Dog friendly Cottages England

Our largest cottage at Tresooth, Trelawney is a two storey unit with a private courtyard and hot tub, located in the central stone courtyard. 

"Peace and tranquillity set amongst Yorkshire’s finest countryside and long stretches of magnificent beaches..."


Steeped in history these former barn buildings have been lovingly restored using all of the original materials. Presented to a very high standard and offering spacious accommodation, each holiday cottage has its own enclosed garden for sole use, to while away the hours overlooking stunning paddocks where deer and foxes play. Guests have free use of the owners’ private indoor heated swimming pool, a communal games room and a children’s play area. The complex is surrounded by open countryside and a newly planted broad leaf woodland area, and is only four miles from the pretty village of Brandesburton. Oaklands wedding venue is situated in the 150 acres of woodland that surround the properties. Struncheon Hill Farm is a haven for those who enjoy having fun around water with a river, lake and pond nearby. Fishing, canal cruises and a Jet Ski and Diving School are less than half a mile from the door. Visitors will find locally an 18-hole golf course, horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, a parachute and gliding centre, and an RSPB bird sanctuary.

Just a short drive leads to the traditional seaside resorts of Bridlington, Scarborough and Filey with miles of Blue Flag sandy beaches, colourful promenades, inns and tea rooms in abundance, offering the perfect family day out. Walking and cycling tracks surround the cottages and there is easy access to the Yorkshire Wolds - one of Yorkshire’s best-kept secrets. Robin Hoods Bay is well worth a visit, where children will love the chance to search for fossils amongst the rock pools. For stunning views, Flamborough Head is a must and visitors will delight in the puffin colonies that cling to the cliff side. For an alternative day trip, York will not disappoint and meandering along the cobbled streets of ‘The Shambles’, packed with curio and antique shops, as well as many museums including The National Railway Museum and Jorvik Viking Centre will keep both adults and children alike amused for hours. Explore British heritage when visiting stately homes and halls such as Burton Agnes Hall with its large collection of Monet and Renoir paintings, or Sledmere Hall with its beautiful gardens only a 30-minute drive away. The attractive market town of Beverley 12 miles away, where visitors can enjoy ancient cobbled streets, quaint shops and friendly local people, completes the area of peace and tranquility surrounding Struncheon Hill Farm. Shops, pub and restaurant 4 miles.

Four Bays (IOH), River View (IOJ), Broad Leaf (IOK), Woodlands (IOL), Meadow View (IOM) and The Loft (UKC2652) can be booked together to accommodate up to 50 guests.

Nestled within 240 acres of unspoilt farmland, in the glorious South Hams midway between Dartmoor and the stunning south Devon beaches, Wheeldon Farm Cottages are the perfect choice for family, friends and couples to enjoy a relaxing retreat or an action packed escape at any time of year. The four delightful, pet-friendly barn conversions (refs 27214, 27215, 27216 and UKC748), which could be booked together for larger parties, sit within a lovely courtyard setting surrounded by miles of footpaths and green lanes, ideal for walking or cycling. The master bedroom in each property features a flatscreen TV, and home-made meals can be pre-ordered and delivered to the cottage (arranged direct with the owner). The cottages lie just a short distance from some of south Devon’s finest beaches and tourist attractions, including the historic town of Totnes which is just 15 minutes away and sits on the River Dart with cruises down river to Greenway and Dartmouth. A cosmopolitan town, Totnes, 7 miles away, has a vast array of independent shops, weekly markets, galleries, leisure centre and many lovely restaurants, bistros and cafés. The seaside towns of Paignton and Torquay are 40 minutes’ drive, and it is just a 15-minute drive to the yachting haven of Dartmouth, and the coastline between Dartmouth and Kingsbridge, both 7 miles away, has many stunning beaches, hidden coves and fantastic coastal walks.

