Journal
Own-grown and -foraged produce feeds the classic British dishes at The Farmers Arms
A story still being written ...
The unique boutique hotel will fuse Devon traditions with mind-blowing modernity
Breathing life into history
The Grade-II listed Georgian manor attached to a traditional Devon longhouse was bought by Michael and Xochi Birch in 2014, but dates back to the early 16th century.
The couple are revitalising its faded grandeur and infusing it with new life to create a novel experience for those who visit from 2025 to stay in one of its 18 bedrooms.
Exceptional levels of craftsmanship are ensuring the building’s historic features are maintained and revitalised, while adjacent contemporary buildings are being created to provide a bewitching juxtaposition to the Manor’s grand staircase and elegant arches.
Edgy and elegant
‘Georgian Manor with an edgy twist’ best encapsulates the experience, so it’s fitting that the Manor’s spirit animal is an ink-black raven. It perches on Wulfheard Manor’s logo and will also preside – in the taxidermied form of a bird named Buddy – in the entrance of the building.
Around it, a collection of paintings, object d’art and creative surprises will transport guests’ imaginations to another realm.
For those with a spirit of adventure
Wulfheard Manor will be more than just somewhere special to lounge while sipping unusual cocktails, or an opportunity to enjoy a wild Devon escape from real life.
For those with a spirit of adventure, there’ll be the opportunity of a dining experience that defies the usual conventions. Guests will journey through a feast that’s akin to a fabulous travelling dinner party, and tour from one course to another in different locations in the hotel, farm gardens and beyond.
Inventively creative cooking, inspired by and using exceptional produce from Birch Farm and the surrounding countryside will be paired with the opportunity to hang out with fellow guests in a sociable experience.
Never a dull day
You could return to Woolsery again and again and never have the same experience twice, thanks to the ever-changing hyper-seasonal food and drink menus, a year-round programme of events and the variety of places to stay. Beyond the bedrooms and the garden suites of the Manor there’ll be nostalgia-laden luxury suites above the shop and a collection of cottages for larger groups and longer stays.
Wild and unique
The manor sits beside a village green that’ll be a shared public space for events and markets, providing an opportunity for visitors to experience the world of a small Devon village. Just beyond the green lie sister establishments The Farmers Arms,  Woolsery Fish & Chips and the charmingly retro J Andrew Shop & Post Office, as well as Woolsery’s Medieval church.
Step beyond this microcosm and a wild and stunning natural landscape awaits – from the rocky striations of the pristine coastline to lush countryside which can be discovered on foot, horseback or from the water.
Wulfheard Manor is due to open in 2025. To contact the team please email [email protected]
