Raising The Barns

Congratulations Rachel & Dave

2011-06-22T23:35:00.000-07:00

Here comes the Bride...and Groom. Here's how to do it in relaxed style at Falstone Barns.

We like to think that your wedding is exclusive, so when you choose us for your venue, you naturally have the place to yourselves and your guests.

Choose from one or two day weekend or midweek packages.

Come and Celebrate your special day at Falstone Barns...Your very own place in the country....

Country Weddings at Falstone Barns

2011-02-22T13:22:00.000-08:00

Here's how to make her happy...Have yourselves a fairy tale country wedding at Falstone Barns. We're offering 3 day weekend weddings with accommodation, as well as midweek weddings with or without renting our barns.

Have a look at our Weddings page on the website for more.

Oh yes...if you want to see more, why not come to our Wedding Fayre on 15 May 2011, register your interest on the website Weddings page if you'd like to come.

NicheNorthumberland

2011-01-27T00:14:00.000-08:00

Watch out NicheNorthumberland is born. Just like the fabulous colours of this photo Northumberland is made up of Niche people, landscapes and businesses. If you think you fit the description of what is NicheNorthumberland post your comment and join our club. Let's put Northumberland on the map and as they say in Essex, Give it LARGE for your County!

Social Media Networking - Join up the dots!

2011-01-26T01:09:00.000-08:00

Ever thought that there was too much to do and too little time to do it? I do all the time until that light bulb moment occurred...yesterday.

Social media networking is the new Wheel, the great thing is it doesn't need inventing, it's already there for all to use.

Feeling a bit like a kid in a sweetshop now, so let me indulge!

2010-11-18T01:17:00.000-08:00

Here's a clue...!

It's Camping Jim...but not as you know it!

2010-11-18T01:04:00.000-08:00

Time for an update on projects new. So exciting is this that I can't wait to reveal all. We're in the process of bringing the Falstone Barns experience to camping...with knobs on!

If I say we're talking about back to nature 5 star, this may give you a clue. Think woodland and fell views, imaginative interiors, roaring wood burner and memory making for one and all!

More as plans unfold....

Heston Blumental rocks!

2010-04-28T23:56:00.000-07:00

The inspiration for the interiors at the Barns came from an exploration of imagination which had few boundaries.

However for real inspiration go no further than the culinary genius of Heston. So inspiring is he that next time round I don't think I'll apply boundaries....You'll either love or hate, but never be bored!

Heston Rocks!

Some Time Later!

2010-04-21T23:41:00.000-07:00

Well I never....It's been 3 years since we first opened Falstone Barns and we haven't stopped. Probably why this blog has been ignored.

With luck and lots of hard work Falstone Barns HAS become for so many, their very own place in the country!

We welcome you and say goodbye. Dig cars out of snow and congratulate when you ask... Will you and she says I Do!

Some come to remember friends and family once here and now gone. All remark on the tranquility of this special place.

This past 3 years we have had our own tragedies and witnessed others. Resoundingly however we are in celebration of life and all it has to offer.

Falstone Barns is and always will be my very own place in the country!

Summer Time in the Country

2008-06-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

Life is full of repetition and a few surprises and Summer time in Falstone is all about just that.

I'ts great to watch the grass grow and the honeysuckle bloom and the poppies dot up all over the show.

My kids are fabulous, my husband even better and life is good.

What more could a girl in the country want!

Life's a bowl of cherries...here at Falstone Barns

2007-10-02T15:02:00.000-07:00

At last we've arrived...at least the website has. We're well on our way to completion and plan to launch the Barns project on 7 December 2007. Big party bash planned...All welcome...

The theme is Christmas in the Courtyard!

Think Prague with your best friends...

Think St Petersburg, with your most cultured.

Think Falstone Barns with your most cherished!

Better still, don't think...just be!

Watch out, Falstone Barns is coming to entranse you!

Falstone Barns and Luxury...Coming soon

2007-09-19T13:56:00.000-07:00

Couldn't resist giving you a peak of what is to come. We're opening for Christmas 2007 and our web site will be up and running next week. So don't delay come and join us for Christmas, or spend a weekend in December taking in the area and all it has to offer. What about booking a ticket for Kielder Winter Wonderland and stay with us. I promise you'll be back for more!

