Discover The Devon and somerset area
Shillingford - Peace, Community and Countryside Charm
Shillingford - Peace, Community and Countryside Charm
Shillingford - Peace, Community and Countryside Charm
Escape the crowds and discover the quiet beauty of Shillingford, a charming rural hamlet in Mid Devon, just Two miles from the historic town of Bampton. Surrounded by rolling countryside and close to the Exe Valley, it's a wonderful place to slow down.
One of Shillingford's greatest charm is it's strong sense of community. Friendly locals
Escape the crowds and discover the quiet beauty of Shillingford, a charming rural hamlet in Mid Devon, just Two miles from the historic town of Bampton. Surrounded by rolling countryside and close to the Exe Valley, it's a wonderful place to slow down.
One of Shillingford's greatest charm is it's strong sense of community. Friendly locals, grazing livestock and quiet country lanes create a welcoming atmosphere that's becoming increasingly rare. It's the perfect setting for a relaxed countryside escape, where every walk and every view encourages you to unwind.
For those who love the outdoors, there are beautiful footpaths to explore, from gentle strolls, to longer walks across the Devon landscape. Whether you're enjoying a morning wander, spotting wildlife or simply soaking up the fresh air, there's something to suit every pace.
If you're looking to add something a little different to your stay, you'll also find a selection of local experiences nearby. Treat yourself to a relaxing therapy or beauty treatment, try your hand at clay shooting with expert tuition, or spend a peaceful afternoon coarse fishing at one of the area's well-established fisheries.
Despite its tranquil setting, Shillingford is perfectly placed for exploring Bampton, Tiverton, Dulverton, Exmoor National Park and the wider Devon and Somerset countryside, making it an ideal base for discovering everything the region has to offer.
Whether you're planning a family holiday, a celebration with friends or a relaxing countryside stay, Shillingford offers the perfect balance of peace, beautiful scenery and easy access to some of Devon's best-loved places.
- Walks from the door
- Remote Therapies - Relax with a massage or wellbeing treatmen
- Shalden Shooting School - Clay and game shooting experience for beginners and experienced shooters
- Four Ponds Fishery - Coarse fishing in peaceful surroundings
Bampton
Shillingford - Peace, Community and Countryside Charm
Shillingford - Peace, Community and Countryside Charm
Just a few minutes from The Elms, Bampton is a charming market town. Whether you're picking up local produce, discovering centuries of history or enjoying lunch in a cafe, it's a wonderful place to experience the character and community of Mid Devon.
- Just 2.3 miles from The Elms (around a 5-minute drive or a pleasant walk)
- Independent shops
Just a few minutes from The Elms, Bampton is a charming market town. Whether you're picking up local produce, discovering centuries of history or enjoying lunch in a cafe, it's a wonderful place to experience the character and community of Mid Devon.
- Just 2.3 miles from The Elms (around a 5-minute drive or a pleasant walk)
- Independent shops, butcher, greengrocer, post office and convenience store
- Traditional pubs, and cafes
- Historic Norman Motte and Bailey Castle
- St Michael and All Angels Church
- Britain in Bloom award-winning town
- Home to the annual Ancient Charter Fair (last Thursday in October)
- Scenic walks
- Free parking
- Children's play areas
Exmoor
Shillingford - Peace, Community and Countryside Charm
Exmoor
Just a short drive from The Elms, Exmoor National Park is one of the UK's most spectacular landscapes. Whether you're seeking adventure, wildlife, breathtaking scenery or peaceful moments in nature, it's a place you'll want to return to again and again.
- Around 10 - 20 minutes from The Elms (depending on where you visit)
- Rolling moorland, an
Just a short drive from The Elms, Exmoor National Park is one of the UK's most spectacular landscapes. Whether you're seeking adventure, wildlife, breathtaking scenery or peaceful moments in nature, it's a place you'll want to return to again and again.
- Around 10 - 20 minutes from The Elms (depending on where you visit)
- Rolling moorland, ancient woodlands, rivers and dramatic valleys
- Miles of walking, cycling and horse-riding trails
- Home to wild red deer, Exmoor ponies and an abundance of wildlife
- Europe's first International Dark Sky Reserve - perfect for star gazing
- Spectacular viewpoints and scenic picnic spots
- Beautiful driving routes through some of Devon and Somerset's finest countryside
- Historic landmarks
- Ideal for families, couples, ramblers and multi-generational holidays
Exmoor is more than wide open landscapes. Discover picturesque villages, welcoming country pubs, historic bridges, hidden waterfalls and peaceful riverside walks along the way. Whether you're exploring for an hour or spending the whole day, every visit offers something new to discover.