Guests of these cottages can also enjoy a range of on-site facilities suitable for all the family, including a heated indoor swimming pool (available via a booking system) with a private changing room and shower. There is a large games room set over two floors, including a fitness room with a cross trainer, treadmill, rowing machine and exercise bike. The top floor of the games room has a full-size American pool table, big sofa and Sky TV. The bottom floor has table tennis and table football. On-site there is also a laundry and ironing room. If you are looking for adventure and an adrenalin rush, then Wheeldon Farm Cottages will not disappoint. The Wheeldon Off-Road Centre, adjacent to the cottages, boasts a purpose-built, 30,000 square foot indoor arena (split in separate halves for motorbikes and bicycles) and junior training circuit, and is the ideal year-round venue for the whole family to learn to ride a motorcycle in a fun and controlled environment. Discounted rates are available for children and adults during the school holidays (booking by arrangement and on arrival), providing children and adults with the opportunity to experience the ultimate, two-wheel off-road adventure for the first time. The instructors at Wheeldon Farm are all ACU accredited and will guide the children through their paces every step of the way. For some activities, all the kit, clothing, boots, gloves, helmets and fun bikes are provided. All that’s needed is the enthusiasm to have a great deal of fun! Suited to all ages from 7 years to fit seniors. Wheeldon Farm now offers all of it’s holiday cottage customers a free 1 hour ‘taster’ ride on our professionally maintained Haibike electric bikes, after which they are available to hire. The bikes are perfect for exploring the beautiful South Devon countryside in an environmentally friendly way. We can advise you on the best routes to ride and places to explore.

In addition to all the motorbike fun, a range of other activities can also be organised locally, including horse riding, golf, go-karting and trout and carp fishing. Also, clay pigeon shooting, air rifle and archery are available - these are run by a fully qualified instructor and all equipment is provided. The activities run on a Monday, Thursday and Sunday. Prices will be charged accordingly when bookings are made. Please note, extra activities and catering requests must be pre-booked with Wheeldon Farm Cottages prior to guests’ arrival at the site. Foxglove (ref 27214), Poppy (ref 27215), Monkshood (ref 27216) and Mad Nelly Cottage (ref UKC748) can be booked together to accommodate up to 29 guests. Beach 10 miles. Shop 3 miles, pub 2 miles and restaurant 6 miles.

Nestled within 240 acres of unspoilt farmland, in the glorious South Hams midway between Dartmoor and the stunning south Devon beaches, Wheeldon Farm Cottages are the perfect choice for family, friends and couples to enjoy a relaxing retreat or an action packed escape at any time of year. The four delightful, pet-friendly barn conversions (refs 27214, 27215, 27216 and UKC748), which could be booked together for larger parties, sit within a lovely courtyard setting surrounded by miles of footpaths and green lanes, ideal for walking or cycling. The master bedroom in each property features a flatscreen TV, and home-made meals can be pre-ordered and delivered to the cottage (arranged direct with the owner). The cottages lie just a short distance from some of south Devon’s finest beaches and tourist attractions, including the historic town of Totnes which is just 15 minutes away and sits on the River Dart with cruises down river to Greenway and Dartmouth. A cosmopolitan town, Totnes, 7 miles away, has a vast array of independent shops, weekly markets, galleries, leisure centre and many lovely restaurants, bistros and cafés. The seaside towns of Paignton and Torquay are 40 minutes’ drive, and it is just a 15-minute drive to the yachting haven of Dartmouth, and the coastline between Dartmouth and Kingsbridge, both 7 miles away, has many stunning beaches, hidden coves and fantastic coastal walks.

Guests of these cottages can also enjoy a range of on-site facilities suitable for all the family, including a heated indoor swimming pool (available via a booking system) with a private changing room and shower. There is a large games room set over two floors, including a fitness room with a cross trainer, treadmill, rowing machine and exercise bike. The top floor of the games room has a full-size American pool table, big sofa and Sky TV. The bottom floor has table tennis and table football. On-site there is also a laundry and ironing room. If you are looking for adventure and an adrenalin rush, then Wheeldon Farm Cottages will not disappoint. The Wheeldon Off-Road Centre, adjacent to the cottages, boasts a purpose-built, 30,000 square foot indoor arena (split in separate halves for motorbikes and bicycles) and junior training circuit, and is the ideal year-round venue for the whole family to learn to ride a motorcycle in a fun and controlled environment. Discounted rates are available for children and adults during the school holidays (booking by arrangement and on arrival), providing children and adults with the opportunity to experience the ultimate, two-wheel off-road adventure for the first time. The instructors at Wheeldon Farm are all ACU accredited and will guide the children through their paces every step of the way. For some activities, all the kit, clothing, boots, gloves, helmets and fun bikes are provided. All that’s needed is the enthusiasm to have a great deal of fun! Suited to all ages from 7 years to fit seniors. Wheeldon Farm now offers all of it’s holiday cottage customers a free 1 hour ‘taster’ ride on our professionally maintained Haibike electric bikes, after which they are available to hire. The bikes are perfect for exploring the beautiful South Devon countryside in an environmentally friendly way. We can advise you on the best routes to ride and places to explore.

