Source: Jay.Jarosz on Wikimedia Commons

Barns

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What are barns?

Traditionally, barns have been primarily used on farms for storage as well as to house livestock. Most used to be constructed using locally available wood but with technological advances, barns can now come as pre-packaged kits ready to be installed on-site. The main purpose of barns was to provide large-scale storage as settlers began owning land, raising livestock, and farming.

Today, some barns are grand structures with well-designed interiors that can be rented out as party and wedding venues. There are a variety of barn styles and depending on the host, these can be offered as day rentals for events, overnight stays, or a combination of the two.

Source: Frances Gunn on Unsplash

The best thing about choosing barns is that they are set away from city limits, surrounded by nature, and usually do not enforce a noise restriction. As people search for unique stays and curated holiday experiences, barns have gained popularity as an alternative form of accommodation. Barns are still typically found in rural areas, ranches, and large farmhouses, but their purpose has evolved with the changing times.

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Types of barns

• Gambrel Barns

Source: Tungilik on Wikimedia Commons

This easily recognizable barn structure is defined by two symmetrical slopes, which are joined at a peak. The top slope is shorter while the bottom is steeper. These roofs are sometimes also referred to as Dutch roofs in America and are some of the most common barn structures in the country.

• Panelized/Prefab Barns

Source: SteelMaster Buildings on Flickr

As times change, so does technology, and these barns are a testament to that. Instead of a traditional wooden structure, this barn type uses steel panels cut into required lengths and assembled on-site. These panelized and prefab barn structures are quick to install and result in minimum wastage. While they might not be aesthetically pleasant, they are high-quality buildings.

Panelized or prefab barns are quite popular in California and Texas and are mostly available as kits that can be easily assembled on-site.

• Framed Barns

Source: Soran Ali on Pexels

These large barns rely on wooden posts and beams to frame out the main structure before wooden panels are added. Traditionally, these types of buildings relied on wooden joinery instead of nails. These barns can offer a rustic-chic feel to any event.

• Tobacco Barns

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These barns were originally used on tobacco plantations to cure the leaves of the plant. These are distinguishable from the rest by their brown leaves set out on the rafters to air-dry. These barns used to be typically painted in black as they helped raise the interior temperature and aided in the curing process. Southern Maryland was one of the top producers of tobacco up until the 19th century, and many of these barns are still in existence today.

• English A-Frame Gabled Barns

Source: Iowa40z on Wikimedia Commons

This barn has a simple design with a square base and an A-frame roof. English A-frame gabled barns were usually 30 feet by 40 feet (9 meters by 12 meters) with doors placed on the longer side. While they were usually constructed using local wood, some farmers used rocks to design the facade.

These barns gained popularity early on because the sloping roof structure allowed rain and snow to fall quickly.

• Rustic Bank Barn

Source: Philip Barker on Geograph

Bank barns date back to 17th century England and were favored in hilly terrains. These barns are built across two floors, wherein the lower level is used to house livestock while the upper level is used to store hay or even machinery. These barns are still in agricultural use today, and some historical barns have been converted into party and wedding venues available for hire.

• Round Barns

Source: Ben Jacobson (Kranar Drogin) on Wikimedia Commons

Also known as a barrel barn, this structural style gained popularity as they were more efficient and inexpensive. They also did not require the use of internal beams, leaving all the more space for storage. Most round barns were constructed in the early 1900s, yet very few remain in existence today.

• Pole Barns

Source: Maigheach-gheal on Geograph

Pole barns got their name from the wooden poles that are used as the main framing material during construction. The beauty of these barns is that they can be built to any size, with wood or metal sliding used horizontally between the poles. An advantage of this structure is the extra large doors and windows that can be installed to aid in air circulation.

• Peaked Prairie Barns

Source: William Garrett on Pxhere

Sometimes referred to as a western barn, a peaked prairie barn is distinguishable with its long peaked roof that often comes close to the ground. This style was quite popular in America when settlers moved westward in search of more land.

• Shedrow Bar

Source: Alan Bernau Jr on Flickr

These barns are used to safely lodge horses and are built using sturdy pre-fabricated structures. Shedrow barns come with multiple doors that can be left open for your horse to come and go as they please.

• Rustic Corn Crib Barns

Source: Acroterion on Wikipedia

These large-scale barns were originally covered structures with a distinct slanting roof used to store large quantities of dry corn that would then be used as animal feed. Most modern corn cribs are essentially cages with metal fencing.

