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The Olde Cow House, Cardington

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Exceptional
Shropshire » Cardington
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The Olde Cow House is a 16th-century Grade II listed barn conversion in Shropshire. This historic stone barn showcases original timber beams, exposed stonework and traditional features throughout. A private hot tub sits outside for year-round relaxation.

The barn stands in peaceful countryside near the Welsh border. Rolling hills and farmland stretch out in every direction. You'll find quiet lanes and woodland walks right from the door.

Inside you'll discover period features at every turn. The barn sleeps guests across well-appointed bedrooms with original character intact. Living spaces feature vaulted ceilings and exposed oak frames.

About The Olde Cow House

The Olde Cow House is a 16th-century Grade II listed barn conversion in Shropshire. This historic stone barn showcases original timber beams, exposed stonework and traditional features throughout. A private hot tub sits outside for year-round relaxation.

The barn stands in peaceful countryside near the Welsh border. Rolling hills and farmland stretch out in every direction. You'll find quiet lanes and woodland walks right from the door.

Inside you'll discover period features at every turn. The barn sleeps guests across well-appointed bedrooms with original character intact. Living spaces feature vaulted ceilings and exposed oak frames. Stone walls and barn doors remind you of the building's agricultural past.

Ludlow sits 8 miles away (15 minutes) with its medieval castle and market square. Shrewsbury lies 18 miles north (30 minutes). The Long Mynd offers hill walking 6 miles away (12 minutes). Ironbridge Gorge Museums are 20 miles distant (35 minutes).

The Olde Cow House suits couples and families wanting authentic barn character with modern comfort. History and countryside combine perfectly here.

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At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

The Olde Cow House Prices

More Barn Holidays You May Like

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at The Olde Cow House

16th-Century Barn Character

Grade II listed stone barn with original timber beams, exposed stonework and authentic period features throughout every room.

Private Hot Tub

Outdoor hot tub provides year-round relaxation with countryside views across the peaceful Shropshire hills and surrounding farmland.

Peaceful Rural Setting

Quiet countryside location near the Welsh border with rolling hills, woodland walks and farmland stretching in every direction.

Original Timber Beams

Exposed oak beams and vaulted ceilings showcase the barn's 400-year history and traditional construction methods throughout.

Ludlow Nearby

Medieval market town just 8 miles away offers castle visits, independent shops and award-winning food scene within 15 minutes.

Stone Walls and Features

Authentic exposed stonework and barn doors preserve the building's agricultural heritage while providing modern comfort and warmth.

Getting To The Olde Cow House

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach The Olde Cow House by car, take the A49 south from Shrewsbury or north from Ludlow. Turn off onto the B4368 towards Craven Arms, then follow local roads to the property. Off-road parking is available on arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Craven Arms, approximately 4 miles away. From there, a short taxi journey brings you to this peaceful Shropshire countryside location.

Off-road parking available
Craven Arms station (4 miles)
Accessible from A49 and B4368

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Ludlow Castle
Distance: 8 miles
SY8 1AY
Ironbridge Gorge Museums
Distance: 20 miles
TF8 7DQ
Stokesay Castle
Distance: 5 miles
SY7 9AH
Long Mynd
Distance: 6 miles
SY6 6JG
Wenlock Edge
Distance: 10 miles
TF13 6DJ
Stiperstones National Nature Reserve
Distance: 8 miles
SY5 0NG
Ludlow Market Square
Distance: 8 miles
SY8 1AH
Shrewsbury Town Centre
Distance: 18 miles
SY1 1UG
Craven Arms Co-op
Distance: 4 miles
SY7 9NY
Craven Arms Taxi Service
Distance: 4 miles
SY7 9PY
Bishops Castle
Distance: 9 miles
SY9 5BN
Church Stretton
Distance: 7 miles
SY6 6BU
Ludlow Castle
Distance: 8 miles
SY8 1AY
Ironbridge Gorge Museums
Distance: 20 miles
TF8 7DQ
Stokesay Castle
Distance: 5 miles
SY7 9AH
Long Mynd
Distance: 6 miles
SY6 6JG
Wenlock Edge
Distance: 10 miles
TF13 6DJ
Stiperstones National Nature Reserve
Distance: 8 miles
SY5 0NG
Ludlow Market Square
Distance: 8 miles
SY8 1AH
Shrewsbury Town Centre
Distance: 18 miles
SY1 1UG
Craven Arms Co-op
Distance: 4 miles
SY7 9NY
Craven Arms Taxi Service
Distance: 4 miles
SY7 9PY
Bishops Castle
Distance: 9 miles
SY9 5BN
Church Stretton
Distance: 7 miles
SY6 6BU