In addition to all the motorbike fun, a range of other activities can also be organised locally, including horse riding, golf, go-karting and trout and carp fishing. Also, clay pigeon shooting, air rifle and archery are available - these are run by a fully qualified instructor and all equipment is provided. The activities run on a Monday, Thursday and Sunday. Prices will be charged accordingly when bookings are made. Please note, extra activities and catering requests must be pre-booked with Wheeldon Farm Cottages prior to guests’ arrival at the site. Foxglove (ref 27214), Poppy (ref 27215), Monkshood (ref 27216) and Mad Nelly Cottage (ref UKC748) can be booked together to accommodate up to 29 guests. Beach 10 miles. Shop 3 miles, pub 2 miles and restaurant 6 miles.

Nestled within 240 acres of unspoilt farmland, in the glorious South Hams midway between Dartmoor and the stunning south Devon beaches, Wheeldon Farm Cottages are the perfect choice for family, friends and couples to enjoy a relaxing retreat or an action packed escape at any time of year. The four delightful, pet-friendly barn conversions (refs 27214, 27215, 27216 and UKC748), which could be booked together for larger parties, sit within a lovely courtyard setting surrounded by miles of footpaths and green lanes, ideal for walking or cycling. The master bedroom in each property features a flatscreen TV, and home-made meals can be pre-ordered and delivered to the cottage (arranged direct with the owner). The cottages lie just a short distance from some of south Devon’s finest beaches and tourist attractions, including the historic town of Totnes which is just 15 minutes away and sits on the River Dart with cruises down river to Greenway and Dartmouth. A cosmopolitan town, Totnes, 7 miles away, has a vast array of independent shops, weekly markets, galleries, leisure centre and many lovely restaurants, bistros and cafés. The seaside towns of Paignton and Torquay are 40 minutes’ drive, and it is just a 15-minute drive to the yachting haven of Dartmouth, and the coastline between Dartmouth and Kingsbridge, both 7 miles away, has many stunning beaches, hidden coves and fantastic coastal walks.

Guests of these cottages can also enjoy a range of on-site facilities suitable for all the family, including a heated indoor swimming pool (available via a booking system) with a private changing room and shower. There is a large games room set over two floors, including a fitness room with a cross trainer, treadmill, rowing machine and exercise bike. The top floor of the games room has a full-size American pool table, big sofa and Sky TV. The bottom floor has table tennis and table football. On-site there is also a laundry and ironing room. If you are looking for adventure and an adrenalin rush, then Wheeldon Farm Cottages will not disappoint. The Wheeldon Off-Road Centre, adjacent to the cottages, boasts a purpose-built, 30,000 square foot indoor arena (split in separate halves for motorbikes and bicycles) and junior training circuit, and is the ideal year-round venue for the whole family to learn to ride a motorcycle in a fun and controlled environment. Discounted rates are available for children and adults during the school holidays (booking by arrangement and on arrival), providing children and adults with the opportunity to experience the ultimate, two-wheel off-road adventure for the first time. The instructors at Wheeldon Farm are all ACU accredited and will guide the children through their paces every step of the way. For some activities, all the kit, clothing, boots, gloves, helmets and fun bikes are provided. All that’s needed is the enthusiasm to have a great deal of fun! Suited to all ages from 7 years to fit seniors. Wheeldon Farm now offers all of it’s holiday cottage customers a free 1 hour ‘taster’ ride on our professionally maintained Haibike electric bikes, after which they are available to hire. The bikes are perfect for exploring the beautiful South Devon countryside in an environmentally friendly way. We can advise you on the best routes to ride and places to explore.

In addition to all the motorbike fun, a range of other activities can also be organised locally, including horse riding, golf, go-karting and trout and carp fishing. Also, clay pigeon shooting, air rifle and archery are available - these are run by a fully qualified instructor and all equipment is provided. The activities run on a Monday, Thursday and Sunday. Prices will be charged accordingly when bookings are made. Please note, extra activities and catering requests must be pre-booked with Wheeldon Farm Cottages prior to guests’ arrival at the site. Foxglove (ref 27214), Poppy (ref 27215), Monkshood (ref 27216) and Mad Nelly Cottage (ref UKC748) can be booked together to accommodate up to 29 guests. Beach 10 miles. Shop 3 miles, pub 2 miles and restaurant 6 miles.

"Devon’s best kept secret... Just inland from some of Devon’s loveliest and most natural beaches lies the village of Tuckenhay set along Bow Creek on the River Dart...."


