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Water Barn

(Ref. 975730)

Manaton, near Lustleigh, Devon Show on map

4.9

Sykes rating

  • 4 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Highchair available
  • Pub/shop < 1 mile
  • Dishwasher
  • Sky TV
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • lovely (38)
  • walks (34)
  • cottage (29)
  • location (28)
  • barn (25)
  • beautiful (25)

77 Customer Reviews

  • "Third visit - the cottage works well for us; good location, walks from doorstep, cosy, comfortable, light living space, Anne is very friendly."

    Thank you for a lovely holiday.

    Reviewed by Alice5.0Nov 2024

  • "We found the cottage ideal for our stay, well fitted out, the garden was lovely, walks were on the doorstep all in all a very restful place."

    Highly recommended

    Reviewed by Nicola & Chris5.0Sep 2024

  • "The Water Barn was lovely, clean and well equipped, and on the edge of woodlands with access to many walks for those wishing to explore or venture out."

    We stayed for a week, and it had everything we needed for a comfortable stay (2 adults and a 5 year old). We used as a base to explore local towns and the coast, which meant driving down narrow country lanes daily - this didn’t bother us - but for those less confident in driving - just be prepared to drive with a little more care, and be prepared to reverse now and then.

    Reviewed by Jonathan5.0Aug 2024

  • "Lovely property in a quiet woodland setting with walks from the door."

    Great beamed open plan upper floor with lovely kitchen dining area and comfortable lounge area. Only criticism is that the ground floor felt damp, despite the heating on in the mornings to help with this. Friendly owner next door.

    Reviewed by Philip4.1Aug 2024

  • "My wife and I and our little dog rented the property in what seems like the only decent week this summer."

    The garden being of mature, but well kept was a delight. Table chairs and sun shade provided, even though the garden slopes it was easy enough to find a couple of chocks to level up the table and enjoy sundowners every night What strikes one the most is how quiet it is, and secure, especially for the dog to roam in the garden. No need to burden yourself with cooking as at the end of the lane was a pub that served fantastic food and beer, even asking them for things not listed on the menu was not a problem.

    Reviewed by Laurence3.8Jul 2024

  • "The property is in a lovely location, perfect for dogs, woodlands right on the doorstep."

    Loved the open plan layout of the barn. Kitchen has got everything you need. We enjoyed plenty of walks in the area. The only thing we were missing was the shop in the village, the nearest one being around 15 minutes drive away, but not a big issue when prepared. Would love to come back.

    Reviewed by Ekaterina5.0Jul 2024

  • "Excellent dog friendly property."

    Location is perfect for dogs being able to walk in the woods from the back garden and perfect for a quiet relaxing holiday. Facilities were 5 star. Comfortable bed, spacious shower, all the facilities you need for a trouble free stay. Lovely host! Would highly recommend this cottage and its location.

    Reviewed by Veronica5.0May 2024

  • "The setting off the cottage was beautiful."

    The cottage was like home from home. Mrs .Moseley was very friendly and helpful . Lovely places to visit.

    Reviewed by Janet5.0Apr 2024

  • "A lovely place to stay."

    It was great to be able to walk out into the woods or up on the moor. The cottage was always cosy and homely to come back to. Friendly owner next door and lovely pub round the corner. We were very comfortable here and would recommend this place.

    Reviewed by Caroline5.0Apr 2024

  • "Wonderful property!"

    The love put into restoring and furnishing it really shows - lovely period furniture and every home comfort! So many stunning walks from the door - we barely scratched the surface in a week. The info provided by the owners (walk leaflets etc) were really helpful too. Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by Andrew5.0Mar 2024

  • "Fantastic stay."

    Plenty of beautiful walks in the surrounding area. Our favourite was Hound Tor and the abandoned medieval village which is right on the properties doorstep. The property was well kitted out, very clean, full of character and a perfect cozy base to explore from. Anne was a fantastic host and we hope to return!

    Reviewed by Joe5.0Feb 2024

  • "The property had everything we needed, it was spacious and cosy."

