Highland Farm Bed & Breakfast

In the heart of Bucks County, and less than two hours from the Great White Way, is a special place Oscar Hammerstein II called home... Highland Farm.

Now beautifully restored as a Bed & Breakfast, Highland Farm is the perfect place for romantic getaways, special events, corporate retreats...or just a walk down a musical memory lane. Accommodations include newly renovated suites, bedrooms and bathrooms, and the grounds feature an in-ground pool, wraparound porches, and plenty of room for special occasions.

Let history inspire you, and let us pamper you... all in the heart of beautiful Bucks County.

Sitting on The Farm's large, wraparound porch overlooking Bucks County farmland, Oscar Hammerstein II was inspired to write such unforgettable tunes as Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin' and My Favorite Things.

Let history inspire you in elegant surroundings. Relax on the wrap-around porch where Oscar Hammerstein II wrote lyrics for the great American musical, Oklahoma. Stroll through the library where Mr. Hammerstein worked at his standing desk. Play chess in the grand living room where he entertained artists such as James Michener, Richard Rogers, George Kaufman, Moss Hart, and Stephen Sondheim.

Wine and Cheese Reception

We are pleased to commence your evening with a wine and cheese reception in the Living Room. Unwind from your day with a selection of gourmet delights and a sampling of wine from some of our local vineyards.

Gourmet Breakfast/Dining Room

After a restful night's sleep, a sumptuous breakfast awaits you in the elegant dining room... buttery scones or fluffy eggs… hot, rich coffee and tangy orange juice... Now that your mind and body are rested, begin your day with a veritable feast for the senses.

Wraparound Porch

Step onto the wrap-around porch and have a seat in one of the comfortable rocking chairs. Time seems to stop. The sway of the rocker, the fragrant flowers, and the splashing fountain soon lure you into a relaxed state.

Sound of Music Room

Guests are drawn to the serene and spacious living room which features an entire wall of built-in bookcases and a gorgeous Pranberry grand piano. A restored loveseat from the Hammerstein estate sits in front of the intricately carved antique wooden fireplace. Cozy up by the fire and visit, read a book, or play a board game on the antique leather-top game table.
 

History of Highland Farm

The beautiful Highland Farm is over 260 years old. When it was first built in the 1740's, the house stood tall over more than 40 acres of rolling farmland. While the history of the house is itself interesting, it is the tale of its residents and guests that make for true story-telling lore. At the turn of the 20th century, the Lenz circus family bought Highland Farm and housed many of their animals here. In fact, you can still find the baby elephant pool that Mr. Lenz used to bathe his little pachyderms.

In 1941, during a lull in his career, Oscar Hammerstein II and his wife, Dorothy, came to Bucks County looking for a retreat from New York City. While driving up the hill to Highland Farm, Dorothy spotted a rainbow and sensed this would be a magical place for her professionally floundering husband and their family. The move proved immensely wise as the bucolic countryside truly inspired Mr. Hammerstein. Legend is told that he was so moved by the views of cattle and corn fields in the early morning that he was inspired to write, "Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'," the opening song for Oklahoma!, on the front porch. Arguably, his most famous works were written while residing at Highland Farm including South Pacific, The King and I, Flower Drum Song, and The Sound of Music.

The Hammerstein family lived at Highland Farm for 20 years. During their residence, the home was constantly alive with many guests and children. Mr. Hammerstein was known to fly different colored flags as a message to the local children. One said, "Come and swim." Another meant, "Let's play tennis." And still another said, "Stay away today." In addition to their own children, the Hammerstein's were also known to take in other children in need of a home. As a young boy, Stephen Sondheim spent considerable time at Highland Farm and received his secondary education from The George School in Newtown. Mr. Hammerstein became a mentor to young Stephen and encouraged him to hone his talents as a songwriter.

Other guests include Mr. Hammerstein's good friend, James Michener, and his long-time collaborator, Richard Rogers. Rogers once said of Hammerstein, "He's a meticulously hard worker, and yet he'll roam the grass of his farm for hours and sometimes for days before he can bring himself to put a word on paper."

Oscar died at The Farm in August 1960 and was buried in New York. After his death, Dorothy moved from Highland Farm and sold it a year later. By the mid-1980's, Mary and John Schnitzer had purchased the home, renovated it, and operated a Bed and Breakfast for almost 15 years. Mary sold Highland Farm to Shawn Touhill, a local developer, in 2003.

In 2007, Highland Farm was purchased by Doylestown resident, Christine Cole. While looking for a Bucks County barn to renovate, she was shown Highland Farm and instantly fell in love. Her business plans changed and she embraced the idea of becoming an innkeeper and starting a new venture. She immediately began remodeling and redecorating the home.