In a setting of stunning natural beauty, Mill Bank (ref UK33902) is the latest addition to a superb choice of cottages at Tuckenhay Mill. An extremely spacious two-person cottage having a living, dining, kitchen area on the higher level with two south-facing balconies overlooking the stream towards the Mill. The master bedroom and en-suite shower room are on the lower level, together with the riverside day room. Your own footpath leads from the garden via a footbridge to the facilities at the Mill.
Tuckenhay Mill is the centrepiece of a cluster of country homes and cottages with superb leisure facilities including two indoor and one outdoor pools.
The Mill which once produced some of the finest paper in the land, nestles in the green and shady Bow Creek, a languid inlet of the River Dart where private yachts have replaced the old tall-masted ships and barges. Around the mill are all the buildings which once went to make up a small bustling village port. These listed buildings have been sympathetically restored and converted to a delightful range of holiday properties to suit larger family parties. Awards have been won for the conversion of buildings and the conservation of the area. With so much to do, many holidaymakers return year after year. There is golf nearby and a pub within 1 mile.



South Devon awaits you
Tuckenhay is only a 20-minute drive from the superb award-winning beach at Blackpool Sands and about 30 minutes from a surfing beach at Bantham, as well as some of the best natural beaches to be found anywhere in the UK.
There is also extensive access to the coastal footpath for walking and the wilderness that is Dartmoor for walking, climbing and riding.
This is a mecca for ramblers, bird-watchers, swimmers, surfers, horse riders, golfers and those interested in fishing, boating, sailing and windsurfing.
In addition, there are many historic NT houses to visit including Agatha Christies’s Greenway as well as a local vineyard.
Tuckenhay is only 5 miles inland from Dartmouth and 3 from the market town of Totnes. Village shop 3½ miles. Riverside inn and restaurant within walking distance.



A superb choice of cottages
Great care has been taken to retain the feel of the original buildings. Most have garden, terrace or patio. Many cottages have more than one bathroom and some have an en-suite bathroom to every bedroom. Kitchens are comprehensively equipped: most have dishwashers and all have microwave cookers.
Couples and honeymooners will feel snug and comfortable in the cottages: Mill Leat, Mill Stream, Mill Spring and now Mill Bank. Families can spread out in Papermaker’s or Turbine Cottages, while Mill Lodge, Edgecombe Barn and Tuckenhay Mill House will sleep larger parties in comfort. Of course, combinations of cottages can accommodate bigger gatherings of family or friends.

"Peace and tranquillity set amongst Yorkshire’s finest countryside and long stretches of magnificent beaches..."


Steeped in history these former barn buildings have been lovingly restored using all of the original materials. Presented to a very high standard and offering spacious accommodation, each holiday cottage has its own enclosed garden for sole use, to while away the hours overlooking stunning paddocks where deer and foxes play. Guests have free use of the owners’ private indoor heated swimming pool, a communal games room and a children’s play area. The complex is surrounded by open countryside and a newly planted broad leaf woodland area, and is only four miles from the pretty village of Brandesburton. Oaklands wedding venue is situated in the 150 acres of woodland that surround the properties. Struncheon Hill Farm is a haven for those who enjoy having fun around water with a river, lake and pond nearby. Fishing, canal cruises and a Jet Ski and Diving School are less than half a mile from the door. Visitors will find locally an 18-hole golf course, horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, a parachute and gliding centre, and an RSPB bird sanctuary.

Just a short drive leads to the traditional seaside resorts of Bridlington, Scarborough and Filey with miles of Blue Flag sandy beaches, colourful promenades, inns and tea rooms in abundance, offering the perfect family day out. Walking and cycling tracks surround the cottages and there is easy access to the Yorkshire Wolds - one of Yorkshire’s best-kept secrets. Robin Hoods Bay is well worth a visit, where children will love the chance to search for fossils amongst the rock pools. For stunning views, Flamborough Head is a must and visitors will delight in the puffin colonies that cling to the cliff side. For an alternative day trip, York will not disappoint and meandering along the cobbled streets of ‘The Shambles’, packed with curio and antique shops, as well as many museums including The National Railway Museum and Jorvik Viking Centre will keep both adults and children alike amused for hours. Explore British heritage when visiting stately homes and halls such as Burton Agnes Hall with its large collection of Monet and Renoir paintings, or Sledmere Hall with its beautiful gardens only a 30-minute drive away. The attractive market town of Beverley 12 miles away, where visitors can enjoy ancient cobbled streets, quaint shops and friendly local people, completes the area of peace and tranquility surrounding Struncheon Hill Farm. Shops, pub and restaurant 4 miles.