Is The Olde Cow House Right For Your Group

Discover why this cottage is the one for your party or family reunion...

For Families
The countryside setting offers space for outdoor play and exploration. Fields and woodland walks start from the door. However, this Grade II listed 16th-century barn contains original features like exposed beams and stone floors. Parents should consider whether the historic character suits younger children. Check with the owner about specific facilities and child-friendly arrangements before booking.
Groups Will Love...
The Grade II listed status protects this barn's exceptional 16th-century features. Original timber beams span the vaulted ceilings throughout. Exposed stonework reveals construction methods from 400 years ago. Oak frames and traditional barn doors preserve the agricultural heritage. These authentic period features make this conversion historically significant. Modern comforts blend with the ancient structure without compromising character.
Pet Friendly
The rural Shropshire location provides excellent walking opportunities for dogs. Fields and quiet lanes surround the barn. Woodland paths start right from the property. However, you must check the specific pet policy with the owner before booking. The Grade II listed status and historic interior features may affect whether pets can stay. Contact the owner directly to confirm arrangements.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Olde Cow House

The Kanteen

Located 8 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: SY8 1AS

The Sun Inn

Located 3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: SY7 9DG

Green Cafe

Located 8 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: SY8 1EF

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Olde Cow House

Is The Olde Cow House pet friendly?
You'll need to check the specific pet policy with the owner before booking. Many barn conversions in rural Shropshire welcome dogs given the excellent walking opportunities.
What original barn features does this property have?
This Grade II listed 16th-century barn showcases exposed timber beams, original stonework and vaulted ceilings throughout. Traditional barn doors and oak frames preserve the building's 400-year agricultural history.
How many guests does this barn conversion sleep?
The barn provides well-appointed bedrooms with original character features intact. Contact the owner directly for exact sleeping arrangements and bedroom configurations.
What is the rural setting like around the barn?
The barn stands in peaceful Shropshire countryside near the Welsh border with rolling hills and farmland. Quiet lanes and woodland walks start right from the door with views across open countryside.
Is there a hot tub at this barn conversion?
Yes, a private outdoor hot tub is available for guest use throughout your stay. The hot tub offers countryside views and year-round relaxation whatever the weather.
What can we do nearby in Shropshire?
Ludlow sits 8 miles away with its medieval castle and market square. The Long Mynd offers hill walking 6 miles distant, whilst Shrewsbury and Ironbridge Gorge Museums are within 30 minutes' drive.
Is the barn suitable for families with children?
The historic nature of this Grade II listed building means it contains period features like exposed beams and stone floors. Check with the owner about specific family facilities and child-friendly arrangements.
What makes this barn conversion special?
The 16th-century origins and Grade II listing make this an authentic historical building. Original timber beams, exposed stonework and traditional features combine with modern amenities like the hot tub.

