Fido Family Friendly Places

Sherrill Farm Holiday Cottages is a complex of 13 delightful self catering cottages (refs UKC1427 to UKC1439), converted from the original 300 year old barns and farmhouse set within 16 acres of Devon farmland. Clustered around the central courtyard, the properties retain many original features and are charmingly furnished and decorated, with well-equipped kitchens. (Some properties are adjoining, whilst others occupy either the ground floor or the first floor of the same cottage). Located near Dartmoor and midway between Tavistock and Launceston on the Devon/Cornwall border, in wonderful rolling countryside.

Approached by its own private driveway, Sherrill Farm is a perfect spot to relax and unwind or to use as a base for exploring north and south Devon, and Cornwall.

This farm complex is a superb place for the entire family, and all guests have use of the large indoor heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, gymnasium, bowling alley and games room. This leisure complex is open daily until 9pm. After an energetic swim you can step out onto the surrounding sun terrace and enjoy the stunning south-facing views, whilst the children keep themselves entertained in their own play area. There is also an all-weather tennis court available and rackets can be hired on site; a picnic area and a summerhouse along the banks of the ponds. This really is a beautiful area offering perfect family accommodation, peace and tranquillity.

There are three ponds within the grounds, one has been especially created to encourage wildlife and is set in beautiful surroundings. The other 2 ponds have been stocked with fish for those wishing to try their hand at this relaxing pastime (rods can be hired on site). Many bird species can be seen in the area as it is so quiet here and foxes and badgers are often seen on a summer’s evening.

A short drive away is the beautiful Tamar Valley dividing Devon and Cornwall, with picturesque and historical riverside villages including Morewellham. Within minutes you can be venturing out onto the Dartmoor National Park with over 250,000 acres of wild rugged open moorland, a haven for hikers or dog walkers. There are many exciting places to visit including Morwellham Quay and the National Trust properties of Cotehele, Buckland Abbey and Lydford Gorge with its White Lady Waterfall.

The historic market town of Tavistock is just 6 miles away and is a popular town with indoor pannier market and local shops selling locally produced foods. Horse riding is also available locally, as is trout fishing. Why not try canoeing on the River Tamar, or perhaps cycling on the Plym Valley track? The north and south coasts of both Devon and Cornwall are within easy reach by car and offer an amazing choice of splendid sandy beaches, a variety of water sports, cliff top walks, swimming, surfing and other seaside activities. The owners can also recommend local caterers, and guests can contact Lifton Farm Shop to organise a hog roast. Beach 20 miles. Shop 4½ miles, pub 1 mile and restaurant 1¼ miles.

The Old School House is a superb property situated in Horrabridge, on the edge of Dartmoor National Park.
It’s an extremely spacious 5000 square foot, late-Victorian former schoolhouse, built in 1875 of local stone and slate. This beautiful seven-bedroom holiday home comfortably accommodates up to twenty two guests and presents a wonderful base for a group of family and friends to enjoy a luxurious and relaxing break. The property showcases two hot tubs, six bathrooms, bath tubs lavishly positioned in two of the bedrooms, a games room, large garden, and a children’s play area. The main part of the building on the ground floor has a magnificent large kitchen and dining area with seating for up to twenty guests, an island worktop, exquisite quartz countertops and plenty of appliances. Other features include a pantry, boot room, cloakroom, the enormous living room with two large seating areas and a wood burner, patio doors opening out into the garden and a games room with a pool table and dartboard.
The annexed area at the far end can be accessed through a connecting hallway or via a separate entrance and it contains an additional open plan kitchen, living and dining area, a shower room and a staircase leading to the two bedrooms above. This beautiful, detached home has three staircases in total leading to the first floor which divides two bedrooms at the far end for eight guests, the extraordinary master ensuite bedroom in the middle for a couple and the other three bedrooms at the other end accommodating up to twelve guests. The final en-suite double bedroom is located on the ground floor. The private enclosed garden has a large lawn, a sprawling decked area, barbeque, outdoor seating, children’s play area, plus a large shed for all outdoor activity equipment. In front of the property is a large parking area with space for up to eight vehicles plus a covered carport.
Horrabridge is a beautiful village with a village green and medieval bridge on the banks of the River Walkham. It is serviced by a selection of shops including a post office and stores, bakery, fish and chip shop, art gallery and two pubs. Tavistock, a nearby thriving market town rich in history and tradition dating back to the 10th century, just 3½ miles away to the northwest.

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.

This beautiful two-bedroom holiday home in East Devon showcases stunning views across the surrounding countryside and the deer fields in front of the property. Recently built in 2022, the property sits alongside the owner’s home on a working farm (dogs are present on the farm, but will be with the owners), and is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just outside the town of Ottery St. Mary. This cosy rural retreat offers a great base for a couple or a family looking to explore the delights of the beautiful county of Devon, and the unique experience of the deer being able to wander right up to the fence bordering the property’s garden whilst relaxing in the private hot tub.
As you enter Deer View Retreat, you will be welcomed into the entrance area with patio doors opening out into the garden, the perfect cosy spot to enjoy a mug of coffee with a good book. This then leads through to the open plan living and dining area where you can wind down and watch a film after a busy day exploring the coastline or enjoy a family meal together. Enjoy your breakfast in the well-equipped kitchen whilst taking in the far reaching views, the stag with his magnificent antlers and the ever-changing scenery. There’s also a handy utility area next door.
Discover the two stylish bedrooms and the bathroom on the first floor. The first has a double bed, the second is furnished with zip and link twin beds, and the shower room is fitted with a walk-in shower, heated towel rail, toilet and sink.
The town of Ottery St. Mary has beautiful architecture and historic buildings lining the streets, backed by rural Devonshire countryside. Wander through the centre to browse independent shops and galleries or stroll along the River Otter to admire the unusual Tumbling Weir. If you’re exploring beyond the town, you’ll be close to the quintessential East Devon coastal towns and villages of Budleigh Salterton, Beer, Branscombe, Sidmouth, Exmouth and Seaton. Exeter and Honiton are also within easy reach. The Southwest Coast Path is nearby and keen hikers should head to Dartmoor National Park with is just a 30-minute drive away. With lots of day out opportunities from your doorstep, make Deer View the base for your next holiday in East Devon. Beach 8 miles.

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.