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Sustainable Property
Sustonica, the first global sustainability standard for holiday lets.
Our aim is to create lasting holiday memories and we intend to do so both responsibly and sustainably.
To deliver on this we've set out a number of environmental and social pledges which help to focus our efforts;
you can read more about them in our Impact Report.
This is why we've partnered with Sustonica, the first global certification for holiday lets,
to support our owners to be more sustainable.
The Sustonica certification focuses on four key areas: energy conservation, water conservation,
waste reduction and promoting inclusiveness. They are on a mission to become the most widely
recognised sustainability standard for holiday rentals and a catalyst to reduce emissions of holiday
lets and influence guests to reduce their own household consumption too.
Properties that display the Sustonica badge have successfully passed the criteria,
which align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council standards,
and their owner has made a commitment to look after our planet as well as you.
My only reservation was that this is not the best place for those elderly or not 100% agile. An awful lot of steps and those down to kitchen door required a great deal of care.
Reviewed by John4.4★Mar 2025
"Such a peaceful and beautiful setting."
Perfect get away from it all holiday!
Reviewed by Gillian4.4★Nov 2024
"Beautiful place that is close to our hearts having got married at Sharpham House."
Denise was lovely and helpful as always.
I'm not a fan of 'Helpful Holidays' pricing algorithms or the tone of the emails that they send you before arrival and departure, which make you feel like they are doing you a huge favour by letting you stay there !
Reviewed by Barry4.4★Oct 2024
"Idyllic location and building."
Biggest problem was the mattress which was so uncomfortable we failed to get a good night's sleep at all and were so exhausted by Thursday morning we left a day early. None of the night storage heaters seemed to work except in the bedroom thus the kitchen was very cold and we did not have the time to fire up the log fuelled aga, equally the instructions for over riding immersion heater by "pushing the red button, the boiler is located in the single bedroom" most confusing as there is only one bedroom with no boiler cupboard. Everything else was lovely and if the above issues are remedied then we could love to come back.
Reviewed by Steven3.1★Sep 2024
"Amazing location and difficult to fault."
Struggled with the wood burner and didn’t know if it was either damp wood, issue with the flue or user error. Chimney sweep did turn up on our last day so hopefully sorted.
Would have been useful to have salt, pepper and some olive oil but we made do.
Helpful holidays small deposit scheme is a bit of a con - read the small print.
Reviewed by William5.0★Sep 2024
"Just wonderful."
Reviewed by Simon5.0★Sep 2024
"Beautiful and very peaceful stay."
I loved waking up to the sound of the river and the birds. I found it relaxing staying somewhere so remote and it really gave me a chance to stop, slow down and recharge my batterys. I wish I could of stayed longer. The house has so much character and it really grows on you. I loved every minute.
Reviewed by Lottie5.0★Aug 2024
"This is one of the most beautiful places we have ever stayed at in England - a gorgeous historic cottage set right on the banks of the beautiful river Dart within a quiet estate."
There is nothing else around for miles other than gorgeous woodland, rewilded fields and a retreat centre in a historic mansion. We felt utterly at peace and hardly left the terrace in front of the cottage where we sat, read and looked at the river as canoes, birds and even seals came by. Highly recommended.
Reviewed by Marieke4.1★Aug 2024
"The Bathing House obviously thrives on its location."
We love it and come if we can twice a year. However, that doesn't mean that it should be neglected, although a lot of things have improved over the years.
Hedgerows - they need snipping, the fronds are reaching into the middle of the track scratching the car. The pot holes are also getting a little hard to navigate. Some oven to tableware that isn't horribly crazed would be nice, as would some better instructions on what to do with the rubbish. I'd prefer to pay a little extra not to have to bring my own kitchen roll, cling film, kitchen foil and wipes.
Reviewed by Julia4.1★Jul 2024
"Lovely. A little bit cold - maybe hot water bottles a good idea?"
- but utterly lovely and beautiful.
Reviewed by Sophie4.7★Feb 2024
"Thank you I had a very enjoyable stay and no flooding !"
Reviewed by Adrian5.0★Jan 2024
"You must to give the family of Seals a bonus for performance."
So glad you got a performance! hope to welcome you back in the future.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Christopher5.0★Oct 2023
"We enjoyed staying at the Bathing House enormously but there was a major problem for my husband who is 6’3”” tall."
I tried to contact Sykes Cottages but without success; there was no email of phone number I could find, to ask if there were any low ceilings. In desperation I phoned Sharpham estate to ask how high the ceiling in the kitchen was but it wasn’t until we arrived that we discovered the low ceiling in the corridor and the stairs (5’9”?)