Four Bays (IOH), River View (IOJ), Broad Leaf (IOK), Woodlands (IOL), Meadow View (IOM) and The Loft (UKC2652) can be booked together to accommodate up to 50 guests.

Bowlees Holiday Cottages are nestled on a hillside in the heart of County Durham, located a mile from the idyllic conservation village of Wolsingham in the Durham Dales. Raby Cottage (ref 27764), Durham Cottage (ref 27765) and Heartwell Cottage (ref UKC1473) are delightful, semi-detached properties. The Farmhouse (ref UKC3218) is detached and boasts everything a large party could ask for. Furnished to a very good standard, The Farmhouse is spacious, light and has ample facilities for up to 16 guests. There is a family suite on the ground floor which has curved walls and a high ceiling, and was previously a gin gang. There is a further suite on the first floor which has a galleried en-suite boasting a huge bath and equally impressive shower area. With a private hot tub, large lawned garden and views across the owner’s unspoilt grounds, which cover nearly 60 acres, guests may never want to leave. These holiday properties are absolutely perfect for families, walkers, cyclists and groups of friends wanting to enjoy a super holiday together. Additionally there is an on-site facility (open 9am-9pm) with games room with full-size snooker table, a heated indoor swimming pool and a shared hot tub. There is also a fishing lake that can be used by guests. Whether you choose to take in the scenic countryside that County Durham has to offer, or are looking for a quieter retreat, this is an ideal holiday base.

For guests who enjoy exploring the local area on foot or by bike, there are numerous established public footpaths and cycle paths that lead directly from the owner’s grounds. These paths go through some of the most scenic woodland and unspoilt countryside in the county. Just minutes away are Tunstall Reservoir and Hamsterley Forest, with bike riding, horse riding and many other activities available. Kilhope Lead Mining Centre and Beamish Museum are close by, as is a real snow ski lift.

Located around 30 minutes from the historic city of Durham with its World Heritage site status, cathedral and castle, guests really must take a day trip there to explore and enjoy all of the historic attractions, as well as indulging in a spot of well-earned retail therapy in one of the many boutiques. Alternatively, visitors can treat themselves to afternoon tea in one of the numerous cafés, restaurants and bistros. The National Railway Museum at Shildon, High Force Waterfall, the Metro Centre, Newcastle Airport, Durham Tees Valley Airport, Diggerland and Newcastle city centre, with its cultural attractions, are all within easy reach. Visit Hadrian’s Wall, Lake District National Park and the beautiful north east coastline. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles. These properties can be booked together to accommodate up to 43 guests.

