Discover The Devon and somerset area
Shillingford
Shillingford
Shillingford
Shillingford, get away from the crowds, our self-catering accommodation is in a quiet and peaceful little hamlet in Mid Devon, two miles (3km) northeast of Bampton on the River Batherm. Close to the border with West Somerset. It is near the Exe Valley. Surrounded by farms and farm land. Your sure to come across some friendly locals and
Shillingford, get away from the crowds, our self-catering accommodation is in a quiet and peaceful little hamlet in Mid Devon, two miles (3km) northeast of Bampton on the River Batherm. Close to the border with West Somerset. It is near the Exe Valley. Surrounded by farms and farm land. Your sure to come across some friendly locals and their livestock being moved from field to field, and the many horses that trot around these country lanes. This lovely village has a real community feel, where everyone looks out for one another. The local village hall offers the community and surrounding villages with some fantastic events. Keeping the essence of community spirit.
You can follow the many footpaths and enjoy some lovely gentle strolls, or for the more enthusiastic ramblers wanting a challenge opt for a long-distance hike. Whatever your preference you can find some lovely walks to suit everyone.
Also in Shillingford we have a beauty and wellbeing clinic. If you're interested in any treatments whilst on holiday www.remotetherapies.co.uk
A shooting school, giving lessons to suit both clay shots and game shots and cater for shooters of all levels
www.shaldenshootingschooldevon.co.uk
and Carp and coarse fishing, a mature fishery with fish of outstanding quality, colouration and size
There is a good bus service from the village taking you into Bampton, Tiverton, Taunton and Dulverton.
Bampton
Shillingford
Shillingford
Bampton 2.3 miles (5 min drive or a short walk), with ample free parking.
Bampton has much history. Dating back to 1067 and one of the best preserved in Devon is a Norman Motte and Bailey Castle, offering wonderful views of the town below. A raised mound of earth and stones that was used to build a Medieval castle, built for defence and a
Bampton 2.3 miles (5 min drive or a short walk), with ample free parking.
Bampton has much history. Dating back to 1067 and one of the best preserved in Devon is a Norman Motte and Bailey Castle, offering wonderful views of the town below. A raised mound of earth and stones that was used to build a Medieval castle, built for defence and as symbol of lordship.
Stay at The Elms Holiday Home on the last Thursday in October and visit our annual Ancient Charter fair, over 750 years old. Traditionally Exmoor ponies were traded. Today you will find locals gathering to enjoy locally made beers and ciders, fine wines, arts and crafts, food stalls and local theatre groups offering surprising stories on the streets. Lively fun entertainment for all ages.
Bampton is a well-deserved regular winner of Britain in Bloom.
Once a thriving wool town, Bampton's Georgian houses are built of locally quarried stone. The whole town centre is a conservation area, and Bampton boasts almost 100 listed structures including two telephone boxes.
Bampton has a surprising range of local amenities, including some lovely shops, tea rooms, a post office, butchers, green grocers, pubs, restaurants and chemist.
Visit St Michael All Angels Church, grade 1 listed with a 13th century tower, and contains many interesting features including a unique rhyming epitaph that tells of a story of an unfortunate death by icicle! The Church holds a heritage and visitor centre and offers a warm welcome with information boards, displays, videos and children's activities. Book a town trail and discover more of Bampton's History.
Exmoor
Shillingford
Exmoor
Our Devon accommodation near Exmoor National Park. A mere 693 square kilometres. Exmoor is one of UK's smallest National Parks. Named as "the moor of the Exe", our largest river.
We would highly recommend that guests have a little adventure out onto this vast expanse of beautiful, natural countryside and see it's many offerings. Whilst
Our Devon accommodation near Exmoor National Park. A mere 693 square kilometres. Exmoor is one of UK's smallest National Parks. Named as "the moor of the Exe", our largest river.