Explore all that Devon and Somerset has to offer.
Haddon Hill
Wimbleball Lake
Wimbleball Lake
Moorland Views and Open Space ; The Elms Holiday Home is perfectly placed for exploring three of the South West's most beautiful National Parks and landscapes, including Exmoor, the Quantock Hills and Dartmoor. Whether you're enjoying a local countryside walk or heading further afield, this is a region full of space, scenery and unforgett
Moorland Views and Open Space ; The Elms Holiday Home is perfectly placed for exploring three of the South West's most beautiful National Parks and landscapes, including Exmoor, the Quantock Hills and Dartmoor. Whether you're enjoying a local countryside walk or heading further afield, this is a region full of space, scenery and unforgettable outdoor experiences for all ages.
Just a short drive away, Haddon Hill offers some of the most spectacular views in Exmoor, with Wimbleball Lake stretching out below in the distance. It is a wonderful place to experience the openness of Exmoor. From short, gentle strolls to longer circular walks. It's a place where you can simply follow the path across the moor or pause to take in the wide, uninterrupted views.
Wildlife is often close by, with Exmoor ponies grazing freely and birds moving across the heather and gorse.
- Around 4.6 miles from The Elms
- One of the highest viewpoints in south-west Exmoor
- Easy acess to open moorland walking trails
- Frequent sightings of Exmoor ponies and wildlife
- Views across Wimbleball Lake and surrounding countryside
- Walk down to Wimbleball Lake Reservoir
- Suitable for families and walkers
- Excellent spot for photography and panoramic views
- Open access year - round
Wimbleball Lake
Wimbleball Lake
Wimbleball Lake
Just 11 miles from The Elms, Wimbleball Lake is one of Exmoor's favourite destinations for families, couples and groups looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful countryside, it's the perfect place to combine adventure with relaxation, whether you're visiting for an hour or the whole day.
- Around 25 minu
Just 11 miles from The Elms, Wimbleball Lake is one of Exmoor's favourite destinations for families, couples and groups looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful countryside, it's the perfect place to combine adventure with relaxation, whether you're visiting for an hour or the whole day.
- Around 25 minutes from The Elms
- Scenic walking and cycling trails around the reservoir
- Kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding and sailing
- High ropes course and children's play area
- Picnic spots with lake views
- Fishing - Bank and boat fly-fishing
- Ducks Ditty cafe
- Located within Exmoor's International Dark Sky Reserve
- Peaceful surroundings
Whether you're walking beside the water, cycling through the surrounding countryside or enjoying a picnic with family and friends, Wimbleball Lake offers something for every generation. Children can burn off energy in the play area or tackle the high ropes course, while adults relax and enjoy the peaceful surrounds.
Dunster
Wimbleball Lake
Pretty Market Towns
Just 18.3 miles from The Elms, Dunster is one of Somerset's most beautiful and historic villages. With its cobbled streets, independent shops, welcoming cafes and magnificent castle, it's the perfect destination for a relaxing day out, offering something for every generation to enjoy..
- Around 35 - 40 minutes from The Elms
- A Medieval Gem on
Just 18.3 miles from The Elms, Dunster is one of Somerset's most beautiful and historic villages. With its cobbled streets, independent shops, welcoming cafes and magnificent castle, it's the perfect destination for a relaxing day out, offering something for every generation to enjoy..
- Around 35 - 40 minutes from The Elms
- A Medieval Gem on the edge of Exmoor
- Discover the magnificent Dunster Castle and gardens
- Browse the independent shops, galleries and boutiques
- Enjoy traditional tea rooms, cafes and local pubs
- Explore one of England's best preserved medieval villages
- Iconic Yarn Market
- Visit the historic Gallox Bridge and working watermill
- Step inside St George's Church
- Walk up to Conygar Tower for panoramic countryside views
- Home to Maurice Bishop studio art gallery - showcasing Exmoor
- Seasonal events and local festivities
- Annual Dunster Show (August) - premier Agricultural show in West Somerset
- A wonderful destination for history, photography
Dunster beach is located just 1.3 miles from Dunster village and is easily accessible by car, bike or on foot - sand and shingle beach offering a quieter alternative to nearby Minehead.
Pretty Market Towns
Pretty Market Towns
Pretty Market Towns
Charming villages & timeless towns of Exmoor
From peaceful riverside strolls to welcoming village pubs and breathtaking moorland views, the charming towns and villages of Exmoor each offer something unique. Just a short drive from The Elms, Dulverton, Withypool and Exford are perfect for a relaxed day exploring the landscapes, history and
Charming villages & timeless towns of Exmoor
From peaceful riverside strolls to welcoming village pubs and breathtaking moorland views, the charming towns and villages of Exmoor each offer something unique. Just a short drive from The Elms, Dulverton, Withypool and Exford are perfect for a relaxed day exploring the landscapes, history and hospitality that make Exmoor so special.