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The Olde Cow House Reviews

Debbie
What a special place for our family of 11! We have had a wonderful time staying at The Olde Cow House. Everything was perfect! The accommodation was extremely clean, warm and cosy, showers were decent and hot, beds comfy, plenty of activities on site, farm animals to feed, plus access to the most luxurious indoor private pool! The location is stunning too. We just only wish we were there longer and would 100 return.
It was a privilege to stay in such a beautiful building. It was extremely well maintained and equipped without losing any of the charm of its rich history. Our party ranged from 4 years old to 74 years old and everyone had a great time.The swimming pool was rather luxurious and we all rediscovered table tennis. The go carts were a surprising hit but the little ones loved the independence of being able to go to the extremely safe playground. This was only surpassed by the feeding of the animals and the daily excitement of retrieving the chickens eggs. The evenings were so relaxing after the daily excursions to The Long Mynd and Carding Mill Valley. This was a memorable holiday.
Samantha
Our stay at Plaish Farm was fantastic. They really have thought of everything to make your stay enjoyable. Sara and David were incredibly helpful and friendly. We went for a family holiday that accommodated everyones need and this farm really did offer it. The kids loved the freedom of the play area and visiting the animals and the adults loved the peace and quiet that the location offers. We will definitely be booking to return. Thank you for an amazing stay.
Malcolm
Excellent property with every amenity you could want. Extremely comfortable beds and bedding. Quiet countryside location and plenty of things for kids to do. All in all a very pleasant stay. Thanks.
We took our 3 adult children, partners and grandchildren and stayed for 3 nights at the olde cow shed and had a wonderful time together. Lots to do for the for everyone and would book again.
Hannah
Absolutely incredibly fantastic house, facilities, and location. Very adaptable, easy to contract, and thoughtful owners. Sykes are also very easy to work with. Genuinely the best holiday home i've ever stayed in. Can't give enough praises would recommend to everyone and will hopefully one day stay again!
Very nice week with the family. Great place.
Joanna
Was met by a lovely lady on arrival. Had everything we needed. The animals are an added bonus. The pool was stunning and the go karts on the tennis court so much fun. You can be a big kid here! Lovely walks and nice pub too.
Olde cow house was an amazing venue. Such beautiful surroundings locals were very kind. Would recommend to anyone
Had no idea how to get the dishwasher working, that was the only problem really. The wi fi also when off late Sunday night and still wasnt working g the morning after. Wasnt much of a problem as we was going home the Monday morning
Darren
We've stayed here twice and really enjoyed it both times. It's an ideal place for extended families to stay as there's plenty of space. It's also a great place to bring the kids who can go and play without having to worry about them tennis court, go karts and play areas are great. It's a clean, comfortable house with everything you need and the animals and leisure trails are a real bonus! The owner is also very approachable and helpful.
Rebecca
Great holiday in a great property. cleana nd comfy. kids loved the pool go carts feeding the goats etc. check in was straight forward only thing is we were glad we were just 9 people including kids, and only had food for a weekend. 11 adults would have been very cosy round the kitchen table, and the kitchen is so well equipped with pots and pans etc there is really anywhere to store your food other than the fridge if you arent eating out.
Murali
All of us thoroughly enjoyed the stay in the Olde Cow. Our group had 6 adults and 5 children ranging from 9 years to 17 years. All of us had fun. We liked the facilities games room, tennis court, go carts, swimming pool and gym. The owner was very helpful in giving guidance on the local walks etc...
We had a fabulous time at the Old Cow House. It wad the perfect cosy retreat for a winter getaway and the pool was amazing! We will definitely be back as you cannot fault it!
We had a great start with our extended family. Everything had been thought about fun dishwasher tablets to lots of information on the area. We used both games rooms and the go carts were lots of fun. We hope to return again and stay longer so we can use the swimming facilities. My only disappointment isn't to do with the property it is with Top Cashback who offered an incentive to book, but are now saying Sykes Cottages are refusing the Cashback offered, but don't give any reason why. Would put me off booking through them again.
Excellent property and facilities well equipped something for all ages. Would come again
Filipina
We had a great stay. Facilities are fantastic and the owner super kind and welcoming! Highly recommended!
