Our Story

by Davina and James Harvey

 

A rural haven, a home and stylish accommodation

 Gravel Farm is a magical place with an abundance of nature nestling on the River Great Ouse on the outskirts of Ely, Cambridgeshire. We are so lucky to have instant access to the river and all the joys of the water on our doorstep. A rural haven and home to our three children, two dogs and chickens, we just couldn’t keep it all to ourselves.

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We are inspired by the idea of creating something beautiful and sharing it with other people. So, you can come here and enjoy stylish and comfortable dog-friendly accommodation set in the Fens with wild open spaces and dramatic big skies. It is also the perfect blank canvas for a special milestone birthday or special celebration.

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From derelict to future-proofed

The Gravel Farm that you see today is far removed from how it was when we moved here in 2014. The whole site, which is named after the historic gravel pit, has been rebuilt from its former derelict condition.

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Oak, Elm and Chestnut Cottages were formerly old workshops. We developed the farm house and rebuilt Willow Cottage in an eco-way. In fact we have future-proofed the whole site and made it more sustainable.

Gravel Farm is set in a beautiful, natural environment and we are committed to caring for it and actively encourage rewilding. You can find out more about the values that shape our story on Our Values page.

 

Family is at the heart of Gravel Farm

Our Gravel Farm story started long before we moved here as we both grew up on local farms. Our families have been in the Fens for a long time and with deep roots here we know the area. You could say, we are Fenlanders!

Family is at the heart of Gravel Farm and is very important to us. The self-catering cottages are next to our farmhouse and we see the team as part of our extended family.

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As a small family run business, we provide a very personal level of service. You can pick up the phone and ask us any questions about your stay. We know Gravel Farm inside out and can help you visualise the accommodation and the farm itself.

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We work with you to create the perfect stay and support you to create your unique wedding or private event where you will have exclusive use of the luxurious ‘home from home’ accommodation and the wildly tamed outdoors.

We love the attachment to nature here and seeing the birds, the hares, the changing seasons, the blossom flowering and the willow next to the river that gives Willow Cottage its name. To feel part of the cycle of nature gives you solace. Experience all this and discover so much more when you come to Gravel Farm. We want to share it with you.

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We look forward to welcoming you here. You can’t beat a bit of fresh Fens air!

Davina and James

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P.S. If you have any questions do give us a ring on 07723 016 965