    Our 3-year-old enjoyed it very much as well. The autumn colours in the garden and surroundings are fabulous.

    Reviewed by Andrea4.7Nov 2023

  • "The cottage is absolutely beautiful and spotless, in the lovely town of manaton, right next to Dartmoor national park, the host Ann is lovely and has made sure that there is everything you could possibly need, from a fully stocked kitchen to all the household items, even caters for you pets, with bowls and towels, there's a massive enclosed beautiful garden for your dogs to safely explore, the traditional log burner fire is such a cozy touch."

    There are lovely walks all around Dartmoor, a lovely local pub, and towns and days out just half an hour drive away. We can't wait to book again for our next holiday.

    Reviewed by Krystelle5.0Nov 2023

  • "Owner is friendly and helpful, cottage is very clean and has everything you need for a comfortable stay."

    Beautiful location and grounds with lots of super walks. We would definitely stay again

    Reviewed by Mark5.0Oct 2023

  • "Was a great accommodation, location, beautiful, woods,forest, hills,walks, towns ..."

    Was a great accommodation, location, beautiful, woods,forest, hills,walks, towns villages,hamlets, people,the less WiFi and internet the better,, lots of granite out crops//tors in area so no satnav,, which is good thing in my opinion,,relax more and read more and chill more,, excellent all round and hostess Ann was lovely, hopefully we will return in the future without teenagers next time and just absorb all the beautiful surroundings,,beautiful spot and great accommodation to write

    Reviewed by Martin5.0Aug 2023

  • "We had a lovely stay, a week wasn't enough!"

    Everything we needed at the water barn. Great nights sleep, very comfortable bed.

    Reviewed by Lorraine5.0Jul 2023

  • "Wonderful week at the Water Barn, everything you could possibly need for a comfortable stay, absolute peace and quiet."

    Spoilt for beautiful walks from your door. We’ve stayed in a good few holiday cottages and this has been our favourite, I think our pooch felt the same. Recommend the friendly Kestor Inn for food.

    Reviewed by Sara5.0Jul 2023

  • "Lovely self catering with a gorgeous garden and location."

    Everything in house worked and owner was very helpful. We had a great week here as there are amazing walks dire toy from the property. There is also a very good Inn 10 min walk away. The area around is stunning. Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by Gareth5.0Jun 2023

  • "Fantastic location, quiet, nice walks nearby, very well equipped kitchen etc, would definitely like to stay again at sometime in the future."

    Ann was very helpful on any questions we had.

    Reviewed by Annabelle5.0Jun 2023

  • "We loved our week away here with our two fox Red Labradors."

    Lovely enclosed garden which gates straight onto the forest moors. The Cottage was very comfortable and a perfect base to explore South Devon. We enjoyed it so much that we booked for next year before we left.

    Reviewed by Michael Anthony5.0Jun 2023

  • "My son and I stayed for a week in late May."

    We could both have asked for more. The cottage had everything we needed and the surrounding area is beautiful. My 2 dogs came with us and had an absolute ball. Would stay again for sure.

    Reviewed by Stephen5.0May 2023

  • "This is a lovely property and location."

    Ann was very welcoming and the accommodation is spotless and very comfortable. We will definitely stay here again!

    Reviewed by Neil5.0May 2023

  • "Fantastic place, absolutely beautiful."

    Dog walks straight out of the front door. We felt very welcome. Everything you need, very well stocked & organised. Very clean. Gorgeous tranquil place to be. We will be back.

    Reviewed by Sarah5.0May 2023

  • "Beautiful cottage."

    Very clean, comfortable and relaxing.

    Reviewed by Petula5.0May 2023

  • "Our second visit - different weather (!"

    ) but just as lovely. The cottage is a lovely base to return to after a wet walk, very cosy and comfortable. It is well situated with lovely walls from the doorstep. Ann is a perfect host - helpful when you want it but leaving us to get on with things. Thoughtful things are left in the house (firefighter/dishwasher pills etc). We hope to be back for a third stay. Thank you Ann.