We had a fab time, the host seems to have thought of everything. The cottage was extremely well equipped loads of towels, board games, books, magazines etc the kitchen had loads of tea towels, foil, cling film, washing up liquid which was great as the dishwasher wasn't that good. Flowers and cookies on arrival too. Host asked us several times whether we were ok or needed anything. The beds were a little soft for our liking. The tennis courts inc balls, rackets etc, go karts, games rooms were all fab and the hosts and there fabulous farm were great. We loved feeding the pigs and goats, checking for eggs every morning.... it was a very comfortable place and we had a great time. Our only real issue was the cost of the swimming poolgym which we felt was excessive.... we realise this isn't down to our host but rather Sykes Cottages themselves. In saying that we used the facility once and having exclusive use was fabulous.
Sandra
An excellent cottage with all the amenities you would need. There was just one negitive in that when we booked the cottage, no where did it say that you had to pay extra for the use of the swimming pool and it didn't come cheap! Perhaps your publibcity should be more clear.
Phillip
The property was great and as described, lovely and clean and very comfortable. We had a large party and everything we needed was available including two games rooms that had table tennis, pool table, table football, darts and a full size tennis courts with peddle carts. This really catered for young and big kids alike. They have a gorgeous pool and gym, which unfortunately was a bit pricey for large families, but I completely understand why, it looked great. I would highly recommend this as family holiday and the owner Sara was great for local tips, but also letting you just enjoy your stay without feeling overlooked. A great relaxing short holiday.
Excellent place to stay for a weekend away. Great facilities we didnt get to use the pool area but Im sure its fab. Only request to improve would be a new smart tv in the lounge area. Thank you! I will book again
Judith
Stayed here at the beginning of May, 5 adults and 4 children for a special celebration. Have to say it exceeded our expectations, much bigger than it appears , very comfortable and well equipped ,plenty of space for everyone.The on site facilities are brilliant for all ages , the boys loved the go karts and as the weather was good we didn't really use the games rooms.Great for the children to be able to feed the animals and collect eggs. The swimming pool has to be booked and paid for separately and though it does seem a little expensive it is very big and beautifully maintained. Finally,Sara is a wonderful host very friendly and accommodating. We would certainly return.
Michael
We had a fantastic 4 night family break at Plaish Farm 9 of us and 2 dogs in our party. Situated next to a working farm with lovely views over the Shropshire Hills the facilities were perfect for us young grandkids teenage kids and adults too there are 2 large games rooms with table tennis darts pool and football all free also a large infinity pool and gym which you book separately in 90min slots this is well worth it as you get exclusive use and it is well equipped with toys swimming aids towels and robes if you need them.Sara Jones was great and even let us go down to the farm and hold the new born lambs an amazing experience! The Olde Cow Shed had so much character we felt at home as soon as we walked in we had some lovely evenings in front of the log burner and the grandkids loved all the games and toys that were supplied. The tennis court and pedal go karts were a big hit too we all plan to do a return holiday in the future it was so relaxing. I loved the 2 collie working dogs on the farm one of them I got friendly with he would come up to games area get a football and roll it right up to our front door and wait for me to go out and play with him fantastic!
We had a fantastic family weekend at the olde cow house. Youve thought of everything to make it extra special for all ages, are family group ranged from 63 to 3 years. Beautiful location & property fully furnished defiantly 5 We would defiantly recommend to family & friends. We hope to return in the future.
Amazing place to stay with all the Family & children enjoyed everything too. Facilities was great Amazing pool go karts tennis court Gym Feeding animals Play room Walks WHAT MORE COULD YOU ASK FOR. 5STAR. We hope to be back soon. SEAN & Jackie Beeston.
Samantha
The cottage was beautiful, clean and very homely. It was lovely that children toys were provided in the accommodation and it was only a short walk to see pigs, horses and chickens. The outdoor play area and go karts were great fun and our children loved it. All cooking equipment was available which was very helpful. The beds were clean and comfortable, log fires the wood was provided. The shower in the middle bedroom wasnt great the shower head needs replacing, which is an easy fix. We would have loved to have used the pool, however when booking we didnt read that you had to pay extra to use it and that under 4s arent allowed in there. Feel it would have been more appropriate to include the price of the pool in the accommodation price and then allocate a booking form for people to book their 90 minute slots. The book looked amazing and its ashame we didnt get to use it. The pool didnt affect our stay and we really enjoyed it!
