The Farmhouse Guest Guide
Address
The Farmhouse, Stanford Bridge, Worcestershire WR6 6SU
Use this what 3 words address for the exact parking location https://w3w.co/drum.toads.coping
Thank you for choosing The Farmhouse for your stay. We fell in love with this rambling, beautifully imperfect country house and have filled it with vintage finds, considered touches and everything you need to feel truly at home. This guide will provide the information on how to use the house, the facilities, hampers, what is provided and local information and recommendations for experiences and places to visit and eat.
When you arrive
Directions
Use the postcode WR6 6SU, when on Orleton Lane look for left turn onto the private farm road(signposted Spring Valley Retreat). This concrete road leads to a farm barns, before entering the yard, turn left and keep right. The Farmhouse has its own driveway with a five-bar gate — you'll know you've arrived!
The what3words address twill take you to the parking at the Farmhouse. https://w3w.co/drum.toads.coping
Parking
There is a large parking area on the driveway overlooking the lake with space for five or more cars. Please park considerately so everyone in the party can get in and out easily. Close the five-bar gate behind you — this keeps the garden secure for children and dogs.
Getting in
There is a key code box at the front door.
Key code: this will be sent out 48 hours prior to arrival
Check-in is from 4pm. If you arrive early please don't let yourself in before then — our housekeeping team work hard to get everything perfect for you and they need the time.
Finding us — Google Map
Welcome hamper
You'll find a welcome hamper waiting for you with ground coffee, tea, sugar, milk and bread to get you started. If you have any allergies, do let us know so we can adjust the hamper.
Everything else is in the kitchen — crockery, glassware, utensils and serving dishes for a crowd. If you'd like to arrange an arrival meal or a private chef dinner, contact Ellie on who can arrange this for you.
~ Ellie Burgoyne: 07532440758
A Few Essentials
WiFi
There is a QR code in the house to connect to the house Wifi.
Contact details
Ellie or Hannah (owners):
Ellie: 07532 440758. Hannah: 07931 386311
Emergency (Brian): 07854 141272
Heating
The Farmhouse has oil-fired central heating. It is programmed to come on morning and evening. If you need to adjust it, the thermostat controls are on a hive system. The control is on the dresser. Please be mindful — oil heating is more expensive than gas, so do keep doors and windows closed when it's running.
The kitchen has underfloor heating which is pre-set — no need to touch.
Lounge wood-burner
We've provided twizzler firelighters, kindling and a basket of logs. Stack a small pyramid of kindling over a couple of firelighters and light them. Leave the door slightly ajar while the kindling catches. Once you have a good flame, add a couple of smaller logs and gradually close the door, adjusting the air vents to control the burn. A slower burn produces more heat.
Please be mindful of how much wood you use — we provide it for comfort, not decoration, and future guests appreciate a well-stocked basket too.
Snug biofuel stove
The snug has a biofuel stove — no smoke, no fuss, real flame. Biofuel is provided in a bottle beside the fire. Slide the grate cover inside the fire, fill the burner cup, light with a long match and enjoy. Extinguish with the snuffer tool provided. by sliding hte grate cover back over the flame. Do not leave unattended.
Kitchen
The range cooker has multiple zones — fan oven, conventional oven and a separate grill. The double American fridge freezer is stocked with ice. A microwave, coffee machine, dishwasher and liquidiser are all provided.
Please rinse plates before loading the dishwasher to prevent blockages. Dishwasher tablets are under the sink.
Rubbish & recycling
The kitchen bin has two compartments — one for general waste and one for mixed recycling (glass, cardboard, metal, solid plastics). Wheelie bins are located at the end of the long drive if you need to empty the bins. Additional bin bags are under the sink.
TV & streaming
The snug TV has Sky services via satellite. — The games den has a Wii console — controllers and games are in the unit beneath it.
Washing machine & dryer
The utility room off the boot room has a washer and dryer. A small amount of detergent is provided under the sink — help yourself. There is also an Iron and board in the cupboard in the boot room.
