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Ground Floor

Kitchen Dining Area Lounge Bathroom Double Bedroom

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Floorplan

Townend Barn

(Ref. 975827)

Lydford, Devon Show on map

4.8

Sykes rating

  • 2 Guests

  • 1 Bedroom

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Ground floor accommodation
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Dishwasher
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • barn (29)
  • lovely (25)
  • stay (21)
  • great (19)
  • comfortable (17)
  • garden (16)

59 Customer Reviews

  • "Perfect in every way."

    Reviewed by Rachel5.0Nov 2024

  • "A lovely holiday cottage and lovely hosts."

    Superb private location in Lydford with many choices for splendid walks from the door.

    Reviewed by Cathy4.4Nov 2024

  • "It was already brilliant to find comfortable, dog friendly accommodation in such a lovely spot, but to have such a beautiful, lovingly maintained old Steinway grand made this a holiday to remember for years to come."

    En suite bathrooms are now the norm in rented accommodation. En suite grand pianos of such quality are the next level of holiday luxury!

    Reviewed by Simon5.0Jul 2024

  • "We had a great stay, the barn is an ideal place to travel around Dartmoor and over the border into Cornwall."

    The barn is lovely and quiet, the bed was comfortable and the garden is beautiful, please be aware if you have a dog, the garden is not enclosed so you will need to keep him close so that he doesn’t intrude into the owners garden. The owners leave you in peace, and Nick was a lovely host. The local pub (Castle Inn) serves great food and is dog friendly, and the nearby Lydford Gorge is a must see. I would fully recommend this place to everyone. Thank you.

    Reviewed by Simon4.1Jun 2024

  • "The barn is very well equipped, cosy and sits in a beautiful private garden."

    Nick and Tania are great hosts. Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by Jacqueline5.0May 2024

  • "Thoroughly enjoyed our stay."

    Tranquil surroundings and very relaxing.

    Reviewed by Alexandra5.0May 2024

  • "Lovely place and stay - thank you again"

    Reviewed by Amanda5.0Feb 2024

  • "A delightfully quirky and comfortable home-away-from-home."

    The quality and attention to detail was very much appreciated and nothing was found lacking. The general environment was exceptionally peaceful and tranquil, only disturbed by the wild birdlife. One of our best experiences in a holiday cottage ever, and much praise should go to Nicholas & Tania for their warm and thoughtful welcome.

    Reviewed by Mervyn5.0Dec 2023

  • "Everything I hoped for in this property: well equipped, clean and cosy with character."

    Perfect location to enjoy playing the grand piano. No noise or light pollution. Warm welcome from the owner. Hope to return soon.

    Reviewed by Rachel5.0Nov 2023

  • "Enjoyed every minute of our stay in Townend Barn."

    The property has plenty of character, homely didn't want to leave. Thank you Nicholas your an amazing host. Loved the ducks.

    It was a pleasure hosting you. Thank you very much for your kind comments. Look forward to seeing you again. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Susan5.0Nov 2023

  • "I enjoyed my week long stay."

    A very nice converted barn with outside seating area. I never felt cold (October). The central heating was good and i didn't feel the need to use the fire. Having a piano was a very nice touch. The bed was comfortable, nice shower room. Good pots/pans provided although a non-stick frying pan would be good. I saw DVDs but didn't find a DVD player or slot on the TV. Maybe i just missed it. It would be good if a light switch to light the main area was also near the sleeping area. Friendly and helpful owners.

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Oct 2023

  • "Very friendly people"

    Reviewed by Stuart3.8Sep 2023

  • "Very comfortable property situated in a superb area with plenty of things to do and places to go."

    It's possible to access many stunning walks direct from the barn. Thanks to Nicholas and Tania for making us so welcome.

    Reviewed by Dave5.0Jun 2023

  • "A wonderful barn conversion and garden."

    It was in an ideal position for exploring the whole of Devon and parts of Cornwall with our dog Roxy. We would highly recommend this property to everyone.