• Clear Span Buildings – Steel and Wood

Clear span refers to structures that are built using only outside framing and no internal support poles. This barn style is quite versatile and allows for internal walls to be placed and removed as per requirements since all the load bearing is concentrated on the frame. These pre-fabricated structures usually span between 40 feet to 100 feet (12 meters to 30 meters) but can be extended to 300 feet (91 meters).

• Monitor Barns

The triple-box design of these barns makes them easy to spot. Monitor barns have boxes on each side of the aisle and one on top. Additionally, the high roof offers ample amounts of natural light and better ventilation.

• Block Barns (CMU)

Source: PxHere

CMU or cinder block barns are perfect for areas such as Florida that experience hurricanes and tropical storms. These barns are sturdy and withstand extreme weather conditions, and can also be customized as per requirements since they are built from the ground up.

• New World Dutch Barns

Source: Daniel Case on Wikimedia Commons

This barn style was quite popular in the 18th century but it is quite rare to come across one these days. These barns were designed with Dutch-style doors wherein the top part of the door could be opened independently from the bottom.

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Difference between barns and huts

	Source: nathan kosmak on Unsplash Barns	Source: Krzysztof Kowalik on Unsplash Huts
Location	Barns are usually found on farms or ranches.	Huts are mostly found in villages but can also be found along hiking routes.
Build	These are sturdy structures that are traditionally constructed using wood. However, there has been an increase in the use of steel and aluminum in barn designs.	These are primitive dwellings and are built using natural materials such as wood, mud, grass, and leaves.
Function	They are used for housing livestock as well as storing grains and farm equipment.	They can be used to provide shelter but are mostly used as permanent residences in rural communities.

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Difference between barns and sheds

	Source: sawyer on Unsplash Barns	Source: Braveheart onWikimedia Commons Sheds
Location	Barns will mostly be found on large-scale farms and ranches.	Sheds can be found both in residential as well as farming communities.
Function	They are used to house livestock, farming supplies, and animal feed. They can also be built to serve a purpose, such as tobacco barns.	They are primarily used for storing outdoor equipment such as ladders and lawnmowers.
Size	While barn sizes can vary depending on the size of the farm and the type of barn, a standard barn is at least 24 feet (7.3 meters) by 24 feet (7.3 meters).	Since sheds are mostly found in backyards, they are much smaller in size and built to meet the needs of the owner.

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Popularity of barns as vacation rentals

Barns are gaining popularity as rentals as travelers search for unique accommodations to make their getaways more memorable. These are not your typical rustic structures but offer a luxe experience with modern amenities. Virginia and Wisconsin are popular destinations for barn stays in America. However, if you are across the pond, East Sussex and Kent have charming barns that can be rented for overnight stays.

Barns offer spacious indoor and outdoor spaces that can comfortably accommodate large groups. They are quite popular for family reunios and church retreats.

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Perks of choosing a barn stay

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• Tranquility and escape from city life

Since barns are away from cities, guests are rewarded with quiet surroundings where they can escape the blaring of horns and the sirens of ambulances. Staying in a barn is an excellent way of taking a break from the city. With less pollution and clear skies, barns are a hit for star gazings.

• Proximity to nature

Since barns are on farms or ranch land, visitors are surrounded by acres of green space in all directions. Farmland can sometimes also border state parks and forests, making the setting all the more scenic. Moreover, many barn stays offer farm visits that can be directly arranged with the host.

• Gaining an insight into farm life

A barn stay is a great way to introduce children to farm animals. Since barns are part of farming communities, some even include a petting zoo that is open for guests. Just note that it is recommended that guests interact with farm animals under expert supervision.

Since many barns are on working farms, an overnight stay provides an opportunity to gain an understanding of not only how a farm functions but also the farm's way of life.

• Outdoor activities

Barn stays are perfect for those who love nature and outdoor activities. Fishing, hiking, and horseback riding are some of the various activities that can be found in barn rentals. At the end of the day, everyone can gather around a bonfire (if permitted) or take a soak in a hot tub.

• Family-friendly

Barns are set away from crowds and cities and offer wide open spaces, making them ideal for families. Barn rentals can also be used for annual family holidays since they offer room for large groups to sleep together.

• Unique memories

Away from the distractions of daily life, a barn stay is a great way to reconnect with family or friends. Helping milk cows and sunrise treks will surely help create core memories.