This Is Where I want To Be!

2007-08-09T16:34:00.000-07:00

Even this fellow was amazed at the day's events. To explain all, I would need at least one episode of Emmerdale or perhaps a sequence, planned for a holiday special or something to boost the ratings!!! Either way, I live my life and those around me theirs, in an extraordinary and uncompromising way. I promise you, I do not exaggerate. This is the stuff of mini-series, sagas and better produced BBC productions.

For some time now, I have been teasing out the waxed string of the bow which holds the notes Northumberland and specifically the North Tyne Valley; and I'm fast reaching the conclusion that the bow needs to strike, draw sound and launch the aural assault which this place spits out in all it's forms.

This was a week when we drew breath before stepping over the threshold of the local Pub. In true North Tyne valley fashion, things were understated in terms of reaction to what is in my opinion, the outrage of is this latest episode of Foot and Mouth Disease.

I say they did not react, that is to say there was no revelation of their true and innermost feelings regarding this latest debacle of the so called management of Britain's farming. Such is the stoicism and long spine of these men and women, who hold their heads above water no matter what.

At last however the sun seems to shine over this beautiful valley and finally silage can be completed and all other tasks of the summer put to bed. Under normal circumstances we would all be looking forward to the famous Falstone Show, with Cattle, Sheep and all manner of other beasts, such as drunken young men wavering on slippy posts, bashing each other with pillows.

Not to mention the children in sack races, egg and spoon, all age groups all categories. Tents with smart tomatoes and chocolate cake with a theme! What about photos...every special shot of children much loved, by parents all interested, and polite comments from Aunties and long distant relatives just making the ahh!

What a place, what a time in our lives. To be cherished forever with eyes wide open and quiet thoughts shut eye, what a time at Falstone Farm.

Experience the luxury of your own pamper break at Falstone Barns.

Wood Is Good...

2007-07-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

This is our kitchen island especially designed by our good friend and fabulous cabinet maker Tom Luxmoore. Tom created this and the rest of our kitchen following a supper, thrown together over chatter about design integrity, wood and...several bottles of good french wine!

Since it's instillation we've had lots of lovely compliments about it. However the most common reaction is still...Wow! Tom, like us enjoys wood and when there's a wow; since so little in life often is....we celebrate.

Join us for a Wow, and pause to celebrate life at http://www.falstonebarns.com

See more of Tom's work on http://www.eyeoftheheart.co.uk/ and prepare to be amazed.

Here's Another Stone...

2007-07-18T16:18:00.001-07:00

This is the Reivers Cursing Stone. Legend has it that the mere recall of the curse would put a blight on the household contained within, so evil and dire that the consequences do not bare thinking about. I won't have the curse told in the house, and frankly I think I'm taking a chance even discussing it with you!

But this is all part of the rich history of living in charmed and superstitious Northumberland. Come and join us and be charmed...at http://www.falstonebarns.com

Stones...

2007-07-18T00:11:00.000-07:00

We've just dismantled the second barn and this is an example of the stone removed from one of the doorways, with hinge still attached. These barns were made to last and the previous 400 years haven't deterred this from happening. At Falstone Barns we are carefully making good and restoring these ancient stones to give them new life, so that they can go on for another 400 years. Come and join us at http://www.falstonebarns.com for a taste of history in stone.

Boots, Shoes And More Boots...

2007-07-17T13:42:00.000-07:00

These boots were definately not made for walking, however walking is what you can do till your heart's content at Falstone Barns. Choose from a gentle meander around the village, about 2 miles, or up into the hills, 10 miles or more.

What about Hadrians Wall, in parts or as a whole. At Falstone Barns, we can offer you staged walking. A drop off at your starting point and a pick up at your journey's end. This could mean a week long venture...day by day walking the wall; or just a meander between your chosen spots. Either way you're assured of the most courteous service and fun with it!

Then at your day's end, the luxurious surroundings of your own holiday apartment space; to chat about the day's events, over a glass of wine from your own special supply in your apartment. Maybe a soothing massage from our fully qualified Masseuse would help you unwind. Either way, the menu is pure bliss, so....Join us at http://www.falstonebarns.com and give your boots their walk!