    Reviewed by Alice5.0Nov 2022

  • "Beautiful property, wonderful location, peaceful and restful."

    So many walks and stunning places to see and so close. Very comfortable cottage with excellent facilities.

    Reviewed by David5.0Nov 2022

  • "Beautiful cottage in a stunning landscape."

    Wonderful stay for one week. Ann (owner) was very helpful during our time there. Couldn't believe the peace and quiet. Would definitely stay again

    Reviewed by Andy4.7Aug 2022

  • "Lovely quiet place to stay."

    Well-equipped with everything one needs for a week away. Lovely quiet garden. Didn't hear a sound all week except for when the sheep were headed right past the front door! Walks from the door into the woods and out to the moors. Note if you're bringing a dog - it's great dog-walking county with very few stiles (we only came across one) but do make sure your dog's tick meds are up to date (or they have a tick collar) - we pulled >10 ticks off our dog every day (in July), though thankfully none latched on to us. This is definitely tick country.

    Reviewed by Nick5.0Jul 2022

  • "Lovely place and great to be able to just walk out into the ancient woodland through the garden gate."

    Our dog thought the garden was great. The barn was clean, comfortable and everything we could have needed for our short stay was there. Would we go back?.....absolutely.

    Reviewed by David5.0Jul 2022

  • "This is great cottage in a great area."

    Would love to go back sometime.

    Reviewed by James5.0Jul 2022

  • "Water Barn was lovely - had everything you could wish for during a staycation."

    Set in fantastic woodland on your doorstep - ideal if you enjoy long walks. Was used as a base for great days out to local beauty spots and villages.

    Reviewed by Donna5.0Jun 2022

  • "A fabulous holiday experience for the whole family."

    Ideal cottage in the most tranquil setting. Really nice and accommodating hosts. The walks from the rear of the barn were superb. A really relaxing holiday

    Reviewed by Malcolm5.0May 2022

  • "We had a wonderfully relaxing week at the Water Barn."

    Great location with lots of walks straight from the barn. Anne was a wonderful host. The barn was lovely with everything we needed.

    Reviewed by Catherine5.0Apr 2022

  • "Amazing Amazing what more can you say (want to put something horrible so I can ..."

    Amazing Amazing what more can you say (want to put something horrible so I can book it again because it's so difficult too book and I can understand why ) we had a fantastic week, the barn was spotless facilities you couldn't ask for anything more ,the dogs loved it to they were so relaxed, loved the walks in the woods so did we ,and the pub you won't be disappointed we weren't trust me couldn't recommend the water mill enough really do want to come back again

    Reviewed by Dave5.0Mar 2022

  • "Lovely stay, lovely property in a wounderful location."

    Thank you

    Reviewed by Kim4.7Feb 2022

  • "A lovey cosy and characterful barn in a beautiful setting ."

    Always a pleasure to stay.

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Feb 2022

  • "Lovely spacious cottage in great location with lots of walks within a few yards of property."

    Nice pub within. a few minutes walk. Owner friendly and helpful

    Reviewed by John4.7Dec 2021

  • "Second visit."

    Hope we can come again. The owner Ann is lovely, very welcoming and helpful. The location of the cottage is perfect, on the edge of the woods of Lustleigh Cleave, with the open moors in the other direction, and a pub with good food almost next door. What more could you ask? Andrew and Felicity

    Reviewed by Andrew5.0Dec 2021

  • "The Water Barn provided everything for an enjoyable and relaxing stay."

    From a store of wood, kitchen equipment, ( including knives that work) to a supply of maps and information nothing was lacking. Being able to walk into the woods and onto the moor from the barn was a delight. We had fabulous autumnal weather so the colours were stunning. A quick amble to the friendly local for a drink,, a longer trek to Lustleigh and farm shops at Ullacombe provided culinary delights.

    Reviewed by Jane5.0Nov 2021

  • "We had a wonderful week at Water Barn."

