Fido Family Friendly Places

Dunstone Cottage is situated at the end of a private lane in the heart of Dartmoor National Park, offering a truly wonderful experience to explore the wild, beautiful, and rugged landscape. Ideally suited for couples, this cosy retreat is perfect for some time away from it all, or a wonderful romantic escape for two. The accommodation is a one-bedroom, stone barn conversion which sits alongside the owner’s farmhouse and has been thoughtfully renovated to provide high quality accommodation, featuring an open plan kitchen, dining, and living area, a beautifully furnished en-suite bedroom and a private garden. A peaceful aspect of the cottage is the garden which has stunning countryside views, a lawn, and a beautiful patio area. A great space for enjoying an al fresco meal or a glass of wine in the sunshine.
The River Plym is just a six-minute walk away from the cottage and guests can enjoy the excellent walking, riding, cycling, and fishing all available in the area. The cottage is located on the open moor and it is a lovely place to walk and gaze at the surrounding countryside where the idyllic rural scenes of ‘War Horse’ were filmed. There is a 21-mile-long cycling and walking route, Drakes Trail, which runs through nearby Yelverton and links Tavistock and Plymouth sweeping through wooded valleys and open moorland.
Nearby attractions include Buckland Abbey, The Garden House, the Plym Valley, Burrator Reservoir, or Plymouth’s city amenities which is about a 20-minute drive away. The South Devon coast is within easy reach for day trips to Salcombe and the pretty riverside village of Newton Ferrers makes a memorable day out. Other nearby attractions and places of interest in the area include Exeter, famed for its stunning cathedral and shopping, Woodlands Adventure Park, Paignton Zoo, Dartmouth Steam Railway, Torre Abbey, and numerous National Trust properties.

Mussel Inn Cottages in Down Thomas comprise of four luxurious three-bedroom holiday homes newly built in 2021, and they are set in a quiet spot next to the Mussel Inn pub. Just a 10 minute walk from Bovisand beach and with beautiful countryside views, these properties are the perfect base for being close to Plymouth, 6 miles away, yet still being in the heart of the glorious South Hams countryside. Each of the properties has three en-suite bedrooms, an open plan kitchen, living and dining area, underfloor heating downstairs and an enclosed garden with outdoor seating. They are the ultimate luxurious coastal retreats, boasting homeliness, style and charm.
The Oyster is an end terrace cottage featuring a private hot tub, an en-suite wet room on the ground floor bedroom and a slightly more spacious living area than the other properties. On entering the property, guests will love the contemporary open plan living area, dining area and kitchen which is spacious and full of light with a set of patio doors opening out into the garden. This is a lovely area to socialise and to plan your day of adventures. The kitchen is fully equipped with under counter fridge with ice box and built-in microwave and the dining area is a great space to enjoy a family meal. After a fun-filled day exploring South Devon, you can kick back on the plush sofa, relax and watch your favourite movie on the Freeview Smart TV.
Stepping outside into the enclosed garden, there is plenty of outdoor seating and a private six seater hot tub with views out over the surrounding fields with sheep grazing. You can truly unwind here after a busy day exploring and walking the coastal paths, but be aware that the hot tub might not be fully heated until 12 hours after check-in. The first of the bedrooms is located on the ground floor with a kingsize zip and link bed which can be split into 2ft 6in single beds on request and an en-suite wet room, heading up to the first floor, you will find the other two bedrooms, both kingsize with zip and link beds which can be split into 2ft 6in singles on request, and they each have an En-suite shower room.
This part of South Devon covers one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the UK from Dartmouth to Plymouth. Much of the coastal area is owned by the National Trust and designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The cottages are near the South West coastal path with exhilarating cliff top walks and beaches. Along the coast to the east is the River Yealm estuary and yachting haven of Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo. With beautiful surroundings and close to the sea, Mussel Inn Cottages are the perfect choice for a truly memorable family holiday.
The Oyster can be booked together with The Tawny (ref UK33055), The Cowrie (ref UK33057) and The Cockle (ref UK33058) to accommodate up to 24 guests.

A historic and charming dog-friendly hotel in the picturesque Kenn Valley near Exeter which offers a delightful retreat immersed in the enchanting landscapes of Devon.