Spills and accidents
We understand accidents happen — please don't panic. For carpet spills, soak up as much moisture as possible immediately with a cloth or paper towel. A small amount of carpet stain remover diluted in water, dabbed (not rubbed) on the stain, usually does the trick.
For broken glass, there is a dustpan and brush in the utility room. Please take care and dispose of shards in a sealed bag in the general waste.
Broken crockery etc.
Don't worry — we expect the odd breakage. A broken glass or mug won't be charged. Just let us know so we can replace it for the next guests.
Night lights
There are sensor night lights on the landings and stairwells to help you find your way after dark in this four-storey house.
Electric box
The consumer unit (fuse box) is located above the dresser If anything trips, it will be clearly labelled. Call Ellie if you have any trouble.
The Hot Tub
The electric hot tub seats 8 and is tucked behind wooden sleepers on the lower terrace, with views down to the lake. It is filled, heated and ready for your arrival.
Using the hot tub
- The controls are on the side panel — jets, temperature and lights are all clearly labelled.
- The hot tub is set to 38°C. You can adjust this on the control panel.
- Please shower before use to keep the water clean for everyone.
- Children must be supervised at all times in and around the hot tub.
- Do not use the hot tub if you are pregnant, have a heart condition or have consumed significant amounts of alcohol.
- Keep the cover on when not in use — this maintains the temperature and keeps the water clean.
A note on chemicals
The water is treated and balanced before your arrival. Please do not add anything to the water. If the water looks cloudy or you have any concerns, call Ellie or Hannah straight away.
Hot tub rules
- No glassware in or around the hot tub — please use the plastic cups provided.
- No food in the hot tub.
- Please replace the cover carefully after use.
- Towels and robes are provided — please leave them in the boot room after use rather than taking them outside.
Getting there
Steps lead down from the main terrace to the lower lawn. The hot tub is to the left behind the wooden sleepers. There is outdoor solar lighting.
Your Rooms
The Sunflower Room — First floor
Lake views and morning light. This room has zip-and-link beds, so let us know in advance whether you'd like a king double or twins. A dressing table and chest of drawers are provided. This room shares the first floor shower room with the Iris Room.
The Rose Room — First floor
Our most romantic room. An original fireplace, wooden floorboards and lake views — plus an en-suite that stops you in your tracks: a roll-top bath looking out over the garden. Zip-and-link beds, your choice of king double or twins.
The Wisteria Room — First floor
Dressed in greens and pinks with fitted cupboards and its own en-suite shower room. A generous king bedroom with a nod to the wisteria that creeps across the house.
The Lavender Room — First floor
The dual-aspect room at the far end of the house — high ceilings, front and side garden views and a fully self-contained en-suite with bath and shower over. Perfect for parents, or the hen of honour.
The Iris Room — Second floor
Up into the eaves on the top floor, this room has a double bed at one end and a single at the other — perfect for children sharing, a girls' weekend solo, or anyone who fancies their own floor entirely. Shares the first floor shower room with the Sunflower Room.
Bathrooms at a glance
- Sunflower Room: Shared first floor shower room (with Iris)
- Rose Room: En-suite with roll-top bath
- Wisteria Room: En-suite shower room
- Lavender Room: En-suite with bath and shower
- Iris Room: Shared first floor shower room (with Sunflower)
- Ground floor: Downstairs cloakroom / WC in boot room
Beds — zip-and-link configuration
The Sunflower and Rose rooms have zip-and-link beds. These are set up as twins or a king before your arrival based on your preference — please let us know at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before arrival.
Towels and linen
Fresh towels and linen are provided for all guests. Spare towels are in the airing cupboard on the first floor landing. Please leave all used towels on the bathroom floor at checkout.
The games den — basement
Down the stairs from the rear hallway you'll find the basement games den: pool table, games console, pallet sofa and direct access out to the side garden and hot tub. The natural destination for teenagers and anyone who wants to keep the noise away from the adults upstairs.
Outside
The grounds are secure and enclosed, with a large lawned garden and a generous terrace to the front of the house. Steps lead down from the terrace to a lower lawn overlooking the lake — one of the best spots on the property, especially at dusk.
