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West Bowden Farm

(Ref. 924911)

Knowstone near South Molton, Devon Show on map

4.9

Sykes rating

  • 8 Guests

  • 3 Bedrooms

  • 3 Bathrooms

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Garden / Patio
  • Cot available
  • Highchair available
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • lovely (16)
  • farm (16)
  • cottage (14)
  • our (14)
  • stay (13)
  • well (12)

48 Customer Reviews

  • "This is a beautiful property, well furnished and very spacious for our party of five adults and a dog."

    It was spotlessly clean and we appreciated the chocolates waiting for us on arrival. The kitchen was well stocked and the bedrooms were very comfortable. We had a few niggles. The WiFi was very erratic and frequently non-existent and there was renovation work going on in the adjoining cottage which was sometimes quite noisy. We didn’t feel this was an ideal property for our dog because there was no outside space for her and the farm dogs were very noisy and intimidating whenever they saw her.

    Thank you for leaving us a review. We're pleased you were happy with the accommodation but sorry you had a few issues. We appreciate the WiFi is a problem due to the rural location, we have been very badly let down by openreach over the past five years with the promise of bringing us fibre which they can't provide. We are now looking into installing starlink which will hopefully solve these problems. We apologise for the building work which is finished now, the project was meant to be completed by the summer but were let down by the builders. Our farm dogs are well controlled and are tied up on the quad and yes they do bark when they are on it due to excitement and going to work, they are very protective of the bike which is their favourite thing, otherwise they are good as gold and kept out of the way of guests. We ask people just to take their dogs up into the field above the barn as we have free ranging poultry in the yard. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Jacqueline4.7Sep 2024

  • "The owners where so friendly and welcoming."

    We were able to go and feed the lambs which are Grandchildren enjoyed as did myself and my daughter. The cottage was spacious and comfortable and I don't think any of us wanted to leave. The bird song in the morning was nature's alarm clock or you would just drift back off if needed. We loved our stay and hope to return. One thing I would mention is possibly less kitchen ware so there is room to store dried goods.

    Thank you for your kind review, so pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us and all enjoyed seeing the new arrivals. We will take on board your comments about the kitchen. Hope to see you again one day. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Janet4.7May 2024

  • "We stayed at The Barn for a week at Easter."

    The accommodation was scrupulously clean and very cosy. The kitchen was extremely well equipped with plenty of crockery, cutlery and utensils. Each bedroom having an en suite was perfect for our party. Our weather was rather chilly but the Barn was always warm and there was plenty of hot water for baths and showers. The cream tea that welcomed us on our arrival was delicious. The owners lived across the courtyard and were very friendly.

    Thank you for your kind review, we're pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us, just sorry we couldn't provide better weather for you. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Linda5.0Mar 2024

  • "We had a lovely stay at the farm."

    A lovely home baked cream tea on arrival, our only issue was a stair light that didn't work which was swiftly given new bulbs. Thank you Rachel for allowing us a viewing of your maternity barn and the new lambs. We got some pictures to show the grandchildren. Only down side was the very damp british weather!

    Reviewed by Susan5.0Mar 2024

  • "A lovely place to stay plenty of space, a plus all bedrooms on suite."

    Nice to be on a working farm and be woken by the ducks in the morning. The farmhouse roof was having a new thatch ridge which interested us all including our two friends from Normandy staying with us. We found relatively local pubs to eat in each night, all supplied good wholesome food. If you want to push the boat out the pub in Knowstone village provides lovely food at a cost, but well worth it. The owners were very friendly and helpful. For this time of year the weather was damp on a couple of days but there was plenty to do locally and further afield. In all a lovely place to stay and will consider coming back at a different time of year.

    Reviewed by Mavis5.0Nov 2023

  • "Beautiful setting, so quiet and peaceful."

    Onsite owners very kind and helpful. Even left us a cream tea on our arrival!

    Thank you so much for your lovely review, we're pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Rachel5.0Sep 2023

  • "Our third year staying in this comfortable cottage."