• Eco-friendly practices

A stay at a barn can also be an educational experience, where guests can learn about how to lead a more sustainable lifestyle. Depending on the facilities offered at the barn, visitors can learn about composting and other practices for responsible farming.

• Fresh products for consumption

The taste of farm-fresh eggs and fruits directly plucked from the orchards or farms is unmatched. Many hosts provide a variety of fresh produce daily for guests to enjoy.

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Barns as wedding venues

Source: Unsplash

Barns are not just popular as vacation rentals but are also favored as wedding venues. The advantage of barns is that they can even help project a destination wedding while being within driving distance of a major city. Since barns are typically in rural areas, couples might be allowed to play music until late for their reception. Barn venues can be hired just for the day or for a wedding weekend, with some lodging provided at the house on the property.

Some Airbnb wedding venues in Pennsylvania can be rented with historic barns to host elegant ceremonies. On the other hand, Airbnb wedding venues in Texas can help bring all your cowboy-themed wedding dreams to life.

Barn weddings can be luxe, rustic-chic, or one can even have a more bohemian vibe. However, certain factors need to be considered irrespective of your vibe or the number of guests in attendance:

• Weather conditions

A sudden climate change can make or break your special day, so make sure that there is always an indoor option available if you are opting for an outdoor wedding. Barn rentals sometimes allow couples to set up all-season tents that can be an extension of the barn or be used as a separate venue.

If planning a summer wedding, couples need to ensure that the barn is air-conditioned and well-ventilated. Similarly, for winter weddings, couples need to check if the barn is adequately heated and ideally has a back generator in place.

• Location and accessibility

Couples need to take into consideration the nearest airports as well as road conditions for late-night arrivals. If the destination is remote, couples could request guests to arrive by a particular time so that transportation can be arranged.

If you have a lot of out-of-town guests coming in for the wedding, a shuttle service from the airport to the venue might be a thoughtful touch, especially for secluded properties. For multi-day weddings, couples can provide activities for guests on-site or organize a sightseeing trip.

• Size (indoor and outdoor spaces)

Whether you are leaning towards an intimate ceremony or a large wedding followed by a reception, there is no shortage of barns that can be rented for your special day. Depending on the number of guests, couples can use multiple venues for various events.

Some barn rentals are designed with a specific outdoor venue for the ceremony, while the barn itself can be decorated and set up for a formal reception. Moreover, some barns allow for tents to be erected on the property, which could offer greater flexibility.

• Guest capacity

All venues have a maximum capacity. While some venues charge a blanket rate for weddings or events as long as guest capacity is maintained, other venues follow a tiered pricing structure.

Guest capacity is determined by the size of the venue as well as any state and local regulations that might be in place.

• Landscaping

Do look through the venue photographs, and do not be afraid to ask for additional images taken previously during the month you are planning your nuptials. This will provide a better understanding of what the landscaping will look like when you exchange your vows. A well-landscaped property can help bring down the cost of outdoor decor and floral arrangements.

• Parking space

The parking situation usually depends on the size of the barn and if it is a dedicated wedding and event venue. Barns that specifically rent out for weddings offer ample parking for guests, while smaller barns might have limited spots.

If there is limited parking, couples could look into renting a shuttle service that could help transport guests to and from the airport and take them for some local sightseeing if time and budget permits.

• Facilities

Always check the facilities included in the venue that you book. Some amenities that couples can check are washrooms, parking, air, and heating. If you have a high number of out-of-town guests or if the wedding is taking place over several days, then a barn that offers a facility for overnight stays should be considered.

• Services

While some barns offer a one-solution for all your wedding needs, with a dedicated event planner on-site, most simply offer the building. An on-site event planner makes it easier to coordinate if you are planning a destination wedding.

If you are only renting the barn, it might be a good idea to ask the host to recommend trusted vendors they have worked with previously. It is always good to double-check that all your requirements are being met.

• Connectivity

Barns that are rented out as venues are modern and upgraded structures that offer top amenities. However, smaller venues might not always offer high-speed internet connectivity. If that is important to you, it is best to check with the host and inquire about data speed at the venue.

• Nearby attractions and activities

If there is going to be a lot of free time between events, couples could select a venue that allows guests to sightsee. Alternatively, ice-breaker games can be arranged on-site.

• Event rules and policies

Before you go ahead and book the venue, make sure you speak directly with the host first. This way, both parties can be certain that they communicated clearly and there are no surprises later on. If you are planning for a dance party, make sure there are no noise restrictions in place, or if you are planning to invite a few hundred guests, make sure that the venue can accommodate such a large group.