Dulverton - The Southern Gateway to Exmoor; Set on the banks of the River Barle, Dulverton is a delightful market town filled with independent shops, cosy cafes, traditional pubs and beautiful riverside walks. It's the perfect place to browse, enjoy lunch and discover the welcoming atmosphere of Exmoor
- Around 15 minutes from The Elms
- Independent shops and local galleries
- Tearooms, cafes and welcoming pubs
- Welcoming walks and Burridge Woods
- Exmoor National Park Centre
- Iconic Lorna Doone statue
- Seasonal events including Dulverton by Starlight
Withypool - Peaceful Moorland Beauty; Nestled in the heart of Exmoor, Withypool is surrounded by open moorland, ancient bridges and the beautiful River Barle. It's a wonderful place for picnics, gentle walks and soaking up the tranquility of the National Park
- Around 31 minutes from The Elms
- Historic six - arch stone bridge
- Walking routes across Withypool Common
- Scenic picnic spots beside the river
- Exmoor ponies and abundant wildlife
- Stunning moorland views
- Historic 18th Century pub
Exford - A traditional Exmoor Village; With it's picturesque village green, welcoming pubs and easy access to walking, cycling and horse-riding routes, Exford is one of Exmoor's best-loved villages. It's an excellent stop for refreshments before heading back to explore the surrounding countryside
- Around 32 minutes from The Elms
- Traditional pub, cafe and resturant
- Walking, cycling and riding routes
- Fishing opportunities nearby
- Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts
Tarr Steps
Pretty Market Towns
Tarr Steps
An Ancient Exmoor Treasure
Step back in time at Tarr Steps, one of Exmoor National Park's most iconic landmarks. Just a scenic drive from The Elms, this remarkable ancient clapper bridge crosses the River Barle and offers the perfect combination of history, beautiful countryside and family adventure
- Around 25 minutes from The Elms
- One of Bri
An Ancient Exmoor Treasure
Step back in time at Tarr Steps, one of Exmoor National Park's most iconic landmarks. Just a scenic drive from The Elms, this remarkable ancient clapper bridge crosses the River Barle and offers the perfect combination of history, beautiful countryside and family adventure
- Around 25 minutes from The Elms
- One of Britain's finest ancient clapper bridges
- Riverside and woodland walking trails
- Beautiful picnic spots beside the River Barle
- Excellent wildlife - spotting, including red deer and birds
- Shallow river areas for paddling
- Traditional country pub
- One of Exmoor's most photographed beauty spots
- A must see during your stay in Devon
Built from enormous stone slabs resting on simple stone pillars, Tarr Steps has crossed the River Barle for centuries. It's origins thought to be medievil, with possibilities of even earlier history hidden in the whispers of legend and lore.
make those special Family holiday memories.
West Somerset Steam Railway
West Somerset Steam Railway
West Somerset Steam Railway
Few days out capture the imagination quite like a journey on the West Somerset Railway. This heritage steam railway offers a nostalgic experience that's loved by children, parents and grandparents alike.
Sit back as the beautifully restored steam trains travel through rolling countryside, picturesque villages and towards the Somerset coast
Few days out capture the imagination quite like a journey on the West Somerset Railway. This heritage steam railway offers a nostalgic experience that's loved by children, parents and grandparents alike.
Sit back as the beautifully restored steam trains travel through rolling countryside, picturesque villages and towards the Somerset coast. The sound of a steam engine, the vintage carriages and ever-changing views make the journey as memorable as the destination.
- Around 35 minutes to Minehead Station
- England's longest heritage steam railway
- 20 miles of beautiful countryside and coastal scenery
- Hop on and off at charming stations along the route
- Seasonal special events
- Popular Santa Specials and festive experiences
- A fantastic day out for all ages
Visit www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk for the latest timetables, ticket information and special seasonal events.
Combine your journey with a visit to Minehead ; Minehead is the Western terminus of the railway and makes a wonderful destination for a full day out. Stroll along the sandy beach, explore the harbour, enjoy fish and chips by the sea or relax in the beautiful Blenheim Gardens.