Her efforts to show the "inner beauty" of the home have proven magical. Multiple layers of wallpaper that covered most surfaces including ceilings have been stripped and well-preserved plaster walls and ceilings were rediscovered. Old carpets were pulled up, revealing beautiful hardwood floors throughout the home. Soothing historic paint colors have now replaced the wallpaper, and beautiful area rugs adorn the hardwood floors.

While each guest room has a theme dedicated to one of Mr. Hammerstein's musicals, it also provides guests with a warmth and serenity found only at The Farm. Highland Farm's recent facelift has only added to its stately grace. Christine hopes you are pleased with the transformation and that you enjoy the personal attention you receive during your stay. Welcome home.

Beautiful Bucks County

Come and take a look at Bucks County. Few places are as rich in culture, history and beauty as Bucks. All around you, you will find the past - at historic landmarks and battlefields; the arts - at our many playhouses, theaters and museums; adventure - by taking a hot air balloon ride or tubing down the Delaware; and gourmet delights - at our many fine dining restaurants. In fact, there is so much to do, you will need to return again and again to continue your exploration.

Innkeeper's Picks

For help in planning your Bucks County weekend, Christine has listed a few of her favorite places as a starting place for you. We've listed some great destinations below to help plan your getaway.
 

Cycling and Walking along the Delaware River
Enjoy a walk or a bike ride along the 60 miles of paths along the Delaware Canal. Cross one of the 5 bridges that link Pennsylvania to New Jersey and discover their paths as well.

The Delaware River Canal Boat Company
Take a ride down the Delaware Canal on mule-drawn boat ride. Learn the canal history and see the local sites. Tours start in Nearby New Hope, PA.

Rice's Market
Rice's Market is a 30 acre outdoor market. Vendors come from all around to sell antiques and collectibles, fresh fruits and vegetables, Amish meats and baked goods, clothing and toys. Open every Tuesday all year around. Open Saturdays March through December.

Fonthill Museum
Fonthill is the Doylestown Home of Henry Mercer, inventor, collector, and artisan. The house is made entirely of cement and holds many secrets and surprises of this Renaissance man.

Sand Castle Winery ~ The Freight House ~ The Knight House ~ Marsha Brown Restaurant

Highland Farm is the perfect backdrop for your next event.

Weddings and Other Once in a Lifetime Events
Whether you are planning a country wedding, a 50th birthday party, or a bridal shower, we will make a special day especially memorable.We have the space and expertise to help you create a sensational event. Highland Farm is the perfect historic venue for small, intimate events with fifty guests or fewer. If you need space for a larger wedding or event, we encourage you to contact our partner, the beautiful Aldie Mansion.

Corporate Meetings and Retreats
Plan your next corporate outing or employee retreat at Highland Farm. In the main house, we are able to accommodate up to 60 people in a theater style format or up to 40 people at round tables. We have break-out rooms available and gourmet catering services for your meal time needs. Remember to book one of our five beautiful guest rooms for your out-of-town guests.

This is a lovely spot from which to greet a ‘beautiful mornin’ and spend ‘an enchanted evening.’
- New Orleans guests

My husband and I had a lovely stay at your Hammerstein Farm on our 45th wedding anniversary. We so enjoyed the wine reception in the evening and the lovely breakfast in the morning. Your attention to detail is to be complimented. Thank you for preserving our musical history!
- Pennsylvania guests

Thank you for a wonderful stay and your generous hospitality. We love what you’ve done with the house!
- Alberta, Canada guests

As we look forward to our third stay at Highland Farm, we thought we would share with you the reasons for our decision. Both of our previous visits have been thoroughly enjoyable. Our rooms have been spacious, comfortable, and pleasantly appointed—from the quality of the beds to the lush bath towels. We have been greeted and treated with smiles and good service, and Trudy’s breakfasts are as delicious as they are thoughtfully conceived. The fact that you have carried out the Oscar Hammerstein theme in the family’s old farmhouse and grounds certainly doesn’t detract from the pleasure of staying with you. We are unfortunately still waiting for Oscar’s ghost to play the marvelous grand piano in the living room.
- Massachusetts guests

We love staying in a place that has both a wonderful past as well as a hospitable present! Thanks for accommodating our early morning sojourns! Every detail – to-go coffee!!!
- Monrovia, California guests

Not enough superlatives to describe the inn and Christine!
- Columbia, MD guests

Wonderful stay, loved the atmosphere. Will be back.
- New London, Ontario guests

What a beautiful place in a lovely setting – it was very special! Thank you, Christine!!
- Mapute, Mozambique guest

Oscar’s Muse is present here in a 100 different ways… in the sounds, in the literature, furniture, and those who spend and invest their time here. I woke early every day and thought, “Oh! What a Beautiful Morning!”
- Pennsylvania guest