    It has everything you need, all bedrooms have en suits which is wonderful. The farm itself is so picturesque and quiet. Our granddaughter loved helping to feed the ducks and goose. Rachel, Mark and family were so helpful and accommodating, but not interfering. West Bowdon is ideally placed for trips to the various seasides. We like surfing, and walking. We visited, Lynmouth, Lynton, Putsburough for the surf, Saunton for sandcastle and paddling. Croyde, Ilfracombe, Appledore which is a lovely town, Instow and on the way home, Minehead for the amusements! Thoroughly recommend this lovely holiday cottage.

    Thank you Claudia for your lovely review, once again we're pleased you enjoyed your holiday here with us and we hope to see you again another year. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Claudia5.0Aug 2023

  • "Wonderful setting, beautiful area and excellent host!"

    We’ve had the best holiday and will definitely be returning!

    Thank you for your lovely review, we're pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us and that this year's summer weather didn't put you off. Thank you for re booking for next year and we'll look forward to seeing you again. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Emma5.0Jul 2023

  • "This was a last minute booking so we were lucky with a substantially reduced July deal."

    The accommodation is for up to 8 and there were 3 of us plus a dog, hence lots of space. The kitchen is well-stocked with crockery etc. There were a few useful consumables like dishwasher tablets but don't assume everything will be supplied or there'd be enough for your entire week. Tesco delivers. We set up a delivery for our first evening. Cream scones on arrival appreciated! There's a small gated area for hanging washing where the dog can be outside. The only real negative is that the floorboards upstairs are very creaky. Hence when my elderly father got up each time to go to the bathroom it woke us in the next room. But if you aren't with people who move about a lot or aren't light sleepers that'll not be a concern. The accommodation is a little tired and could be amazing with a re-fresh. Beds are 4' 6" doubles. Might be time to upgrade to king-size as there's enough space. An instruction book would be so useful. It took us time to work out how to open skylights, where switch for dishwasher was etc. Overall we had a great stay. Happy to recommend.

    Thank you for taking the time to review your holiday accommodation. In 17 years of letting the barn this is the first time anyone has ever commented on creaky floorboards, we're sorry if this was an issue but it's just a natural occurrence with timber. We try and upgrade a few things each year, this year we have had a new washing machine and fridge freezer but to do a full upgrade at once the price of a holiday would have to double for us to see any return, we aim to keep the accommodation decent and affordable. If you had any problems using any equipment we were always around to ask. We're sorry we couldn't provide any better weather for you but overall pleased you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Kay4.1Jul 2023

  • "What a wonderful property that is extremely well located."

    Although tucked nicely away from the crowds it is located minutes away from the main road. As such we were able to explore all of devon easily. The owners are extremely friendly and helpful. Highly recommended for a peaceful holiday

    Thank you for your lovely review. It was nice to meet you and we're pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Michelle5.0Jul 2023

  • "Excellent stay excellent hosts 3rd time staying at west bowdon farm definitely will be coming back."

    Reviewed by Michael5.0Jun 2023

  • "A beautifully presented holiday cottage in an idillic setting."

    The owners were on hand to answer any questions. Being able to observe lambing season close up was a delight.

    Reviewed by Linton5.0Apr 2023

  • "Very enjoyable stay"

    Reviewed by John3.8Mar 2023

  • "Very welcoming and helpful."

    Well equipped and comfortable. This is the second time we have stayed here and we love the cottage and having the farmyard outside the font door. Plenty of room for everyone to be comfortable and relaxed. Plenty of good walks for dogs. Well placed for places to visit. Great place to stay to unwind and get away from the fast pace of life.

    Reviewed by Catherine4.7Feb 2023

  • "We had a fantastic stay at the barn to celebrate my husband's birthday."

    Mrs Bray met us on our arrival and was very welcoming. The scones, cream and jam were a thoughtful touch. We have never been to such a well stocked kitchen before, need not have taken my food mixer and cake tins. The property really caters for eight people. We all enjoyed walking through the fields and our grandsons especially enjoyed watching the ducks and chickens being fed. The window in the middle bedroom makes a good viewing point for young ones to watch the ducks on the pond. Plenty of space for six adults, a three year old and a baby. Both Mrs Brays were very helpful and we will definitely be booking again. If just the two of us might try The Old Workshop also in the farm yard.