We would highly recommend that guests have a little adventure out onto this vast expanse of beautiful, natural countryside and see it's many offerings. Whilst driving along you will find ample parking or pulling in places, here you can sit and enjoy the wonderful views or perfect for those wishing to walk or cycling enthusiasts wanting to enjoy this awesome landscape.
The expansive heather and gorse moorland provide a habitat for many species of insect, winged butterfly, flitting and gliding close to the ground.
Join the many footpaths and bridleways, through oak woodlands and steep wooded valleys.
On Exmoor you are never far from the sound of water and rivers and streams that flow from the high ground cutting many deep combes, defining characteristics of the National Park.
Magnificent herds of red deer and native ponies can be seen across the rolling farmland.
Exmoor is Europe’s first international dark skies reserve. One of the best places for star gazing. On a clear night the milky way, shooting stars and thousands of glittering stars and constellations are clearly visible with the naked eye.
Holiday cottage in Devon countryside
Local farmers tending the land in the rolling Devon countryside. A timeless view just beyond the doorstep of your holiday home.
Devon farmland with farmers at work near peaceful holiday let.
Stay near working farms in rural Devon.
Peaceful Devon retreat with views of working fields.
Peaceful countryside views with cows grazing nearby. A true taste of rural Devon from your holiday home.
Bampton, quaint town centre close to holiday cottage, rich in history and heritage.
Locally sourced restaurant meal near holiday cottage.
Savour fine wines and dining just minutes from your holiday home, the perfect pairing for a special evening out.
Freshly prepared food at nearby restaurant near holiday let.
Delicious local cuisine just minutes from your holiday home, perfect for a relaxed night out or a special treat.
Capture some lovely photos of Exmoor.
Exbridge. The border between Devon and Somerset. Family-friendly food.
Waterside pub near self-catering holiday holme.
Devon holiday rental near scenic food and drink spots.
Tasty, family-friendly meals, something for everyone, from little ones to grown-ups.
Explore all that Devon and Somerset has to offer.
Wimbleball Lake
Wimbleball Lake
Wimbleball Lake
Wimbleball lake on Exmoor in Somerset, and only 11 miles away from our Devon holiday let.
Wimbleball lake is a water supply reservoir constructed in the 1970's. It has a water storage capacity of some 21,000 megalitres over an area of 374 acres. You are able to walk down to the 161 feet high dam from the main carpark in Brompton Regis or
Wimbleball lake on Exmoor in Somerset, and only 11 miles away from our Devon holiday let.
Wimbleball lake is a water supply reservoir constructed in the 1970's. It has a water storage capacity of some 21,000 megalitres over an area of 374 acres. You are able to walk down to the 161 feet high dam from the main carpark in Brompton Regis or from the carpark at Haddon Hill.
An array of walking and cycling trails to suit all ages and abilities wind around the 530 acre site, alongside unrivalled access to water sports and other outdoor activities e.g. stand-up paddle boarding, canoeing, sailing and windsurfing plus play areas for children with high rope adventure. There is something for everyone to enjoy and explore all day. So don't forget the picnic.
With The Elms having easy assess to Exmoor national park you can take in the delightful scenery, watch out for the roaming Exmoor ponies, a highlight of any trip to Exmoor. Along the way why not stop at a Country Inn and enjoy it's light refreshments.
Dunster
Wimbleball Lake
Wimbleball Lake
Dunster only 18.3 miles from The Elms Holiday Home and well worth a visit.
Set between the foothills of Exmoor National Park and the Somerset coast. Dunster is the largest and most intact medieval village in England. With its charming shop fronts and cafes nestled side-by-side upon cobbled streets. Have an amble Dunster is only small, it w
Dunster only 18.3 miles from The Elms Holiday Home and well worth a visit.
Set between the foothills of Exmoor National Park and the Somerset coast. Dunster is the largest and most intact medieval village in England. With its charming shop fronts and cafes nestled side-by-side upon cobbled streets. Have an amble Dunster is only small, it won't take you long to go from end to end.
Photo shows the iconic octagonal structure "Yarn Market" built around a central pier, this would have provided people shelter from the rain for hundreds of years, located in the centre of the high street, built in the early 17th century. It was used for wool and then cloth trading.
