Everything you need to know about Soho Farmhouse 

Established in 2015, Soho Farmhouse spans 100 acres of scenic Oxfordshire countryside. A two-hour drive from London, it’s a place for partying, a rejuvenating spa retreat, a family-friendly walking spot, and a food destination all in one. But, very few people know its full journey from breaking ground to the Farm we know today. 

What was Soho Farmhouse originally?
Soho Farmhouse was built on the site of a derelict farm, complete with fields of mud, an empty cattle shed, and a dilapidated farmhouse. Back then, Babington House had already existed for over a decade, but this presented a chance to craft a different vision. Inspired by upstate New York cabin culture, the aim was to create the feeling of being in a guest cottage on a farm – as if you’ve been welcomed into someone’s home, but you’re still secluded in the countryside.

The transformation took a few years as there was no easy driving access, not enough running water and no mobile phone signal. The whole landscape was reshaped, with lakes created from a natural water source. ‘At one point, we were standing in the mud up to our thighs doubting how something beautiful could come out of it,’ remembers Tanya Wood, a London-based consultant who worked on the Soho House development team at the time.

‘But when the farm opened, there was genuinely nothing like it that had the Soho House standard of service and fun in that setting – along with an extra level of detail, from the torches you’ll find in the Cabins to the restored milk floats.’ 

What is Soho Farmhouse’s style?

‘I believe that the way each space is designed to embrace proximity with nature enhances that feeling of escapism. The use of natural and reclaimed materials brings comfort and authenticity to the spaces,’ says Severine Lammoglia, Soho House’s Principal Designer. ‘My favourite bits are mainly the ones outdoors; the external fire pits that always allow for cosy drinks even on a chilly evening. Or the outdoor heated pool within the lake, which is the ultimate serenity spot.’

What amenities does Soho Farmhouse have?
It has 114 bedrooms (including 20 Farm Huts) for everything from a midweek break and a pool party to a soak in the Lazy Lake tub and a visit to the Cowshed spa. ‘What I’ve been impressed by in recent years is that the farm has found ways to continue to evolve; that every time you go back, there’s something new,’ says Wood. ‘The Farmhouse has proved that things can get better with age.’

How to book a visit at Soho Farmhouse
To visit for the day, you need to be a Soho House member. Members can bring up to three guests with them to eat, drink and explore, and one adult guest to the pool, sauna and steam room. Please note that only members can use the gym. 

To stay at Soho Farmhouse, you need to have a Soho House or Soho Friends membership. Booking a bedroom gives you access to everything that the farm has to offer for the duration of your stay.

How do you get to Soho Farmhouse? 
Soho Farmhouse is a two-hour drive away from London on the M40. You can also take a train from Marylebone to Banbury Station, or alternatively from Paddington to Charlbury Station. There is a taxi rank outside Banbury Station; for Charlbury, we would suggest pre-booking a taxi, as this is a smaller station. 

Where to sleep: bedrooms, Cabins and Huts 
The cosy Piglets are the best for a low-key getaway; with semi-spherical roofs, wood-panelled walls and all the essentials, they’re ideal for couples. 

The Cabins are the classic Soho Farmhouse accommodation option. Ranging in size, they offer comfort and a rustic feel of staying in a house on farmland. Some Cabins are more compact, with a bedroom and a living area; others are big enough for a whole family with child-friendly rooms. Every Cabin is unique, with features such as a wood-burning stove or a bath on the balcony. 

The four-bedroom Farm Cottage sleeps eight and is located only a few minutes’ walk from the farmyard. It includes a living room, kitchen, dining room, and several bedrooms.

The Farm Huts, have emperor-size beds, wood-burning stoves, and freestanding wooden baths on the private decks. They were designed to merge the outdoor and indoor spaces, while still allowing for privacy, peace and quiet.  

If you’re looking for something for a larger group, the original Farm House sleeps 14 and has its own garden. With bedrooms spread over the first floor and attic, each is equipped with a double bed and a bathroom. It also has a kitchen, a drawing room, and a snug. 

What are the activities at Soho Farmhouse? 

There’s plenty to keep you entertained during your visit. The grounds are free from cars, so the vintage restored milk floats can take you wherever you wish to go; to the Main Barn for dinner, to the spa or simply for a tour of the farm. Bikes and wellies are available to borrow for all your countryside exploration needs. Clay-pigeon shooting, tennis, horse riding and boating are among the outdoor activities to try.  

 

Staying in? Visit The Electric Barn to watch a movie: a 45-seat screening room comes complete with a full bar and snack kiosk, with five beds at the front for an especially relaxing experience. And don’t forget to check the curated programme of events for workshops, lectures, gigs, and parties. 

 

Wellness, the Lazy Lake and the Cowshed spa 

Soho Farmhouse is the ideal destination for all spa-lovers, wellness enthusiasts and those simply looking for a weekend away to unwind. The Cowshed spa offers signature massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures. Plus, there’s a fully equipped gym if you want to fit in a workout. The Lazy Lake and Wellness Barn feature an ice room, steam room, infrared sauna cabins and ice baths, as well as four onsen-style baths that are sunken into the lake. Try a replenishing soak with salts or seaweed, or hot and cold immersion therapy known for numerous health benefits, including better circulation and an elevated mood. 

 

The Cowshed spa also hosts wellness residents, such as FaceGym, providing specialised or bespoke treatments. 

 

A pool for all seasons

Both indoor and outdoor, and heated to 30˚C all year round, the pool is ideal for a morning swim or a pool party.

 

Where can you eat and drink? 

It wouldn’t be Soho House without the House Kitchen featuring wood-fired pizzas and House Tonics, with the Main Barn acting as the central hub, serving food and drink all day. On the mezzanine, Comfy Farm has sofas and an open fireplace, while Fancy Farm is a more formal setting for lunch or dinner. Sink into the sofas for a drink or two while enjoying views of the grounds through the large windows. We also have the popular Persian restaurant, Little Berenjak, taking a semi-permanent residency on the farm, serving its signature dishes such as charcoal-grilled meats, a mezze selection and clay-baked bread. 

 

There is also Pen Yen for meat and fish from the robata grill, buns and sashimi, plus Blake’s Kitchen Bakery for bread, sausage rolls and cinnamon buns for breakfast or to refuel after a long walk.

 

Is Soho Farmhouse child-friendly? 

A number of Cabins are equipped with bunk beds for children. Farm Cottage is also a great option for a family break. If you’re staying for a few days, there is a Teeny Camp and Teeny Barn for your little ones to enjoy while you relax or get on with some work: the converted horse box has a library, an outdoor sand pit and guinea pigs. Next door, there’s also an adventure playground with a zip line. 

 

Please note: only child members and children staying overnight can use Teeny Barn; it does not allow access to families visiting for the day.

 

What do you wear to Soho Farmhouse?

Soho Farmhouse is a relaxed environment where you can unwind and enjoy the countryside. Simply wear whatever you feel comfortable in. 

 

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