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Destinations with the best barns

• United States

Source: Venti Views on Unsplash

Barn stays are quite popular in the US and are a great choice for family reunions or a short getaway. While summer and spring are the most popular seasons for barn rentals, guests should not overlook the winters. Under a blanket of fresh snow, barns can make for a magical holiday season. From the mountains of Colorado to the lakes of Minnesota, travelers will come across the most stunning barns that have been upgraded to offer a luxurious stay amid nature.

If you love the outdoors, Colorado is one of the best states to visit. It offers 42 state parks, scenic byways, and numerous hiking spots to explore. If you are a history buff it is even possible to to find and book historical barns for your stay. If you wish to experience a little bit of the Coloradan culture, you can book your barn stay during one of the vibrant festivals in Colorado. Moreover, this state has some of the best places to visit for your getaway.

The best time to visit Minnesota is from late April through September when the weather is warmer. This is the perfect time to venture out to the thousands of lakes in the state. If you book early, you could be lucky enough to get a barn by one of the lakes. Alternatively, you can check out the countless places to visit in Minnesota, but if you are looking to disconnect, pick a place away from the major cities.

While Minnesota offers exceptional barn rentals, locals might prefer to go on a road trip to explore the barns in Illinois or Wisconsin.

• Canada

Source: Guido Klinge on Unsplash

Traditional barns constructed using locally available materials are slowly going out of style in favor of metal structures. It is an excellent time to experience a stay in a typical Canadian barn that is typically Dutch, English, or Pennsylvania-styled. Round barns are prevalent in the eastern regions, except Quebec. However, in Ontario and French-speaking Quebec, brightly painted English gabled roof barns with several round structures are more common.

The French-speaking province of Quebec is one of the top places to visit in Canada. Moreover, Quebec City includes the fortified old city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Christmas is a wonderful time in Quebec when the entire province is decked out in holiday lights. Quebec City’s Winter Carnival is one of the largest celebrations in the world and attracts thousands of tourists. But the true charm of the area lies in its countryside, which supplies a majority of the world’s maple syrup.

The province of Ontario is home to some of the largest cities in the country, including the capital, Ottawa. Interestingly, it is also an agricultural hub and offers visitors a chance to explore the Canadian outdoors. The province also boasts exciting hiking and trekking trails and camping spots for adventure seekers. However, if you wish to enjoy nature from a place of comfort, there are several barns near Caledon and Barrie. The best bit is that both these places are within an hour's drive from Toronto, where you can visit several attractions.

• United Kingdom

Source: Richard Vince on Geograph

While barns might generally be associated with large-scale farmers in the US, they are quite popular in the UK. In fact, bank barns and English A-frame gabled barns have British origins and were brought to America with the colonial settlers. Those who do not wish to travel far from the capital can book excellent barn stays offered near London and in the adjoining county of Surrey.

The one thing visitors notice in England are the large swaths of green spaces and the walking trails that go from the hills to the seaside. Even the capital city offers quite a few trails, including St. James’s Park and Hampton Court to Albert Bridge, that can help provide an off-beat perspective of the city. While it is always packed with tourists, the summer holiday season is the most popular time to visit.

The best thing about the UK is how easy it is to navigate the country even without a car. The trains and the city bus services make sightseeing and traveling a hassle-free experience. After taking in the famous sights of the capital, such as Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, it is easy to plan a quick weekend getaway to the countryside. For a truly exceptional stay, skip the hotels and opt for barns in Reading and Romsey.

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Factors to consider when booking a barn stay

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Barns provide delightful and enriching stays along with a chance to pursue activities that might not be possible in hotels or resorts. But before booking, guests should consider these factors:

• Location and accessibility

Since barns are usually away from cities, guests need to keep in mind the distance and travel time they need to reach the rental. Some locations might be in secluded areas where a 4x4 might be required during certain times of the year.

It is also essential that guests booking a barn rental have their own mode of transport to get to and from the location since public transportation might be non-existent. Moreover, the barn you book might be several miles away from the nearest town, so you do need to make sure you pack all essentials and groceries.

• Guest capacity

While barns usually cater to large groups, they still enforce maximum occupancy. On Airbnb, guest capacity is mentioned directly under the photos, while the description might include charges for additional guests. On VRBO, guest capacity is mentioned on the right-hand side under the property name.