Kimberly
Fantastic property for both adults and children. All needs catered for. Great facilities in a beautiful area. House was clean and warm with multiple bathrooms.
Christopher
Generally we all enjoyed the week, especially the children on the trikes. A very nice place to stay. Good scenery and walks available locally. Towels and kitchen sudries are supplied not itemised in the listing at all. Only 1 egg cup for 11 guests! 1 toilet with water hammering not repaired whilst we were there. Confusion over cost and time available for the pool prices have increased since listing created but not changed. Allways some little things to niggle, but a very enjoyable week.
A very sensitive and successful conversion of a listed former agricultural building to holiday accommodation. Very comfortable inside with all the facilities and utilities that are specified and that one would need take your own bath towels. As a very minor criticism, one double bedroom and its ensuite are somewhat cramped, but given that in a conversion of this order not everything can be perfect, we quite readily accepted this. As a family of 11 with 5 grandchildren of varying ages we were very impressed with the range of games and activities that were provided for on site. Also, as most people live in fairly 'ordinary' homes, as the three households in our family do, it was an exhilarating experience to reside in a building of such antiquity and character, and with such lovely surroundings. It was expensive for the two days we were there, but self catering holiday accommodation for 11 with four separate double bedrooms and bathroom facilities is not that easy to find, and as this was for a significant family celebration, we bit the bullet. Absolutely no regrets and very happy memories for all.
Veronica
A beautiful and spacious converted barn. Extremely well equipped and Sara could not have been more helpful when we had small issues with two of the showers. Everything was fixed and sorted immediately. She was also extremely informative about places of interest to visit. The indoor pool is a brilliant facility and was very much appreciated by all in our party during the recent heatwave week. Feeding our fruit, vegetable and bakery waste to the potbellied pigs, pygmy goats and chickens was a daily delight. The countryside is stunning and there are masses of places of interest to visit.
What a great place, exactly what we was after. Lots to do and beautiful countryside surroundings for walks and to escape the city life. We had everything we needed. The pool was clean, and a great system. We will be coming back to this lovely place. Thank you x
Excellent host and facilities. Children loved the play areas and walks. The pool was excellent, but we felt too expensive when you have children to occupy as well. Also disappointed that got bumped off a booked swimming session because they wanted to accommodate a bigger group.
Very enjoyable stay. Owners were welcoming the barn was lovely and a perfect place to spend time with family.
We had a great time and would like to thank Sara Jones for her help and advice on what to do in the area. The facilities, tennis court, games rooms, swimming pool were impressive and the kids made full use of them The property was presented really well and wed recommend it to anyone wanting to stay in the area.
Fantastic break in Shropshire. The barn conversion was beautiful and extremely clean. We were catered for in every way possible and the host was extremely accommodating. Beautiful surroundings with great facilities and lots for us all to do as a family. The perfect place for a special family weekend.
Deborah
We found the Olde Cow House extremely comfortable and spacious, with everything that we needed for our stay. The Pool and Gym were an added bonus, which we made full use of. Would definitely recommend this place to anyone who wants a lovely quiet place to getaway for a break. Sara Our host was always happy to help with and small problems that popped up.
We have just returned from our stay at The Olde Cow House and what an amazing week we all had. The surroundings are beautiful and there's lots of places to visit that are not too far away. The owner was always on hand when we needed help and we were made to feel very welcome. It's a fantastic place to take children with the play area, go carts, animals and then there's all the farm to explore. There were even toys, books and colouring bits in the house itself which was so helpful. We would definitely recommend staying here and would not hesitate to go back.
Pamela
This is a wonderful holiday destination. Exceeded expectations. The house is much larger than the photos portray. There is every conceivable convenience and equipment. Every bedroom has an ensuite or own bathroom. Beds very comfy. Lounge area warm, cozy and comfortable. Great location with great views. The spa was the icing on the cake. Such a luxury, beautifully done. Host very helpful and welcoming. We would definitely recommend and hope to be back.
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