Dog-friendly Somerset

This beautiful, thatched barn conversion is the perfect choice for couples who are looking to relax in comfort and explore the hidden charms of Somerset. Adjoining the owners’ home, this property is set within the Exmoor National Park, in an area of natural beauty. The property has been furnished to a very good standard and certainly has the wow factor the moment you walk in. On the ground floor there is an open plan living area with a gas wood burner, perfect to snuggle up in front of and watch the TV. Heading upstairs you will find a spacious bedroom and bathroom with beautiful views across the countryside. Location wise, it couldn’t be more perfect with so much to do on your doorstep.

Watchet is less than a 10-minute drive away, a charming little coastal town with an old port, quaint shops and plenty of choice for dining out. You can also hop on the West Somerset Steam Train from Watchet, a very unique way of seeing the Somerset countryside. The next stop along is the medieval village of Dunster, where you can take a step back in time with its cobbled streets, quirky shops and castle, which is part of the National Trust. The Exmoor National Park is breathtaking to drive through, with its unique landscape of moorland, woodland and valleys. As well as exploring Somerset you are on the doorstep of the Devon boarder, and Cornwall can be reached within 2 hours. Heading north you can visit Bristol and Bath, so you really are spoilt for choice. The lovely beaches at Blue Anchor, Dunster, Minehead and Porlock are within easy reach, likewise in Devon, you will be spoilt for choice and you can even venture to Dorset in just over an hour. Beach 7 miles. Shops 3¼ miles, pub and restaurant 1½ miles.

When it comes to the location of this property it is going to be hard to beat. The moment you walk through the front door it has the wow factor, views across the lake and the surrounding countryside are just breathtaking. This beautiful, detached, spacious barn conversion is perfect for a family of six or a group of friends who want to get away from it all. The open-plan living, dining and kitchen area is perfect for gathering together, whether its around the warming wood burner or stepping outside onto the private patio area to enjoy some fresh air. The design of this property is very modern and just off the living room you have identical staircases leading to each side of the house, taking the right staircase will lead you one bedroom, whilst the left hand staircase takes you to two further bedrooms. Underneath the property is a cellar, equipped with a washing machine and tumble dryer, and just outside the front door is a heated outhouse, perfect to store bikes and also clothing if you have been out on the lake or enjoying the great outdoors.
This property accepts two dogs and your four legged friends are just going to be spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring and running around. There is stabling available for up to 3 horses, either as livery or DIY (by direct arrangement with the owner). Turn-out is also available, as well as food and bedding (fees apply). There is parking for up to a 7.5 ton horse-box, excellent off-road hacking in the local area and guided hacks can be arranged with the owner. Please note that any horses must be vaccinated.


Location wise you’re in for a treat as Harewood Barn is set within the Exmoor National Park and just set back from Wimbleball Lake. The activity centre for Wimbleball Lake is a short walk from the property, and for the more active visitor there are miles of walking and cycling trails, archery, climbing and a fantastic range of water sports. To get on the water, visitors can either bring their own craft and pay a launch fee or hire kayaks, sailing boats, stand up paddle boards, windsurfs and rowing boats. For those who prefer a more relaxing visit there are plentiful meadows, woodlands and picnic areas, a great escape from modern life’s hustle and bustle.

Wimbleball is also a fantastic place for outdoor learning, whether it’s birdwatching, bushcraft or stargazing, there is always something special to see and do. This 530-acre site is one of Exmoor’s most popular tourist attractions, boasting the perfect blend of excitement and tranquillity. Dulverton is located 6 miles away and has a wide range of shops, restaurants and tea rooms. A visit to Tarr Steps and Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor, are some of the highlights. Other local attractions that may be of interest are the village and castle at Dunster, the West Somerset Railway at Minehead and the villages of Porlock Weir, Lynton and Lynmouth. There are beaches at Dunster and Blue Anchor. Beach 14 miles. Shop 1¾ miles, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

Dunster Castle Apartments, situated above the owner’s popular coffee shop, offer a very good level of first and second floor, self-catering accommodation. They are located within a Grade II listed building in the heart of the pretty, medieval village of Dunster. If you are looking for the perfect base whilst exploring this popular part of Somerset, then look no further. To add to their appeal, the owner is happy for you to bring your pets so you can really enjoy your holiday. There are shared grounds where you can sit out after a busy day of sightseeing, and the owners also provide a welcome pack/hamper.

