Set in the stunning grounds of Jamie’s Farm, Monmouth, two bespoke cabins are set to welcome a new generation of visitors to the Wye Valley, whilst also supporting thousands of young people who are struggling at school.
Jamie's Farm in Redbrook, dedicated to equipping children to thrive at school and beyond, has unveiled the new country accommodation named after King Offa and his consort, Queen Cynethryth, and pay homage to the region’s rich Anglo-Saxon history and the path that runs 100 yards from the site of the cabins.
The retreats are due to feature in the Channel 4 documentary, ‘Impossible Builds’ because of their locations and the challenge and complexity in their construction.
Building the cabins has been a real team effort, bringing together not just the young people who benefit from a stay at Jamie’s farm, but a committed group of contractors and volunteers.
The Farmers’ Cabins are nestled into the farm’s hillside and command panoramic views of Monmouth’s sweeping valleys thanks to their unique oval build and floor-to-ceiling windows. Designed by celebrated architect Roderick James, the cabins offer the ultimate in sustainable rural luxury.
Each cabin is insulated with lambswool and offers a wood burning stove, a galley kitchen, a double bedroom with shower room and underfloor heating.
All proceeds from guest visits will go to support the work of Jamie’s Farm, Monmouth, which aims to transform the lives of young people through its programme of residential farm stays. Jake Curtis, Co-CEO of Jamie’s Farm said: “The cabins have been funded thanks to a generous donation from the Sarah Jane Leigh Charitable Trust. In her own life, Sarah Jane Leigh was deeply connected to nature and had a love of horses and it is exciting that this donation will ensure hundreds more young people will visit the farm in the future by providing an ongoing source of revenue.”
The celebrated monarch, King Offa, ruled over the Mercian kingdom from 757 to 796 AD, and was responsible for the construction of the world-famous Offa’s Dyke, an 82-mile long earth wall, which traces an ancient border between England and Wales. Today, it forms part of a 177-mile walking trail which can take hikers up to two weeks to complete.
The charity’s Monmouth farm was launched in 2018 and is one of six working farms across England and Wales, and together the farms collectively help students who may be struggling in school with behaviour, attendance or mental health issues. Young people live on the farm for five days and are given the opportunity to look after animals, grow food, cook meals for each other and explore the countryside.
Since the first Jamie’s Farm was founded in Bath 15 years ago by mother and son Tish and Jamie Feilden, the charity has worked with over 17,000 primary and secondary school children.
Jake added: “After a year of construction, we are delighted to be launching our Farmers' Cabins. They represent an opportunity to boost the wellbeing of our visiting young people.”