Town Mills is a historic, Grade II listed former Mill and Manor House situated on the banks of the River Torridge on the outskirts of Great Torrington in North Devon. Built by Lord Rolle in 1823 and made famous as ‘Tarka’s Mill’ in Henry Williamson’s book ‘Tarka The Otter’, Town Mills started life as a Grain Mill and a Saw Mill, both mills being powered by waterwheels. Now, almost 200 years later, Town Mills has been sympathetically converted into seven well-appointed holiday cottages all with their own charm and personality.
From a cosy holiday cottage that sleeps three people, to a larger six-bedroom holiday cottage that sleeps twelve, every cottage benefits from character and charm combined with modern convenience. Located in the beautiful North Devon countryside, Town Mills is ideally situated for visiting the North Devon Coast, Exmoor, travelling The Tarka Trail, or visiting our next-door neighbour, the RHS Gardens at Rosemoor.
Riverside is one of the most popular cottages at Town Mills, partly because of its location and private veranda overlooking the river. This charming two-storey cottage originally formed part of the stable blocks almost 200 years ago. It is a good-sized four-bedroom property. On the ground floor there is a double bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, and a twin bedroom. Both of these bedrooms have French windows offering easy access to the veranda. With nobody to overlook you, waking up to the views of the river and countryside is a great way to start the day. The main bathroom is also downstairs, and has an over-bath shower, plus toilet and wash basin. Two further twin rooms are located upstairs. A selection of outdoor furniture on the veranda provides the ideal setting for enjoying a little al-fresco dining whilst looking at the local wildlife. You may spot an otter if you’re lucky.
On-site, there is a indoor shared swimming pool which is kept warm between 31-32 degrees, so is suitable for even the smallest guests. The owners offer the opportunity to reserve the pool for your exclusive use, allowing you the chance for a session of family fun, or a quiet moment to relax. There is a games room with a free pool table and a classic table football, along with a dart board and fruit machine. Located by the riverside, but securely fenced, the children’s play area offers picnic bench seating with swings, slide and climbing frame, as well as an elevated playhouse, its the ideal spot to spend a lazy afternoon with a picnic whilst trying to spot an otter or some of the other many local wildlife visitors. For younger guests, there is a kids hideaway where they can escape to. On the opposite side of the Mill there is a garden where you can enjoy a few moments, maybe have a picnic or watch the peacocks as they wander around.
The countryside around Town Mills is dotted with sleepy villages nestled among the hills, while extensive woodlands, traversed by many footpaths, offer the chance to experience the area’s natural beauty. Local attractions include the renowned RHS gardens at Rosemoor (adjacent) and Dartington Crystal, offering a factory tour and visitor centre. Great Torrington is only a mile away with good shopping and amenities, and there is golf at nearby Hartland. Town Mills adjoins Torrington Common which extends to 365 acres, incorporating 20 miles of footpaths. The common is a haven for wildlife. The ‘Big Sheep’ and ‘Milky Way’ theme parks are each less than 10 miles away.
The River Torridge runs downstream to the ancient port of Bideford, still with a working quay offering boat trips to Lundy Island. Just around the corner is the attractive little town of Appledore with its colourful houses and narrow streets. To either side lies Devon’s most spectacular stretch of coastal scenery – a chain of magnificent cliffs and rocky promontories, interspersed here and there by long flat sandy beaches, where the Atlantic breakers roll in to create ideal surfing conditions. There are splendid beaches at Instow and Westward Ho!, the latter bordered by the Royal North Devon Golf Club, and the Northam Nature Reserve. Further west is the supremely picturesque Clovelly, with narrow, cobbled main street descending at a dizzying gradient to the little harbour below. The cathedral city of Exeter can be reached via a delightful drive through lush river valleys.
Town Mills offers very attractive accommodation set in 3 acres of beautiful gardens with streams, waterfalls and the water wheel which is still operational. This superb location makes a wonderful holiday base, especially for families, with sandy beaches on the North Devon coast only 10 miles away. Shop ½ mile.

"Outstanding variety... situated in beautiful rolling Devon countryside and offering easy access to the many beaches of South and East Devon and the untamed beauty of Dartmoor. With a heated indoor swimming pool and quality recreational facilities, Newhouse Barton has it all"


Whether seeking an active family holiday or a relaxing weekend to recharge the batteries, Newhouse Barton is the perfect location from which to explore the South Hams, the Dart Estuary and Dartmoor. Located midway between Totnes and Newton Abbott, this collection of sympathetically and carefully restored barns and farm cottages enjoy a superb range of on-site facilities including a Roman-style heated indoor swimming pool (no additional charge), a traffic-free and child-friendly setting with young children’s play area and a furnished games room with pool table, table tennis, table football and toys for younger guests.

Nearby there is a range of quality restaurants and pubs serving an excellent range of food to suit all tastes and budgets. The surrounding area offers a beguiling mix of attractions to suit all tastes and ages. The seaside towns and villages from chic Salcombe to Torquay on the ‘English Riviera’, with its palm trees and sub-tropical plants, emanate a Mediterranean feel. Totnes is a 10-minute drive away, with a medieval castle and a thriving arts and crafts scene. Teignmouth is a traditional Victorian seaside resort with a nature reserve at Dawlish Warren, a hotspot for bird watching. Exeter has a world famous cathedral, quays and a shopping centre. For the more active, there’s surfing at Bigbury or visit Haldon Forest, with its cycle and nature trails and Go Ape! For the children, Torbay is easily reached, with Paignton Zoo and Living Coasts.

The wild beauty of Dartmoor is 20 minutes away with its abundance of wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Numerous National Trust properties are close by including Agatha Christie’s Greenway. Steam trains travel from Kingswear to Paignton and Totnes to Buckfastleigh. Visit historic Dartmouth with bustling boat harbour, castle, contemporary art galleries and boutiques. Salcombe with its beaches, sailing and watersports is also easily accessible, as well as Blackpool Sands, Slapton and picturesque Dittisham with its annual crab catching competition. Slightly further afield, East Cornwall and the Eden Project are within an hour’s drive, and the East Devon coast is easily accessible with its unique fishing port at Beer and beaches at Sidmouth and Branscombe. Local shops 1½ miles.