The Lodge at Cricklewood...where time melts away....
Wild yet serene, the Lodge rests on a hillside adjacent to a 60+ acre wildlife haven with a pond and creek running through. Nestled in a forest near the scenic and historic Brandywine Valley, this retreat affords you all the accoutrements of a mountain lodge, yet is nearby to high-end shopping, historic sites, outstanding restaurants and nightlife in the boroughs of West Chester, Chadds Ford and Kennett Square...
Featured in 2018 Philadelphia Magazine, the Lodge has received accolades! Tom Bury (as seen on Restaurant Impossible and the Stone House Revival series on DIY Network) hosted his 2018 season wrap party here. Tom also built a bespoke king bed in the master suite with 100+ year old reclaimed wood... it is beautiful (and comfortable too). Rivers Cuomo (lead singer of Weezer) also stayed at the Lodge -- twice during the 2019 Weezer Tour. Others, who wish to remain nameless, have called the Lodge a home away from home.
From the fully stocked professional chef's kitchen to the outdoor hot tub, relaxation and inspiration will be your companion at the Lodge. Enjoy your meals at the dining table in the Great Room with an amazing view of the forest, or al fresco on the deck or screened porch.
With 5 bedrooms (and a sixth private space with 2 twin beds and a full size futon) and 4.5 baths, including a massive master suite with jetted tub, walk in shower and heated marble floors, the Lodge will delight you.. The seclusion and privacy of the property will enhance your experience!
Rejuvenate in the outdoor hot tub and melt away your stress. A large outdoor deck allows for sunbathing and evening conversations around the gas fire pit, or build a bonfire in the second fire pit and eat some s'mores. There is also a third firepit on the screened in porch where you can relax and take in the nature around you, especially soothing while listeing to the rain, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal at the spacious teak dining table.
Take a walk through the woods and commune with nature, where wildlife abounds, including red foxes, red-tailed hawks, groundhogs, white tailed deer, an occasional bald eagle and many other varieties of beautiful and interesting songbirds and woodpeckers.
For entertainment, there are many options:
...The Lounge has an antique pool table, dart board, large fireplace and many classic board games to while away the time. ...The Library is full of antique and contemporary books, many of which are focused on the US Civil War and other topics of American History. ...The Game Room has a ping pong table, an air hockey table, a foosball table and the requisite xBox One for the kids (or kids at heart!).
Check out the listing details for all the amenities.
The Lodge is perfect for more intimate events for up to 50 guests: a family reunion, a murder mystery party, birthday or holiday event. (please inquire for any events as addition fees may apply). If you have an event with more than 50 guests, we are excited to partner with a Michelin star chef (former executive chef at the Waldorf Astoira Hotel) to accommodate your needs. Chef Paul is able to host large events including weddings of up to 100 plus guests, at his beautiful barn in Chester County (please inquire). Chef is also available to design a bespoke menu for you and your guests, and will be your personal chef at the Lodge for smaller occasions of up to 50 guests. Please inquire about any events at the Barn or the Lodge, additional fees will apply. Also upon request we are partnered with an interior designer who will craft beautiful custom floral arrangements, per your desires, at an additional charge.
There is ample parking for up to 10 cars in the driveway near the house. Any additional parking needs during an event will be discussed.
Early check-in may be available for additional fees -- $400 after noon and $200 after 2pm - please inquire about availability. Early check in fees depend on time of check-in and availability. Please inquire prior to check-in.
Late check out is also available for additional fees - $200 until 1pm and $500 until 4pm. Please inquire prior to check-in.
The Lodge is idyllic during a snowstorm with a warm fire, while the autumn leaves changing color add to the beauty of the seasons. Spring brings new growth and late June and early July bring the harvest of the wild raspberries, always a delicious treat!
Plenty of space to get away from the outside world. Stay, relax, rejuvenate....celebrate and enjoy!
Looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you soon at the Lodge!
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Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Please indicate event plans -- fees may apply
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Pets
No pets allowed
No exceptions.
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Smoking
Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Smoking is permitted outside.
Please bring house slippers... a no shoes policy is requested for cleanliness. Exceptions include special events, health or age concerns. Thank you!
