A creative duo crafted an eco-friendly sanctuary, a dream world come true, boasting a cider factory, vineyard, and farm-stay lodging.
Thornfalcon Winery & Press: A Rustic Retreat in Somerset
Sophie Brendel and Panu Long, the owners of Thornfalcon Winery & Press, made a move from London to Thornfalcon in 2022, not just for business, but also as a lifestyle choice. The picturesque location in Somerset, England, is now their home and a burgeoning vineyard, farm, and creative haven.
Thornfalcon offers three farm stays, each with its unique charm. The Vine Hut, designed by Sophie with a vibrant, Matilda Goad meets French rustic style, sleeps two. The Lambing Shed, nestled among apple trees, accommodates two as well, and features an outdoor wood-fired, wood-clad bath. For those seeking a more traditional experience, there's The Vine Hut, available for £125 per night, with additional options for a gypsy caravan for £70.
The heart of Thornfalcon lies in its vineyard and cider press. Panu, a former mixologist, has masterfully crafted sparkling cider, called "keeved," which is slightly lower in alcohol. The apples used are mostly local and named after places or people. The orchard primarily grows Kingston Black apples.
Thornfalcon's future plans are ambitious. They envision the site as a sustainable haven with a diverse range of offerings. These include art spaces, a wildflower meadow, and a spa treatment room located in an old boatshed. Guests can already enjoy spa treatments integrated with a stay or visit, partly offered through collaborations such as with The Rye Retreat.
The vineyard also aims to produce sparkling wine, still white and rose, in the future. Thornfalcon plans to establish areas dedicated to art and events, supporting creative and community gatherings on the property. The introduction of a wildflower meadow is intended to enhance the site's biodiversity and natural beauty.
WWOOFers are welcome at Thornfalcon, working for around five hours a day in return for room and board. A further cabin is offered to those participating in the WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) scheme.
Annunciata Elwes, the director of contemporary art gallery TIN MAN ART and an award-winning journalist specializing in art, culture, and property, has praised Thornfalcon as more than just a winery. It is a holistic rural retreat combining art, nature, wellness, and handcrafted drinks in a sustainable environment.
These elements aim to position Thornfalcon as a unique destination, offering a blend of rural tranquility and creative experiences, making it an ideal escape for those seeking a touch of luxury amidst nature. The ongoing developments and a steady stream of guest experiences suggest continuous growth toward this vision throughout 2025.
- Sophie and Panu, following their move to Thornfalcon, have transformed the winery into a creative haven, not only a business, but also a lifestyle choice, integrating elements of artistic expression, organic farming, and sustainable living.
- In the realm of fashion-and-beauty, Annunciata Elwes, an acclaimed director of contemporary art gallery TIN MAN ART, has praised Thornfalcon as more than just a winery, highlighting its holistic approach to rural retreat, combining art, nature, wellness, and handcrafted drinks, creating a unique charm.
- As part of their future plans, Thornfalcon seeks to develop areas dedicated to art and events, offering not only food-and-drink experiences but also encouraging community gatherings and cultural explorations, making it a potential travel destination for those seeking an intriguing blend of supply (casino-and-gambling) and solitude (home-and-garden) in the heart of rural England.