There were no instructions about the storage heaters. Not being used to them I didn’t realise how they worked. I had to phone Denise to ask. On arrival it took us some time to locate the key safe. You may have told me but as there was no phone signal I couldn’t have checked it if you had.
Thank you for your feedback your comments have been taken on board. Pleased you enjoyed your stay.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Susan4.1★Sep 2023
"The bathing house is a unique place to stay and has everything you need."
There are no screens or Wi-Fi as it is designed to be a place of peaceful retreat. If that is what you are going for be aware that the river is in fact extremely busy in good weather with lots of traffic.
We also had canoe camping groups staying opposite us who were very noisy and swimming over to the bathing house in groups and shouting across the river.
Personally , I found myself needing Wi-Fi as something happened I needed to deal with so I would nt go back but I can’t fault the care that goes into making the bathing house a very special experience.
Reviewed by Georgie4.7★May 2023
"Another lovely holiday, we have been holidaying here for over 10 years now."
However, when will Sharpham get the hint about the shower? Both the handheld and the Mira are useless. The Bathing House is forgiven many things for being just where it is, but I do like to bathe in a decent stream of hot water.
Hello, we are changing the shower head after Christmas so hopefully this will improve things for our guests. Best of wishes.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Julia3.8★Nov 2022
"Beautiful location, so peaceful with plenty of wildlife to see."
Hope to return
Reviewed by Gillian4.4★Nov 2022
"This property is in a superb setting on the river, secluded and very peaceful, and plenty big enough for two people."
The track down to the property was described as rough, and although it is steep and bendy in places (that's to be expected in that part of the country) I didn't have any difficulties navigating it in my small car . The property is very quirky, which we loved, and has been refurbished very thoughtfully. The sofas were a less comfy than they looked, but the bed was mega comfy and had a superb view looking onto the river. There were some minor inconsistencies in the information provided by Helpful Holidays and that provided in the property but the owners they were very helpful and quick to respond to queries. Our mobile networks' reception was poor inside, but worked adequately outside on the patio. The wildlife and river users were varied and assorted and provided hours of entertainment. Over all, this is a gem of a property.
Reviewed by Ailsa4.4★Jun 2022
"Our second stay at this beautiful hideaway!"
The most idyllic sanctuary with nature abundance.
A daily visit from wodger the seal, 2 deers, mother and ducklings, herons, crows, rooks, squeaks of the otters at dusk to name but a few.
A great please for resting the mind & body and just being in the moment.
Reviewed by Nicola4.7★Apr 2022
"Fantastic property - peace and tranquillity could not fault ."
Those who leave negative comments about the access or the water pressure should perhaps stick to city breaks . It’s a rural idyll .
No light pollution ,
Wonderful bird song ,beautiful river in a stunning location .
Reviewed by Jonathan5.0★Apr 2022
"A unique property in a fabulous location."
The only downside was the useless electric shower didn’t work it was either boiling hot or freezing cold so we couldn’t use it. I understand it being an old property it’s difficult to get these things right but for the price we paid I think we should have been able to have a shower.
Thank you for your feedback and bringing this to our attention. We are happy to hear you found the Bathing House to be a fabulous location and have taken your comments on board. The pipework has been completed on this property and new water pipes have been put in. A plumber has recently visited to say the shower is in good working condition and that they will be looking to add a pump below the shower to improve the water pressure.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Julie3.4★Mar 2022
"Great location."
Can't wait to go back. One small issue would be the shower. Very little water pressure and difficult to use.
Fabulous break. Thank you.
Thank you for taking the time to leave your feedback and we are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your stay. Maintenance work is shortly being undertaken on the pipework at The Bathing House which will hopefully help to improve the water pressure.
Property Owner
"The Bathing House is a haven of tranquility and calm, it’s a wonderful place to relax and take things more slowly."
There are several lovely walks directly from the property and you can visit the Sharpham cheese and wine shop for tastings.
The directions to the property on this website could be updated with those from the folder at the house, they are more accurate. And mention that on the final leg of the journey there is a rope across the road and Private sign to negotiate!
Thank you for your feedback. The directions have since been updated. thank you for bringing this to our attention and glad to hear of your lovely stay.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Alison5.0★Oct 2021
"The Bathing House is in a fantastic location on the river."
It is wonderfully quiet. We spent many hours looking out for the seal that made occasional appearances. The house is well equipped except that the shower is abysmal - it has no pressure and often runs cold.
The Helpful Holidays instruction for collecting the keys to the property was incorrect. Their was actually a key safe.
The directions through the narrow twisty tracks that lead to the house lead us astray - as there was no mention of the track marked 'Private' that was actually the route to the Bathing House.