Terrace
Outdoor dining table for ten, lounge seating and a fire pit. The fire pit is great for an evening gather — wood and firelighters are in the Lounge. Leave the fire to burn out overnight and replace the lid once cooled.
BBQ
The BBQ is on the terrace. Charcoal and lighting equipment are in the outdoor store. Please clean the BBQ after use and cover it — it keeps the wildlife out and protects it from the weather. There is a set of BBQ utensils in the kitchen.
Garden security
The garden is gated and fenced — ideal for children and dogs. Please ensure gates are closed at all times. There is a lower lawn accessible via the terrace steps which leads to the lake boundary. Please supervise children and dogs near the lake boundary.
Parking
The driveway and parking area are to the front of the house overlooking the lake. There is ample space for five or more cars. Please do not block the farm road.
Outdoor lighting
There are exterior lights around the terrace and driveway. All are solar lights, other than the flood light, which can be switched on from the boot room.
Dogs
We know your dog is part of the family and we love welcoming them. Up to 3 dogs are welcome at The Farmhouse. (more by arrangement) There is a £25 charge per dog, applied at booking.
- Please ensure dogs are flea-treated before arrival.
- Dog beds, bowls and a crate are provided in the boot room if needed.
- Dogs are welcome downstairs — stair gates are fitted to keep them there. Please do not allow dogs on the furniture or upstairs. Other guests may have allergies, and we'd like the bedrooms to stay fur-free. Plus dogs can get trapped in bedrooms.
- There is a hose at the rear of the house for washing muddy paws before coming inside.
- All dog mess in the garden and grounds must be cleared up. Poo bags are provided.
- Please do not leave dogs unsupervised in the house for extended periods.
- The garden is secure and gated — perfect for a good run around.
There are wonderful walks straight from the property — please be mindful of animals grazing.
Children & Babies
The Farmhouse is a brilliant family house with lots of space for little ones to spread out.
- Baby packs are available on request — cot, highchair and baby bath. Please let us know at least 48 hours before arrival.
- Two highchairs are available in the kitchen.
- Stair gates are fitted to all stairwells.
- The games den in the basement is a brilliant outlet for older children — pool table, games console and direct garden access.
- Outdoor games are available in the garden store.
- Please supervise children on the terrace steps and near the lake boundary.
- The hot tub is not suitable for children under 5. Children must be supervised in the hot tub at all times.
We offer a range of family activities, children friendly crafting and making. Check out our Hamper menu.
Checkout
We kindly ask guests to vacate the property by 11:00AM
Please leave the property as tidy as you can. If there are any breakages or damage, do email ahead — we have limited time to turn the house around and knowing in advance makes a huge difference. We will always be fair; a broken glass or mug won't be charged for.
Remember to return the key to the key safe and close the five-bar gate behind you.
- Leave all used towels on the floor in the bathrooms.
- Wash up or fill and start the dishwasher, and wipe the kitchen surfaces.
- Sweep and hoover — especially if you have dogs.
- Put all rubbish in the outdoor bins.
- Hot tub - leave the cover on and controls as found.
- Make sure all windows and doors are locked and the five-bar gate is closed.
- Check and double-check you have all your belongings — the housekeeping team are very busy on changeover days and may not always be able to post things back promptly.
Emergencies and Contact Information
In case of fire
Leave the property immediately and call 999 for the Fire Service. Do not stop to collect belongings.
Fire equipment
A fire blanket and fire extinguisher are located in the kitchen. A second extinguisher is in the utility room. Please call Charlotte on 07841 447 339 to let us know if anything happens — alternative arrangements will be made where necessary.