Eastacombe is a traditional, detached village cottage that has undergone a complete transformation, having been totally renovated and extended in 2022/23. Access by car is easy to Eggesford Forest (10 miles towards Exeter), with the local country pub just a bit further along the A377 where you can have lunch before a walk in the woods. If you like a round of golf, more locally is Libbaton Golf Club at High Bickington, just 3 miles away, where anyone can have a game along with a beer or two and a meal.
The amazing accommodation on offer comprises four bedrooms on the first floor; two with lovely en-suites and all with Smart TVs. On the ground floor you’ll find the fifth bedroom, plus there’s a handy additional wet room. The living spaces include a huge open plan living space with a kitchen and large breakfast bar, as well as all the cooking utensils you may need. If you fancy relaxing away from the rest of the group there’s a gorgeous snug with a cosy wood burner at the front of the cottage. Outside you’ll find the patio and lawned garden, with a purpose built outdoor cooking area with a pizza oven and barbecue, and then there’s the hot tub you can relax in under the stars. And if you fancy some entertaining, you’ll love the games room which has pool and table tennis tables, table football and a dart board, plus a games console and its own toilet.
Within easy reach by car are the county’s two National Parks; Exmoor and Dartmoor. The location is 8 miles from the regional capital town of Barnstaple with its many cafés and restaurants, Queens Theatre, multi-screen cinema, leisure centre with swimming pool, a purpose-built tennis centre with indoor and outdoor courts, and an indoor trampoline centre. Just 30 miles to the south is the historic city of Exeter.
North Devon is famed for its fantastic natural attractions such as Exmoor National Park, with its magical night skies in Europe’s first ’Dark Sky Reserve’, the many rugged coastal towns and quaint villages such as Lynton and Lynmouth, Ilfracombe and the world-famous Clovelly Village. If stunning beaches are your thing, then the region will leave you spoilt for choice with Saunton, Woolacombe, Croyde and Westward Ho! Beaches. The fantastic South West Coast Path runs through the region’s rugged coastline, perfect for walkers and view seekers and offering 90 miles of stunning walks.

The Cider Barn is a luxurious and spacious three-bedroom holiday home with a hot tub, two bathrooms and a large private garden set in the heart of Devon. Originally a 17th-century farmstead, the accommodation has been refurbished to a high standard for up to six guests to enjoy, and the property feels stylish and beautiful with its unique interiors. The barn is attached to the back of the owner’s farmhouse but guests will have private access with their own front door and driveway space, enough for up to four cars.
As you enter, you will be welcomed into the hallway area which has bench seating, a washer/dryer, and is perfect for hanging coats up and kicking off those wellies after a bracing walk in the countryside. The spacious living room is comfortably furnished with a large corner sofa, Smart TV with Freeview and a gas wood burner. One of the kingsize bedrooms is located on the ground floor and there is a handy shower room across the hallway.
Head upstairs to discover the other two kingsize bedrooms, one of which has zip and link beds and can be set up with twin beds if requested. The family bathroom is fitted with a shower over the bath, offering the choice of a relaxing soak or a refreshing shower. The elegant kitchen/diner is also located on the first floor, making the most of the beautiful views across the countryside. It is well equipped with all the key appliances and offers plenty of space to enjoy a meal together sat at the large dining table.
The secluded garden is a fantastic space to relax and unwind in with its lawn, seating area, charcoal barbeque and private wood-fired hot tub backing onto the surrounding fields. A pizza oven can be rented for a small fee and trout fishing is also available on request. There are two footpaths meandering through the owner’s land which can be accessed 100m from the front door of The Cider Barn, leading off into the fields or to the local pubs which serve the most delicious food.
The historic cathedral city of Exeter is 12 miles away with easy parking and a direct rail link from Crediton. The scenic national parks of Exmoor and Dartmoor are within a 40-minute drive away. Dartmoor is a vast moorland defined by forests, rivers, wetlands, and tors (rock formations). The South Devon ‘Jurassic’ coast is a 50-minute drive away while the rugged North Devon coast and surfing beaches are a 60-minute drive away. The Cider Barn is ideal for families and groups of friends looking for a peaceful, relaxing holiday.

