Entire home

Historic Cottage in West Chester PA - Two miles from town.

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Terrace/patio
Miscellaneous
1 bedroom, desk, free WiFi, bed sheets
Fireplace, books
Exterior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 253 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Fireplace
  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
  • Free WiFi

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Historic Cottage in West Chester PA - Two miles from town.

Bala Farm Cottage now has it's own website. Bala Farm Cottage is a wonderfully cozy little cottage located less than 3 miles from the center of West Chester, at the top of a hill in a quiet neighborhood. It has charming study downstairs with a bay window looking out towards majestic trees, and an entry hall that ends with a wet bar, refrigerator, microwave and coffee machine. A lovely curved staircase leads to the upstairs bedroom with queen bed and a spacious bathroom. You'll love your stay in West Chester at Bala Farm Cottage!

The space

Bala Farm Cottage, located 2 miles from the center of West Chester, was built around 1850 to serve as a "library" (1800's version of a man cave, we think) at a time when the main Bala Farm house (built in 1759) was being used as a boarding school for boys. It's undoubtedly been employed in a variety of functions since then, and when we bought the property we thought it would make a perfect guest cottage.

We've made a few changes to give the cottage some of the comforts that help make a very enjoyable stay. The wet bar is located at the end of a quaint entry hall, and has a small refrigerator and microwave, in addition to a K-cup coffee machine with complimentary pods provided, an electric kettle with tea. There is also a sliced bread toaster provided, but please be aware that there are no cooking appliances, utensils or abilities beyond these.

The study includes a love seat with pillows and additional blankets for staying cozy in winter months, across from a gas fireplace that warms the room nicely. There is a small table with two chairs that can be used both for dining or as a workspace. For those looking to spend quite a bit of time working, there is a desk against the wall that provides more of a formal workspace. There are also built-in cabinets in the study, which serve as a sort of panty, holding wine glasses, plates & utensils (we've switched to paper & plastic since COVID began), salt & pepper, napkins and bottle openers. To round out the seating, there are a couple of padded accent chairs that provide additional options.

The curved staircase leads up to a cozy bedroom with a comfortable queen bed and a spacious bathroom. There are both privacy curtains and wood shutters, so you can either fill it with natural light, or keep things dark for a longer slumber. There is no closet in the bedroom, but there is a suitcase stand and a garment rack for hanging clothes. The bathroom includes a shower and small vanity with mirror, as well as closeted shelves, with some basic amenities such as shampoo & conditioner and body wash.

There is a large stone fire pit just steps from the cottage that guests are welcome to use, with adirondack chairs and picnic table nearby, that you may find perfect for enjoying an evening glass of wine or cold beer outdoors. All of the trees on the property mean that there is plenty of wood nearby for enjoying fires if the weather allows (we keep one stack next to the fire pit).

Please note that the house and cottage are within a small development. However, we are on top of a hill at the end of a cul-de-sac and surrounded by trees, so there is a private feel and you hardly notice when you are on the property and in the cottage, but you will notice when you drive into the neighborhood.

We look forward to welcoming you for your stay at Bala Farm Cottage!

Guest access:

Guests will have the cottage to themselves, can come and go as they please, and are welcome to enjoy the grounds. If anything is needed that is not in the cottage, just ask!

Interaction with guests:

We're happy to interact with guests as much or as little as they prefer! Since we live on the grounds, we'll usually be available to answer questions, provide recommendations, or tell stories.

Property manager

Mina

Languages

English, French, Italian, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchenette

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: Smoking is okay outside of the cottage.

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • On a river

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Property does not allow children
  • Unit size: 575 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 30

Check-out

Check-out before 10:30 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

This property does not allow children

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Property is also known as

Cottage West Chester PA Two Miles Town
Cottage Two Miles Town
West Chester PA Two Miles Town
Cottage in West Chester PA Two Miles From Town
Cottage in West Chester PA Two miles from town.
Cottage in West Chester PA - Two miles from town. Cottage
Cottage in West Chester PA - Two miles from town. West Chester

About the neighborhood

Map
West Chester, PA

What's nearby

  • Brandywine Picnic Park - 3 min drive - 3.0 km
  • West Chester University of Pennsylvania - 5 min drive - 3.7 km
  • Chester County Hospital - 8 min drive - 6.4 km
  • Longwood Gardens - 12 min drive - 11.5 km
  • QVC Studio Park - 13 min drive - 10.7 km

Getting around

  • Exton Station - 13 min drive
  • Philadelphia Intl. Airport (PHL) - 35 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Giant Cafe - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Beermill - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Love Again Local - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Saxbys Coffee - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic Cottage in West Chester PA - Two miles from town. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Historic Cottage in West Chester PA - Two miles from town.?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Historic Cottage in West Chester PA - Two miles from town.?

Check-out is at 10:30 AM.

Where is Historic Cottage in West Chester PA - Two miles from town. located?

Situated on a river, this cottage is 1.1 mi (1.8 km) from Baldwin's Book Barn and within 3 mi (5 km) of Brandywine Picnic Park and Brandywine Creek. West Chester University of Pennsylvania and Pipers Way are also within 3 mi (5 km).