Dunster is renowned for local events such as quintessential country fairs held in the castle grounds during July and August as well as the beautiful Dunster by Candlelight evenings that are held during the first weekend of December. Visit the 11th Century fairy tale castle and water mill, perched dramatically on Dunster Tor, and overlooking the village. Existed here since at least Norman times. With an impressive medieval gatehouse and ruined tower a reminder of it's turbulent history. There are beautiful garden displays all year round, and panoramic views over the Bristol Channel and surrounding countryside.
Maurice Bishop's art gallery lies at the foot of castle Hill. With Exmoor being his inspiration.
Pretty Market Towns
Pretty Market Towns
Pretty Market Towns
The Elms is very close to the pretty market towns and villages of Dulverton, Withypool and Exford.
Dulverton: Is a beautiful historic market town situated on the River Barle known as the Southern gateway to Exmoor. Streets are lined with cosy cottages and award-winning restaurants, wonderful independent shops, pubs and charming tea rooms
The Elms is very close to the pretty market towns and villages of Dulverton, Withypool and Exford.
Dulverton: Is a beautiful historic market town situated on the River Barle known as the Southern gateway to Exmoor. Streets are lined with cosy cottages and award-winning restaurants, wonderful independent shops, pubs and charming tea rooms. Home to Lorna Doone her statue stands on a small island by the headquarters of the Exmoor National Park. There are pleasant walks along the riverbank.
Withypool: Tucked away in the heart of Exmoor you'll find this picturesque moorland village. Find a lovely picnic spot by the old 6- arch stone Bridge. To the South West wide open moorland of Withypool Common and the adjacent Withypool Hill some (1,306 feet). The views from the summit are spectacular.
Exford: On the river exe, with its attractive village green surrounded by shops and restaurants. It is a busy walking, fishing and equine centre.
Photo shows The River Barle in Dulverton.
Tarr Steps
Pretty Market Towns
Pretty Market Towns
Tarr Steps, photogenic at any time of the year. An ancient "Clapper Bridge", the longest and oldest of its kind in Great Britain, dating back hundreds if not thousands of years. This medieval bridge spans the river Barle on Exmoor.
Formed by arranging huge slabs, weighing several tons, over stacks of stones. No mortar or cement used to bui
Tarr Steps, photogenic at any time of the year. An ancient "Clapper Bridge", the longest and oldest of its kind in Great Britain, dating back hundreds if not thousands of years. This medieval bridge spans the river Barle on Exmoor.
Formed by arranging huge slabs, weighing several tons, over stacks of stones. No mortar or cement used to build this ancient bridge.
There have been periods of damage over the years with heavy storms and rainfall resulting in heavy debris being washed down the river, dislodging the massive slabs and washing them downstream. Steel cables are now positioned upriver to help reduce the amount of debris reaching the bridge.
If you fancy a paddle or a dip, you can enjoy the shallows around the steps, or walk about 20 minutes upstream for deeper waters and some 'wild swimming'. There are also pleasant walks along the riverbank. Well-marked footpaths allow you to walk and explore the woodland and it's wildlife.
*Total length of the bridge is 55 metres across (180ft). Slabs weigh 1-2 tons each. The largest slab being 2.5 by 1.5 meters. English Heritage has marked this clapper bridge as grade 1 listed.
Holiday Rental near Devon and Somerset landmarks
Wander across the ancient Tarr Steps, a timeless clapper bridge in the heart of Exmoor. Just a short drive from your holiday home.
Peaceful moments by the River Barle, flowing through Exmoor's wooded valleys, just a short drive from your holiday retreat.
At Marsh Bridge Exmoor, over calm countryside stream.
One of Exmoor's many beautiful bridges over the River Barle.
Marsh Bridge, Exmoor. Tranquil walks can be taken through the woodland and alongside the picturesque River Barle.