Girls Night Out!!!

2007-07-17T02:12:00.001-07:00

Here's the gang out for a Birthday Bash. We'd already had a night at the Races and were ready for a little more racing! At Falstone Barns we'll be doing weekend pamper packages for you girls who like to relax together, catch up on gossip and share hot tips on 'racy' items! Join us girls at www.falstonebarns.com for a pamper break.

Sunday Morning...

2007-07-15T05:16:00.000-07:00

This is the view from the Kielder Damn Wall, just minutes from Falstone Barns. As you can see the vista is astounding. Not only can you enjoy perfect views, but also take advantage of a boat trip around the Lake, or do some fishing in the North Tyne. Come and join us on Sunday mornings at http://www.falstonebarns.com/

How about this for a corker! The North Tyne river meanders past the bottom of our land, and as you can see nature is more than generous in this outstanding part of rural Northumberland. Life in the slow lane....at http://www.falstonebarns.com . What more could you want for a break?

2007-07-11T00:50:00.000-07:00

Anyone for Camping?

2007-07-11T00:32:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, some good friends and I went on a bus journey and the subject of camping arose. Some had and some hadn't. I for one have never been one for pitching my tent out there in the open wilds of nature. Not because the open wilds of nature don't appeal, but simply because it strikes me as odd that in this 21st Century when we can beam pictures from one end of the world to another in less than a second and have conversations in almost the same amount of time; we haven't progressed in the tent department beyond the stage of three losely driven pegs supporting even looser canvas which has no effect on keeping out the elements and is prone to grow wings and fly at the soonest gust!

But then I discovered these at www.exotictents.com. Come and pitch your tent with us at www.falstonebarns.com and discover luxury under one roof!

Moon....

2007-07-10T13:56:00.001-07:00

At Kielder, they're building the most fantastic state of the art observatory. It promises to be a world leader and will attract star gazers from all over the globe. Here at Falstone Farm, we just lie on the grass and gaze heavenward. http://www.kielder-observatory.org

The sky is so clear here that sometimes we see satelites and in the winter months, the Northern Lights are not an uncommon occurance.

Come and stargaze at Falstone Barns with us, and make a wish...to come back for more!

Light Becomes You....

2007-07-10T13:36:00.000-07:00

Lighting is going to be a big thing at Falstone Barns...Remember the glamour word, well this one is with a capital 'G', with va va voom at the end! At Falstone Barns you'll be 'wowed' by the light play. Sometimes subtle, sometimes wild, but always interesting. Definately a talking point.

For more lighting inspiration see http://www.chandeliersandmirrors.co.uk

2007-07-09T13:16:00.000-07:00

At last the sun shines! What about this for a view. Kielder Water in the sunshine, boats bobbing and people at play...the best of the North Tyne Valley...And all awaits you here, just 5 minutes from www.falstonebarns.com . Register your e-mail and join us here in heaven.

Interesting spaces

2007-07-09T09:28:00.001-07:00

The space which you see above is a corridor...yes, but also a gallery. Did I tell you that Falstone Barns will house art available on show and to buy. This space provides an ideal gallery space and will act as a really interesting link between room spaces. So not only will you expect luxury in a suite, but culture and beauty in the art on display.

Much of the art will feature new artists who are up-and-coming as it's our aim at Falstone Barns to promote and show the best of Northumberland. So when you stay at Falstone Barns you'll not only experience pampering par excellence, but also be able to take a reminder of your stay home with you.

For more Network and the Art Tour in Northumberland.

Arrow slits?

2007-07-09T09:18:00.000-07:00

How to fill a gap? These arrow slits occur all over the barns. Designed originally to keep out those who were unwelcomed, they now present a quandry as to what to fill them with. The only thing to do is to glaze them...but with what?

How about this...a specially designed piece of stained glass, to let in the light and to add to the jewel like nature of this bedroom....remember the bathroom seen before. This glass matches the mosaic of the tiles in the en suite. Detail is everything and only the best.

For more great design tips see Designers block and don't forget to register your e-mail with http://www.falstonebarns.com/ for more updateds on the progression of the Barns.

Progress on the Barns

2007-07-09T09:09:00.001-07:00

You can see we now have glass in the arches. We've chosen to go for picture windows which will enable a clear view into the courtyard and beautiful valley below, down to the river Tyne. It was a glorious day here and the courtyard was bathed in sunshine. Sometimes it feels like Provence...all that's missing is you, a bottle of fine wine and good friends. Join us here at Falstone Barns to enjoy a little piece of Provence in the North!

It's Raining Again....

2007-07-05T15:17:00.000-07:00

These boots were certainly made for walking, and drowning in mud, and splashing debris up your clothes. Yes the weather has certainly been cruel all over the uk and Northumberland has not been short of the rain. These are my usual attire whilst on site at Falstone Barns. However see below some I prefer...! What do you think?

2007-07-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

What Do These Images Have In Common?

2007-07-05T10:36:00.000-07:00

Answer...A name...but what is that name? Comments please.

Devastation!

2007-07-05T10:22:00.000-07:00

Here we go again...It's devastation time again at Falstone Barns, as we begin to raise another barn. This time the themes will be Versace meets Art Deco and Medieval! Difficult to believe at this time I know...oh ye of little faith...watch this space. I love all things glamourous and so this barn presents a real challenge to me. Come for a little bit of glamour to Falstone Barns and see devastation become divine!

For more divine, see one of my favourite blogs My Marrakesh.

Fabulous Art Work

2007-07-04T14:45:00.000-07:00

Received my business cards recently and had the opportunity to give a few out. Amazing response! What do you think? Leave your comments to let me know. Thanks to Lazy Grace at Rothbury in Northumberland for the design. See www.lazygrace.co.uk for ideas on business branding and website design.

The Elephant Tree!

2007-07-04T13:05:00.000-07:00

This huge ash caused us great consternation before it was felled. Number one, we did not look forward to it's demise but crucially number two, neither did we wish to see it destroy one of the barns. In the end we took the decision. The Ash had to go. What emerged however, just as the phoenix from the ashes, was this elephant...from the Ash!

Come and enjoy it pass by your room at Falstone Barns.

African Elephant Flapping Ears!

2007-07-04T13:03:00.001-07:00

This photo reminded me of a trip to Kruger National Park in South Africa. We had been driving around looking for Elephant for most of the day, when all of a sudden two giant grey ears appeared through the long grass and an entrire herd of these magnificent beasts came striding out...to guess what? See below! What a sight to behold. For more South African inspirations see Gypsy Purple, one of my favourite blogspots.

Why Did The Elephant Cross the Road?

2007-07-04T13:02:00.000-07:00

Do You Remember This?

2007-07-04T12:37:00.001-07:00

Well I Think We've Made Some Progress!

2007-07-04T12:04:00.000-07:00

Slate and mosaic combined with the best of shower ware make a perfect 'Pamper' combination. Just one of the luxurious bathrooms at Falstone Barns. Check out tiles at www.classictiles.co.uk and Shower ware at C V G of Morpeth, Northumberland.

How green is this valley?

2007-07-03T11:52:00.001-07:00

This much....

Pink is a good thing!

2007-07-03T10:45:00.001-07:00

Wouldn't it be great to sit and dream under this beauty.

One Good Thing About Summer Rain...

2007-07-03T10:34:00.000-07:00

Flowers in bloom at the front of the bastle house...a burst of colour in our grey drenched skies...

A History Lesson

2007-06-27T00:48:00.000-07:00

This is an image of our Bastle. What's a Bastle I hear you ask? Answer, a fortified building found in Northumberland and built to keep out the Scots during the Border wars of some 400 years ago. This room is barrel vaulted, has six foot thick stone walls and was designed originally to keep the family wealth in...sheep and cattle! Obviously the family who owned the bastle originally were highly successful at keeping those Scots at bay. In fact the bastle houses the only Date Stone in Northumberland National Park.

The tales of the Border Reivers (Raiders), live on to this day, and the scroll you see on the wall tells just one of them, entitled Lock the door Lariston.

For more border tales, come and stay at Falstone Barns and capture yourself a piece of history!

Other Great Places To Fish!

2007-06-24T23:34:00.000-07:00

Since the fishing season is under way, and we'd earned ourselves a well earned rest, we took off to the Kyles of Bute on the west coast of Scotland for a weekend break. Lucky escape by the sounds of it. As the rest of the country was battered with torrential rain, we enjoyed a couple of days of temperate climate, still waters, promenading along the shore of the loch and generally relaxing.