I work hard to provide an enjoyable environment for all guests. If I can improve anything, please let me know during your stay!
Please inform me of any events and additional guests prior to check in. Additional fees apply. Please let me know if you’d like to move furniture
Important information
You need to know
Property # 1289726vb
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 50
Note from host: Please indicate event plans -- fees may apply
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
West Chester
Located in West Chester, this holiday home is in the mountains and on a river. Longwood Gardens and Ridley Creek State Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Baldwin's Book Barn and Brandywine Picnic Park. Travelling with kids? Consider QVC Studio Park, or check out an event or a game at Subaru Park. Kayaking and water tubing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and hiking/biking trails nearby.
West Chester University of Pennsylvania - 10 min drive - 9.4 km
Getting around
Exton Station - 15 min drive
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) - 30 min drive
Restaurants
Wawa - 5 min drive
Chick-fil-A - 7 min drive
Texas Roadhouse - 7 min drive
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers - 5 min drive
Bierhaul - 5 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is The Lodge at Cricklewood...where time melts away.... pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at The Lodge at Cricklewood...where time melts away....?
As of 14 May, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Lodge at Cricklewood...where time melts away.... on 1 Aug, 2026 start from S$1,535, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at The Lodge at Cricklewood...where time melts away....?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Lodge at Cricklewood...where time melts away....?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Lodge at Cricklewood...where time melts away....?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is The Lodge at Cricklewood...where time melts away.... located?
This family-friendly West Chester holiday home is located on a river, 2.6 mi (4.1 km) from Cheyney University, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Baldwin's Book Barn and West Chester University of Pennsylvania. Chadds Ford Village & Barn Shops and Brandywine Creek are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
This lodge was amazing. We had a mixture of students and adults for a small retreat and we were all impressed. The kitchen space was awesome and allowed for easy meal cooking and distribution to a large group. The unique room decorations enthralled the students, and the outdoor spaces were great. The kids especially liked being able to go on short hikes in the woods. Game room items were a big win as well. And the beds were all reportedly very comfortable, including in the game room.I would definitely book this space again in the future!!
Everything was great, The host met us at check-in to walk us through the property which was extremely helpful. The location worked well for us and the home was fully stocked with anything we needed
The house and setting were so beautiful and peaceful, and accommodated our large family comfortably. Eric was a very hospitable host with excellent communication throughout our stay. We really enjoyed our stay and would rent again!
We are just back from an amazing family weekend at the Lodge! This is the absolute best spot for any larger groups coming to the area. The owner was super nice and quick to respond to any questions. The house is amazing. It's very big with plenty of spacious and welcoming bedrooms and bathrooms. The kitchen and dining areas are perfect for preparing and serving meals to a group (we had 9 people at the house during our stay - plenty of room for all). There are so many amazing touches in this home, including the large bathtubs, game room stocked with tons of fun options (pool, ping pong, board games, interesting books), and the REALLY comfy leather couch with big TV in one of the main areas. The kitchen is well stocked with anything you need to cook a variety of meals. Even the sheets and towels provided were great quality. The house is very clean and just so fun to walk through and look at all the interesting touches. Our whole group loved the Lodge at Cricklewood and would absolutely stay here again. Highly recommend!!
The kitchen was great! Very spacious and was great for what we wanted. Everyone was so comfy that weekend, the lighting around the house was so nice and made everything feel extra cozy. Eric is a great host! He made sure we knew how to use everything and gave us a run down of the place. My one note would be to go through the spices and seasonings in the house as the majority of them are expired.
Ideal setup for a friends reunion. Eric was great. Big family room and patio with gas fire pit provided two areas to hang out. Kitchen well-equipped for cooling a big dinner.Quiet and secluded. Worked out perfectly.
My family and I throughly enjoyed our short stay at Eric’s property. It a beautiful home in beautiful landscapes. The home is fully stocked and made our celebration of a graduation weekend memorable and successful.
Kenya T.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Jun, 2025
Thank you, Kenya! It was a pleasure to host you and your guests!
