Brittany Sparham, 28, began renting out her barn during the pandemic when staycations became more popular, and she noticed that the property’s proximity to the stables provided an opportunity for a unique experience. After creating a door between the barn and Basil’s stable, the Airbnb saw a surge in demand, with visitors often booking the space a year in advance.
The property, which is available for a minimum of two nights starting at £360 (about $470), allows guests to sleep in a barn with a miniature Shetland pony. The barn is equipped with a kitchen, bathroom, double bed, and bunk beds, allowing four guests to stay comfortably. Guests can enjoy an outdoor log fire with a BBQ grill and access to an outdoor tiki hut. The property also provides the chance to explore the surrounding farmland, where guests can see cows, sheep, and other horses.
While the experience is unique, some guests expressed mixed reactions initially, fearing that the presence of a horse might be too noisy or have an unpleasant smell. However, many who stayed reported a positive experience, noting that Basil is a very chilled individual who enjoys being around his companions and receiving attention.