Emergency contact numbers
Ellie (owner):
Emergency services (fire, police, ambulance): 999
West Mercia Police non-emergency: 101
Hospitals
Accident & Emergency
Worcestershire Royal Hospital: 01905 763 333
Charles Hastings Way, Worcester, WR5 1DD
Minor Injuries
Tenbury Hospital: 01584 811 500
Tenbury Wells, WR15 8AP
Kidderminster Treatment Centre: 01562 513 200
Bewdley Rd, Kidderminster, DY11 6RJ
Dentist
Emergency Dental Helpline: 03334 050 290
Pharmacies
Boots Tenbury Wells: Teme St, Tenbury Wells WR15 8AE
Boots Worcester: Friary Walk, Worcester WR1 3LD
Vets
Clent Hills Vets, Stourport: 01299 827 970
Vets4Pets Worcester: 01905 619 141
Out of hours: 01905 619 141 (ask for emergency line)
Food & Drink
Local favourites
Spilsbury & Jones
Craft brewery with brilliant pizzas and live music nights in the summer, just 700 metres from the Farmhouse, A great evening out.
The Baiting House
Lovely pub serving seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. A short drive and well worth it.
The Elms Hotel and Spa
Perfect for a celebratory afternoon tea or smart dinner.
Dew Drop Inn
A Sunday lunch pilgrimage — quality local ingredients and worth the drive.
The Talbot at Knightwick
Lovely pub on the River Teme, classic pub food and great beer from their own Teme Valley Brewery.
The Hundred House
A beautiful inn with good food at Norton, near Bewdley.
Teme Valley Farmers' Market
2nd Sunday of the month — wonderful local produce, perfect for stocking up the kitchen.
Nearest supermarkets
Tesco Extra, Worcester — St Martin's Gate, Worcester WR1 2LB
Waitrose, Malvern — Graham Rd, Malvern WR14 4WR
Morrisons, Kidderminster — Comberton Rd, Kidderminster DY10 1UB
Co-op, Tenbury Wells — Teme St, Tenbury Wells WR15 8AB (nearest small shop)
Food experiences at The Farmhouse
Why not upgrade your self-catered stay? Charlotte and the team can arrange:
- An arrival meal ready when you get through the door
- Private chef dining for your special dinner
- Hampers — breakfast, afternoon tea, BBQ and grazing platters
- Celebration and pamper packages
Find out more about all the extras and experience you can book at the farmhouse on the link below.
Farmhouse Extras
Explore the Area
Activities
Canoe or kayak the River Teme
The three rivers — Severn, Teme and Rea — run through the valley below. Spot otters, kingfishers and salmon.
Malvern Hills
Spectacular ridge walks with sweeping views across three counties. Download the MalvernWalks app for guided routes.
Wyre Forest
Ancient woodland with cycling trails, rich wildlife and a Go Ape centre. Pedal a Bike Away hire bikes for family trails and downhill tracks.
Gin making
Piston Gin in Worcester or Wildjac Gin in Bewdley for a fun session.
Astley Vineyard
Wine tasting and tours — a beautiful estate just a short drive away.
In-house experiences
Paint and sip, yoga, massage and guided foraging can all be arranged at The Farmhouse. Ask Charlotte for details.
Places worth visiting
Bewdley
A pretty Georgian riverside town — great for a stroll, independent shops and a riverside lunch.
Ludlow
Castle ruins, a celebrated food festival and some brilliant restaurants. An hour's drive but worth every minute.
Ironbridge
UNESCO World Heritage site — the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Fascinating and surprisingly beautiful.
Brockhampton Estate (National Trust)
A medieval manor house in an orchard setting — one of the most romantic NT properties in the country.
Witley Court & Gardens
Impressive ruined stately home with spectacular gardens — hauntingly beautiful.
Severn Valley Railway
A heritage steam railway running through gorgeous countryside. All the romance of a proper steam train.
The Firs — Elgar's birthplace
The birthplace and experience centre of Worcester's most famous son.
Reviews and Rebooking
We love to hear what you've thought of your stay — please do leave us a review or drop me a private email at charlotte@secretbolthole.co.uk. Good reviews mean a bonus for our brilliant housekeeping team too, so every one genuinely matters.
Review us on: Cool Places, Facebook or Google
If you'd like to rebook, get in touch and we'll send you a loyalty discount.