Review: The Collective at Woolsery
Nestled in the heart of one of England’s most untouched and pristine regions, The Collective at Woolsery offers a rare glimpse into the serene charm of North Devon. Conceived by tech visionaries Michael and Xochi Birch, this distinctive haven encapsulates the quintessential English village experience, replete with a meticulously restored pub, gourmet fish and chips, a charming corner shop, and a sprawling 150-acre farm.
During my stay, I had the pleasure of residing in Hillside Cottage, a beautifully renovated holiday home designed for convivial gatherings. With four spacious bedrooms and ample social areas, both indoors and out, Hillside is the perfect retreat for families or friends seeking an idyllic escape in rural North Devon. The cottage’s thoughtful design strikes a harmonious balance between its historic character and contemporary comforts.
The fully equipped kitchen, a modern extension to the period property, is a culinary enthusiast’s dream. We spent evenings cooking together and dining in the cosy banquette dining area, before retreating to the living room, where a crackling fire invited us to unwind with games and drinks. A remarkable feature of the kitchen is the glass-topped well, a nod to the cottage’s heritage ingeniously integrated into its modern design. On warm days, the garden's glass wall slides open, seamlessly merging indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for alfresco dining or lounging.
Daily housekeeping and a meticulous turndown service ensured our stay was comfortable, while the room service breakfast, delivered with a smile by the attentive staff, added a touch of luxury to our mornings. The breakfast was a highlight, a delightful array of local produce that set a perfect tone for the day.
The Collective's crown jewel, The Farmers Arms, is a masterclass in blending historical preservation with modern luxury. This Grade II-listed coaching inn and blacksmith's shop, parts of which date back to the mid-17th century, has been lovingly restored and extended, providing a setting that is both authentically rustic and elegantly contemporary.
Dining at The Farmers Arms is an experience that transcends mere sustenance. The innovative menu, brimming with hyper-seasonal produce sourced directly from Birch Farm, showcases the best of British cuisine with a creative twist. The farm’s rare-breed meats and freshly harvested vegetables are complemented by foraged finds from nearby coastlines and woodlands, creating dishes that are as imaginative as they are hearty.
My meal began with an array of appetizers, each more tantalizing than the last, and culminated in a main course that redefined my expectations of traditional British fare. The portions, generous yet artfully presented, and the ambiance, rich with historical charm, made for an unforgettable dining experience. The bar’s extensive selection of locally brewed ales, unique wines, and seasonal cocktails, crafted from garden-fresh ingredients, further elevated the evening.
A special mention must go to Sophia, the head waitress, whose expert knowledge and warm hospitality made the evening particularly memorable. Her passion for the food and the story behind The Farmers Arms added a personal touch that deepened our appreciation of this exceptional establishment.
Woolsery itself is a gem of North Devon, providing a perfect base from which to explore the surrounding countryside. A short drive brings you to Clovelly, famous for its cobbled streets and picturesque harbour, while the nearby towns of Bideford, Barnstaple, and Bude offer additional adventures.
In conclusion, The Collective at Woolsery is not just a place to stay; it is an immersive experience that invites you to connect with the essence of rural England. Whether you are seeking a quiet retreat or a culinary journey, this enchanting destination promises to leave you with memories that linger long after your visit.
A Journey Through Birch Farm: A Harmonious Blend of Tradition and Innovation
In the heart of The Collective at Woolsery lies Birch Farm, a testament to the artistry of traditional farming methods intertwined with innovative sustainable practices. My tour of this remarkable farm, guided by the immensely knowledgeable head gardener, Josh Sparkes, revealed a world where heritage and forward-thinking coexist in perfect harmony.
Birch Farm's approach to agriculture harks back to techniques employed a century ago, eschewing modern industrial practices in favour of rewilding and natural soil health methods. This dedication to traditional farming ensures not only the sustainability of the land but also the quality and flavour of the produce. Josh, with his wealth of expertise, brought to life the intricate processes involved in maintaining the farm's ecological balance.
In the Animal Farm, where a variety of rare-heritage breeds are reared. These animals are allowed to grow at their natural pace, roaming freely across the Devon landscape. This low-density rearing method results in meat of unparalleled quality, destined for The Farmers Arms and other culinary ventures within The Collective.
Walking through the pastures, I observed the animals grazing contentedly, their welfare a top priority. The on-site butchery ensures that the entire process, from rearing to processing, is handled with care and respect, producing superior cuts of meat, sausages, and air-dried charcuterie. Their passion for humane farming practices and his deep knowledge of animal husbandry were both evident and inspiring.
Equally captivating is the Garden Farm, a testament to Birch Farm’s commitment to biodiversity and sustainable agriculture. Here, traditional hedgerows have been reinstated, dividing the land into smaller, purpose-specific fields while creating rich habitats and wildlife corridors for bees, insects, and small mammals. This meticulous rewilding effort not only fosters biodiversity but also enhances soil health and crop productivity.
The edible forest, an ambitious project featuring over 300 plant species, stands as a testament to the farm’s innovative spirit. This diverse array of fruit, nuts, and herbs, including many rare species, provides a bountiful harvest for the kitchens of The Collective. The orchard, with its mix of hardwood, nut, and softwood trees, showcases an interdependent planting strategy, where each tree supports the others in a mutually beneficial ecosystem.
Traditional glasshouses on the farm are where tender plants and unusual herbs are nurtured with care. One of the most intriguing aspects of Josh’s work is his use of bokashi, a Japanese composting system that recycles organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. This method forms part of the farm’s 360-degree food system, ensuring that nothing is wasted and everything is repurposed to enrich the soil and feed the plants.
Josh’s profound knowledge and dedication to sustainable farming left a lasting impression. The farm’s integration of age-old techniques with modern sustainability practices exemplifies The Collective at Woolsery’s ethos of preserving heritage while embracing innovation.
In conclusion, Birch Farm is more than a supplier of exceptional produce for The Farmers Arms and beyond; it is a living, breathing example of how sustainable farming can thrive in the modern world. The time-honoured methods and cutting-edge techniques employed here not only safeguard the environment but also ensure that every product that leaves the farm is of the highest quality. A visit to Birch Farm is a journey into the heart of sustainable agriculture, guided by the passion and expertise of its remarkable head gardener.
See more of The Collective at Woolsery here
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