Nothing quite gets you in the Christmas Spirit like a Nativity play. Where better than Pennywell Farm where the play is brought to life with the animals taking centre stage.
What is Pennywell Farm?
Pennywell Farm is a petting farm attraction centre where children experience a fun-filled day of farm activities. Activities run every half an hour during the summer months which means there is plenty on for a day out with the family. Just a few of these activities include egg collecting, goat walking, ferret racing and cuddles with their famous miniature pigs. As well as a host of outside activities, the attraction also boasts a selection of eateries, indoor soft play and a gift shop.
The Nativity
Pennywell Farm creates a magical experience with their Christmas Nativity and Christmas experience. Arrive to a scene of twinkling lights, Christmas trees and carols being sung across the farm. A festive greeting awaits with the delicious smell of mulled wine and mince pies from Henny Penny’s cafe. Every child has the opportunity of becoming a star if they would like to, with costumes to provide a host of heavenly angels, shepherds, wise men, innkeepers and of course, Mary and Joseph.
You will need to allow two hours for your visit, starting with your nativity performance where the Christmas cheer will begin to excite. This is followed by a visit to Father Christmas where every child will be greeted by Father Christmas himself in his woodland grotto to receive a special Christmas gift. Finally, finish off the day with festive refreshments. Remember to wrap up warm and bring a camera to capture the special moments.
Get booked in
Be sure to get booked in early to avoid disappointment, click here to book your tickets now.
If you need to find somewhere to stay for a visit to Pennywell Farm, then here at Devon Farms we have a charming selection of accommodation on offer. Both Bed & Breakfast and Self-catering accommodation are available in the exquisite location of South Devon.
We have another Farm Insights post where you can learn more about the individual farms and their owners. Helping you to get a feel for the people and their accommodation. This week we are focusing on Bampfield Farm in Goodleigh.
Located in the charming countryside of North Devon near Barnstaple, this working farm has spectacular views over rolling hills and out to the sea. It is the perfect destination for those looking for a farm holiday in the English countryside. The famous sandy beaches of North Devon are 15-20 minutes’ drive away and there is a selection of beach equipment for you to borrow.
Their Accommodation
The holiday accommodation consist of two-character filled country cottages. The Granary cottage was converted in 1997 (22 years ago), the name speaks for itself as it was the old granary store. This lovely cottage is spacious and furnished to a high standard to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay. This property has four bedrooms, two bathrooms and sleeps 2-8 people. There is central heating throughout the cottage and free logs for the wood burner to keep you warm all year round. Features of this special cottage include a high wooden ceiling with French windows opening onto the courtyard. The kitchen boasts a lovely old pine table which is perfect for those family occasions.
The second, Haven Cottage used to be the milking stalls and dairy. This is where the milk was bottled when Lynda was a child, now it is a lovely place for family holidays. A character cottage with 3 bedrooms, two bathrooms and sleeps 2-6 people. The Haven has an open plan design with an oak fitted kitchen and spacious lounge. The central fireplace and wood-burner is the perfect place to take time to snuggle up with a book, hot chocolate or even a glass of wine. This lovely, cosy cottage has the most spectacular view of rolling hills and beyond to the Atlantic ocean. A stable door opens onto the patio and garden area with views of the fields and animals.
At Bampfield Farm, children and adults help collect eggs for their breakfast, feed and walk the goats or brush the ponies. They also offer pony rides for young children, swings, slides, and a playroom packed with toys and games. Their farm tour includes seeing the milking of our free-range cows and catching a glimpse of all the wildlife around the farm. Guests return time and time again for the tranquil peace and relaxation that is found here on the farm.
The local pub, the New Inn, which is within walking distance serves fabulous food and great beer. Recently, they have been awarded No1 on Trip Advisor in the area.
For more information on Bampfield Farm be sure to take a look at our website.
History on The Owners
Lynda, who owns and runs Bampfield Farm alongside her husband, has a long history with the farm having lived there her whole life. Lynda has also been a farmer her whole life helping on the farm even when she was young. The only time she has moved away from the farm was when she studied at Bicton Agricultural College. However, even then she came home every weekend to help with the milk round and milking.
When we asked Lynda about why she started the holiday cottages she said, ‘Farming income fluctuates so my mum and I set up Bampfield Farm Cottages because as the old saying goes, “don’t put your eggs all in one basket”. I am often heard saying this to the guests as they collect their eggs for breakfast!’
We also asked Lynda what she likes about running holiday cottages and her response was, ‘I enjoy meeting guests and showing them this lovely part of the country. Our animals help children gain confidence and make lifelong memories. Learning where our food comes from is vitally important alongside sourcing local produce. These two subjects are close to my heart as we are very much a working farm. Our farm supplies free-range milk for the Arla Co-operative, and free-range chickens for 2 Sisters Food Group’.