Thanks for a wonderful stay. This is without question the best B & B I have ever stayed in.
- San Francisco guest

Thanks for the wonderful, RELAXING night. The room, the food, the hospitality were more than I hope for. Close to home, but feels far away. Thanks.
- Levittown, PA guest

Thanks for everything. We had a great time – loved the room, the staff, and the lovely breakfasts. We’ll be back. Definitely be back!
- Gendora, California guests

“Happy, happy talk” to be here in Oscar Hammerstein’s lovely home! P.S. After two days & nights here, we don’t want to leave – and look forward to coming back. We wish you all the best with Highland Farm!
- Pennsylvania guests

Thank you for being so gracious & pleasant - everything here is the best.
- Clifford, PA guests

Thank you so much for the gracious hospitality! We had such a wonderful, peaceful weekend. The food was amazing and the ambiance made for an enjoyable time. We definitely plan to return!! Thanks again!
- Franklin Park, New Jersey guests

This is a fantastic B & B.
- Pennsylvania guests

What a wonderful find for us – We look forward to coming back! Thank you.
- Woodside, CA guests

We thank you for your hospitality. Enjoyed our escape from New York. Jake was awesome. Thank you, Christine. See you again.
- New York City guests

What an unexpected, wonderful experience! I truly felt that I was staying at a wealthy friend’s summer estate. Christine has thought of everything when it comes to personal comfort – the bed & sheets are the best! Your breakfasts were gourmet, and I loved the wine & cheese on arrival. We’ll be back!
- Monroe, NY guests

Even though it was midnight when we arrived, there were friendly little notes of ‘welcome’ everywhere. Christine is an exceptional host and the food was superb. I can quite honestly say that in all our visits to America, this has without doubt been the best and most personal service we have experience. Christine pampered to our every whim and we would not hesitate to come here again. Thank you so much for your kind hospitality!
- United Kingdom guests

Now I know where to run away to – right here!! Thank you for our wonderful, homey, “home.” Felt like Oscar H. would be “proud” to see what has become of his Highland Farm.
- Brick, NY guest

Christine has taken great care to create a wonderful tribute to the home’s former keepers and its rich history. A welcome respite from the busy world, we’ll surely make Highland Farm a future destination!
- Chicago, IL guests

What a beautiful retreat from our busy lives! You have a wonderful place here, the history of which lends an even more special air. We truly enjoyed our last quiet weekend before our baby arrives! Thank you!
- Clark, New Jersey guests

So comfortable & relaxing. My new favorite spot to stay in Bucks County!
- Beverly Hills, California guest

A fabulous stay in the “King & I” room. Beautiful grounds, great books, and wonderful food and hospitality. Of all the B&B’s we’ve stayed in, this was my wife’s “number on,” on our 5th anniversary. Thank you, Christine!
- Hatboro, Pennsylvania guests

An extraordinary home with warmth added by our great hostess, Christine. Loved the architecture of the home & appreciated the skilled craftsmanship. Food was beautifully presented and beyond just good. We will make several return trips.
- College Park, Maryland guests

You have a marvelous place. I loved “camping” with the girls in the big room – I slept like a baby every night and looked forward to breakfast every day. Thank you!
- Pasadena, California guest

Great. Wonderful. I like it very much. Will be back!!
- Jamison, Pennsylvania guest

We are very impressed – a really great place & we hope to come back in the summertime for the pool. We’ve already “talked it up!”
- Washington, DC guests

These two Georgians loved the Yankee hospitality. Christine is a wonderful hostess and cook who loves her inn and guests. The history of the place is overwhelming for a couple of musical comedy buffs like us.
- Stone Mountain, Georgia guests

Wonderful place and wonderful innkeeper! We had a great time. We will pass your name onto all our friends. Can’t stop singing!
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania guests

This is one of the nicest B&B’s I’ve stayed at. The décor is gorgeous. Christine, you’re a lovely, delightful hostess. Thank you so much.
- Arlington, Virginia guest

What a great place to stay. Quiet, comfortable, and very historic. Comfortable bed, great shower and I really enjoyed reading Oscar Hammerstein’s biography in the evenings. I’ll be back!
- Anchorage, Alaska guest

Thank you for a wonderful stay! The evening away from the husband & kids was well worth it!
- Pennsylvania guest

What a wonderful getaway during our family Thanksgiving. Fabulous style, history & décor to your place.
- Arlington, Virginia guests

Thank you Christine for providing us with such a peaceful, comfortable and historical setting. You’ve done a great job with this beautiful home! Much luck to you and we’ll be back again soon.
- Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania guests