Landacre Bridge Exmoor. Ancient monument. Grade 2 listed. 5 arches of 9ft each span the width of the river.
Walk along the meandering river through Exmoor's beautiful countryside.
Breathe in the wild beauty of Exmoor rolling hills, heather-covered moorland, and endless walking trails right on your doorstep.
Visit Dunster village from holiday cottage.
Exmoor village landmarks.
Tranquil view of Wimbleball Lake Reservoir close to countryside holiday accommodation.
Haddon Hill, South Eastern corner of Exmoor.
Take a gentle stroll down to the Reservoir.
Haddon Hill above Wimbleball Lake with a range of trails across the moor.
Spot Exmoor ponies and their foals grazing the moors, a true symbol of this rugged national park.
Scenic view of Lower Willingford Bridge Exmoor, countryside walk.
Explore Exford a pretty moorland village in the heart of Exmoor, perfect for a pint, a picnic, or a peaceful wander.
Make a splash at Wimbleball Lake, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing just minutes from your stay.
Activity day out with watersports on Wimbleball lake near self-catering accommodation.
Self-catering accommodation close to Wimbleball Lake, Exmoor. Fun-filled family day out.
Take in the breath-taking views from Dunkery Beacon, the highest point in Exmoor.
make those special Family holiday memories.
Steam Train
Fishing Villages
Fishing Villages
A firm family favourite. Step onboard and experience the legend of the Flying Scotsman.
West Somerset steam railway takes on some 20 miles of stunning Somerset countryside and coast. There are many stations along the line to park up, purchase tickets and begin your journey on this steam locomotive.
There are also some fabulous events and
A firm family favourite. Step onboard and experience the legend of the Flying Scotsman.
West Somerset steam railway takes on some 20 miles of stunning Somerset countryside and coast. There are many stations along the line to park up, purchase tickets and begin your journey on this steam locomotive.
There are also some fabulous events and experiences from afternoon tea trains to fish and chip suppers. And what steam train wouldn't be complete without a murder mystery special or a festive, illuminated train ride with a visit from Father Christmas himself.
Visit www.somerset-railway.co.uk for further information and train times.
One station is at the seaside resort of Minehead, 20 miles from The Elms in Shillingford. Nestled between Exmoor National Park and the Quantock Hills. Minehead has a long sandy beach, and charming harbour. Just a short stroll from the seafront you'll find Blenheim Gardens, Minehead's largest park. These beautiful gardens are open all year, with a bandstand offering a variety of free entertainment during the summer months.
Fishing Villages
Fishing Villages
Fishing Villages
Traditional fishing villages are coastal settlements where the primary industry is fishing and it's strong connection to the sea. Many with characterful shops, pubs, cafes and tea rooms.
During your stay with us why not head to the picturesque fishing villages of Appledore: located on the Torridge estuary. It has a long history of ship bu
Traditional fishing villages are coastal settlements where the primary industry is fishing and it's strong connection to the sea. Many with characterful shops, pubs, cafes and tea rooms.
During your stay with us why not head to the picturesque fishing villages of Appledore: located on the Torridge estuary. It has a long history of ship building and a vibrant harbour area. A village with winding narrow streets, hidden lanes and cobbled courtyards. Plus cute colourful houses.
Clovelly: Famous for it's cobbled streets, quaint cottages, and stunning views of North Devon. Once owned by the Queen, it's steeped with maritime history.
Porlock: A place for everyone and all seasons. A special and unique village, retaining much of it's medieval charm. Visit the 13th century church of
St Dubricius, with it's famous truncated spire and many attractive and historic buildings.
Lynmouth: Situated at the meeting of the West Lyn and East Lyn rivers. Lynmouth know for it's charming harbour.
Photo here shows the picturesque town of Lynton, described as the 'Mini-Switzerland' of England.
It's cliff railway, a unique Victorian totally water-powered lift opened in 1890. Ascending 862ft it's the highest and steepest railway in the world! And offers awe-inspiring views over the bay. A "must see and do".
