About Us
Set within ten acres, our eight self-catering cottages are run by parents, for parents.
Welcome to our story. We’re Cheryl, Roger and our daughter Emily - the family behind North Hayne Farm and the passion that brings it to life every day.
Our Story
Our journey began in 2004 when we decided to step out of a corporate world of IT and a teaching career and re-locate to North Devon, embarking on something completely different that would offer our young family not just the chance to live and grow up in a beautiful part of the UK, but would let us be around to enjoy them doing it!
Our move also gave us the opportunity to try our hand at the ‘world of hospitality and tourism’ an exciting career challenge which has seen many changes over the years and one that we have never regretted.
Together with Cheryl's parents who helped us run the farm in the early years (and who moved with us), we began our mission to create truly child centric holidays. Together with a few animals that had been left behind when we collected the keys to the farm (not part of the plan!) we soon realised the huge unique selling point they created and how this was to become the very ‘core’ of our business and an extremely rewarding part of the job.
Growing on the Farm
Over the last 20 + years we've carefully renovated and refurbished each of the cottages, added an eighth, and gradually developed the farm and its facilities.
As the farm has evolved, so too has what we offer our guests - always with families in mind. Along the way, we’ve been incredibly grateful to receive recognition for what we do and have won multiple awards that we are very proud of.
A Place for All Families
Creating a space where families feel welcome and able to relax has always been at the heart of what we do. We've been increasing awareness and diagnosis of Autism amongst young people and have also developed skills along the way to support children with neurodiverse needs making ‘inclusive’ holidays as accessible as we can.
We’re proud to have been awarded Silver for Accessibility and Inclusivity for the whole of the South West of England. You can find out more here.
Life on the farm is about slowing down and spending time together. Children can meet the animals and explore, while parents unwind and enjoy the surroundings. Each cottage has its own hot tub, along with shared spaces to play, relax, and enjoy the countryside setting. We’ve also been featured in The Times, recognised as one of the best family holidays by age group.
Our Team
While we are a family-run business, we’re supported by a small but mighty and dedicated team who share our values and help make each stay special - don't believe us, just check out our reviews.
We work hard to make every stay as relaxing, memorable, and stress-free as possible. From recommending local adventures to adding those extra special touches throughout your holiday, we’re all here to help make your time at North Hayne Farm truly unforgettable!
Cheryl
Upon arrival, Cheryl will be there to welcome you to North Hayne Farm, help you settle in, guide new farmers through their first feeding session, and support guests throughout the week from reception.
Fun Fact: As a child she was grabbed by a Orangutan at a zoo and lifted off the ground by her hair. We can safely confirm that monkeys will not be joining the farm anytime soon!
Roger
Once you’ve settled into your cottage, Roger will show you how to use your hot tub, carry out twice-daily checks to keep it in top condition, and also looks after general maintenance, animal welfare, and the less exciting admin tasks - as well as taking care of you during your donkey ride experience.
Fun Fact: As a child Roger had great aspirations to be an astronaut. Sadly he soon realised he didn't like heights!
Emily
Our daughter Emily oversees handing out animal feed during daily feeding sessions, has a special fondness for the lambs we bottle-feed from early April, and is also a fully trained holistic therapist available to book in advance.
Fun Fact: Emily has always had a soft spot for our orphan lambs and has acquired the family nickname of Lamily.
Dave
Our gardens are maintained by our gardener Dave. His knowledge is impressive and is always happy to chat about plants. Ask him nicely and he might even let you take a cutting.
Fun Fact: He is one of the organising members of our local North Devon Show which is held every year in nearby Umberleigh Barton.
Ruth
Additional help cleaning out the animal areas is provided by Ruth twice a week. Ruth has farming in her blood and is a great person to talk to for advice on farm animals.
Fun Fact: Wants to see African Elephants in the wild.
Our House Keeping Team
We wash and iron all linen on site to maintain quality and reduce our carbon footprint, and our team (many with us for years) work hard to keep the cottages clean, well cared for, and beautifully presented.
Fun Facts: When the team were asked for one truth and one lie these were some of the truths.....
A Grandad who was the town crier for South Molton
Related to Johnny Kingdom through marriage
Has ridden a bull!
Has chauffeured James May for the day