    Ann was completely unobtrusive and left us to ourselves. The barn was clean and exceptionally well equipped. There are wonderful walks straight from the door and pub is only a few metres from the door. You could actually spend the whole week without using the car but great places such as Bovey Tracey, Widdecombe, Haytor, Hound Tor and Lustleigh are all within very easy reach (20 mins at most). My one minor gripe is that it would have been better if the beautiful garden had been completely separate from the owners as we worried about our dog trespassing into their area. All in all, a beautiful barn and a fabulous area that I would recommend to anyone.

    Reviewed by Heather5.0Nov 2021

  • "Beautiful and cosy stay in a lovely cottage."

    Had everything we needed. Good kitchen facilities, lovely bedding and good info leaflets and walks. Lovely and clean when we arrived. Windows are amazing as you can’t hear the water at all! We would love to return one day. For other visitors: we’d recommend the cleave inn, ullacombe farm shop and the butchers there, canonteign and Becky waterfalls, cheese shed/butchers/bakery and greengrocers in bovey. Kestor good for a local drink.

    Reviewed by Lucy4.4Oct 2021

  • "Stunning property in a beautiful location."

    The walk were stunning. The Keaton Inn pub a few minutes walk away was outstanding. Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by Veronique5.0Oct 2021

  • "The location of the Water Barn is perfect for walks and visits to Dartmoor National Park."

    The accommodation is quirky and comfortable. The setting is beautiful and peaceful, as quiet as lockdown but anxiety free.

    Reviewed by Sarah4.7Sep 2021

  • "We have been hiring holiday cottages for over 30 years and this barn is the best one we have ever stayed in."

    Beautiful location,everything we needed and so much more. Excellent dog friendly pub just a 5 min walk down a country lane. Now that we are home, we miss the pretty garden and the sound of the water wheel. The icing on the cake - a delightful owner. Thanks so much Ann , we hope to see you again.

    Reviewed by Gwenda5.0Jul 2021

  • "Been here a few times,fantastic location an lovely cottage"

    Reviewed by Gary5.0Jun 2021

  • "The barn was exceptional every thing there that we needed beautiful grounds barn itself cuffy & clean with a lovely owner to ."

    Reviewed by Robert5.0May 2021

  • "A fantastic place to stay its like home from home and Ann makes you so welcome."

    Plenty of walks and places to visit. This is our second time so that says it all really.

    Reviewed by Adrian5.0May 2021

  • "Good location,good walks on your doorstep."

    Good pub in walking distance.

    Reviewed by Philip5.0Oct 2020

  • "Water barn is an idyllic holiday home."

    The location is beautiful, surrounded by dramatic woodland. The owners were brilliant and we couldn’t have asked for anymore. The kitchen has excellent facilities if you like to cook and a very homely feel. It’s an amazing place if you have a dog and the house was spotless. I hope we can return.

    Reviewed by Jessica5.0Oct 2020

  • "Water Barn was warm, comfortable and spotlessly clean."

    We immediately felt at home. There were beautiful walks from the front door without the necessity to drive anywhere. Alternatively there were plenty of places to visit within 40 minutes to an hour away. A really lovely pub just 5 minutes walk away and the food was absolutely delicious. Also a Co-op and M&S food store at two local filling stations just 10 minutes drive. Thoroughly enjoyed our holiday

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Sep 2020

  • "What a lovely place, hidden on the edge of Dartmoor, perfect for our family holiday to Devon !"

    Reviewed by Andrew5.0Jul 2020

  • "The Water Barn was a super place to stay."

    It is delightfully decorated and furnished and very well equipped. We hope to stay again when we look forward to visiting more places of interest. Due to the developing Coronavirus situation we just stayed on the moor. We were lucky; a week later and I doubt we would have gone. Hard though to think of a finer spot for social distancing and our dog loved all the walks we did straight from the door.

    Reviewed by Terry5.0Mar 2020

  • "Exceptional little rural cottage, great hosts, cake on arrival, perfect location for exploring Dartmoor"

    Reviewed by Craig5.0Feb 2020

  • "A perfect cottage in a wonderful location."