Beaches
Fishing Villages
Beaches
Our holiday let near North Devon coast where guests can discover the picturesque string of sandy beaches. The stunning landscape varies from wild coastal cliffs, spectacular waterfalls, rocky coves to sand dunes and beaches. An area of outstanding natural beauty. These beaches are some of the largest, unspoilt and memorable in the UK.
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Our holiday let near North Devon coast where guests can discover the picturesque string of sandy beaches. The stunning landscape varies from wild coastal cliffs, spectacular waterfalls, rocky coves to sand dunes and beaches. An area of outstanding natural beauty. These beaches are some of the largest, unspoilt and memorable in the UK.
Highlighted by the iconic blue flag symbols, making them a wonderful place to visit during your trip to Devon.
Picture perfect and found in plain view are Saunton Sands, Croyde, Woolcombe, Putsborough and Westward Ho! Great for body boarding, Surfing, swimming and rock pooling. Or find some hidden treasures amongst the dramatic coastline.
So whether you want to join in with family-friendly fun on one of the larger beaches or go somewhere a little more secluded and off the beaten track you'll find the perfect stop for your coastal excursion.
Or venture to South Devon where it offers breath-taking landscapes. Rugged coastline, idyllic sandy beaches and coves, secretive estuaries, expansive patchwork countryside and historic villages. Dawlish Warren, Torquay and Exmouth just a few examples of our stunning South Devon coastline near The Elms. With ample things to offer for all ages.
The elms close to some beautiful locations in Devon and somerset.
Hop aboard the West Somerset Steam Railway, a nostalgic ride through rolling countryside and seaside stops.
Explore the wild and wonderful Somerset coastline, from sandy shores to rugged cliffs, it's within easy reach.
Seaside charm at Minehead, sandy beaches, cream teas, and the start of the South West Coast Path.
Watch the tides roll in at Minehead harbour, a peaceful spot where sea meets storybook charm.
Relax at Blue Anchor Beach, a wild, peaceful stretch of Somerset coast, perfect for paddling, picnics and fossil hunts.
Discover the wild beauty of the Valley Of Rocks, epic cliffs on the dramatic North Devon and Exmoor coastline.
Valley Of Rocks boasts some of England's highest sea cliffs, and unforgettable coastal views.
Valley of Rocks. Gaze across the Bristol Channel.
Meet the locals, wild feral goats roam freely across the dramatic cliffs of the Valley of the Rocks.
Golden sands and rolling surf, Woolacombe - North Devon is a coastal gem for families, surfers, and sunseekers alike.
Unwind at Instow - North Devon, sandy shores, estuary views, and ice creams. Looking across to Appledore.
Verity statue stands in Illfracombe - North Devon.
Combe Martin beach. A picturesque North Devon cove with golden sand, rock pools. Perfect for family-friendly days out exploring the South west.
Overlooking Combe Martin bay on the South West Coast Path. A true Devon gem.
Dawlish Warren - South Devon. Scenic cliff top views.
Dawlish Warren. Walk along the beach to the Exe estuary.
Views of Dawlish Warren Nature Reserve and coastline in Devon.
Exmouth - South Devon. Golden sands and coastal adventures.
Scoops of sunshine, nothing says holiday like seaside icecream in hand.
Activities for all ages, near our devon rental property.
Tiverton
National Trust Properties
Entertainment Parks
Well worth a visit during your stay in the West Country is Tiverton, home to the Grand Western Canal. The canal extends for eleven and a quarter miles (18km) from Canal Basin in Tiverton, through the villages of Halberton, Samford Peverell and Burlescombe. Once used largely for the carriage of limestone the canal is now a tranquil recrea
Well worth a visit during your stay in the West Country is Tiverton, home to the Grand Western Canal. The canal extends for eleven and a quarter miles (18km) from Canal Basin in Tiverton, through the villages of Halberton, Samford Peverell and Burlescombe. Once used largely for the carriage of limestone the canal is now a tranquil recreational waterway for walking, cycling, boating and fishing. The scenery is constantly changing and there is a wealth of wildlife, including swans and kingfishers. Excellent for birdwatchers and botanists as well as all lovers of canals and countryside.
