The Eniya Barn

I stayed at the Eniya Barn for 10 days over the new year period 2022/23. The owners are in many ways lovely people, and they have a very laudable project running the Eniya Barn in such an eco-friendly, permaculture off-grid way. They gave me a very warm welcome, and they do understand solitaries - for example there's a system for leaving messages so there's no need to break silence if you need anything. They're also very pleased to help and find solutions for anything that arises. The location is also very good for getting away from people - I literally didn't see another person on any of the paths or fields on the hillside over my whole stay. I think Jenna has now updated the website, but when I booked it wasn't clear that the barn is so cold and damp - I could see my breath inside, even after 2-4 hours of a good fire. The instructions are to leave the door open as much as possible "because it's usually warmer outside than in." I did enjoy eating outside (when it wasn't raining), so I can imagine in warmer weather I would have had a more relaxing and enjoyable time and found it easier to settle into practice. I was also very glad of my wellies - the ground is very boggy and most of the walking routes (that don't involve going down to the main road at the bottom of the field) go through streams. With wellies, I found that dimension quite good fun!

I've had the most wonder-full experience in this cave-like barn. The thick walls enable you to delve deep into oneself. The outer space is surrounded with 360 views and a garden full of wildlife. The barn now has new wall heaters fitted keeping it at a constant warm temperature as well as a cosy log burner. Warm slippers or thick socks are still recommended as it is sat on a mountain after all. Overall great experience. Meta Serren