Wonderful spaces to spread out multiple activities for a girls weekend. Super close to West Chester for a night out. Really supportive and great host. A real gem of a find!
We stayed here for my son’s graduation from West Chester University. The location was great. The sprawling home gave us lots of space for our family. Clean and inviting. Loved the outdoor porches and the large living areas to sit and share time with family. Would stay here again when in the area.
Juanita K.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Jun, 2025
Thank you; Jaunita! It was a pleasure hosting you and your guests!
Tim, thanks for the review. Would love to know the details behind your three stars as I go out of my way and am always available to ensure your stay is exceptional. Please let me know how I can improve the experience.
This is a beautiful property and was perfect for our group of 7 friends. The house was spacious and well stocked with a gourmet kitchen and ample indoor and outdoor gathering places. The hot tub was delightful and the owner was responsive to our questions. Highly recommend!
Jana S.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 May, 2025
Thank you, Jana! Great to know you enjoyed your time at the Lodge. It was a pleasure to host you and your guests!
This property was so beautiful and Eric was very accommodating! We used every bed and it still felt spacious. The surrounding area and property are impeccable and stunning. House was clean and up to date. We will 100 % be back to rent this property. Thanks Eric!
We had an excellent stay at the Lodge at Cricklewood. It is a beautiful property, and the owner, Eric, was wonderful. I can't recommend it highly enough. We will definitely be back!!
Karen B.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Feb, 2021
Thank you, Karen! Enjoyed hosting you and your family for the holidays and hope to see you again next year!
There was plenty of room for our family stay at the Lodge at Cricklewood, both with bedrooms and living space. Owner was helpful and available. In the country but close to shopping and restaurants. Fall is a great time to be there!
Amy T.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
About the host
Hosted by Eric B.
Digital Marketing Sales Executive. Entrepreneur. Adventurer. Writer.
I spent many years living abroad in Puerto Rico, Los Angeles, Amsterdam, San Francisco and Bend, OR. I once attended a royal Hapsburg wedding in Cuernavaca, Mexico... it's a great story, ask me about it...
I have two amazing sons -- both are living on the west coast. I raised them here and they loved the adventures in the woods! Great memories in this place with many more to be made.
I enjoy meeting new people and inviting you into the Lodge... it is a blessing to be able to share my little slice of heaven! I look forward to meeting you upon arrival if schedules permit.
Love Life!
Why they chose this property
Because there is nothing else like the Lodge and "Lodgelivin" is the only way... if you can find it!
Located in historic Chester county, this location offers the best of both worlds. The Brandywine Valley countryside is only minutes away, with beautiful rolling hills and amazing vistas. The borough of West Chester is close by, with amazing shopping, restaurants and bars.
The property is quiet and private and provides many opportunities for inspiration -- wildlife is everywhere. It is also close to civilization and easy to access many upscale amenities such as museums, restaurants, shoppes and bars.
Secluded and private, the house is built to entertain, while also providing many spaces to relax and rejuvenate.
Inspired by mid-century modern architecture and built in 1979, the decor has been curated over many years. It is unique and difficult to describe in words. Many guests have told me that the pictures on Vrbo of the Lodge don't do enough to adequately describe the space.
If you choose to stay, I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
What makes this property unique
Amazing views from the large decks and screened in porch. Two indoor fireplaces to warm up and enjoy during the colder months. Outdoor firepits for S'mores... and a hot tub for relaxing under the stars with a glass of wine and good friends!
Chef's kitchen to prepare amazing meals. Open floor plan for entertaining... many rooms to allow for relaxation and privacy.
Antique Brunswick regulation size pool table -- air hockey, foosball and darts too!
There are five bedrooms (2 kings, 3 queens) plus an additional private room with a double twin daybed -- 12 people can sleep in comfortable beds! I invite up to 16 to sleep over -- the additional four can sleep on couches or comfy queen air mattresses.
I have hosted many wonderful guests, as well as special events, including corporate retreats, birthday parties, bachelor(ette) parties, family reunions, murder mysteries, and many more! I look forward to hosting your special event here at the Lodge!
Languages:
English, German, Spanish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests