Cronkshaw Fold Farm Cottage, Lancashire
Family Farm Holidays, Rossendale, Lancashire
Pulling
up to the courtyard at Cronkshaw Fold Farm if felt like we had come across a
scene from the Good Life. The courtyard was dotted with numerous raised beds
growing an assortment of vegetables and herbs and out to the rear garden a
lesson was being conducted to eager students on the techniques for dry stonewalling.
This is Cronkshaw Fold Farm – a special place to escape to from the hectic pace
of modern day life and a chance for families to learn about farming, the countryside and its traditions on this working
hill farm.
The
Cottage
The
three star-graded cottage is located next to the farmhouse where Farmer Joy resides.
The self-catering cottage can sleep a family of 6 in comfort in four bedrooms.
Although there is space for a family of 6 to dine in the cottage it can
actually sleep a large group party of 16, as there are three bunk beds in each
of the two bunkrooms. Although this will not be everyone’s ideal layout it does
provide a cheap option for a group get-together. For large parties meals can be
served next door in the Farmhouse. Please note there is no bath at this
property but a large shower room including wash-basin and a toilet. Downstairs consists
of a small kitchen diner and living room with flagstone flooring throughout the
ground floor. There are two cots and highchair available but no stairgates due
to standard ones not being able to fit. However there is a door that can be
closed at the bottom of the stairs with latches out of reach from little ones. Broadband
connection is in each room should you need to keep in touch with the outside
world. Outside in the enclosed garden you can
certainly take in the glorious view and there is outdoor furniture with a barbeque
to allow alfresco dining should the weather be kind.
A
washing machine is available for the use of guests within the educational
facility. This is a large alternative space away from the holiday cottage and
if it is not in use then holiday guests can arrange with Joy access to the
facilities and enjoy the extra space to play.
The Farm
There
are lots of animals for the kids to become acquainted with - cats, chickens,
goats, sheep, geese, rabbits, and a ferret called Felicity and Pip the
dog. Children of all ages will have the opportunity to join in with Farmer Joy and
help in the daily activities of farm life. There is a fantastic treehouse
within the grounds whereby guests may be invited to take their children (under adult
supervision) and can enjoy the exceptional
views across the beautiful Alden Valley. A pair of binoculars are hung up in
the treehouse to aid spotting
the local wildlife. A shallow stream is just a short stroll down the hill and
can provide hours of fun pond dipping and building dams.
Family
Activities Available on the Farm
• Feed the hens
and collect the eggs.
• Help Farmer Joy with
the morning routine.
• Pond dipping for
accompanied children.
• Kites and other
outdoor toys for use in the garden and other designated areas.
• A mudpit (like a
sandpit but with mud) – good job there is a washing machine on-site!
• Indoor art and
craft area for use by arrangement.
• Circular walks
to Robin Hood’s Well & around the Alden Valley.
• Walks suitable for little ones.
• Farm art and
activity sessions during school holidays (small charge).
• Uncertified
organic produce available when in season.
Location
and Things to Do in Lancashire
Cronkshaw Fold Farm is
located in the beautiful Alden Valley. It provides an ideal base for exploring
local industrial heritage sites, as well as other North West and Pennine
attractions. Manchester Airport is just over 30mins away, Blackpool, the Lake
District & Yorkshire Dales 1hr. Helmshore Textile Museum is
just down the road from the farm and East Lancashire Steam Railway wood be a memorable
day out for any Thomas the Tank Engine fan. There is access to many miles of off-road walking, bridleway routes and
national trails direct from the farm.