Anvil Cottage, Barnstaple, is a delightful 200-year-old former blacksmith's retreat that perfectly captures the essence of traditional English countryside living. Step into the beautifully appointed open-plan kitchen and dining area, where patio doors flood the space with natural light and a range-style electric oven with gas hob, dishwasher, and modern appliances make meal preparation a joy. The inviting lounge beckons with its original exposed beams, crackling wood burner, and sumptuous sofa – ideal for cosy evenings watching films on the Smart TV.
Venture outside through those welcoming patio doors to discover a fabulous south-facing tiered garden, complete with dining furniture and charcoal BBQ for memorable alfresco evenings. The cottage offers three charming bedrooms: a super-king-size room, a flexible super-king zip-and-link that converts to twins, and a quirky top-floor twin room with Xbox for younger guests. The family bathroom features a shower over bath, ensuring comfort for all.
Imagine waking in this historic cottage to birdsong drifting through ancient beams, brewing morning coffee while planning adventures ahead. Picture summer evenings on your private terrace, sharing barbecued feasts as golden light dances across the tiered garden. As twilight falls, gather around the crackling wood burner, recounting the day's coastal discoveries.
Anvil Cottage, Barnstaple, places you perfectly to explore North Devon's treasures. Discover the enchanting Marwood Hill Gardens in Guineaford (4 km), where 20 magical acres unfold around three tranquil lakes in a tucked-away valley paradise. Maritime adventures await with Boats to Lundy Island from Ilfracombe (16 km), offering journeys to this historic puffin sanctuary, while the unique Tunnels Beaches in Ilfracombe (17 km) reveal hand-carved Victorian passages leading to sheltered coves and tidal pools. For railway enthusiasts, the charming Lynton & Barnstaple Railway in Parracombe (27 km) provides authentic steam journeys in Victorian carriages through stunning moorland scenery.
Further afield, history lovers can explore the grand medieval Tiverton Castle (49 km), a Norman fortress dating back to 1106 that boasts impressive gatehouse ruins, restored medieval buildings, and stunning walled gardens that showcase four centuries of horticultural heritage alongside fascinating displays of armour and period furnishings. Adventure seekers will delight in Wall in the Hall in Tiverton (50 km), an innovative indoor climbing facility that combines physical challenge with artistic flair through its constantly evolving wall murals, creative workshops, and routes suitable for all abilities. Alternatively, Dragon Archery in Holsworthy (51 km) provides an enchanting outdoor experience with themed medieval and fantasy archery ranges, complete with expert tuition and equipment for beginners and experienced archers alike.
The charming market town of Barnstaple is just 2 kilometres away and beckons visitors with its magnificent 1,000-year-old Pannier Market, where Victorian ironwork shelters an eclectic mix of local producers, artisans, and vintage finds. Beyond the bustling market square, independent boutiques line the historic streets alongside cosy cafés perfect for afternoon tea. Meanwhile, historic Bideford is an 18-kilometre drive along the scenic coast, where this former merchant port enchants visitors with its picturesque quayside lined with excellent restaurants serving fresh local seafood, delightful boutique shops housed in centuries-old buildings, and the famous 24-arch medieval bridge spanning the River Torridge.
