Escape to the Country

Tucked away in the heart of the mid-Devon countryside lies Hazelnut Lodge. With views over surrounding fields to the countryside beyond, this is the perfect place to get away from it all and enjoy the peace and quiet. Located in the grounds of the owner’s smallholding, there is a private drive leading down to the property. Skirted by the private woods, there is a large garden and sitting-out area. The spacious open plan living space is complimented by an inviting bedroom with its super kingsize bed. Patio doors lead from the living area onto the patio giving further access to a decking area for dining al fresco. Hazelnut Lodge is a comfortable base from which to explore all that Devon has to offer. Exeter is easily reached, and has a wide variety of shops, restaurants and, of course, its historic cathedral. Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks are accessible and provide walking for all abilities and stunning scenery. There are a number of National Trust properties in the area, most notably Castle Drogo and Arlington Court. Also within easy reach (20 miles) is Powderham Castle. This remarkable 14th century castle, set in a beautiful deer park on the banks of the River Exe, has been home to the same family since 1391. Visitors are encouraged to explore the picturesque gardens, discover the interior beauty of the castle and to take part in some of the events which are held throughout the year. The wonderful RHS gardens at Rosemoor and the Dartington Crystal Factory are worth a visit and both these attractions are based at Great Torrington. There is golf, fishing and horse riding available in the local area and cycle hire can be arranged on the Tarka Trail at various locations. Shop 3 miles, pub 1¼ miles and restaurant 5 miles.

Hartland Holiday Barns are located in the perfect place to enjoy the peace of rural life but are just a short drive to stunning North Devon coastal villages such as Hartland and Clovelly, and slightly further to the broad sandy beaches in Bude, Cornwall. Being situated in one of North Devon’s finest rural and coastal areas, overlooking the meadows, these three barn conversions (refs UK12106, UK12107 and UK12108) are popular with those who enjoy walking holidays, want to relax and recharge their batteries, and those who wish to bring a four legged friend. With high vaulted ceilings and oak floors throughout, these impressive barns have been given contemporary interiors crafted from eco-friendly, and where possible, sustainable materials without compromising on comfort or modern facilities. Relax with your morning coffee on your courtyard seating area, or why not enjoy a barbecue in the shared area surrounded by a herb garden. Additional shared facilities include a large meadow, perfect for walking the dog or leisurely picnics.

The owner’s private smallholding adjacent includes a large organic vegetable plot and greenhouse, chickens, geese, ducks, cats and a dog. They have instituted a rolling management of hedges to encourage all kinds of wildlife and have positioned owl, bat, bird and nature boxes. They have also created covered shelters and small ponds for amphibians around the shared meadow. Guests are encouraged to use the owl observatory to enjoy the local wildlife and take advantage of the sunsets and dark skies to star gaze on clear evenings.

There are many lovely coastal villages to explore including nearby Bucks Mills, Peppercombe, Clovelly, with its donkey transport, and Hartland. Just a short drive from the secluded, dog friendly, sand and shingle beach in the tiny clifftop hamlet of Bucks Mills, one of the most beautiful villages in North Devon, a secluded hidden gem with pretty white washed cottages speckled along a wooded valley at the end of a no through road. Storage for cycles, surfboards and kayaks, and access to an outdoor water supply and a drying area, are provided at the properties to help those looking for more active holiday pursuits.

The pretty village of Woolfardisworthy (Woolsery) is just 2 miles away and has a well stocked village store and post office for your daily essentials. There is also a popular village inn and adjacent fish and chip shop which serves delicious home cooked food, perfect for an evening out or an evening in with fish and chips. The beach at Westward Ho! is just 13 miles away and is renowned for its beauty. It has 2 miles of sandy beach known as the Golden Bay and is popular with surfers. Nearby Bideford has restaurants and town amenities, along with boat trips to Lundy Island, or hire a bike and explore the Tarka Trail. RHS Rosemoor Gardens, Docton Mill and Hartland Quay are well worth a visit, along with many pretty fishing villages to explore including nearby Instow and Appledore. Beach 2½ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 6 guests.