All of this helped along by a cordial welcome, courtesy of Hazel and Drew at the charming Hotel An Lochan, which lies on the shores of Tignabruich. After a couple of hours on a guided boat tour around the loch, with a bit of fishing, lots of local information and the icing on the cake...spotting families of seals basking in the sun on the rocks; we looked forward to a gourmet meal which exceeded our expectations in every respect.

How about a two centre break, a couple of nights at Falstone Barns, followed by a couple at An Lochan....Sounds like Heaven.

Did I tell you about Fishing At Falstone Barns?

2007-06-21T23:27:00.000-07:00

The fishing season is under way, and here at Falstone Barns you can take full advantage of it by being able to fish on the best Salmon river in England, the North Tyne. From the banks of the river, here on the Farm, you can cast your line and enjoy a day at one with nature. Afterwards, no long journeys wending your way back home. You can enjoy a warm welcome in front of the fire right here and only a short walk across our fields, to where your luxurious holiday apartment awaits you. For more information, don't forget to register your e-mail address with falstone Barns.

Alice Through The Looking Glass

2007-06-21T15:36:00.001-07:00

Apart from my love of this wildly fantastical tale, which I have shared with my children and others; Alice and her looking glass have an enduring appeal for me. I love the idea of peering into the glass and finding a whole new world on the other side. To this day, I have an enduring love of mirrors and Falstone Farmhouse is scattered with them.

Many catch you unawares, so you feel you may not be sure whether it is you. I am reminded of this fondness from today's reflection on the regular comings and goings at Falstone Barns, where glorious and spectacularly sourced mirrors await your pleasure and enjoyment. Take a step through the looking glass and discover whole new worlds!

Romance Inspires Me

2007-06-20T12:09:00.000-07:00

Bathrooms were always a passion!
'Pamper Me' rooms are a must in all luxury accomodation.
You will receive the best of treatment at Falstone Barns.
Register now...The Pamper session begins here.

This suite holds special thoughts...When my darling Husband saw me flagging from the birth of number 1 son, he booked this place. This was the room we were dumped in, following the arrival of a husky voiced, infamous pop singer, who hails from Essex. Previously we were in a cheaper suite overlooking the fab restaurant, which Mr S Favoured. My enduring thought was that, whatever happened, we would all be happy with the result...This is how it should be done!

This was our view for breakfast...Something to wake up for

Luxury in a suite...Welcome very soon to Falstone Barns.

Would love to make this appear....We can dream on + a few degrees!

A welcoming entrance to Hotel Son Met in Majorca.
We would welcome you all to Falstone Barns in the spirit of the same....Only the best for you...

2007-06-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

Today, a friend delivered a piece of history in a photograph, which recorded the recent history of the house...in the last 50 years. Here's one which delivers a bit more. The date stone is 1604. There has always been a Hall House here at Falstone Farm. This date stone reveals part of that history. It is also the only date stone in the National park in a private residence. The Farmhouse is a Robson enclave, that being the named family who finally ruled over this part of the North Tyne Valley. We still know their descendants to this day...and good friends they are....Always worth staying on the good side of a Robson!

Long Summer Days?

2007-06-18T00:30:00.000-07:00

The weather's been a bit like this in Northumberland. Nevermind, those lazy summer days are on their way. The Pimms has been on ice for some time, the Gin and Tonic High Balls at the ready....what the hell crack them open now. We did on Sunday at Falstone Farm and shared hearty banter with good friends; whilst chidren played noisily on pedal bikes and bonny little girls chatted furiously about school discos. Join us at Falstone Farm for more of the same.

What Mood Are You In Today?

2007-06-15T03:12:00.000-07:00

Today in Northumberland things are pretty blustery, however how about this scene for curling up in front of the fire with your favourite book and a warming toddy to fuel you. Falstone Farm on a snowy day. Join us at our fireside on a winter break. Register your e-mail at Falstone Barns

Where are we?

2007-06-15T00:15:00.000-07:00

Cayman Islands, Mauritius, Seychelles?
No, this is coastal Northumberland. Come and share it with us at Falstone Barns.

