Large Houses to Rent 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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• 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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• Sally-ann - Verified booking

  Perfect location for our dogs!

  Once the gate was closed they were able to run round as much as they wanted to. Make sure you keep driving on the lane because it is a dead end where the cottage is so don't think you've missed it! Agree with other comments in that you have to take all the basics with you as the only thing there was toilet paper & hand-wash. There were a lot of flies in the cottage as it was so warm & the windows were open but I'd taken a citronella candle with me which really helped. Also, lots of cobwebs & spiders but it's in the middle of the country so it's to be expected Only disappointment was that there wasn't a welcome pack there which I've always had at previous cottage bookings. Even something as simple as a couple of teabags & a pint of milk would've been gratefully received. However, it was in a perfect location for Devon.& Cornwall & loads of National Trust properties within an hour's drive & I would definitely stay there again.

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• Stephen - Verified booking

  The cottage is located at the end of a lane and when you turn into the drive your are greeted with this fabulous thatched roof cottage.

  On arrival we were greeted by Malcolm the owner who is very pleasant and welcoming. The inside of the accommodation is equally appealing to the eyes, fabulous downstairs layout very comfortable with the log burner. Upstairs well laid out and the two master bedrooms had excellent storage for two persons. Single room would certainly suit a single occupancy. Kitchen was well equipped. Outside areas were dog friendly and also secure for a young child. The Tarka trail runs alongside the rear of the cottage and it is a great walk across the field through the woods and anther field to the lane and then to the village, took us 40 minutes with the dogs as they love to explore. Cottage is well located to travel to beaches at Bude and further south to Padstow. Road network is good. Overall we had a fabulous week. Good 4 G signal on EE, we ran our firestick on phone hotspot with no issues.

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