Favourite place or activity
When we asked Lynda what her favourite thing to do in Devon was she said, ‘When I eventually leave the farm, I love walking in Exmoor National Park, around the coastline and along the golden sandy beaches of Puttsborough, Woolacombe and Saunton. Rosemoor Gardens is also a family favourite’. For more information on Bampfield Farm holiday cottages be sure to check out their page on our website.
We have another exciting new Farm Insights post where we get to know Lower Campscott Farm, located on the North Devon coast just outside Ilfracombe and close to Woolacombe’s award-winning beaches.
his beautiful self-catering accommodation site is owned by Kathy and Tony and boasts a selection of 8 holiday cottages and lodges. The site sits within 35 acres of idyllic countryside and has breathtaking views over Lee Bay.
Their Accommodation
Lower Campscott Farm consists of 4 holiday cottages, 4 lodges and a green camping site, so there really is something for everyone. The cottages and lodges range from Pinetree Lidge sleeping 8+ guests to Stable Cottage which sleeps up to 3 guests. Whether you are after a romantic getaway, a family holiday or a group get-together Lower Campscott Farm will be able to accommodate you. As well as being able to stay in the spacious, comfortable holiday cottages, there is also plenty to explore on the farm itself. Tony takes children on a tour of the animals every morning with hands-on feeding, pony walking and egg collecting. When speaking to Kathy she said, ‘There’s never any shortage of willing farmhands and by the end of the week it’s not unusual for the children to be in charge!’ In addition, two or three times a week, weather permitting he takes guests on a vintage tractor and trailer ‘hay bale’ ride around the farm.
If you are feeling more adventurous and want to be even closer to nature then green camping might be just what you are after. Situated at the head of the farm with glorious sea and countryside views, their quiet campsite provides you with the relaxing break you need. There are also hot showers, toilets and washing up facilities in the main farm complex.
For more information about Lower Campscott’s delightful accommodation click here.
History on The Owners
Kathy and Tony are coming up to their 10th anniversary since arriving at Lower Campscott. Since their ownership on the farm began, they have done lots of work, from renovating the lodges and cottages to creating their brand of Farm Holiday Experience. They have been awarded a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for the last seven consecutive years, so they must be doing something right! The farm has also become much more environmentally friendly. They have their own spring water supply and have installed a wood pellet boiler, which is a great way to keep the whole site carbon neutral and most importantly warm all year round. They generate a lot of their own electricity which is topped up with 100% renewable sources. Kathy and Tony also encourage their guest to recycle during their stay and try to have at least one car-free day. With the beach and the village pub in walking distance, the challenge is not as hard as you might think!
Lower Campscott is a working farm as well as a holiday complex. They have a herd of pedigree Dexter cattle, Devon Longwool sheep, Shetland ponies, rare breed pigs, Pygmy goats, hens, wild ducks, rabbits and guinea pigs. All of which the guests will meet during Farmer Tony’s daily rounds. In addition to the working farm, Kathy and Tony created the on-site farm shop, selling local produce as well as their own home-reared meat, which is always popular with guests and, thanks to their alcohol licence they also sell local beers and ciders. The cider comes from Tony’s home town and, while it may be wishful thinking on his part, he maintains that it counts towards your 5 portions of fruit and veg a day!
When we asked Kathy & Tony about why they love running a holiday cottage complex they said, ‘We love welcoming our guests, many of which return year on year. Next year one family will be celebrating their 30th consecutive holiday at Lower Campscott! Whether returning guests or their first visit we always try very hard to make everyone’s stay special. During the holiday season, there’s not much time for relaxing. We probably do spend too much time leaning on the farm gate and staring out to sea, especially if there’s a superb sunset, but that is one of the benefits of living in one of the most beautiful locations in the UK. We try to arrange at least one spectacular sunset a week for our guests!’
Favourite place or activity
When we asked Kathy what her favourite place or activity was she said, ‘We do like to get away when we can, especially for a walk on Exmoor – our favourite location is Heddons Mouth: superb views, a lovely secluded cove and a pub at the end of the walk – what’s not to like?’ If you would like more information on Lower Campscott farm including, availability, offers and more be sure to take a look at their page on our website.
This week marks the end of our ‘Things to do in Devon’ series and we are finishing things off with the charming location of West Devon. Renowned for its rugged beauty of Dartmoor, this area of Devon is perfect for outdoor adventurists and boutique lovers.
Something for the children
Planning a good family holiday includes days out that you know the children will love. West Devon has lots on offer to keep the little ones entertained.
Roadford Lake Watersports Centre, located in Lifton, is a wonderful, activity-filled day out. There is a whole range of activities to take part which includes cycling and walking around the lake, jumping aboard kayaks, paddle boarding or sailing with trained staff helping you to learn new skills. Dogs are welcome and there is scrumptious food to refuel at in their onsite cafe.