• Price

The location, amenities, and size of the barn help determine its nightly rates. But, considering the acres of open space and spacious living quarters, barns are a steal when compared to hotels.

• Amenities

Not all barns provide a luxurious experience, so it is important to determine your needs before you go barn hunting. While most barns, such as the ones in Illinois and New Hampshire, offer a lavish stay, some can be catered to holidaymakers looking for a more rustic experience.

• Connectivity

A barn stay is a great way to disconnect from social media and reconnect your chakras. But you don’t have to worry, as most barns offer Wi-Fi connections.

• Nearby attractions and activities

Many times, the farm where the barn is located will offer a variety of activities such as corn hole, fruit picking, and farm-to-table meals. Some barns are also near national parks or lakes that can be explored during the stay.

There might be no malls nearby, but visitors will have plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy.

• Pet policy

It is important to check the pet policy of barns that you might be interested in renting. While some strictly do not allow pets due to the rural environment and permanent farm animals, others allow pets as long as they are leashed at all times.

• Child policy

While most barns are family-friendly properties that allow children, some might enforce additional rules to ensure the safety of all guests. Some barns might not allow children to be unsupervised while outdoors. Depending on the interior design and planning, some barns might also not allow children on the upper levels without adult supervision.

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What to pack for a barn stay

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Booking a barn for your next holiday can offer a unique experience where you can make the most of your natural surroundings. Since barns are away from major cities, it is not always possible to readily find items and services that we are used to in our regular lives. But you will be all set if you follow our packing list.

• Weather-appropriate clothing

If you are traveling during the summer, make sure to carry breathable cotton clothes for the time. Nights are expected to be cooler, so always have a light cardigan on hand if you are planning on star gazing or enjoying al fresco dinners.

If you are traveling during winter, always pack according to the predicted weather conditions. You might also consider a 4x4 with snow chains for transport if needed.

• Hats/caps

Caps are essential if you are going to be spending time exploring the farm or the hiking trails on the property. Since you are in the outdoors, you will need to protect yourself against the elements. During the colder months, fleece-lined caps are recommended.

• Sunglasses

No matter what time of the year you are booking a barn stay, sunglasses are essential to protect your eyes from the strong rays of the sun.

• Sunscreen and other toiletries

Whether indoors or outdoors, make sure to always apply sunscreen. If you are outdoors, reapply every two hours for maximum protection. While some rentals include bath amenities, if you have sensitive skin, it is always advisable to carry your personal products.

• Bedding (if not included)

Most rentals include bedding and linen, but it is always recommended to read the description as well as the list of amenities carefully. If towels or linen are not included, make sure you communicate the same to all your guests. It could be difficult to source items that you might have forgotten back home. You can also check if it is possible to rent these items locally for the duration of your stay.

• Medicines

Always carry your prescription medicines along with some basic medicines and a first-aid kit when you travel.

• Kitchen basics (if not included)

Some barns have a full kitchen where guests can plan and prepare elaborate meals for large groups. However, if you plan to cook and the kitchen only includes serveware, you will need to pack cooking utensils.

Make sure to have a grocery list ready and bring what you need from home or purchase everything from the nearest grocery store.

• Phone chargers and adapters

Phones are an extension of ourselves, so chargers should never be forgotten. If you are booking a barn stay in a foreign country, check the voltage and carry adapters to suit your socket pin.

• Flashlight and batteries

While the host can always be contacted in case of an emergency, it is always better to be prepared. Always pack flashlights, not just for blackouts but also to help navigate the house at night without having to switch on every single light.

• Insect repellent

Barns are surrounded by nature, which could include farms or forest land. Therefore, mosquitoes and bugs are quite common at night. But do not freak out, and remember to pack insect repellant.

• Hiking boots

There might not be many modern forms of entertainment or activities when you stay at a barn, but there will be no shortage of outdoor spaces to explore. Skip the extra pair of sandals and pack those hiking boots to fully explore the property with your family.

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It is time to try out a barn

Source: Nathan Anderson on Unsplash

As travel becomes more accessible, we are always on the hunt for unique accommodations and activities that can help set our stay apart from the hundreds of other travelers. Barns are an excellent alternative to traditional travel, where we try to tick off the top attractions in the city. A barn stay also allows guests to refresh and recharge away from distractions.

As wedding venues, they are an excellent alternative to expensive destination weddings abroad. Just remember to check all your requirements are met before you book.

Barns for rent in the USA

Barns for rent in the UK

Barns for rent in Canada