleasure to meet you all.
Really enjoyed our stay at the Haybarn. Appartement is very nice and just perfect for a family of four. Surroundings are amazing and we discovered a lot of beautiful sights and pubs! Will for sure come back to Hampshire!
Andreas S.
Stayed 11 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 April 2025
Thank you so much for your lovely review and we are so pleased that you enjoyed staying here and all that Hampshire (and beyond) has to offer. You would be very welcome back any time!
We really loved the apartment, the lovely interiour, the splendid surrounding and felt absolutely comfortable!
Schenck S.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 August 2022
We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at The Hay Barn and thank you so much for taking the time to write a review. It was a pleasure to meet you all.
Excellent base to explore from, close to Alton Train Station with easy access to London. Two good pubs nearby. Scenic village with lots of walks. Accomodation clean, welcoming and comfortable. Welcome pack was a great touch. Only one bathroom and TV signal not great so take the time to enjoy the area and each others company. Best nights sleep in a long time, great kitchen facilities. Would highly recommend a stay here.
Lovely cottage, everything you need as a family is there.
We enjoyed it staying in the Hay Barn and used it as our base for nice trips around the region.
Fabian B.
Stayed 11 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 29 August 2023
I am so pleased that you enjoyed your stay in The Hay Barn and that you were able to enjoy lots of trips whilst you were here.
Thank you for taking the time to write a review and we very much hope to meet you again in the future.
Splendid location for varied walks plus close to highlights like Winchester. House in perfect order with very hospitable owners
Menno-Jan K.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 31 July 2024
Thank you so much for taking the time to review your stay and we are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay and all the lovely walks from the barn.
Do come and visit again!
The property was everything we could have hoped for especially its lovely location.... was very comfortable and quiet.
If we are in the area next year will certainly look to rebook
margaret C.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 October 2022
I am so pleased that the barn met your expectations and please do come and stay if you are in the area again next year.
The Hay Barn is a wonderful little place, just right for our holiday break. The property is clean, tidy and modern. We loved being able to take walks in all directions from this location and even end up with a pint and food in the Rose and Crown.
Richard B.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 July 2024
Thank you so much for taking the time to review your stay and we are delighted that you were able to enjoy the lovely walks from the barn.
We very much hope to welcome you back in the future.
Beautifully decorated property. Ideal for our family of 4. Lovely hamper of goodies on arrival and all of the information provided was very useful. Perfect short break.
Jon S.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 23 August 2024
Thank you so much for taking the time to review your stay. I am so pleased that you found the information pack useful and that you enjoyed the goodies! We cery much hope to welcome you back in the future.
The barn is a beautiful and well appointed property, amazing range of kitchen utensils and crockery available plus a number of thoughtful touches. The village is lovely (the pub is well worth a visit) and the area is stunning with lots of lovely walks. Would definitely stay again.
Sarah S.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 9 October 2020
Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are so pleased that you had everything you needed to make it a comfortable stay and that you enjoyed so many of the beautiful walks around us. It was a pleasure to have you all.
We had a wonderful stay at the Hay Barn. The location was perfect and cottage was very clean and just what we needed. Excellent base for exploring the area. Susannah was very helpful beforehand and had thought of everything. The gift basket on arrival was a lovely touch
Joanna C.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 June 2022
Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay and that it provided a good base for exploring.
Do come and stay again if you come back down to this neck of the woods!
The Hay Barn was exactly what we were looking for. Every room had all the necessities and a few surprises (like the Welcome pack). The beds were comfortable, and my family said it felt like home. Susannah was very accommodating to our needs and an excellent host.
Salman S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 August 2023
Thank you so much for your kind review and we are so pleased that the barn was what you had hoped for. It was a pleasure to meet you all and very much hope to meet you again in the future.
What a lovely stay we had at the Hay Barn this weekend! Susannah was very friendly and made us feel very welcome. The Hay Barn itself was immaculate - clean, well appointed and very well equipped. Thank you very much, Susannah; we thoroughly enjoyed our stay with you.
Very clean, well equipped and with lots of useful information provided.
The owner very kindly provided us with two powerful fans when the 'heatwave' struck.