    Reviewed by Jean5.0Feb 2023

  • "Very clean and friendly, made us very welcome, bit out of the way and a bit dated, few bits need up dating ,had all the facilities you needed , had a lovely Christmas there thank you ."

    Reviewed by Mary4.7Dec 2022

  • "Nicely situated and well equipped cottage with all the amenities one could hope for in a Holiday Home."

    Well situated for visiting coastal and countryside interests. The ideal cosy, spacious, homely venue for a "Relaxing get away from it all Holiday.

    Reviewed by Keith5.0Oct 2022

  • "Mrs Bray met us when we arrived and was very welcoming."

    The property was extremely clean, the underfloor heating made it nice and cosy. Set in the countryside there are some lovely walks. It is a fair way from any attractions but when you book a holiday in the countryside it’s because you want peace and quiet, so this is ideal. Would definitely recommend if you need a “ get away from it all “ break.

    Thank you very much for your great feedback and review, it is appreciated, we are pleased you enjoyed your holiday here with us. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Lesley5.0Oct 2022

  • "We had a great time and the barn was a super place to stay."

    We had to bring our own hairdryer and bathroom comestibles which I am not used to. As the location is in a dip we had no phone signal or internet which was fine for us but some folks may find that a problem. If 8 people here then low water pressure in bathrooms may be inconvenient.

    Thank you for your feedback, we are pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us and found the barn comfortable. I would just like to say we do have Internet here, we unfortunately have been unable to get fibre brought to us yet (we have been in contact with BT for the last 3 yrs trying to get this sorted) so the connection is no doubt slower than what you are used to. As regard mobile signal and depending on what network you are with you can usually get a signal just outside which we saw you were able to. A minute walk up our drive you will come into a strong signal. You mention water pressure being low, we're sorry you had a problem with this but we often get 8 people and have not had any problems reported to us before. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Jane5.0Oct 2022

  • "We had an awesome time at the cottage."

    Everything you could possibly need was provided.Very comfortable beds in all the bedrooms. Wouldn't hesitate to stay here again.

    Thank you very much for your positive feedback and great review. We are pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Anne5.0Sep 2022

  • "Yes"

    Reviewed by TC3.8Jul 2022

  • "Excellent"

    Reviewed by Michael5.0Jul 2022

  • "Lovely house that is fully equipped with everything you need and in a fantastic peaceful location."

    A good base to explore the surrounding area and within easy reach of local towns & villages. Would definitely visit again

    Reviewed by Stuart5.0Jun 2022

  • "The barn was really great lovely and clean and comfortable and everything was ..."

    The barn was really great lovely and clean and comfortable and everything was supplied with a beautiful Devon cream tea on arrival

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Jun 2022

  • "Very happy with the accommodation a very nice and relaxing weekend and lovely to see the farm animals"

    Reviewed by Clifford5.0Apr 2022

  • "Very nice and relaxing holiday"

    Reviewed by Svetlana4.7Mar 2022

  • "Very homely and cosy cottage, welcoming and easy to get to ,would recommend to friends and relatives and we will hopefully book again."

    Reviewed by Mark5.0Dec 2021

  • "Lovely and homely, big enough for the 8 of us, thank you for the welcome too especially the chocolates x"

    Reviewed by Andrea5.0Dec 2021

  • "Lovely accommodation in a great location, the cream tea on arrival was a lovely finishing touch."

    Reviewed by Karen5.0Sep 2021

  • "Lovely holiday with beautiful scenery."

    Comfortable home with everything we needed. Very friendly owners living across the farmyard.

    Reviewed by Claudia5.0Jul 2021

  • "Very welcoming."

    Everything you need to assist our stay. Child friendly

    Reviewed by James5.0Jul 2021

  • "From the moment we arrived we felt so relaxed."

