Shirleys Cottage, Bentwitchen is a delightfully converted stone barn nestled on the edge of Exmoor National Park, offering a perfect rural retreat for families seeking comfort and tranquillity. The country-style kitchen / diner showcases a characterful beamed sloping ceiling and comes fully equipped with an oven, hob, microwave, fridge, dishwasher, and laundry facilities for effortless holiday catering. Step into the spacious lounge where deep, sumptuous sofas invite you to unwind before the impressive 55″ 4K Ultra HD TV with Chromecast, while the crackling wood burner creates a cosy atmosphere during chillier evenings.
Outside, discover your own private slice of Devon countryside with a charming patio area furnished with outdoor seating and a BBQ, perfect for al fresco dining under starlit skies. The cottage features two beautifully appointed bedrooms – a restful double with its own TV and an attractive bunk bedroom, ideal for children – complemented by a family bathroom with shower-over-bath. For indoor entertainment, the dedicated games room offers a football table, table tennis, and dartboard, providing hours of competitive family fun whatever the weather.
Imagine awakening to birdsong filtering through your window, enjoying a leisurely breakfast on the sun-dappled patio while planning the day's adventures. After exploring the rugged beauty of Exmoor, return to light the wood burner, glasses of wine in hand, while sharing stories of your countryside escapades as the flames dance and flicker, casting a warm glow throughout your homely retreat.
Shirleys Cottage, Bentwitchen is perfectly positioned to explore the natural wonders of North Devon and beyond. The charming village of North Molton lies just a short drive away, offering a handy village shop and welcoming pub for those evenings when cooking feels like too much effort. For outdoor enthusiasts, the property sits right on the doorstep of Exmoor National Park, with miles of scenic paths for walking, cycling, and horse riding that stretch all the way to the coast and into neighbouring Somerset. Quince Honey Farm in South Molton (10 km) provides a fascinating day out for all the family, while the magnificent Castle Hill Estate in Filleigh (12 km) invites you to wander through 50 acres of enchanting landscape surrounding a beautiful 18th-century Palladian house.
Wildlife lovers will appreciate Exmoor Zoological and Conservation Centre in Bratton Fleming (14 km), home to the UK's only black leopard, the famous 'Exmoor Beast'. For a truly unique experience, North Devon Hawk Walks in Blacklands (16 km) offers the thrilling opportunity to fly majestic hawks against the backdrop of North Devon's stunning countryside. Venturing a little further, discover Marwood Hill Gardens in Guineaford (31 km), a magical 20-acre private garden with three lakes tucked away in a secluded valley. Ilfracombe (35 km) boasts both a historic harbour with boats to Lundy Island and the fascinating Ilfracombe Aquarium, where you can journey from an Exmoor stream source to the sea.
The picturesque coastal town of Exmouth is 25 kilometres from the cottage. There are over three kilometres of golden sandy beaches, stretching from the Exe Estuary to Orcombe Point. Wander through the Georgian architecture and discover the local shops and restaurants. The historic harbour town of Bideford is a 38-kilometre drive. At one time it was the UK's third largest port and today known for its independent shops and award-winning eateries.