The Tiverton Canal Company is home to one of the last horse drawn barges in Great Britain. Operated by the Brindley family, with crew dressed in clothing of a bygone era, why not enjoy a peaceful trip along the canal on the 'Tivertonian' pulled by Ross, George or Brindley the beautiful shire horses (seasonal).
Tiverton, 9 miles away has the big supermarkets a selection of shops, restaurants, takeaways and pubs.
Entertainment Parks
National Trust Properties
Entertainment Parks
Devon offers a variety of entertainment parks for families and thrill-seekers. Some of the most popular options include Crealy Theme Park, Woodlands Family theme Park, The Milky Way Adventure Park and The Big Sheep.
Watermouth Castle, Diggerland Devon, and Devon Railway Centre are also great choices for unique experiences. These offer a ra
Devon offers a variety of entertainment parks for families and thrill-seekers. Some of the most popular options include Crealy Theme Park, Woodlands Family theme Park, The Milky Way Adventure Park and The Big Sheep.
Watermouth Castle, Diggerland Devon, and Devon Railway Centre are also great choices for unique experiences. These offer a range of entertainment, with both indoor and outdoor activities to interest both children and adults' alike.
Clealy Theme Park: South West's number one family day out with over 60 rides and attractions, live shows and animals galore.
Woodland Family Theme Park: As the largest theme park in Devon, includes rides, slides, and play areas.
The Milky Way Adventure Park: Rides, slides, shoot lasers, explore the maze and experience outdoor displays.
The Big Sheep: For animal lovers to get up close with farm animals. Come Rain or shine! There are action packed programmes of rides, shows, animals and play. Don't forget to watch the sheep race!
Watermouth Castle: This unique park is set within a Victorian castle, offering fairground rides and adventure play areas.
Diggerland: Where children and adults can ride, drive and operate real diggers, dumpers and other full size construction machinery.
Devon Railway Centre: Popular Devon attraction. Unique railway experience. Enjoy rides and explore our model railway exhibition and Edwardian model village.
These are just some of the many attractions on offer to make your stay in the West Country unforgettable.
National Trust Properties
National Trust Properties
National Trust Properties
A National Trust property is a historic house, garden, park or other site of historical interest that is owned and managed by the National Trust.
Here in Devon there are lots of National Trust properties for you to enjoy during your stay with us at The Elms Holiday Home.
Pictured here is Knighthayes court in Tiverton, just 20 minutes driv
A National Trust property is a historic house, garden, park or other site of historical interest that is owned and managed by the National Trust.
Here in Devon there are lots of National Trust properties for you to enjoy during your stay with us at The Elms Holiday Home.
Pictured here is Knighthayes court in Tiverton, just 20 minutes drive from our holiday rental property. A Victorian country house designed by William Burges for the Heathcott-Amory family. The house sits in beautiful gardens with extensive paths. Explore the gardens, house and parkland at Knighthayes. With seasonal trails and events, you’ll find adventures for children of all ages.
Held within the grounds of Knighthayes, every July is the Mid Devon Show. An award-wining show with a peek into farm life and the ultimate celebration of all things Devon. With dazzling entertainment, scrumptious food, unique shopping, live music and vibrant horticulture. Promising 9 hours of nonstop fun.
Holiday House near Devon attractions
Tiverton. Horse Drawn Boat Trip along the tranquil Grand Western Canal.
Tiverton Canal. A recreational waterway for walking, cycling, boating and fishing.
The Big Sheep Farm and Theme Park - Bideford, North Devon.
The Milky Way Adventure Park - Bideford, North Devon.
Crealy Theme Park - Clyst St Mary, Exeter
Arlington Court National Trust. Exmoor - North Devon.
Killerton House National Trust. Broadclyst, Exeter.
Castle Drogo National Trust - Drewsteignton, Exeter.