Reviewed by Gregory4.7★Sep 2021
"Most beautiful place to spend time & would highly recommend."
Loved the Bathing House & all it offers. Would just suggest that the electric shower needs looking at & the bed settee really needs replacing & updating, given its listed as sleeps 3.
Reviewed by Celia4.4★Jun 2021
"The surrounding location was fantastic, being so close to the river and nature in all its glory."
Reviewed by Jason4.1★May 2021
"Wonderful location and a wonderful house"
Reviewed by Louise5.0★Dec 2020
"We have stayed in the bathing house several times now and love our time there with the beautiful scenery and peaceful and quiet location and we look forward to our stay so very much (especially this year) so we were disappointed when we had to leave early (due to lockdown) especially as it was un-necessary but grateful for the partial refund from Helpful holidays/sykes."
Reviewed by Gillian5.0★Oct 2020
"Beautiful place to disconnect from the world."
Relax, rest and nourishment in nature. Waking up to the river is so special. Kitchen is well equip for cooking and the fire in the octagonal room is pure magic in the evening. We had a lovely week!
Reviewed by Suad4.7★Nov 2019
"A perfect location if you want utter peace and calm."
The house is charming and very comfortable, infused with the light from the river. Hours spent watching the ebb and flow and wildlife.
Beautiful views and great walks.
There is no WiFi and minimal mobile signal which possibly should be mentioned in the description as some would find that off-putting. We loved being able to disconnect!
There are 3 different heating systems in the house which could be a challenge or seen as part of the fun.
It was our second trip to the Bathing House, and hopefully there will be more planned - it's a very special place
Reviewed by Vicki4.7★Oct 2019
"I was ill while we were away!"
! So I lay in bed and listened to geese, got up occasionally to watch seals, egrets and herons. The GP you recommended in your handbook was outstanding and kind.
We ate at the cafe once, it was delicious.
All I needed was rest, and that's all we both did, far away from all the other worries of the world
Reviewed by Ann4.7★Oct 2019
"It has been our third visit and just love the place
The peace and tranquillity
The setting is perfect"
Reviewed by Paul5.0★Aug 2019
"Our 4th stay at the boathouse didn't fail to exceed expectations."
If you want peace and quiet and to experience nature at its best, this is the perfect place for you.
Reviewed by Christopher5.0★Jul 2019
"We loved the cottage and it's location and we were generally happy with the facilities, however, we do think that it could do with a new fridge!"
Reviewed by Roger4.4★Jul 2019
"The Bathing House is a unique experience for couples who want to get away from it all."
The kitchen is well equipped for self catering and the lounge, with a roaring wood burner, was a cosy retreat in the evenings. The staff at Shipham couldn’t have been more welcoming and ensured we felt welcome and could make the most of the solitude and the full on nature experience that The Bathing House provides.
Reviewed by John5.0★Jun 2019
"The Bathing House at Sharpham Estate in Devon is simply a unique experience."
Even though the weather wasn't great, we found the whole experience charming, restful and beautiful. We will return to the Bathing House. Asap, hopefully!
Kay & Adrian Green, Northamptonshire
Reviewed by Kay5.0★Jan 2019
"Everything was sorted and easy even to the extent that the care taker contacted me for where to find keys as we were arriving late I didnt have to chase them."
There was a delicious bottle of Sharpham Estate wine waiting for us and loaded log baskets and ample supply of wood and kindling for the stove.
Reviewed by Louise5.0★Nov 2018
"From start to finish, this was so easy."
Sykes staff responding to booking request outside traditional 9-5 office hours, directions etc.
Lovely touches at the bathing house, Sharpham wine, fresh flowers, plenty of ‘essentials’ like toilet roll, washing liquid and hand wash. Plenty of logs and kindling and eco friendly fire lighters.
House really well equipped for a self catering break away from it all.
Stunning week in stunning location.
Will defo use Sykes again
Reviewed by Edwina5.0★Sep 2018
"The location is absolutely brilliant -we had one of our best ever holidays here-loved every minute"
This property is part of the Helpful Holidays collection.
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Summary
Three levels
1 x middle floor king size double bedroom with balcony
Bathroom with bath, shower over, WC, basin
Ground floor kitchen
Utility room
Second floor sitting room with double sofa bed and wood burning stove.