Tamar Trails, located in Tavistock is another great choice for a family day out in West Devon. Filled with a range of activities there is bound to be something for everyone. One of their main attractions is that of Tree Surfers, where you are securely strapped in and sent across a high ropes adventure course. You will tackle everything from swings, to zip lines and bridges. There is both an adult and child course which means the whole family can take part in the fun. As well as tree surfing the attraction also hosts an array of other activities including canoeing, archery, walking and cycling.
If you are looking for something to do when the weather is a little bit wet then why not take a trip to the cinema? Okehampton has a cinema in the centre of town called The New Carlton Cinema where you can catch the latest films. Then you can pop out for a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants and cafes.
Something for the Shoppers
For those of you who enjoy wandering around the shops, browsing the shelves and tasting yummy food, then West Devon has plenty on offer. Tavistock is a fantastic town filled with lots of boutiques, jewellery, gift and homeware shops. It has also been voted the best farmer’s market in the South West, so a brilliant stop for food lovers.
Okehampton is another great town to make a stop for the shops. Containing many high street brands along with small colourful shops filled with items you will just have to take home. The town also has a traditional arcade which is filled with sweet boutiques that may take your fancy. In addition to the shops, Okehampton has the remains of Devon’s largest castle. Run by the Heritage Trust, this interesting site is a great place to delve into the history of Okehampton and Dartmoor.
Finally, Chagford is a charming town filled with traditional boutiques and antiques. It also has an art gallery for those who adore the creative world. It also has a delicatessen and a wine shop for those who enjoy tasting new food.
Outdoor lovers
West Devon is a superb location for those who cherish the great outdoors. Home to the famous Dartmoor, a rugged beauty of moorland, heather and tors. For those who love to explore then you are in luck with what we have to offer.
First up, there is the Granite Way, an 11-mile cycle and walkway that follows the old Southern Region railway. This wonderful route offers spectacular views of Dartmoor including the impressive silhouettes of the Sourton Tors. You can access the route from Okehampton old Railway Station where a traditional, cosy cafe can be enjoyed.
Another great area for exploring is Princetown, well known for the infamous prison (Dartmoor Prison). The area provides you with an abundance of walks to choose from. In addition to walking, visitors can explore the town which includes Dartmoor’s National Park Visitor Centre. A brilliant place to learn all about Dartmoor through exciting displays and interesting information. You can also find lovely gifts and souvenirs to take home. If that was not enough you can even visit Princetown’s famous prison for yourself. Dartmoor Prison has a museum that showcases what the prison was like and provides you stories of those who managed to escape years ago!
Lydford Gorge is a beautiful place to enjoy a walk in West Devon. Drenched in wonderful woodland, the walk extends around a circular route before showcasing its magnificent waterfall. For those of you who feel more adventurous, you can delve further into the Devil’s cauldron where you come face to face with the waterfall and feel its power. After exploring you can go back to the National Trust tearoom for a bite to eat.
Finally, if you enjoy horse riding and would like to explore Dartmoor from the saddle, then Chowell Riding School should be on your list to visit. You can get straight onto Dartmoor from the stables, with no need to ride onto roads. The stables are a family run business who take riders of all abilities and provides lessons for complete beginners. Whether you are an expert rider who would like to explore Dartmoor or a complete beginner who fancies trying something new, Chowell Riding School will be able to accommodate you.
If you have been enticed to a trip down to West Devon, here at Devon Farms we have lots of accommodation available. Take a look and see if any of our self-catering or bed and breakfast accommodation might just be what you have been searching for.
This week’s focus is on East Devon, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) with its Jurassic coast, rolling countryside and charming towns.
Something for the children
When searching for the next destination for your family holiday, making sure there will be places and activities for the children is always important. We have outlined some of the fantastic activities that are on offer in East Devon.
Up first is the wonderful Donkey Sanctuary, open 365 days a year this lovely attraction allows you to meet and pet their donkeys. The Donkey Sanctuary is a British charity founded in 1969 that aims to improve the welfare of donkeys around the world. They have many sites across the country, but Sidmouth is where they started. This visitor attraction enables you to meet and pet the donkeys, learn about the life of a donkey and what the charity does. Additionally, while visiting, you can enjoy scenic trails, walk around their award-winning ‘Donkeys Matter’ garden, enjoy events put on by the attraction and refuel at their family-friendly restaurant.
Seaton Jurassic takes you on a journey back in time. A tourist attraction that showcases the Jurassic world through interactive equipment, fossils and more. As well as learning about the Jurassic period the attraction boasts an array of other activities on offer such as craft-making sessions, Time Traveller trails and live history shows.
