From the wilds of Dartmoor to the wooded hillsides of the Lyn Valley, Devon is undoubtedly one of England's most beautiful counties. Its overwhelmingly rural landscape means that catered accommodation is restricted to over-subscribed Bed and Breakfasts and hotels which are mostly concentrated in towns like Exeter and Barnstaple.
Devon is a great location for a family holiday in the great outdoors, with everything from beach resorts at Ilfracombe to rambling in the hills of Exmoor and tors of Dartmoor. It is a large county, but whether you want to follow the Tarka Trail, or walk down the Doone Valley, you can be sure there will be cottages open for holiday rentals nearby.
Most of Devon's holiday rental cottages started as farm buildings of some sort, and planning restrictions mean that many of them retain their rural charm on the outside. However, the cottages are generally renovated to 21st Century standards inside, with double glazing, TV, washing machines and fully-equipped kitchens. Families are well catered for in the higher end properties with games rooms, sometimes including full-size pool tables and large gardens for children to explore.
Despite the unpredictability of Devon's weather even during the summer months, the comfort of these properties gives great peace of mind. Moreover, a week's holiday rental of a cottage in Devon can cost as little as £300 - £400. During the peak season you can spend as much as £900 a month for one of the larger or more luxurious cottages, which still works out to be cheaper than a lot of hotels, especially if you have to book several rooms to accommodate a family of four or five.
To get the best of Devon's startling countryside and its friendly communities, renting a holiday cottage near Lynton and Lynmouth can be a good start. It is a useful base from which to explore North Devon, and is within walking distance of several beauty spots, such as Watersmeet (complete with a small but impressive waterfall) and the Valley of the Rocks. Separated by a steep cliff, you can travel up a funicular railway from coastal Lynmouth to clifftop Lynton, with plenty of stunning walks, shopping opportunities and several beaches and boat trips to nearby coastal attractions.
The twin villages also boast a concentration of well-equipped holiday cottages, from modest fisherman's cottages on the path to Watersmeet to grander hillside houses on the way to the Valley of the Rocks. Whatever your budget, Lynton and Lynmouth can provide some tempting accommodation options for your first Devon holiday.
5.0 based on 234 reviews
My other half and I visited Cholwell stables in September 2020 as part of our trip down to Devon. It’s safe to say that our hour and a half ride on Dartmoor was the highlight of our whole trip! The staff at Cholwell Riding Stables are friendly and accommodating and the horses (Zippy and Oreo) were just fab. Upon booking you are asked for your height, weight and riding experience so that you are matched up with a suitable horse. It really seems as though all levels are catered for which is great. Thank you Cholwell, we will definitely be back! :)
5.0 based on 60 reviews
myself and my 2 daughters had a great time on our hour hack while on holiday last week, we are mixed ability and all enjoyed it, Rob the owner was very friendly patient and kind, I would def recommend budleigh stables and will be booking again when we are next in devon.
5.0 based on 104 reviews
An amazing experience of riding on the gorgeous sure footed courageous Clydesdale horses. Beautiful and spectacular views and varied rides on Dartmoor.
5.0 based on 1 reviews
5.0 based on 4 reviews
My Daughter and her friend had booked an hour lesson and a hack on Dartmoor . Sophie took the hour lesson ,and in the words of my daughter who has ridden for a number of years ,fantastic both girls really enjoyed the experience.Couple days later they went on a hack on Dartmoor .which again they both found brilliant.The centre has a superb indoor Equestrian arena .excellent facilities.I would recommend that you book well in advance .as they like to check out the riders before they ride to see what experience you have.But i have to say we have visited many riding schools on our travels and this has to be one of the best
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Family run riding school eat over 40yrs, friendly experienced staff and 55 working horses and ponies. 5mins from Exeter City centre, all levels catered for
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