    The cottage was lovely and clean. Owner was lovely and friendly and couldn’t do enough to help us feel settled. Was lovely watching the ducks and ducklings on the lake and Lucy the goose kept everyone in check! Would definitely recommend to all

    Reviewed by Kirsty5.0Jul 2021

  • "The farm was picture perfect with spacious rooms, beams, windows overlooking the courtyard, and all the equipment you would need."

    There was a welcoming tray of scones with jam and cream on arrival and the hosts were never far away if we needed anything. The location was beautiful and we were blessed with a beautiful week of sunshine! We couldn't have asked for anything more!

    Reviewed by Michael5.0May 2021

  • "Absolutely fabulous barn conversion on a farm - and seems to be isolated and ..."

    Absolutely fabulous barn conversion on a farm - and seems to be isolated and very quite although not too far from the main road

    Reviewed by Sue5.0Sep 2020

  • "The family Bray were excellent hosts and couldn't have been more helpfull."

    The converted barn was spot on. This is an ideal location for walking and cycling on Exmoor and area.

    Reviewed by Peter5.0Sep 2020

  • "The barn was very clean, and the photos of don't do it justice."

    Reviewed by Kenneth5.0Aug 2020

  • "This was a great cottage for the whole family."

    Our 2 and 1/2 year old grandson loved the animals and ducks. Loved every minute. It was a good base to explore Devon we spent quite a lot of time in westward ho!, instow ilfracombe and Appledore. People so friendly. Quince honey farm and Darlington class well worth a visit. We packed a lot into our week away, crabbing at appledore use bacon!!! Mackerel fishing and deep see fishing off Ilfracombe were extremely good fun. After covid a cottage holiday was the way to go with the whole three generations.

    Reviewed by James5.0Jul 2020

  • "We thoroughly enjoyed our week at West Bowden Farm in accommodation which is comfortable and spacious and has a well equipped kitchen."

    Well away from the road, the peaceful location proved to be ideal for accessing the north west Devon coastline from Minehead through to Westward Ho and the beautiful Exmoor and Tarr Steps are particularly recommended. One of the best we have had the privilege to stay at.

    Reviewed by David5.0Oct 2019

  • "People should be aware that the cottage is quite remote and it is a good idea to order a supermarket delivery of food as there are very few restaurants/pubs/shops within a 10 mile radius."

    The owners are very welcoming, and the barn conversion is very well equipped. There is no private garden attached and the farm dogs can become a nuisance with their barking. This is a working farm so expect tractors and animals. However, we had a very enjoyable stay and would recommend, especially if you like walking. Most seaside resorts are within an hours drive.

    Reviewed by Keith4.7Aug 2019

  • "What can I say, the barn was perfect for our family get away."

    The farm itself is beautiful and the area surrounding had so many places to see and walk. Id recommend it without hesitation to anyone.

    Reviewed by James5.0Feb 2019

  • "Good value for money."

    We would definitely like to make a visit again.

    Reviewed by Sangram5.0Dec 2018

  • "Lovely cottage, in attractive location."

    Clean and comfortable, spacious rooms and well equipped kitchen. Excellent location to get to Exmoor and North Devon coast.

    Reviewed by Ian5.0Aug 2018

  • "We found the holiday home very comfortable and great for relaxing."

    It's a great base for exploring the many delights of both Exmoor and Dartmoor. The only issue we found is a lack of mobile phone reception and poor internet. Personally, I didn't have a problem as it was actually good to almost be "off grid".

    Reviewed by Jeffrey5.0Jun 2018

  • "Very nice cottage with 3 ensuites."

    Fully equipped kitchen. Very large and comfortable living room. Friendly owners. Stunning views in superb Devon.

    Reviewed by Philippe5.0Jun 2018

  • "The family that own West Bowden Farm have a lovely place for a holiday we ..."