If you are looking for a day of adventure, then Wildwood Escot is a perfect choice. There is everything from wild animals to a 40m zip line with something to keep the whole family amused. It is located only 15 minutes east of Exeter on the A30 between Ottery St. Mary and Honiton. The perfect spot for families holidaying in East Devon. Wildwood Escot homes animals that include Wolves, Lynx, Wildcat, Red Squirrels and Birds of Prey. The play areas include both an indoor soft play and outdoor adventure play which includes trampolines, drop slides and more.
Crealy Theme Park will provide you with a day to remember, filled with laughter and fun. The award-winning family theme park boasts over 60 rides and attractions including indoor rides, outdoor rides, indoor soft play and farm and zoo animals. In addition to all the rides and attractions, the theme park provides spectacular live entertainment shows to keep the little ones entertained.
Something for the Shoppers
When it comes to towns, East Devon has lots on offer, from towns filled with scrumptious food to charming local villages. Seaton is an idyllic town to visit, its natural beauty and calm waters make it the perfect destination for sports enthusiasts, with water sports, cycling and walking being enjoyed everywhere. If you are a food lover, then Topsham should be on the cards with its wide variety of great restaurants, bars and cafes. Honiton is a lively market town, known for its lace and pottery. It has great eateries and can be accessed via train direct from London, Woking Salisbury and Exeter. Finally, Sidmouth is a town that should be on your list. The town boasts clean beaches, friendly shops and beautiful gardens.
If you are one to enjoy art then the Thelma Hubert Gallery, Honiton, is a wonderful choice. An award-winning public art gallery showcasing contemporary art and craft exhibitions alongside a permanent collection of artist Thelma Hulbert’s work. In addition to the exhibitions, workshops can also be enjoyed where you can get your hands dirty and get involved.
Lyme Bay Winery is the perfect stop for those who enjoy the taste of good wine, cider and spirits. The winery is now allowing viewings of the vineyard, the harvesting process and of course a taste of the scrumptious produce.
For those of you that want to escape to Devon and learn a new skill than The Old Kennels, Dunkeswell may be just what you are looking for. Courses range from drawing to stone carving and everything in between. The Old Kennels is renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent tutors. It is the ideal place to indulge in your creative side.
If food is on your agenda, then where better to learn and taste than River Cottage Head Office itself. River Cottage holds a range of events to attend including the likes of River Cottage Festival and Christmas at River Cottage. They also hold a range of cookery classes to learn more about how to cook and enjoy seasonal food.
Outdoor lovers
If you enjoy getting outdoors and enjoying the fresh air, then East Devon is a brilliant choice for you. East Devon has many places that are Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) making it a beautiful countryside escape. Seaton Wetlands is a great stop with over 4km of level trails and boardwalks that are suitable for wheelchairs, bikes and pushchairs. The beautiful marshland is home to an abundance of wildlife to be enjoyed.
Beer Beach is set in the picturesque fishing village of Beer. Surrounded by limestone cliffs the beach is sheltered making for a lovely beach day. In addition to the town and beach, Beer is renowned for its caves! Beer Quarry Caves provides you with guided tours of the 2,000-year-old man-made caves. This is an interesting attraction that delves into the history of Beer.
Bicton Park Botanical Gardens is another fantastic tourist attraction to get outside and enjoy nature. Set in 64 acres of land, this 300-year-old park and garden is home to many rare plant species collected from around the world. One spectacular section of the garden is the Palm House, made from over 18,000 panes of glass and built 20 years before Kew Gardens Palm House. The Palm House is home to a whole array of Palms. In addition to the gardens, you can investigate the Countryside Museum which contains a huge collection of interesting tools from bygone days. Bicton Park Botanical Gardens also has a large indoor and outdoor play area’s to keep the children entertained while the adults can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee from the cafe.
Continuing with the love of gardens, Knightshayes National Trust is another beautiful attraction. A 19th-century parkland grand Gothic Revival home, the big house is surrounded in acres of glorious gardens and parkland. The formal and woodland gardens are one of the most varied plant collections in the country with over 12,000 plants species.
If East Devon is now a place that you just have to visit, Devon Farm Holidays is here to help. With a variety of holiday accommodation which includes high quality, relaxing self-catering cottages or charming Bed and Breakfast. There is accommodation to suit all in East Devon with Devon Farms.
If you have not been to North Devon before, or perhaps not South Molton then you might be wondering what is Quince Honey Farm? It is a honey farm and attraction that produces honey products and educates visitors into the life of bees.
History on the Attraction
The farm was first established in 1949 by George Wallace with only 2 hives and a dream of becoming the largest Honey Bee farm in Britain. In 1959 he moved his premises from a small family cottage named ‘Quince Cottage’ to the old school in South Molton. This bigger premises enabled him to grow the bees and business. His hive numbers quickly rose from 750 to 1500. This increase in numbers led him to move again to the old workhouse, South Molton in 1978. This site allowed, now the whole family (wife Kate, two sons Paddy and Jon and Paddy’s wife Jean) who worked in the business, to pursue the dream of creating an exhibition of honey bees.
