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I stayed at Adam Henson's Countryfile farm - the whole place is geared up for one thing

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My usual morning wake-up call consists of bin lorries, passing traffic and the antics of my three young sons. However, it was a refreshing change to be roused from sleep by the gentle mooing of a Highland cow just before 7am.

An hour later, I found myself in an even more unusual setting, sipping my morning coffee in a hot tub, absorbing the rolling scenery of the Gloucestershire Cotswolds.

My family and I were privileged guests at a luxury lodge at Cotswold Farm Park, the residence and birthplace of Countryfile presenter Adam Henson. The farm attracts approximately 70,000 day visitors each year, and provides overnight accommodation in a lodge, shepherd hut or you can bring your own campervan or tent.

As we draw closer to the spookiest time of the year, the park has revealed its special 'Pumpkin Nights' event in a field where they grow their Halloween fruit harvest.

The Pumpkin Patch during the day is a delightful experience, especially for younger children, with activities such as jack-o'-lantern carving and face-painting.

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Children can also steer a toy tractor through the winding paths of the Maize Maze. However, like all good Halloween events, the area is best experienced under the cover of darkness.

The eerie atmosphere of the spooky woods and clever lighting added to the excitement as my boys quickly picked out the best pumpkins for our porch from a vast array. Wheelbarrows were available to help us navigate the patch in search of the perfect pumpkin, with sizes ranging from petite to gigantic.

Even more exciting was roasting delicious s'mores over the ready-made fires scattered around. With live music and an onsite bar, we enjoyed our toasted marshmallows and reflected on a wonderful day in the countryside.

Leaving the hot tub after our morning dip was difficult. The relaxation came not just from the bubbles, but also the ambient sounds and views of our surroundings.

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At one point, Adam Henson himself walked past in the opposite field with his five dogs. However, with pruney fingers, we eventually left and headed to the farm park.

The whole place is designed to encourage families to get to know the animals. All three of my boys, especially seven year old Albie, were enchanted when they got to hold chicks that had hatched less than a week ago.

I thought at one point that my wife might not give her chick back.

However, her reaction was nothing compared to the joy she expressed in the next barn where we came across three-day-old piglets. Meanwhile, our eldest son Freddie, 10, and youngest Wilbur, three, were competing for the affection of a goat.

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The goat didn't seem to mind who it was getting attention from as long as it kept receiving handfuls of animal feed.

The farm also housed donkeys, rabbits, guinea pigs, sheep and cows, many of them rare breeds, all eager for some human interaction. Between making friends with the farm animals, the various play areas kept everyone entertained, especially the bounce inflatable, the zip wire and the sand pit.

Educational information boards were placed next to the animal pens, providing insight into the role farming has played in our country's history.

For those lodging at the farm, you can re-enter as often as you like, allowing time to unwind back at the lodge for refreshments, and another chance to soak in the hot tub. There is also a two-mile wildlife walk around the perimeter of the land, offering some tranquil time with nature.

I decided to go for a quick jog before lunch and unexpectedly came across a couple of pheasants on the undulating trail. They seemed just as surprised to see me as I was to see them.

The route is also popular among dog walkers, and pet dogs are welcome to stay at the park.

The lodges themselves are well equipped for a comfortable self-catering stay, boasting a decent kitchen and bathroom, as well as a smart TV.

If you fancy a break from cooking, the onsite Ox Shed Restaurant is at your service, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. The gift shop is also well-stocked with essentials like bread and milk, as well as local wines and beers.

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As November rolls in, the Pumpkin Patch will once again morph into a festive wonderland hosting a variety of Christmas events, including an enchanted light trail and a chance to meet Santa himself.

Whenever I watch Countryfile, I'm often left yearning to visit the stunning locations featured on the show. Despite its theme tune serving as a stark reminder that Monday morning looms, it's a programme I cherish for its ability to showcase the UK in all its glory.

It offers a soothing end to the weekend, instilling a sense of peace and tranquillity. This feeling of rejuvenation and relaxation was certainly echoed during our stay at Cotswold Farm Park.

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However, this experience may have ignited some new dilemmas. For instance, one son who now wants a pet chick, two sons who are eager for a pet goat, and a wife who is pining for us to adopt a piglet.

Personally, I'd be satisfied with just getting a hot tub.

Book your stay
  • General admission to Cotswold Farm Park, Guiting Power, Cheltenham, which includes the Pumpkin Patch, costs from £6.95 for adults during the day, £5.95 for children aged 4-15, and £4.95 for toddlers aged 2-3.
  • Nighttime prices start from £9.95 for adults, £8.95 for children, and £4.95 for toddlers. Advance booking is required.
  • Lodges start from £150 per night, safari tents from £125 per night, and pitches from £25 per night. Visit cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk for more information.
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