All the delights of Dunster are on the doorstep. The apartments are almost next door to the entrance to Dunster’s imposing National Trust castle with a working water mill, deer park, and ancient priory. The bustling high street has a range of shops and plenty of places to enjoy an afternoon tea or an evening meal. Dunster is also host to the annual ’Dunster by Candlelight’ festival. Held in December, this really is a spectacular event, so book early.

Both apartments have an allocated parking space in the National Trust overflow car park which is just a short walk from the apartments. During your stay at Dunster Castle Apartments, there is much to see and do. There is superb scenery and walking on the South West Coastal Path or inland on Exmoor with highlights such as Dunkery Beacon, Tarr Steps, and Countisbury Head. Looking towards Minehead, there is a good range of shops and amenities. It is also home to the West Somerset Steam Railway which runs between Minehead and Bishop’s Lydeard. Further along the coast are the villages of Watchet, Porlock, and Porlock Weir. The Victorian villages of Lynmouth and Lynton, famous for the National Trust’s Watersmeet Gorge, Valley of the Rocks, and the funicular cliff railway, are well worth a visit. The nearest beaches are at Dunster and Blue Anchor. There is also fishing, golf, horse riding, and cycling all available locally. Beach 1 mile. Shop and restaurant 10 yards, pub 30 yards.

Royal Oak Farm is a detached, thatched holiday cottage full of character, situated in the heart of Winsford, one of Exmoor’s prettiest villages. Some of the original parts of the cottage date back to the 14th century. There is generous living space and a large enclosed garden to enjoy. Winsford is located in the heart of Exmoor National Park. There is an inviting pub next to the cottage and a local shop within walking distance. The cottage is surrounded by the majesty of Exmoor and there is easy access to some spectacular country walks on the moorland with an extensive network of well marked footpaths. Dulverton is located 6 miles away and has a wider range of shops, restaurants and tea rooms. A visit to Tarr Steps and Dunkery Beacon, highest point on Exmoor, are some of the highlights. Wimball Lake is a short drive away where you can enjoy the wildlife that surrounds the lake, or enjoy sailing, canoeing or angling on the lake. Other local attractions that may be of interest are the village and castle at Dunster, the West Somerset Railway at Minehead and the villages of Porlock Weir, Lynton and Lynmouth. There are beaches at Dunster and Blue Anchor. Shop 100 yards and pub 20 yards.

Set on the village edge in a delightful wooded valley with a lovely garden this semi-detached holiday cottage offers comfortable, value for money family accommodation. Accessed over a small wooden bridge across a stream, running through the neighbour’s grounds, it is ideally positioned for walking, riding and touring. Beautiful Exmoor with its sleepy villages, native ponies and red deer as well as the attractions of the coast, close to Minehead, Watchet Harbour and beach at Blue Anchor. Dunster Castle and village (NT) and the West Somerset Steam Railway are nearby. Shop ½ mile, pub ¼ mile.

Peacefully set high up in rural Somerset close to Exmoor National Park and with far reaching views over open countryside, this holiday home attached to the owner’s farmhouse, provides a comfortable base for relaxation or touring. Excellent for walking and pony trekking as well as exploring Exmoor villages, Wimbleball Lake and west Somerset coast. Easily reached are Minehead, Dunster Castle (National Trust), Knightshayes Court (National Trust) and market town of Taunton. There is also a wooden barbecue lodge in the garden, which is available by arrangement. Shop/post office 1 mile, pub 2 miles.