Their exhibition soon became one of the best in the world during the ’80s with beekeepers across the globe acknowledging their mechanically operated observation hives created by Paddy. Then in the 90’s the business developed further with products being created and sold in the shop such as skin care products, honey marmalade, furniture polish and more.
Then in 2004, Paddy’s son Ian joined the business full time, a keen beekeeper and lover of the outdoors. It was Ian who helped to develop the business further and mould it into the tourist attraction it is today. Quince Honey Farm has also very recently moved again. This time re-locating to a larger site in South Molton that is filled with lots of activities.
What’s on offer
For the whole family
Talking of activities, Quince Honey Farm has lots going on. Join a guided tour of The Honey Factory which features a large ‘Products of the Hive’ exhibition and viewing windows into the honey production area. See how honey is extracted from the hive and then bottled in jars ready to sell in the shop.
If you want to learn how you might become a beekeeper then Quince Honey Farm has a range of ways to get stuck in. You can watch a live demo from behind glass, seeing how the beekeeper works with the bees. Take part in a 30-minute taster session where you work alongside a professional to get a taste for the beekeeper’s life. Or if you really want to get involved and want to become a beekeeper then take part in one of our Beekeeping experience days. You will learn everything there is to know about bees. The 2020 dates for these experience days have already been released and are very popular so check out their site for more information.
For those of you who love honey then the tasting session is a must. Each season the honey changes due to where the bees pollinate and on what plants. You will be able to sample a whole variety from Ivy to Heather, Oilseed Rape to local Devon Flowers, each tasting different.
The gardens at Quince Honey farm are another special feature. The centrepiece is the beautifully landscaped hexagonal gardens that can be explored and enjoyed all year round. Here visitors can take in the wonderful display of colours and textures, with seasonal planting and unique features such as dry stone walling and willow structures. All the planting here is bee and pollinator-friendly and is the first known gardens and woodland in the UK planted specifically for bees.
For the Children
Quince Honey Farm has something for all the family. If you are bringing along your little ones theres lots to keep them entertained. If your children want to get up and personal with the bees, they too can take part in a mini beekeeper experience. Or perhaps there are a few crafters in the family, in which case the candle rolling sessions are a perfect choice. Guided tours are a great way to learn more about bees. Or go on the beekeeping tractor tour to visit some of the local apiaries and learn about beekeeping through the seasons.
If that does not wear the little ones out then try the Critter Encounters (daily) where you can learn all about giant African snails and Stick Insects. Quince Honey Farm also boasts an excellent indoor play area called The Play Hive. It is the perfect place for children to run wild while adults can sit back in the surrounding seating and enjoy a Devonshire cream tea. Finally, visit the gift shop for lots of great products from honey to gifts and skincare.
Why bees are so important
Bees have been a hot topic on their importance to the environment, but why are bees so important? Bees alongside other insects pollinate crops, trees, flowers and more and contribute to the biodiversity of life. Bees are one of the best pollinators, it is estimated that they contribute to 80% of pollination. Without bees, we would experience a decrease in crop yields and essentially go hungry. Furthermore, it would affect our country and our farmers financially, with it estimated at £1.8 million for farmers to manually pollinate crops. Therefore, bees are pretty important, but how can you help?
Create more habitats for the bees; plant lots of bee-friendly flowers in your garden, create bee houses and hang them up in sunny spots in the garden. Try to reduce the number of pesticides you use in the garden. Finally, help a bee in need, if you spot one not moving in your garden it is likely to be exhausted. Mix two tablespoons of white, granulated sugar to one tablespoon of water and place it near the bee so it can help itself.
Where you can stay
If you want to go and visit Quince Honey Farm and are in need of somewhere to stay, Devon Farms has a wide range of excellent choices. Whether you want to stay in a cosy B&B or beautiful self-catering cottage we have something for everyone. North Devon is a fantastic holiday spot so be sure to take a look at what we have to offer.
The focus this week is on the stunning location of South Devon, with its relaxing beaches, thriving seaside towns and fun attractions. We hope you enjoy this read and who knows, perhaps something we talk about might just spark your need for a trip to the South.
Something for the children
When it comes to family holidays, South Devon should be on your list of choices due to the abundance of activities available to keep the children entertained. First is the very popular attraction of Plymouth Aquarium, the UK’s largest aquarium! It is home to over 4,000 ocean animals, with everything from the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Barrier Reef. Immerse yourself in experiences and learn all about the underwater world with daily talks and shows.
Woodlands, another attraction that will keep your little ones amused all day. With everything from the farm to all the thrill-seeking rides, there is something for everyone. Woodlands can even be enjoyed in the wetter weather with the South West’s largest indoor play area.
