A Homey Keepers Cottages Stay at Water Farm House, Stowting
We arrived at Water Farm House, nestled in the Kent countryside near Stowting, with the kind of anticipation that comes from a long-awaited, if slightly cheeky, mid-week escape. Far from being just any holiday cottage, it’s actually a vast farmhouse; with an imposing yet quirky footprint. Instantly homely, we immediately ventured in different directions through the run of interconnecting labyrinthian rooms, low-height staircases across the charming slanting floors. It immediately made me appreciate how well-loved and cared for a property of this age has been, and how lucky we were to call it home for the night. BY SAMANTHA READY
Built in 1689, Water Farm House has instant character, with a dominating facade and an interior that has been sensitively reimagined for modern living by current custodian Rachael Bailey Curzons. Boasting her own namesake interior design studio, she has honoured the home’s 17th-century roots while gently ushering it into the present, layering in soft neutrals, natural textures and considered materials alongside bolder accessories and intriguing artworks in a way that feels both rurally refined and deeply comforting. Nothing shouts for attention, yet everything works in quiet harmony, with a design approach aimed to enhance rather than overwhelm creating a space that feels lived in rather than simply styled, as if it has evolved this way over time.
The architecture and interior balance old and new delicately. There are two staircases leading up to five bedrooms, which feel spacious and welcoming. Two of these can be configured with an extra single bed to make family suites, perfect for children and multi-generational stays. A small study nook gives you the freedom to work or read in peace and the two bathrooms not only help with managing ‘get ready’ time when at full occupancy, but also offer extra considerations such as a large walk-in shower and beautiful roll-top bath. Furnishings feel elegant without being precious, and there are thoughtful touches like cosy blankets and reading lamps too.
Outside is perhaps the most magical part. The back garden is wide and gently wild, dotted with seating areas where you can relax with a book or watch the local wildlife. There’s also a natural pond adding to the tranquility (though children will need supervision). In warmer months it’s great for al fresco dining and downtime, yet in the winter the allure of the main sitting room’s log burner creates that ‘The Holiday’ vibe on our Kentish doorstep.
Although perfect for an away-from-it-all bolthole, Water Farm House’s location is another strength. It sits on the North Downs Way, so countryside walks are right on your doorstep, as is local favourite, the award-winning The Tiger Inn which is less than a five minute walk away. For days out, the coastal towns of Hythe, Sandgate and Folkestone are only a short drive away, while Canterbury is equally accessible via the country lanes, providing the perfect mix of countryside charm and historic exploration – perhaps all the more enjoyable to the backdrop of frost covered fields and Christmas light-strung cobbles.
And of course booking through Keepers Cottages adds another layer of reassurance. The service is personal yet professional, offering clear communication, thoughtful add-ons and leaves you safe in the knowledge that every property is genuinely known and loved by the team.
Our stay at Water Farm House offered us a much needed place to slow down. The kids and Nana meandered around the gardens, the pub provided our hearty dinner, and the evening passed seamlessly to bedtime via games around the farmhouse table. The only thing we had to deal with, just which of the bedrooms to stake a claim to. Rather than just a house in the countryside, it was a home-from-home stay that gave us a wonderful escape.
