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. Whether it is a small, intimate gathering, a formal business meeting, or a large blowout bash, we have the space available to meet your needs.

Weddings and Other Once in a Lifetime Events
Perfect for a country wedding, a 50th birthday party, or a bridal shower, Highland Farm will make a special day, especially memorable. We have the space and expertise to help you create a sensational event.

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.

To contact our Event Planner, email to: planner@highlandfarmbb.com