For the little ones that like to get ‘stuck in the mud’ then Diggerland should be on the cards. The theme park includes an array of different activities; get stuck in and dig for treasure, drive around on dumper trucks, bash about on the dodgems or sit back and enjoy a ride on one of their robots or trains.
Paignton Zoo is a must-stop for any animal lovers, children or adults! The zoo boasts over 2,500 animals across 80 acres. There are also lots of cafes to keep you refuelled throughout the day. As well as all the animals to observe, the zoo also has a range of talks and activities to take part in such as walking with Lemurs, Terrific Tigers and Daily Discoveries.
For those that want to venture into the past, Dinosaur World is a perfect choice. Dinosaur World is an indoor exhibition that brings the past to life with incredible life-sized dinosaurs. As well as the exhibition, the venue also hosts regular events including Halloween Horrors, Santa ‘Claws’ Christmas special and February Fossil Festival.
The final stop on this attraction extravaganza is Pennywell Farm, the petting farm of children’s dreams. The farm has a huge range of activities on offer every day, with something new every half hour. Cuddle up to their famous miniature pigs, get involved with feeding the lambs or have fun watching ferrets race.
Attractions to keep the children entertained
Something for the Shoppers
For those who enjoy a good shop or like to explore towns and cities, South Devon has lots in store for you. South Devon has two cities, Exeter and Plymouth, both are filled to the brim with shops, restaurants and bars to keep you entertained.
As well as the cities, South Devon boasts an array of seaside towns including the likes of Brixham, a beautiful fishing town that has excellent food and drink. Teignmouth, another large fishing town, sitting on the edge of the mouth of the River Teign. Salcombe is a popular stop, located in the South Hams district, much can be enjoyed including Salcombes very own gin tasting. Finally, a trip to Torquay might be just what you are after. The thriving seaside town boasts high-quality seafood restaurants, an international marina, the iconic palm trees and more.
Places to keep the shoppers and foodies entertained
Outdoor lovers
When it comes to the great outdoors, the beaches do of course have to be mentioned. There is an abundance of choice with over 50 beaches to be explored. To name a few, we had to include Bigbury on the Sea, a popular family-friendly beach that is excellent for water sports activities. Burgh Island is also the iconic landmark that sits directly opposite Bigbury on the Sea and is only accessible on low tide. Another great choice is Hope Cove, made up of two sandy beaches, it is an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). For those of who fancy a long walk with your feet in the water, Exmouth beach is for you with its 2-mile stretch of golden sand. Blackpool Sands is another beach worth a mention for its Blue Flag award-winning water quality. Finally, Dawlish Warren beach is a great family-friendly choice, with its long sandy beach, sand dunes and safe waters.
For those who enjoy a walk, South Devon has plenty to offer. Many parts of South Devon are areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) making it a fantastic destination to get outside with nature. If you enjoy exploring gardens and historic places South Devon has a range of sites to explore, including Dartington Hall located near to Totnes. Dartington Hall is a building that dates back to medieval times and is set in over 12,000 acres of land. Powderham Castle is another interesting choice to learn more about the history of South Devon. Powederham Castle is a fortified manor house which is over 600 years old and is home to the Earl and Countess of Devon. Finally, Greenway is another popular choice for history lovers. The holiday home of Agatha Christie is owned by the national trust and at your disposal to explore.
Beautiful outdoor locations in South Devon
If after reading this you and think that South Devon is a place that must be visited, we are here to help. Here at Devon Farm Holidays, we have a wide selection of charming holiday spots where you can sit back and relax after a day’s activities in South Devon.
Or if you are looking for somewhere more specifically in Exeter of the heart of Devon to stay, we too have a range of accommodation that could just be perfect.
We are back again this week with our Farm Insights series. This time with Pickwell Barton a beautiful self-catering accommodation site located near Croyde and Woolacombe. North Devon is the perfect destination for a countryside and beach holiday escape.
Their Accommodation
Pickwell Barton Farm Holiday Cottages is a working farm that has been in the family for generations. The farm and cottages have breathtaking coastal and countryside views. Pickwell Barton self-catering cottages have been awarded 4* gold. Each cottage has two or three bedrooms and sleeps between two and eight people.
There is plenty of room at Pickwell Barton including space for three cars to park. Furthermore, Pickwell Barton is a fantastic location for a holiday due to it’s close proximity to the beaches. Putsborough is the closest and you can park for free at Putsborough when you stay at Pickwell Barton. You can also access Woolacombe beach through Pickwell Bartons very own fields! In addition to Putsborough and Woolacombe, you also have other beaches nearby including Croyde and Saunton. As well as the beautiful, sandy beaches, Pickwell Barton is close to amenities with the likes of pubs, cafes, restaurants and other shops only 1.5 miles away at either Georgham or Croyde.
