In truth, it’s been a very bumpy and challenging year for us at Upwey House. From stop/start lockdowns to confusing tier systems and indecipherable number restrictions (how big is your bubble?) we have had a year like no other. Thankfully we are all healthy. Kerry has been jabbed and Joe, my husband (and occasion handyman at the house) managed to get his hip replaced despite all of the pressure on the NHS.
Kerry and I have stayed as positive as possible despite the need to resort to the wine on a couple of stressful occasions. But the house and grounds have been blissfully ignorant of any nasty little virus that might be doing its rounds - a barn owl has moved into the stables, the pheasants have enjoyed some quiet time (I was lucky enough to watch the new winged offspring taking their first flying lesson), the deer have enjoyed roaming the woodland and some new pet sheep have moved in. One is called Wonky Leg!! Nature has prevailed and the grounds look beautiful. The open space at Upwey House has definitely been my own personal saviour - Pablo and Ted have loved their private dog walks and I have loved the space for me away from the Covid bulletins and constant home cooked meals.
But finally, and, fingers crossed, really really finally, we are now planning our reopening from the 12th April 2021 for one household and then two households from the 17th May so that you can enjoy the beauty and space that I am lucky enough to see every day. We are sure that you need a change of scene and another home away from home. From the 21st June – who knows – we may be able to do whatever we please with whomever we please? If that’s the case we definitely have the space.
We are currently busy taking the time out to put a fresh lick of paint around the house and plump up the cushions ready for you to put your feet up and breathe out whilst the kids and dogs roam around our 23 acres that are just desperate for exploration. No computer screens, no online lessons, no pressure of weekly click and collects or lateral flow tests – just the opportunity to experience first-hand the sense of wellbeing that comes from being in the unspoilt countryside.
We are currently taking bookings and following the Government guidance. We are, of course, ensuring that the house is cleaned to the very highest industry standards and we are following every protocol they are throwing at us. Please feel free to contact us if you would like any further information and prices. We cannot wait to welcome you back to Upwey House, it has just not been the same without you.
Here is a pic of the sun setting yesterday from my dog walk up on the ridge just behind Upwey House.
“Life does not come with instructions on how to live, but it does come with trees, sunsets, smiles and laughter, so enjoy your day.” Debbie Shapiro
From a hopeful and excited
Kerry and Sarah-Jayne
Upwey House