Namesakes!

2007-06-14T13:56:00.001-07:00

In an art gallery in Newcastle I discovered someone else who was inspired by Morocco and it's dramatic opulance. See: The Art Works Galleries for more inspiration.

Breaking News - Falstone Barns Website is Launched

2007-06-13T13:46:00.000-07:00

A very warm welcome to Falstone Barns, register your interest in booking on falstonebarns.com You will receive a regular update on completion via the website and the blog and the warmest of welcomes to your very own place in the country.

What Do You Do When Your Rising Main Doesn't Meet Your Stop-Cock?

2007-06-12T09:35:00.001-07:00

Answer...Call your builder who provides you with more valuable thought bubbles, such as walks on cold winter nights to houses where friends meet, to celebrate life. Here paths cross to become inextricably linked. Raise your glass to romantic builders and celebrate Northumberland!

2007-06-10T22:57:00.000-07:00

Woke at 0500, it gets light so early these days. Made myself a cup of tea and went to sit where I like to think, in the Bastle of the Farmhouse. Staring up at the ceiling of the 400 year old vaulted room gave me a sense of being a very small cog in the wheel of history. As the children say...chill!

What about this!

2007-06-10T15:25:00.001-07:00

Another Beauty - A Place to Fish

2007-06-10T15:13:00.000-07:00

2007-06-10T09:18:00.001-07:00

Sunday Afternoon - A Thing of Beauty!

2007-06-10T08:55:00.000-07:00

Once builders have retreated down the valley in their vans of various shapes and sizes on a Friday afternoon, it's time to pour a glass of wine...chilled white and very, very, dry; draw breath and admire the achievements of the week. In this case, no man made effort measured up to this Thing of beauty! Living in this part of Northumberland, the North Tyne Valley, means that we can enjoy the pleasures of wild nature all the time. Hope you will join us at Falstone Barns to share this with us.
For another slant on gardens check out : David Suff

So Do We!

2007-06-08T00:16:00.001-07:00

Living remotely in Northumberland makes me more aware of my natural surroundings...all of it on my doorstep. Simon Fraser has more to say.
Oh yes, we have lillies in the forest.

Oh I Wish It Were Christmas!

2007-06-07T14:13:00.000-07:00

I know it's summer but I have to tell you what a magical place this is come Christmas. Just along the road from the barns at Kielder Lake the area is transformed into a Winter Wonderland with elves in the forest leading children to visit Mrs Claus in her house. There's ice skating, games and parties. It's become so popular you have to buy tickets way in advance.
Unfortunately it isn't being publicised for this year as yet but go here and see just what happens.

Other Toilet Site Options

2007-06-07T01:25:00.001-07:00

Spinning Around

2007-06-06T14:32:00.000-07:00

22:45, children are in bed....this was my day. Enrique sums things up rather beautifully don't you think ?

Why Would I Put a Toilet There?

2007-06-06T09:38:00.001-07:00

Second fix of bathrooms is always traumatic...not least when you thought you'd decided to site the loo in a discreet position and the plumber, always a proud exponant of his trade wants to feature it as the piece de resistance of the room.

This is my dilemma at the end of a day's work on the Barns...Note to builder...Construct floor to ceiling toilet roll holder!

Rooms With a View

2007-06-06T07:29:00.001-07:00

The view from the Barns looking amazing...guess the season!

Day 1 - Ground Zero

2007-06-06T06:59:00.001-07:00

Believe it or not, I've now managed to conquer the internet with the help of my good friend Di Overton of Designers Block.

My First Post

2007-06-06T05:20:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Raising The Barns an online diary of the conversion of 3 barns surrounding a courtyard in the grounds of my farmhouse in Northumberland.
I will be presenting a day to day diary of life down on the farm, surrounded by builders and chaos whilst project managing a development of 3 derelict barns into 5 divine luxury holiday homes.
A husband who works in the city during the week comes home on Friday night to tales of woe and amazing achievement, two children who need ferrying from one remote place to another live with their mother during a week of what can only be called multi tasking choas. Put all these together and you will find a melting pot of humour and sometimes utter desperation.
I need an outlet for my frustrations and elations so this is to be it. Stay tuned.