History on the owners
Pickwell Barton is owned and run by Jane and Andrew Cook. The working farm has been in the Cook family for nearly 100 years and is now on its 5th generation working on the land! The farm consists of 600 acres on the North Devon Coast. The farmland extending from 600ft above sea level down to sea level. The farmhouse and holiday cottages are situated at around 300ft, centered in the middle of the farm. The farm contains approximately 300 acres of arable land and the rest is grassland for sheep and cattle. The farm has 550 ewes that the Cook lamb in March, making for a very busy month, followed by the harvesting months of July and August.
The holiday cottages were started by Shelia Cook (Andrew’s mum) after the workman retired from working on the farm after 50 years. This left the workman’s cottage empty which they converted to holiday accommodation. Jane her daughter-in-law helped and took over the running of the business in the 90’s. When we asked Jane why she liked doing holiday accommodation she said:
“I absolutely love meeting my guests, we have made many friends over the years. It’s my pleasure to have the cottages sparkling by the time my guests arrive with fresh flowers, wine chilling, tea, coffee, sugar, milk, cream and eggs fresh from my hens, providing they are laying – they oblige most weeks!
Beautiful, clean crisp linen and fluffy towels, wood burners lit (logs included), heating on (all included), and a very warm welcome to our beautiful luxury cottages. Our guests are surprised to have found such an amazing place, charming and so peaceful in a stunning location, a friendly family who warmly welcome their guests to beautiful holiday cottages where memories are made.
They come back year after year, with many guests booking more than one week and often a short break too. The cottages are great for the extended family and Jane’s “Pop Up Games Room” is a fabulous idea for families to have their very own Olympic challenge, for when we are surfed out or it’s a little damp!”
Favourite place or activity
We asked Jane what her favourite place or activity is here in Devon and she told us, “This has to be Putsborough and Woolacombe beach, just a short stroll from the cottage door! Private access through our fields to this fabulous beach. To us, the ‘Best Beach in the World’, to many (UK TripAdvisor) No1 in the UK! The perfect family day out with a picnic, swim or the only place to surf if it’s a south-westerly! Award-winning toilets, surf hire, a fabulous shop selling everything from a bucket and spade to a delicious homemade cake, the best breakfast and loads more different foods, oh and ice-creams too of course! A beach that is accessible to all, with ramps and a Trampas for hire’. As Putsborough is our favourite beach, you can park there for FREE! – while staying with us!
The National Trust also plays a huge part in this area of outstanding natural beauty. Jane loves to walk and enjoys visiting the many historical NT houses and parks in North Devon, Arlington Court near Barnstaple, famous for its carriage museum, Knight Hayes, Tiverton and Killerton House near Exeter, all very accessible from Pickwell Barton. For stunning scenery walks they don’t get much better than Baggy and Morte Points and both can be seen from the farm”
Here at Devon Farm Holidays, we thought we would give you a glimpse into some of the amazing activities Devon has on offer. This time we are focusing our search specifically on North Devon with its rugged coastline and rolling hills.
Something for the children
When it comes to keeping children entertained there is lots of fun to be had in North Devon. Up first is the very popular attraction called The Big Sheep. The perfect place to keep your little ones entertained with something for everyone and in all weathers. The site includes an indoor playground, outdoor rollercoaster rides, a petting farm and lots of cafes to refuel. As well as lots to do for the children, The Big Sheep also has a brewery and gin distillery, ideal for the adults!
Quince Honey Farm is another fantastic attraction to visit with the children, located near South Molton, a traditional market town that’s filled with quirky features and interesting facts. Quince Honey Farm has been producing honey products since 1949 and has now become one of Britain’s leading honey farms. The farm has over 60,000 bees, with visitors being able to learn everything about honeybees. You can also take part in talks to learn how to become a beekeeper. In addition to the wonderful world of bees, there is also a soft play area to let the little ones blow off some steam.
If you have been to North Devon before you may have heard of the Exmoor Beast. You can go and see him in the flesh at Exmoor Zoo. A fabulous family day out with a wide selection of animals on show as well as a range of talks and petting zones.
The Milky Way is a great stop for the children, with something for all ages. Whether you want to go crazy on the rides, get adventurous on the Jumping Jupiters or sit back and enjoy one of their shows.
Finally, if your little ones are not quite tired out they could go and visit Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park. This is a zoo with a twist, as well as all your normal zoo animals you can find dinosaurs too. The amazing life-sized animatronic dinosaurs are a real showstopper which children love. Along with the animals, there is also a large indoor soft play area for the wetter days.
If you are thinking that staying close by is a good idea, here at Devon Farms we have a wonderful selection of beautiful accommodation spots on Exmoor. Be sure to take a look and learn more.