    The family that own West Bowden Farm have a lovely place for a holiday we really enjoyed it there The family were most hospitable and watching the ducks and geese were really funny We were even given the privilege of being able to watch lambs being born A really enjoyable break would highly recommend

    Reviewed by Julie5.0Mar 2018

  • "Lovely comfortable cottage"

    Reviewed by Susan4.8Oct 2017

  • "It was an ideal spot for visiting local area and the costal towns"

    Reviewed by Joanne5.0May 2017

  • "Lovely Easter Holiday with husband, daugher's family and son."

    Plenty of room for 5 adults and a 3 year old. Lovely clean well equipt accommodation. will definitely look at this property again.

    Reviewed by Anne5.0Apr 2017

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Summary

  • Three bedrooms with TV: 1 x double with en-suite bath, shower over, basin and WC, 1 x double with en-suite shower, basin and WC, 1 x family room 1 double and 2 singles with en-suite bath, shower over, basin and WC
  • Ground floor basin and WC
  • Kitchen with breakfast area
  • Sitting room with dining area.
  • Oil central heating with underfloor heating on ground floor
  • Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, 4 x TVs with Freeview, DVD, CD, WiFi, selection of books
  • Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Highchair
  • Off road parking for 4 cars
  • Front gravelled area with furniture
  • Access to farm fields and footpaths
  • Two well-behaved pets welcome
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shop 9 miles, pub 1 mile
  • Note: Dogs must be kept on a lead when outside
  • Note: Duck pond 30 yards from the property, children and pets must be supervised at all times.

The property

South Molton 9 miles.

This lovely, detached barn conversion is across a courtyard from the owners' 17th century thatched farmhouse, on a working sheep farm, close to the small village of Knowstone and nine miles from the town of South Molton.

Set amidst quiet countryside in an idyllic rural location and overlooking a lovely duck pond, this comfortably-furnished cottage provides a traditional getaway for a family or a group of friends.

The spacious sitting room, with underfloor heating and floor-to-ceiling windows, provides a welcoming space for dining together, watching TV or playing board games.

There’s also a kitchen with a breakfast area, providing plenty of space for preparing dinner or a picnic for your day’s adventures.

Upstairs you will find exposed beams and three bedrooms; two doubles and a family room with a double and two singles, all having the added benefits of en-suite facilities and TVs, sure to be a big hit with all the family.

Guests are welcome to wander parts of the farm with permission, where you may be able to exercise your dogs in one of the fields, or take a footpath leading to open moorland close by.

The farmers also offer their guests the opportunity to admire the animals giving you an authentic taste of rural Devon life.

Just a mile away is the picturesque and friendly local village pub with a thatched roof and Michelin-starred restaurant, a great place to enjoy fabulous food with good company and a warm welcome.

By car it is also easy to reach the market town of South Molton, for retail therapy and exploring the weekly market.

Exmoor provides a great escape for walkers and wildlife lovers, whilst the spectacular North Devon beaches are all a short drive from your holiday cottage and provide endless sea, sand and surf for everyone in your party to enjoy.

A welcoming farm cottage, near rugged moorland and stunning coast, perfect for families and friends all year round.

View on map

About the location

SOUTH MOLTON

Combe Martin 19 miles; Ilfracombe 24 miles; Woolacombe 25 miles.

The attractive market town of South Molton is known as The Gateway to Exmoor and is ideally placed in North Devon, boasting a range of shops, amenities and a twice weekly market. Being pleasantly situated not far from both coastal and inland beauty spots it will suit visitors of all tastes. In close proximity are forests, moors, rivers and coast, with churches and other buildings of historical significance. Residents find the quiet charm of the area attractive and visitors soon experience the sense of civic pride held by the locals. There is superb walking on the South West Coast Path and the North Devon beaches are varied and interesting. Visit the National Trust's Watersmeet Gorge, Valley of the Rocks and the funicular cliff railway. Up on Exmoor, there are various walks to suit all abilities, as well as highlights such as Tarr Steps, Landacre Bridge and the village of Withypool. Further afield, the resorts of Ilfracombe and Combe Martin are well worth a visit, and for some of the best beaches in the country, visit Woolacombe and Saunton and Croyde.