Located in stunning Exmoor National Park and just 55 minutes from Exeter, this beautiful, semi-detached, Grade II thatched cottage is situated a few steps away from a pub, which is also owned by the cottage’s owner. Here you can indulge in some tasty fayre made with locally sourced fresh produce or simply pop along for a drink or two in traditional and comfortable surroundings.
The accommodation comprises three bedrooms on the first floor; a super kingsize and main bathroom with a clawfoot bath and a walk-in wardrobe, which are accessed via the first staircase on one side of the cottage, and bunk bedroom and double room, both benefiting from a ‘Jack and Jill’ style en-suite shower room, with a double size rain shower cubicle. These rooms are accessed via a quirky spiral-style staircase so some care should be taken going up and down. There are two characterful reception rooms, one with a double sofa bed and a Smart TV, and the other a comfortable snug where you can escape to and enjoy the gas wood burner. There’s a handy downstairs toilet and a utility room too. The kitchen has everything you’ll need for your stay including a Smeg coffee machine, toaster and kettle, and a Neff oven and combi microwave. Outside you’ll be able to enjoy the large lawned garden with a lovely patio where you can have al fresco meals or just relax with a drink. To the rear of the cottage there is also a handy bike store.
Exmoor National Park is a walker’s paradise. Or, if you’re more of an energetic type, you can run, cycle or indeed simply relax enjoying the magical night skies of Europe’s first ’Dark Sky Reserve’. The park also has abundant wildlife, including ponies, sheep and red deer that graze the open moorland, and overhead you might see falcons, buzzards and even the rare merlin. The area is also perfect for exploring North Devon with all its attractions, such as the many rugged coastal towns and quaint villages like beautiful Lynton and Lynmouth, and stunning cliff top sites such as Valley of the Rocks. The location is also perfect for exploring the rest of north Somerset, and the beautiful city of Exeter is just 55 minutes or so by car. Beach 11½ miles.

Perfect for holidays in Somerset all year round, this fantastic lodge is ideal for couples or small families looking to escape to the country. This superb detached lodge is set in a tranquil, rural location on the edge of Exmoor National Park. The contemporary interior is bright and airy and boasts air source heating that supplies the underfloor heating throughout the property. The living room and bedrooms all have patio doors leading onto a large south facing decked balcony with views through the pine trees across the open countryside. Relax in front of the Smart TV, which has access to Neftlix and Disney+ (using your own subscriptions). It is perfect for couples who are seeking a quiet ’get away from it all’ break, and it is pet-friendly, with an enclosed garden area for dogs. Exmoor is inhabited by ponies and red deer, with heather-clad moors and pretty villages is on your doorstep. Visit the highest coast in Britain, Dunkery Beacon with panoramic views, and Minehead with its pretty harbour.
The property owners welcome electric car owners, and can provide overnight charging facilities using a standard 3 pin socket giving a 3Kwh charge to the car battery at a fixed cost. Please advise if you will require this facility in advance. Shop 2½ miles, pub and restaurant 1 mile.
Ash Lodge can be booked together with Oak Lodge (UK10585) to accommodate up to 8 guests.

This Grade II listed character holiday cottage dates back over 300 years. Surrounded by peaceful, unspoilt countryside it nestles in the foothills of the Brendon Hills, on the eastern edge of Exmoor. The large living room has a sit-in inglenook fireplace with original bread oven and a host of oak beams. The sandy beach at Blue Anchor Bay is 9 miles. Fishing on Clatworthy Reservoir, 3 miles. Quantock Hills to the east, Minehead and Dunster a short drive. Attached to the caretaker’s cottage. Shops and pub 4 miles.

This large half of a 150-year-old farmhouse stands in a lovely landscaped garden situated on the edge of the picturesque village of Porlock, with stunning uninterrupted views of the Bristol Channel. It is tastefully furnished with very spacious rooms and ideal for a two-family holiday. An excellent base for exploring the Exmoor National Park, where there is walking, riding and a wealth of wildlife, the superb Quantock Hills and the sandy beaches of North Devon to the west. Well worth a visit are the National Trust cottages at Bossington, the pretty packhorse bridge at Allerford or Selworthy - once described as the most attractive village in England. For the children, a visit to Lynch Farm Park, with its falcons, is sure to entertain. The seaside resort of Minehead, where sailing trips to Lundy Island are available, is nearby. West Somerset Steam Railway, Lorna Doone Valley and Dunster Castle and village are all within easy reach. Shops 200 yards, pub 100 yards.