Electric fires, night storage heating with wood burning stove
Microwave, fridge, freezer, washer-dryer, Phone, Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Cot and highchair available on request
Off road parking for three cars
Garden with outdoor unheated pool
Sorry, no pets and no smoking
Note: The outdoor unheated pool is available from June to the end of August weather permitting, during daylight hours
Note: This property has a private water supply which is tested regularly
Note: There is no TV at this property
Note: A new electric shower has now been installed
Note: On very high tides and in certain weather conditions the river level can flow over the stone quay which the Bathing House kitchen sits on
In the past water has entered the kitchen a couple of times a year
The water is usually a few centimetres high and is easily pumped out by the caretaker
Attempts have been made to waterproof the walls and floodgates have been installed on the three doors
If a high tide of over 5m is forecast the caretaker will install the simple floodgates beforehand
Guests can either climb over the low gate or use the entrance door in the lounge
If water should enter the property, inform the House Manager and the caretaker will visit and pump it out
Guests staying when a high tide is forecast are contacted to warn them
The property
This magical Grade II* listed Georgian bathing house sits beside the River Dart down half a mile of bumpy track two miles from Ashprington.
Part of the Sharpham Estate designed by Capability Brown, it is very special accommodation in the most romantic secluded setting you could wish for.
Head down the steps into the simple country style kitchen with its solid fuel range.
Upstairs you will find the charming double bedroom where you can wander out on to the balcony and watch wildlife around the river.
Up more stairs again is the magnificent octagonal sitting room with its lofty ceiling, grand plasterwork, a wood burning stove for snuggling up beside, a double sofa bed and windows where you can while away the hours gazing up and down the river and across the wooded banks with the telescope provided.
Outside you can wander down steps to the river or sit on your terrace to eat out or maybe try your luck fishing for bass.
You may fish off the front of the Bathing House into the estuary.
As the estuary is tidal, a licence or ticket is not required as long as you are fishing for sea fish (i.e.
spinning for Bass).
*In the highly unlikely event that you catch a Sea Trout or Salmon, these must be put back in the water unless you have an EA rod licence for gamefish.*
The estate is fascinating to explore and wander.
During summer months you can swim in the outdoor unheated pool, or you can head to the local village inns or Dartmouth and Totnes for a wide range of eateries and interesting shops.
There is a three mile walk to Totnes, where the motte and bailey castle is interesting, or you can enjoy fun trips on the steam railway to Buckfastleigh or boat trips along the River Dart to Dartmouth.
The Bathing House is a remarkable cottage for a very memorable break in beautiful Devon surroundings.
Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £100.
Ashprington is a little village that straddles the Bow Creek and lies paces away from the River Dart between Dartmouth, Totnes, and Paignton in Devon. The village dates all the way back to the Doomsday Book of 1086 and houses the impressive Church of St David which was built in the 15th century. Today the village is home to a charming 18th-century pub, The Durant Arms which serves delicious and hearty pub food and a variety of local ales, the perfect setting for date night or just a well-earned break from the kitchen. Venture into the historic market town of Totnes where you can fully immerse yourself in the past at the Norman Totnes Castle which offers breath-taking views across the whole town or Totnes Museum and Archives which is housed in a resorted 16th-century home. Alternatively, experience the wonders of the coast in Dartmouth where you can tour Bayard’s Cove Fort and the riverside Dartmouth Castle ahead of exploring the rocky Sugar Cove Beach. Follow the coast to find the hidden gem of Compass Cove Beach or for idyllic, golden sands head to Blackpool Sands where you can stroll along the sandy shores, take the water on kayaks and paddle boards, or simply admire the beautiful views across the sea. Woodlands Family Theme Park can also be found nearby and provides endless fun for the whole family thanks to its various rides and attractions, indoor and outdoor play areas and even a small zoo! Explore the wonders of Devon from Ashpringston.
Note: The outdoor unheated pool is available from June to the end of August weather permitting,during daylight hours.
Note: Next to the Bathing House is the Boat House which is occasionally occupied. It has a separate entrance and no use of the garden. Guests in the Bathing House should not be disturbed.
FISHING: *You may fish off the front of the Bathing House into the estuary. As the estuary is tidal, a licence or ticket is not required as long as you are fishing for sea fish (i.e. spinning for Bass). *
*In the highly unlikely event that you catch a Sea Trout or Salmon, these must be put back in the water unless you have an EA rod licence for gamefish.*
Note: On very high tides and in certain weather conditions the river level can flow over the stone quay which the Bathing House kitchen sits on. In the past water has entered the kitchen a couple of times a year. The water is usually a few centimetres high and is easily pumped out by the caretaker. Attempts have been made to waterproof the walls and floodgates have been installed on the three doors. If a high tide of over 5m is forecast the caretaker will install the simple floodgates beforehand. Guests can either climb over the low gate or use the entrance door in the lounge. If water should enter the property, inform the House Manager and the caretaker will visit and pump it out. Guests staying when a high tide is forecast are contacted to warn them.
This property offers the following short breaks:
Winter
Off-season
Last minute
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