About us
Lyz and Kev Howard welcome you to Creglea Barns. Creglea Farm is where Lyz was born, and grew up. It's a working farm, so don't be surprised to see and hear sheep and cows in various fields on the farm. Whilst farming life is always busy, lambing time (March/April) is our busiest time. We often house those sheep and lambs that require close observation and support in the barn next to Curlew Cottage. If you are staying with us at lambing time, you are welcome to participate in feeding the lambs and sheep in our close observation unit.
During World War 2, the farmhouse, where we live onsite, became the Defence Guard Officers' Mess and the barns adapted as the Institute. Both Curlew and Oyster Catcher cottages were part of the RAF Dalby site, used in WW2 as the NAAFI Kitchen and NAAFI Staff Quarters for those working in the receiving blocks (bunkers that are still located on the farm). These formed a passive defence system that used steel-guyed transmitting masts and a pair of timber receiving towers, situated on the land by the sea, to to create maximum dispersal and deception.
Now semi-retired, we work the farm with in partnership with Lyz's brother and nephew, letting Curlew and Oyster Catcher Cottages, working the polytunnel and keeping busy with children and grandchildren.
Short Breaks are available all year round, (exluding TT & Christmas) and you can check in on any day of the week subject to availability. You will experience a relaxing 'home from home' feeling in both of our contemporary farmstay cottages.
There is a private garden space which includes WIFI, a BBQ area, seating area, cabin with TV, sofa, chairs, a fridge, and hot tub that is available for booking on a day-by-day basis for those who would like exclusive access.
CURLEW COTTAGE:
Curlew Cottage is a two-storey cottage that sleeps four on the ground floor. It has two bedrooms (one Double, one King size bed) and a separate bathroom with shower/bath. The first floor has a good sized kitchen which is generously equipped with integral fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, hob, cooker, microwave, coffee machine, slow cooker, kettle and toaster, and a generous sized lounge/diner with extensive sea views. There is free WIFI available. There is a fenced garden at the front of Curlew Cottage, facing the sea. Curlew Cottage can be accessed externally via the patio through the ground floor accomodation and via a set of stairs at the back of the property that leads to the first floor accomodation. Parking is to the side of the cottages on a hard stand platform. Children are welcome. Pets are accepted. NO SMOKING OR VAPING IS PERMITTED in the property or in the private garden space.
OYSTER CATCHER:
Oyster Catcher is a two-storey cottage that sleeps four on the ground floor. It has two bedrooms (one King, one Superking orTwin) each with an ensuite bathroom. The first floor has a large kitchen/dining area which is generously equipped, with integral fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine, hob, cooker, microwave, coffee machine, slow cooker, kettle and toaster. There is a generous lounge area with a two and three seater sofa and views out to sea. Free WIFI is available. There is a patio at the front of Oyster Catcher, facing the sea. Oyster Catcher can be accessed externally via the patio and the ground floor accomodation and via a set of stairs at the back of the property that leads to the first floor accomodation. Parking is to the side of the cottages on a hard stand platform. Children are welcome. Pets are accepted. NO SMOKING OR VAPING IS PERMITTED in the property or in the private garden space.
Further information
How we started
Lyz and Kev’s journey with Creglea Barns began with a simple yet powerful desire—to share the breathtaking beauty they wake up to every day. Nestled in the stunning coastal landscape of Niarbyl, the barns were once traditional farm buildings that they lovingly transformed into a welcoming retreat. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and endless sea views, they found themselves captivated by the ever-changing light, the shifting tides, and the tranquility of this special place. Wanting others to experience the magic of Niarbyl for themselves, they opened Creglea Barns as a haven where guests can immerse themselves in the natural wonder, peace, and charm of the Isle of Man’s rugged coastline.
Our team
Kev and I work as the Creglea Barns Team. We have three dogs, Ellie, a 9 year old Working Cocker Spaniel (in pic), Faie, a 5 month old Golden Retriever (very soft and squishy at the moment) and Pepper - well Pepper is a mix between Tibettan Terrier and Poodle (we'll leave the remainder of his description there!).