The graceful spire of Holbeton church greets you first as you enter this tranquil Devon valley - along with a sign to let you know that you are now in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Then, almost immediately, you get your first glimpse of your stunningly beautiful detached property as you drive through the exquisite craftsman made metal gates. This unusual and much loved home is the perfect retreat. You will almost certainly take breakfast in the sun room as you plan your day, and, what could be a nicer start, than by feeding the koi carp in their 28 foot long, hand tiled water feature whilst sipping your first cuppa! The fully equipped kitchen opens onto the calm and inviting dining area that features a large marble top table. As you explore the house, you will first be delighted at the original art on the walls. Be prepared to have your breath taken away by the fabulous, handmade, wrought iron staircase and you’ll know that you are somewhere very special. The downstairs open plan living area is light and comfortable and perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying the spectacular views. Should the weather keep you indoors, simply settle back with Netflix, for a truly cosy evening. The totally private landscaped gardens are yours to enjoy, as are an extra two acres of pasture which are perfect for dog walking. You can spend your afternoons chilling on the sunny, south facing deck watching the wildlife of this peaceful Devon valley.

Alternatively, take a 2-mile walk to the coast through secluded woodland to laze on sandy Mothecombe beach. Totnes, a handsome market town in the South Hams, is easily reached and river cruises can be taken from here down to Dartmouth during the summer months. The owner lives close by and is on hand for help and local knowledge. Whatever you decide, you’ll certainly want to round off the evening with a soak under the stars in your private hot tub with its magically lit amphitheatre. Your stay here at Pentire will rejuvenate and delight you and when you leave you will probably be planning your next visit before you even drive out of the gates! Please note that the koi carp pond can be covered with secure netting on request. Parents with small children should also be aware that the garden has an unfenced drop. Bird watching, horse riding, golf and fishing can all be found locally. Beach 2¼ miles. Shop pub and restaurant 150 yards.

Oaklands is a luxurious and spacious holiday home set in its own acre of ground, with three beautiful bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, dining and living area all on the same level. Perfect for a family or a group of friends to relax and get away from it all with plenty of opportunities to spot the neighbouring wildlife in the surrounding fields. The doorways are wide enough for wheelchairs and ramps can be provided over the doorways if requested, however please note the property hasn’t been specifically set-up for wheelchair users so the kitchen and bathrooms may not be suitable The accommodation feels bright and welcoming with high beamed ceilings, underfloor heating throughout and plenty of large windows, patio doors and sliding doors seamlessly blending the living spaces with the outdoor landscape. Guests will love the rural tranquil location with plenty of wildlife, starry skies, distant views of Dartmoor and beautiful scenery that this perfect get away can offer.
The large kitchen is fully equipped with a farmhouse cooker with two ovens and an induction hob, a fridge/freezer, microwave, coffee machine, dishwasher and a washing machine. After a fun-filled day exploring Devon, gather your friends and family around the large dining table for a celebratory homecooked meal and relax on the comfortable sofas and armchairs or sit outside with a glass of wine and watch the sun go down.
There are three comfortably furnished bedrooms. The master has a kingsize bed, an en-suite shower room and patio doors opening out onto the beautiful decked area. The second bedroom has a kingsize bed and the third has twin beds. The family bathroom is fitted with a bath, shower cubicle, heated towel rail, toilet, wash basin, and a mirror with a shaver socket.
Sit outside and enjoy the peace of the garden with its decked area, large enclosed garden with scenic views and plenty of outdoor seating. There’s surely no more relaxing way to spend a sunny afternoon? A lockable bike and surfboard storage is available on request too. Or enjoy walks on the public footpath from Oaklands to the local village, Stockleigh Pomeroy, or Cheriton Fitzpaine, explore the surrounding countryside or just relax and enjoy the views. Stockleigh Pomeroy is 4 miles from Crediton, 8 miles from Tiverton and 8 miles from the historic cathedral city of Exeter.
The award-winning North Devon coastline is within an hour’s drive with its golden sandy surfing beaches and the Jurassic South Devon coastal beauty spots are within a 45-minute drive. The breathtaking scenery of the National Parks of Dartmoor and Exmoor filled with hidden gems and places to explore are within a 40-minute drive. A wealth of attractions are within easy reach including Thornes Farm Shop which is 440 yards away and famous for its strawberries with a variety of pick your own with shop and restaurant. The nearest award winning pub is just over a mile away, and within a 10-minute drive you have Bickleigh Mill, Devon Railway Centre and Bickleigh Castle. A bit further afield you have The Grand Western Canal and Cycle Route, the Royal Albert Museum in Exeter, and the National Trust’s Knightshayes, Killerton, and Castle Drogo, as well as RHS Rosemoor and Crealy Adventure Park, to name just a few. Beach 21 miles.