Fishing Villages
West Somerset Steam Railway
West Somerset Steam Railway
Coastal Villages - Harbours, History and Seaside Charm
From colourful fishing boats and cobbled streets to dramatic cliffs and hidden harbours, the North Devon and Somerset coast is dotted with beautiful villages waiting to be explored. Each has it's own unique character, making them perfect for a leisurely day out during your stay at The
Coastal Villages - Harbours, History and Seaside Charm
From colourful fishing boats and cobbled streets to dramatic cliffs and hidden harbours, the North Devon and Somerset coast is dotted with beautiful villages waiting to be explored. Each has it's own unique character, making them perfect for a leisurely day out during your stay at The Elms
Lynton And Lynmouth - Exmoor's Coastal Jewels; As pictured, connected by the famous Victorian Cliff Railway, Lynton and Lynmouth combine dramatic scenery with facinating history. Explore the charming harbour, browse the independent shops and enjoy breathtaking views across the Bristol Channel from one of Exmoor's most iconic destinations.
Perfect for families, photographers, walkers and anyone discovering Exmoor for the first time.
Lynmouth;
- Around 57 minutes from The Elms
- Sitting at the meeting point of the East Lyn and West Lyn Rivers
- Charming harbour
- Dramatic scenery
- Pubs, cafes, resturants and independent shops
- Connected by Victorian Cliff Railway up to Lynton
Lynton;
- High above Lynmouth
- Mini-Switzerland of England
- Awe-inspiring views
- Connected by the highest and steepest water powered railway in the world
- Rising 862 feet
- Independent shops and cafes
- A must see and do
Appledore - Colourful and Creative; A charming estuary village known for it's colourful cottages, independent galleries, welcoming cafes and rich maritime heritage. Wander the narrow lanes, browse local shops and enjoy watching boats drift along the River Torridge
- About 1 hour from The Elms
Combine your journey with a visit to Instow; Located just across the estuary
- Regular summer ferry service connecting the two
- Long sandy beach
- Calm, shallow waters
- Ideal for paddleboarding
- Parking
- Ideal for families
- Pubs, resturants and ice cream stands
Porlock & Porlock Weir - Moorland Meets the Sea; Nestled between Exmoor and the coast, Porlock offers independent shops, traditional Inns and beautiful historic building, while nearby Porlock Weir provides peaceful harbour views, coastal walks and unforgettable sunsets
- About 42 minutes from The Elms
Clovelly - Step back in time; One of England's most famous villages, Clovelly is renowned for its steep cobbled street, whitewashed cottages and tiny working harbour. It's truly unique place where history, spectacular coastal views and traditional charm combine to create an unforgettable visit
- Around 1 hour 13 minutes from The Elms
Beaches
West Somerset Steam Railway
Beaches
North Devon Coast - Beaches, Cliffs and Freedom; From the moment you arrive at The Elms, the North Devon coast invites you to slow down, breathe deeper, and reconnect with the natural beauty that makes this part of the world so special.
This is a coastline of contrast and drama. Long sandy beaches meet rugged cliffs, hidden coves sit benea
North Devon Coast - Beaches, Cliffs and Freedom; From the moment you arrive at The Elms, the North Devon coast invites you to slow down, breathe deeper, and reconnect with the natural beauty that makes this part of the world so special.
This is a coastline of contrast and drama. Long sandy beaches meet rugged cliffs, hidden coves sit beneath rolling dunes, and every turn of the coast path reveals something new. It's no surprise much of this area is protected as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
- About 1 hour 10 minutes from The Elms (depending on where you visit)
- Saunton Sands, Croyde, Wollacombe, Putsburough and Westward Ho!
- Wide sandy beaches perfect for families and groups
- Popular for surfing, bodyboarding and water sports
- Rock pooling, beach games and safe swimming areas
- Many beaches awarded Blue Flag status for cleanliness and safety
- Hidden coves
- Coastal walks with spectacular cliff-top views
- Places to eat and drink
- Peaceful coves and quieter hidden spots to explore
- South West Coast Path
- Dramatic viewpoints
South Devon Coast; South Devon offers a different but equally beautiful coastline. Expect sheltered bays, estuaries, and traditional seaside towns - each with its own character and charm.
It's an easy trip from The Elms and well worth the journey if you want to see more of Devon's diverse coastline
- About 1 hour from The Elms (dependending on where you visit)
- Exmouth, Dawlish Warren and Torquay
Activities for all ages, near our devon rental property.
Tiverton
National Trust Days Out Near The Elms
Family Days Out in Devon
Tiverton and the Grand Western Canal - Peaceful Waterside Days; One of the quiet joys of staying at The Elms is discovering places that invite you to slow down and enjoy the moment. Just 9 miles away, the historic market town of Tiverton offers exactly that, home to the beautiful Grand Western Canal, one of Devon's most peaceful and pictu
Tiverton and the Grand Western Canal - Peaceful Waterside Days; One of the quiet joys of staying at The Elms is discovering places that invite you to slow down and enjoy the moment. Just 9 miles away, the historic market town of Tiverton offers exactly that, home to the beautiful Grand Western Canal, one of Devon's most peaceful and picturesque waterways.
Once an important transport route for limestone, the canal now offers 11 1/4 miles (18km) of calm towpaths, wildlife-rich waterways and gentle countryside scenery. It's a wonderful place for walking, cycling, boating or simply enjoying a slower pace of life
- Around 20 minutes from The Elms
- 11 1/4 miles of scenic towpaths and countryside walks
- Easy, flat cycling routes
- Wildlife spotting including swans, kingfishers and dragonflies
- Traditional Horse-drawn barge trips
- Popular spot for fishing
- Beautiful photography and nature-watching opportunities
Tiverton;
- Supermarkets, shops, cafes, resturants and take away options
Family Days Out in Devon
National Trust Days Out Near The Elms
Family Days Out in Devon
Adventures for every generation; One of the greatest comforts of staying at The Elms is knowing there are always family-friendly attractions nearby to suit every generation - from toddlers and teenagers to parents and grandparents. Devon is full of places where days are filled with laughter, discovery and shared memories.
Whether you're pl
Adventures for every generation; One of the greatest comforts of staying at The Elms is knowing there are always family-friendly attractions nearby to suit every generation - from toddlers and teenagers to parents and grandparents. Devon is full of places where days are filled with laughter, discovery and shared memories.
Whether you're planning big adventure days or relaxed outings, you'll find something for every mood and energy level.
Diggerland Devon; A truly hands-on attraction where children (and adults) can drive and operate real construction machinery. Fun, unexpected and surprisingly inclusive for all ages
- 29 minutes from The Elms
Devon Railway Centre; A gentle day out featuring model railways, minature trains and an Edwardian-style model village - especially popular with younger children and grandparents
- 25 minutes from The Elms
Crealy Theme Park; One of South West's leading family attractions, with rides, shows, animals and plenty of space for younger children to explore safely. A great choice for families with toddlers and primary-aged children.
- 41 minutes from The Elms
The Milky Way Adventure Park; A fun-filled mix of rides, mazes, laser games and interactive exhibits, especially popular with older children who enjoy hands-on activities
- About 1 hour 8 minutes from The Elms
The Big Sheep; A long time family favourite with animal encounters, indoor play areas, shows and the famous sheep race. A welcoming, easy-going day out whatever the weather
- About 58 minutes from The Elms
Watermouth Castle; A quirky seaside attraction combining a Victorian castle with rides, adventure play and nostalgic charm - great for mixed age families
- About 1 hour 8 minutes from The Elms
Tropiquaria; Relaxed family-friendly attraction. Set within a unique former 1930's BBC radio station, it's home to a fascinating collection of animals, including reptiles, mammals, birds and tropical fish
- Around 30 minutes from The Elms
Exmoor Zoo; A fantastic family attraction where you can get up close to a wide variety of animals from around the world
- Around 45 minutes from The Elms
Pennywell Farm; A favourite with families offering a fun-filled day of animal encounters, outdoor play and hands-on activities. Feed and cuddle a wide variety of animals
- Around 45 minutes from The Elms
National Trust Days Out Near The Elms
National Trust Days Out Near The Elms
National Trust Days Out Near The Elms
One of the joys of staying at The Elms is having a wonderful National Trust property, historic house and garden close by. These are places where children can explore freely, adults can unwind, and families can enjoy relaxed, memorable days together in beautiful surroundings.
Knightshayes Court in Tiverton is one of the most popular Nationa
One of the joys of staying at The Elms is having a wonderful National Trust property, historic house and garden close by. These are places where children can explore freely, adults can unwind, and families can enjoy relaxed, memorable days together in beautiful surroundings.
Knightshayes Court in Tiverton is one of the most popular National Trust visits in the area. Impressive Victorian Gothic mansion designed by William Burges for the Heathcoat Amory family and is surrounded by extensive gardens and woodland.
While the house offers fascinating history for adults, it's the grounds that truly make it ideal for families. Open lawns, winding paths, hidden corners and woodland walks give children plenty of space to explore at their own pace
- Just 20 minutes from The Elms, Knightshayes Court
Mid Devon Show - A seasonal Highlight; Held annually in the grounds of Knighthayes Court, The Mid Devon show is a lively celebration of agriculture, food, countryside and local culture.
Families can enjoy animal displays, live entertainment, local food stalls, craft exhibits and hands-on activities for children. It's a full day out with plenty to see and do, and a real highlight for guests staying in the area during summer
- Held annually in July