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Historic Cottage in West Chester PA - Two miles from town. Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 72 out of 75 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 75 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 75 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 75 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 75 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Iris G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming West Chester Stay

Beautiful and comfortable home, perfect for a couples weekend get away.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Judy L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Cottage

The cottage was very cozy and comfortable. It's location was central to wonderful restaurants and interesting places to visit. We had a very enjoyable stay and look forward to returning.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kim S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick trip

My sister and I made a quick trip to west Chester to see my kids and grandkids and the cottage was perfect. We only slept there but it was perfect to just come back and not be bothered and better than a hotel room. And the location to my kids was perfect! Would definitely stay there again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

8/10 Good

Lisa H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!

This was the perfect place for our weekend getaway. Cozy, quiet, and comfortable! Close to great restaurants and things to do. Will definitely stay again! Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kim W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A lovely cozy stay

Beautiful historic cottage, quaint, cute, and cozy. I enjoyed my stay tremendously and understand why the reviews are perfect! Thank you Chad and Mina for a wonderful stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible cottage

This is my second time staying in this incredible cottage and is now become a staple every time I’m in town.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rich W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming stay

Great stay and experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carlton P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Storehouse stay

Wonderful area. Great history and beautiful landscape
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Donna D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint, cozy, peaceful historic cottage

Lovely historic cottage, prefect location in the Brandywine area with sweet little touches making this a very clean and comfortable home away from home! The host are warm and welcoming!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming Cottage on Historic Property

We appreciated the quick responses from the owners. If you are looking for something with charm this is the place! Close to West Chester and other interesting towns. We spent the day at Longwood Gardens, a must see.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Wesley H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Get away

Wonderful little cottage. Amazing old trees on the property. Very nice hosts and their fun packed little Jack Russell added to our visit .
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrea

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
This was a cozy and lovingly appointed place to stay. It was convenient to many attractions as well as great restaurants in West Chester. The owners were warm and welcoming.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

David T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Historic Cottage

My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our time away. The proximity to the town of West Chester, excellent restaurants, and historic sites made this a perfect location. The charm and quiet setting made our weekend even better.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carol M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming cottage

We loved having this little house all to ourselves and the few deer grazing beneath the trees close by. Thank you for a delightful stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Incredibly comfortable and historic; very well located to Brandywine Valley historic sites; Great dining options in West Chester; wonderful hostess. We loved it!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicole W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful quaint cottage!

We enjoyed our stay! Please just be sure to thoroughly read what’s available in the half kitchen. We booked quickly without realizing there was no oven or stovetop. We didn’t leave the cottage at all to visit any of the local restaurants and had to think about what we would prepare for our 3 night stay. We cooked on a griddle and hot plate burner that we brought along with us. The area is beautiful and we enjoyed watching the deer that came out and roamed the property. Cottage was quaint and absolutely adorable. The hosts were very great at communicating with us and staying in touch incase we needed anything. Thank you Chad and Nina for everything!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kim S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Step Back in Time

We enjoyed our stay here. The cottage has a very historic feel to it. A perfect place to stay if you are touring the historic sites of the Brandywine Valley.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Zoë R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Enchanting, relaxing cottage

My new husband and I took a “minimoon” to West Chester and stayed in this lovely property for the duration of our trip. The hosts checked in via message to make sure we had everything we needed, but otherwise let us enjoy the peace and quiet of the area. Mina even went above and beyond afterward, noting we’d left a dental retainer behind and offered to ship it back home to us. 5 stars across the board. We look forward to returning for future trips!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael D., Denver, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hidden Gem

What a special place! Bala Farms cottage is the perfect alternative to a boring hotel room. Thank you Mina & Chad for offering this historic yet modern little retreat.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lillian S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming

Beautiful spot.Charming bedroom and bathroom on the second floor. Very peaceful. Short drive to fantastic restaurants. Such a pretty town also. Longwood gardens were fantastic and only a short drive.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cathy Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Little slice of heaven

If possible i would give this cottage a 10 rating. It was not only charming, but beautiful, inside and out. The area is very picturesque and peaceful. The owners Mina, Chad and Zoey, are wonderful hosts. We didnt miss the tv at all. Highly recommend this property. 10 out of 10 in our opinion.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pamela D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint & Lovely historic property

Enjoyed our stay in this pretty historic building. It was comfortable, clean, and their adorable dog greeted us outside when we arrived. It was a very nice home base for our long weekend spent exploring Local places, like Winterthur, Brandywine Creek State Park, Brandywine River Museum and this fantastic Baldwin’s Book Barn we found close by, an old barn filled with 4 floors of used books!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Wil S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet and convenient

My wife and I stayed for a weekend away. We didn’t spend much time at the cottage, but when we were there it felt like home away from home. Plenty of access to the surrounding communities which are full of trails and fun places to visit.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rural oasis

So appropriate to stay in this sweet historic cottage while touring behind the scenes at Winterthur! Lovely
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Herbert B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely retreat

A perfect location near attractions and our friends. Ideal for a couple. Well equipped. Very friendly and responsive hosts. Highly recommended.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023