    Well appointed and very comfortable

    Reviewed by Victoria5.0Dec 2019

  • "Perfect Scenery amongst woodland and countryside."

    Idyllic serene setting. Open fire like no other. Peaceful and calming. A must Visit!

    Reviewed by Russell5.0Nov 2019

  • "Lovely relaxing and cosy barn despite the rain."

    A warm welcome from the owner and delicisious cake on arrival. We all loved returning to Water Barn . Thank You Ann.

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Nov 2019

  • "Brilliant location safe for the dogs a comfortable well equipped cottage that feels homely."

    Plenty of walks near by and an excellent welcome from the owner.

    Reviewed by David5.0Oct 2019

  • "Could not find any fault with the Water Barn, perfect location, my dog had the time of his life, lovely owner with lots of nice added touches."

    Reviewed by James5.0Sep 2019

  • "A lovely place, very kind and helpful owners, absolutely to recommend"

    Reviewed by Dirk4.7Jun 2019

  • "The warm welcome, with milk in the fridge and cake on the dining room table."

    Walkers will find foot paths not far from the front door.

    Reviewed by Anthony5.0May 2019

  • "The owner of the property, Ann, was extremely friendly and helpful."

    She really has gone out of her way to provide very comfortable holiday accommodation. The location is quite magical and we are lucky that she shares it with so many others. It was a beautiful and tranquil place to spend a holiday. We save all year just to be able to have a one week holiday and this was pure heaven : ) I don't mind you publishing my feedback providing it doesn't use my full name (no surnames). Thank you

    Reviewed by Debbie5.0May 2019

  • "Fantastic place to stay with the water wheel going and beautiful colours in the garden ."

    Loads of places to see and great walks . Very dog friendly. The owner of the property was a delightful lady and nothing was to much trouble. A beautiful place to stay .

    Reviewed by Adrian5.0May 2019

  • "Superb! A hidden gem."

    We had a wonderful week in this beautiful cottage with very peaceful surroundings. Simply home from home. The owner was very helpful and the cottage has everything you want. A wonderful week was had by all. Can’t praise it highly enough. Definitely want to return and would certainly book through Helpful Holidays again.

    Reviewed by Anne5.0May 2019

  • "Fabulous place, wonderful cottage, we loved it!"

    Reviewed by Glynis5.0Apr 2019

  • "Exceeded expectations."

    Welcoming for both visitors and two dogs. Ideal for walking with choice of four directions just outside front door. Thoughtfully planned comfortable and very well maintained throughout. Owner nearby quietly helpful but not intrusive.

    Reviewed by Frances5.0Jan 2019

  • "Met rather than exceeded because we have been there before!"

    It was, as previously, very comfortable and very well equipped. Some very nice touches including a lovely lemon drizzle cake!

    Reviewed by Eric5.0Dec 2018

  • "We had a lovely stay at Water Barn."

    It provided everything we needed for a warm,comfortable and relaxing holiday. The kitchen is very well equipped,the bed extremely comfortable and the shower is excellent. We enjoyed wonderful walks from the door and further afield, especially Lustleigh Cleave. We thoroughly recommend Water Barn and hope to return in the future.

    Reviewed by Jan5.0Oct 2018

  • "The cottage was fabulous, everything you needed plus a magnificent garden."

    We couldn't keep our dogs on our side but the owners said they did not mind. The walks from the cottage are superb. Not stayed on Dartmoor before and we were not disappointed. The whole holiday was magnificent

    Reviewed by Carole5.0Oct 2018

  • "Lovely cottage and surroundings."

    Friendly and helpful owner. Only drawbacks: A bit chilly downstairs despite heating due to position of bedrooms on the ground floor. Mostly very clean but bathroom floor / skirting boards / beams need attention.

    Reviewed by Marion4.4Sep 2018

  • "Cottage was beautiful and is booked for absolute peace and tranquillity, ..."

