Christmas Cottages in Devon

Reviews

What our customers say about their holidays

• Kaylee - Verified booking

  Here are some tips for locating this charming cottage: When you consult the map on Sykes Cottages, which mistakenly estimates it to be before the right-hand bend.

  Be sure not to stop at the first thatched cottage you see and the property you need is actually located at the very end of the road (about 1.5miles in), which, like many lanes in Devon, may appear unclassified. The property’s What3words address is: ///shipyards.nurture.wisdom. As you turn in and drive down the gravel driveway, you’ll find the cottage with a large gate in front of you, surrounded by a few other properties on the land, one of which belongs to the owners. We were warmly welcomed by Malcolm, who we saw each morning as he let the ducks out to protect them from foxes. Malcolm is friendly and a treasure trove of local knowledge. After a while, we were also welcomed by Zoe who popped her head over the fence to greet us. Adjacent to the property is a large field that leads to the Tarka Trail. Most mornings, our dog loved playing in the field until the sheep arrived. Even then, Malcolm generously offered us access to the field that separates our property from theirs, which was incredibly kind, especially on days when our dog needed extra exercise. A note for dog owners: dogs are not allowed upstairs (if your furry friend typically sleeps with you). We also noticed the house rules about not leaving dogs unattended, as there were some noticeable scratches on the doorway, its likely this is to prevent damage from pets that struggle in unfamiliar places or have separation anxiety. The information book provides some options for nearby eateries. We particularly enjoyed The Kings Arms in Winkleigh—just a heads up, though: most local restaurants don’t serve food until 5:30 p.m., and reservations are often necessary. We didn’t explore too many local dining options, as the cottage is conveniently located for trips to North and South Devon and even Cornwall. One unsuspecting highlight was the Puffing Billy Cafe in Torrington, about 30 minutes away, where we indulged in a delightful cream tea too! For the extremely light sleepers in our group, the sound of the buzzing cesspit and the creaky stairs did disrupt their rest, so if you're a light sleeper too you may opt for ear buds. We recommend discussing your return times with the owners too, particularly as the winter months approach, if you'd prefer a hot shower or bath on your return to adjust the times for a warm one. Fortunately, Malcolm was quick to accommodate the changes for us. The cottage is well-equipped with everything you could need for a comfortable stay. Based on previous reviews, we opted to bring a few of our own items, as it noted that some essentials weren't provided. However, there is a Coop in nearby Hatherleigh. The surroundings are stunning, and the night sky is absolutely breathtaking! All in all, thank you for a lovely stay in such a beautiful place—it’s incredibly spacious and perfect for dogs!

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• Claire - Verified booking

  The location is amazing, overlooking the sea and train line and just a short walk from pubs, cafes and train station.

  We stayed in the cottage next door a few years ago so were aware of the access to the property being down a ramp, steps and a narrow path but its worth it once you get your gear to the cottage. The sea front walkway is now fully open so over the bridge and few steps down will get you on there and it’s a short level walk to the centre, easier than going back up the slope. The things I will mention below did not affect our holiday but for the owner there are a couple of things to be looked and if no-one mentions them then the owner cannot sort it out. There are numerous bulbs out throughout the property, I'm happy to change a bulb in a lamp but these were spotlights, too high to reach without a stepladder. The handle has been snapped off the cupboard where the fridge is meaning you have to try and put your hand up underneath to grab the door of the freezer. Others have pulled at the door and caused the door to come away at the bottom. If I had a spanner and screwdriver I would have simply switched a handle from one of the other cupboards. The T.V in the living room does need updating or even just a DVD player put in front room. After a day of walking we like to watch a film but with basic T.V we ended up watching upstairs in the bedroom which meant we didn't make much use of the front room. We loved our stay and would definitely visit again, its just a shame its an 8-9 hour drive from newcastle!

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• Salema - Verified booking

  Had a wonderful time at Syke Barn, not too far out from Barnstaple in a tranquil part of Devon.

  The barn was immaculate and furnished beautifully. Great countryside where you could see trees and hills around you. We even saw sheep outside our windows. Though it was cold and rainy outside there was enough to do inside for all ages. All types of games were available as well as space to play football and bat and ball. Lived the electric train set and Lego. The wifi really helped with the teenager's need to stay in touch with friends. The kitchen was well equipped we even cooked a roast one evening. The log fire was really cosy in the evening. The bedrooms were all reasonably sized and far enough apart that there was space for the 6 of us. Just be careful if you have a teenager they can use up the hot water! Glad it only happened once. We enjoyed trying out Alexa! to get the weather and listen to music. It was easy to get around with trips to Barnstaple, Woolacombe, Morton Hoe and Arlington Court. Tesco also delivered to the house which really helped. The owners were lovely and left us an amazing lemon cake. Definitely felt spoilt, they were on hand but left us to ourselves. Couldn't ask for more and catered for our different age range.

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• Nadia - Verified booking

  Gorgeous homely cottage.

  Super nice owners that are on hand if needed. The surrounding grounds, cottage and barns also beautiful. Just be aware of track/lane down to cottage in wet weather is slippery and muddy. Also Google with Post code took me to half way down lane. Ignore that just keep going right to the end and new drive being done. I found hot spotting my Internet from ee provider worked very well with my amazon fire stick. I did a little work on laptop too. The fur kids loved running through the field, stream and woods. Watched the world go by with the friendly ducks.(owners put away and let out each day, which my girls took while to except it was OK so no need to Bark!silly monkeys) You are fully enclosed in once gate is shut so very settling as a dog owner. Wood floors so easy with dogs. Lovely bath and powerful shower. I forgot to take salt and pepper and hand soap, but easily pick up down in village shops or Okehampton. Good spot to go to dartmoor and surrounding area. Or pop across the coast. Then come back for hot chocky in front of the lush log burner. Definitely a lovely cottage to stay and relax in :)

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• Pam - Verified booking

  This was our second stay at the cottage and we loved it.

  It takes a while to get everything from the car (parked some distance away) to the cottage itself but once in, we had a very relaxing comfortable week. Thanks for the welcome pack (nice not to rush to the shops to have a cup of tea) and a special thanks to the owner who immediately posted on to us a leather jacket that we’d accidentally left behind. The beds were very comfortable and it was lovely to wake up to the sound of the sea each morning. I like to cater while we’re away and the kitchen was well equipped with everything needed (maybe a microwave spatter guard would be a good addition). The lounge had comfortable reclining sofas and a ‘no fuss’ TV and we enjoyed our meals in bright dining area with a sea view. The patio out the back would be great for al fresco dining - maybe on another, warmer, visit? We hope to be back again and would certainly recommend to others looking for break that is quiet, yet handy for town and transport.

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