Would definitely stay again if in the area.
Peaceful setting surrounded by beautiful countrysde. Beautifully furnished and decorated with an artists eye. Everything you could need has been provided. Thank you Susannah.
Anita P.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 23 August 2024
I am so pleased that you enjoyed your stay and thank you so much for taking the time to write a review. Please come again!
Had a fabulous few days at The Hay Barn over the August Bank Holiday weekend. The property was clean, comfortable and was very well equipped to meet all our needs. Excellent communication with Susannah before we arrived and received a very warm welcome. Had a lovely meal at the local pub and there is easy access to a variety of walks from the doorstep. We would highly recommend a stay at The Hay Barn and hope to return in the near future.
Caroline P.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 1 September 2022
We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at The Hay Barn. Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely review. We would be delighted to welcome you back in the future.
We had a wonderful time staying at The Hay Barn. It’s been newly furnished and really beautifully done with every comfort thought of, from the well-provided kitchen and comfortable beds to things like bread and jam on arrival. We particularly liked the decor and thought it created a cosy and peaceful atmosphere. The area is beautiful and we went for several circular walks which are available from the doorstep. Susannah was a great host and made sure we had everything we needed. We would thoroughly recommend!
Sarah H.
Response from VrboOwner on 23 July 2020
Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay and that you enjoyed so many of the beautiful walks around us. It was a pleasure to have you and your lovely family here at The Hay Barn.
Everything is perfect. The host ist super friendly and welcoming. The barn is very very clean and beautiful. The beds comfortable. Quiet surrounding. We loved it. And would actually rather keep it a secret. ;-)
Rebekka E.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 8 April 2024
Thank you so much for your lovely review. It was great to see you again and very much hope to see you again.
We spent two weeks in The Hay Barn, a complete and welcome contrast from city life. The village setting is bucolic, and the barn had all the modern amenities you could possibly want. Our host Susannah was wonderfully welcoming and responded immediately to any queries we had. Highly recommended and will definitely return!
Jane B.
Stayed 14 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 15 October 2023
Thank you so much for taking the time to review your stay at The Hay Barn. It was a pleasure to meet you both and you would be most welcome to come back any time!
This is a delightful house in a beautiful area with much to see and do, or, equally, perfect for simply resting, walking and reading. All inside was well arranged and maintained, with a pleasant welcome package. The quiet environment and first-rate bedding made for long and deep sleep. The host was accessible and helpful. We’d be happy to return.
Malcolm
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 26 June 2022
We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at The Hay Barn. It was lovely to meet you both and do hope that you had a good journey home. Please do come and stay again next time you are in the UK!
On entry we were greeted by a hamper filled with essentials and other luxury items. The Barn was spotless and our Granddaughter thought it was "beautiful".
We were visiting our niece and her family so spent the majority of our time away from the property but we had the comfort of knowing that we would be returning to lovely, peaceful accomodation.
The hostess, Susannah, checked in with us to ensure everything was to our liking and was near by should we need anything.
We would totally recommend a stay here.
Tony B.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 September 2023
We are so pleased that you had a comfortable stay in The Hay Barn and that it provided a good base for visiting your niece. Thank you for taking the time to leave your lovely review and if you are visiting your niece again, you would be very welcome back at The Hay Barn.
About the host
Hosted by Susannah Acland
I am Susannah and I live here in Farringdon with my husband, two daughters, our dogs and cat! I am an interior designer and artist, working from my studio adjacent to the barn. We look forward to welcoming you to The Hay Barn.
Why they chose this property
We are very lucky to live in this beautiful part of Hampshire with so many wonderful sites to see, places to visit, long country walks and cosy pubs. The Hay Barn is rural but easily accessible and provides an ideal bolthole for those wishing to escape from the city or to use as a base to explore further afield including Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey) and Stonehenge which are both within an hour's drive of the barn.
What makes this property unique
As an interior designer, I have taken care to create a practical but comfortable, beautifully decorated home from home for our guests to enjoy. I am fastidious about cleaning and ensure that the barn is left spotless for all our guests and as we live next door, I am on hand to address immediately any problems in the unlikely event that they occur or to answer any questions and provide recommendations.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests