Guests say
Speke's Retreat is a spacious and well-equipped cottage, ideal for large family gatherings or groups. Guests consistently praise the comfortable layout, en-suite bedrooms, and peaceful rural setting with beautiful walks nearby. The owner is frequently described as welcoming and helpful. While the property is somewhat remote and the access roads are narrow, most found the location tranquil and scenic. Some minor issues were noted with water pressure, heating, and occasional cleanliness, but these did not detract from an overall enjoyable stay. The cottage is especially appreciated for its suitability for multi-generational groups and dog owners.
Most guests found the cottage clean and comfortable, though a few mentioned dog hairs and minor maintenance issues such as torn sofas and evidence of mice. These were exceptions rather than the rule, with the majority of reviews describing the property as tidy and well-presented.
The rural location is highly praised for its tranquillity, beautiful countryside, and proximity to scenic walks and the coast. However, some guests noted the remoteness, narrow access roads, and distance to shops and tourist attractions, which may not suit everyone.
Guests consistently highlight the comfort of the cottage, especially the spacious layout, en-suite bedrooms, and large communal areas. Some minor issues with mattresses and heating were mentioned, but overall comfort levels were high and well-suited to large groups.
The cottage is well-equipped with kitchenware, games, books, and ample bathrooms. The en-suite bedrooms and large dining table are frequently praised. Occasional issues with water pressure, heating, and sofa condition were noted but did not significantly impact most stays.
The owner is described as friendly and accommodating, often providing helpful local information and, in some cases, thoughtful touches such as farm eggs, tea, and coffee on arrival. Please note that such gifts are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
Located in a quiet and peaceful area, this charming retreat offers a chance to enjoy the beautiful coastline with nearby local attractions..
Ground Floor:
Living room: Freeview TV, DVD Player, CD Player, French Doors
Dining room: Electric Woodburner
Kitchen: Electric Cooker, Microwave, Fridge, Freezer, Dishwasher, Washing Machine
Bedroom 1: Kingsize (5ft) Bed, Smart TV
Ensuite: Cubicle Shower, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet
Bedroom 2: Zip And Link 2 x Single (3ft) Beds, Smart TV
Ensuite: Cubicle Shower, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet
First Floor:
Bedroom 3: Kingsize (5ft) Bed, Smart TV
Ensuite: Cubicle Shower, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet
Bedroom 4: Zip And Link 2 x Single (3ft) Beds, Pull Out 2 x Single (3ft) Beds, Smart TV
Ensuite: Bath With Shower Over, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet
Bedroom 5: Zip And Link 2 x Single (3ft) Beds, Pull Out Single (3ft) Bed, Pull Out 2 x Single (3ft) Beds.
Oil underfloor oil central heating, electricity, bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi included. Cot and highchair. Tumble dryer (shared with other property on-site). Terrace with garden furniture and barbecue. Large garden (shared with other property on-site). Ample parking. No smoking. Visit England 4 Star.. Nestling in a quiet, peaceful rural hamlet just 4 miles from the popular village of Hartland, and one mile from North Devon’s English Heritage Coastline, these two character barn conversions, completed to a very good standard and full of modern comforts, are set within their own private gardens. Situated within easy reach of all the local attractions, the cottages make a perfect holiday destination for all ages. Rugged English Heritage Coastline can be picked up from a maze of footpaths literally from your door to take in the spectacular Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and sssi delights, a haven for keen walkers, bird watchers and naturalists. Hartland itself is a thriving rural village with post office, stores, garage and church along with local pubs serving food. Nearby beaches and coves include Speke’s Mill Mouth, Hartland Quay and Welcome Mouth, Bude Widemouth Bay and Westward Ho! are a treat to explore. Golf at nearby Bude and sea fishing close by along with fishing, water sports and sailing at nearby Tamar Lakes. The pretty fishing villages of Clovelly, Bucks Mills and Appledore are within an easy drive or walking distance for keen walkers taking you through National Trust coastal paths. Lundy Island by helicopter or boat can be picked up at Clovelly or the historic port and market town of Bideford, offering a good selection of shops, pubs and restaurants. Local family attractions include the Big Sheep and Milky Way, and gardens at Docton Mill, Hartland Abbey and Clovelly Court. Fishing nearby. Shops and pubs 4 miles.
Free WiFi
There is an evening curfew for noise at the property.
One or more beds can be linked to form double or twin beds (please advise the owner of your preference soon after booking).
Suitable for up to 2 pets
Reviews (16)
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Confirmed Guest
Great house for a large gathering. The layout was good and all bedrooms with ensuites was a bonus. It was well equipped. The location was fantastic, with the sea a short walk away.
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Chrissy Ching
A perfect location for my family to gather to celebrate my 70th birthday. Well equipped, with everything provided and comfortable. The owner is very nice and really helpful. A nice touch was making sure there was tea, coffee, sugar, milk and even some of their farm eggs on arrival. Only slight concern was the heating and poor water pressure. But not an issue.
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Confirmed Guest
The house itself was a nice size and well decorated but we arrived to find all four sofas either torn or broken and the heating made the place feel like a sauna! We asked about turning the temperature down but it was on or off so we chose off and used jumpers and blankets! We also found biscuit boxes which we put in the kitchen cupboards had been chewed open by mice. We were also surprised to find a note asking for dogs not to be exercised in the garden but to be taken off site. Had this been indicated in the original information we wouldn't have made the booking, we chose Spekes because it had a garden for the dogs!