Something for the Shoppers
If you are a keen shopper and love to find new boutiques or antiques, North Devon has a lot on offer. Barnstaple is one of the best towns for your high street brands including New Look, TKMaxx, Marks and Spencer and more. The town also boasts an abundance of cafes and restaurants where you can sit back and relax after a shopping session. If you are looking to catch a bargain then perhaps Atlantic Village should be on your list. Located in Bideford, Atlantic Village is an outlet centre with lots of discounted products on offer. If you are looking for more boutiques and antiques you might want to give Bideford and South Molton a try. They both have lots of quirky shops on offer, filled with an abundance of one of a kind items.
Barnstaple and Bideford
Outdoor lovers
If you are an outdoor lover then North Devon is an excellent destination for you. For the walkers, we have the outstanding beauty of Exmoor, a delightful combination of rugged moors and softer farmland, creating a walker’s paradise. Exmoor includes charming spots such as Lynton and Lynmouth, a must-stop for walkers after a spectacular view. For those of you who are desperate to get your toes in the sand, North Devon spoils you with the choice of beaches. There is everything from long sandy stretches, rocky coves to surfer’s paradise. The garden lovers are also in for a treat when coming to visit North Devon. RHS Rosemoor has a spectacular range of gardens to get stuck into, including their latest cool garden. In addition to Rosemoor, Marwood is another beautiful spot hidden away on the outskirts of Barnstaple.
Exmoor and Saunton Sands Beach
If you are now thinking a trip to North Devon is on cards be sure to take a look at all the charming accommodation spots we have on offer here at Devon Farm Holidays.
Farm Insights is a series of posts that enable you to get to know our farm B&B’s and Self-Catering accommodation sites that little bit better. You already see pictures of their accommodation, gardens and facilities but wouldn’t it be lovely to know who the people are behind the accommodation? Now with this series you can do exactly that, and decide whether it could be your next spot for a trip to Devon.
West Down Guest House – North Devon
To start us off on this series we have West Down Guest House in North Devon near South Molton, Great Torrington and Barnstaple. West Down is owned by Brenda and Roger who love running their bed and breakfast in the rural Devon countryside.
Beautiful photos of the gardens and chickens at West Down
Their Accommodation
West Down B&B Guest House has three different rooms to choose from including;
Woodpecker – A two-bedroom suite detached from the main house, providing an abundance of room and privacy. The main bedroom includes a king-size bed and a comfy chair to sit back and relax in. The room also has an interconnecting door to the single bedroom which makes it the perfect suite for a family. There is also a bathroom which includes a bath with an overhead shower which can be accessed independently from both rooms. This room also has disability access.
Woodpecker Room
Swallow – This room offers wheelchair friendly disability access, including a ramp directly from the carpark, a wet room shower with movable stools and frame over the sink. The bed is queen-sized but can be separated out to become two singles on request to facilitate wheelchair access.
Swallow Room
Marwood – This beautiful airy room consists of a king-sized bed to rest in after a busy day of fun in Devon. The bedroom also includes an ensuite with a lovely shower, two comfy chairs to sit back and enjoy a cup of tea in and spectacular views from the window.
Marwood Room
History on the owners
The owners of West Down Guest House B&B, Brenda and Roger have been working in hospitality for 50 years as of next year! When staying with them you can rest assured that they know what they are doing. In fact, Brenda and Roger won the North Devon Marketing Bureau Supper Service award for West Down B&B both in 1997 and 2008.
To give you a bit of insight into the history of Brenda and Roger’s lives and careers, Brenda came from Bristol and Roger from Gloucester. Roger owned and ran a construction business and Brenda was a secretary at Bristol University. This was before they went on to run a pub in Thornbury, Bristol. They then made the move down to Devon in 1986, where they bought a property which in 1987 became a B&B as well as a racing yard. This was called West Down WhiteChaple near South Molton.
In 2003 they moved again, however Devon was where they regarded home so stayed in the county. Wanting to keep the B&B going, they took the name West Down with them to where they are now near South Molton and Great Torrington. When we asked Brenda and Roger why they liked running a B&B they said ‘it has to be the people, we love meeting new people and welcoming back our regulars who have now become good friends’. Brenda and Roger have truly become part of the Devon community with Roger becoming the president for North Devon Show next year and Brenda taking an active role in North Devon Farms and Devon Farms.
As for West Down B&B Guest House which is set in 25 acres (where they are now) it too has an interesting history with it being a market garden in the 60’s. It is also one of the few B&B’s that still do evening meals each night.
Conservatory and Lounge at West Down
Favourite place or activity
We asked Brenda and Roger what their favourite place or activity was near them and they said;
‘Well it’s hard to choose just one so we didn’t! We narrowed it down to our three favourite places which are RHS Rosemoor Gardens, Clovelly and Lynton and Lynmouth. However we really just love all of Devon, there is something about the way of life, the people and of course the outstanding beauty of the natural scenery.’ Be sure to take a look at West Down B&B on our website to find out more details about their accommodation and even their availability.