    Cottage was beautiful and is booked for absolute peace and tranquillity, unfortunately ruins by the owner arranging for a strange work then to be in my garden for a two solid days with a blowtorch and power drill repairing have water mail arrived when myself and my friend were in our pyjamas and was therefore two solid days absolutely ruined our holiday and we came home early Sykes sort it out the complaint satisfactorily but unfortunately this only needs to realise when her cottages rented she should not have access and disturb pwoplw And certainly should not be so disrespectful as to do everything without even asking if it’s okay

    Reviewed by Justine3.8Aug 2018

  • "Water Barn is in a lovely location with great woodland walks right from the door."

    Thoroughly recommended.

    Reviewed by James5.0Aug 2018

  • "Excellent location for walking and exploring Devon."

    Extremely well equipped we didn't need half of what we brought Local pub (Kestor) easy 5 minute walk Would highly reccomend this cottage

    Reviewed by Max5.0Jul 2018

  • "Enjoyed our stay here, very comfortable and relaxing."

    Great location for both Dartmoor and the coast. Excellent walks starting next to Barn garden make it ideal for dog walking before breakfast!

    Reviewed by Geoffrey5.0Jun 2018

  • "The location is fantastic as you can walk for days from the cottage without having to get in the car."

    The cottage is fully equipped with everything you might need and the hosts are lovely too. The garden is stunning and you'll struggle to leave it on a sunny day! Overall, a stunning place!

    Reviewed by Claire5.0May 2018

  • "Completely satisfied - Top marks in all departments."

    Reviewed by David5.0May 2018

  • "It is a lovely property set just into Dartmoor with beautiful views whichever way you go from Manaton."

    Water Barn is always clean,is well appointed and comfortable and the owners are friendly and helpful.Very highly recommended.

    Reviewed by Kevin5.0Apr 2018

  • "Water Barn has a lovely atmosphere of comfort and aids a sense of togetherness."

    It is very well equipped.

    Reviewed by Jennifer4.7Mar 2018

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This property is part of the Helpful Holidays collection.
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Summary

  • Two bedrooms: 1 x king size double, 1 x twin
  • Bathroom with bath, shower over bath, WC and basin
  • Upstairs open-plan living/dining/kitchen with wood burning stove
  • Downstairs hall.
  • Central heating with wood burning stove
  • Microwave, fridge, freezer, washer-dryer, dishwasher, TV with Sky DVD, WiFi, Phone, Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Highchair available on request
  • Off road parking for two cars
  • Barbecue
  • Two well-behaved dogs welcome, Sorry no smoking
  • Pub less than 1 mile from property.

The property

This lovely, roomy Devon cottage sits in a quiet lane in a hamlet of old cottages, farmhouses and trees on the edge of the pretty little Dartmoor village of Manaton with its traditional village green, church and playground, next door to the owners' former mill house where you can still see the water wheel.

The cottage has been carefully converted from an ancient stone barn and is now beautifully lit, heated and made comfortable, with a wonderful upstairs open-plan space made light and airy by picture windows at either end.

You can relax in the comfy seating area and prepare delicious meals in the big well-stocked kitchen area to enjoy in the dining space.

Down the stairs are the two attractive bedrooms sharing a family bathroom.

The natural garden matches the beauty of the rural surroundings, with its granite boulders, oak trees, lawn, flowers and barbecue.

For walkers and guests who appreciate tranquillity, this is a wonderful spot, with picturesque walks through woods and over moorland from your doorstep, and spectacular Dartmoor tors like Hound Tor and BowermanÂ’s Nose to visit.

If you don't feel like cooking, thereÂ’s a pub just 400 yards from Water Barn.

For more adventure, try the local riding stables and golf driving range, or venture to the sea and beaches at Teignmouth and Torbay, about 15 miles away.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £100.

View on map

About the location

Manaton

Lustleigh is a picture postcard village set on the deep wooded slopes of eastern Dartmoor and within Dartmoor National Park. With a pretty church, village shop and excellent pub along with lots of thatch cottages you can see why Lustleigh made it to the Telegraph's top villages.