    Reviewed by Diane5.0Jun 2023

  • "Townend Barn is a lovely place to stay."

    It is so comfortable and well equipped. There is also beautiful, sunny and private garden. A place to completely relax. Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by Jacqueline5.0May 2023

  • "Had a lovely and very relaxing stay."

    The property was cosy, the nearby countryside was beautiful, and the piano sounded great. The hosts also went above and beyond to help me make the most of my time there. Would definitely recommend, and would love to go back again!

    Reviewed by Dylan5.0Apr 2023

  • "A lovely property, very comfortable and not at all fussy."

    Nicholas and Tania were fantastic, friendly, available but invisible at the same time!

    Reviewed by Simon5.0Dec 2022

  • "We had a wonderful week at Townend in spite of some wet and windy weather!"

    The Barn is a delight - a great deal of care and thought has gone into the furnishings, and the artwork, sculptures and especially the piano make it a very special place to stay. Lydford is a good base for visiting Dartmoor and the village has two pubs serving excellent food, as well as a farm shop. Nick and Tanya were charming hosts and I know we'll be back to explore more of the area. Thank you so much for having us!

    Reviewed by Heather5.0Nov 2022

  • "Beautiful spot, amazing hosts."

    Will be back one day for sure.

    Reviewed by Thomas5.0Jul 2022

  • "Outstanding Converted Barn Living."

    It is everything it says and much more. We loved our short stay at Townend. The hosts were very welcoming and explained everything which always helps a o lot.The Barn is very well-equipped and the bed also very comfortable. A real home from home.

    Reviewed by Roger5.0Jun 2022

  • "Excellent. Lovely place."

    Reviewed by Mark5.0Jun 2022

  • "Townend Barn had everything we needed for a comfortable stay, as well as a lovely garden space in which to relax and listen to the birdsong."

    All we needed was the weather to have been a bit better! The beautiful Steinway grand piano was a joy to play, and my main reason for choosing Townend Barn. Would love to return sometime.

    Reviewed by Susan5.0May 2022

  • "Great cottage"

    Reviewed by George4.7Apr 2022

  • "Delightful comfortable barn with quality fittings and furnishings."

    Everything you need for cooking and dining. Lovely sunny garden with plenty of walks from the doorstep. Also regular buses so our car was not used all week! Campsite shop with essentials very close and two very good pubs within walking distance Owners helpful and discrete A perfect stay helped by fabulous weather and glorious surroundings.

    Reviewed by Jane5.0Mar 2022

  • "A lovely few days away in this cute little barn."

    Fully equipped with all the essentials. Fabulous location for plenty of walks. We were very lucky with the weather. A very friendly welcome from The Castle pub with some lovely food available (dog friendly too). Would definitely recommend a stay here.

    Reviewed by Lisa4.1Mar 2022

  • "Another great stay in this lovely cottage in a great location for exploring Dartmoor."

    Looking forward to the next visit.

    Reviewed by John5.0Mar 2022

  • "Very clean and cosy barn, with all facilities you require for a base to explore devon."

    Owner very helpful.

    Reviewed by Christy5.0Oct 2021

  • "Perfect!"

    Reviewed by Sue4.7Oct 2021

  • "Lydford is a charming village with an excellent pub (and chef)."

    The barn is charming and I enjoyed using the piano. The first time I went in the Summer was warm enough to eat al fresco know the lovely garden while this time the wood burning stove provided comfort on some rainy days ! The owners are lovely and very helpful

    Reviewed by Susan5.0Oct 2021

  • "We had such a lovely time we only wish we could have stayed longer."

    The proprietors were very friendly and helpful. I would very much like to go back there next year.

    Reviewed by Paula5.0Oct 2021

  • "Great location for a base for the whole of Dartmoor."

    Walks on your doorstep for your four legged friend including Lydford gorge and a lovely pub called the castle to relax in after serving great food, we will definitely return

    Reviewed by Jane5.0Aug 2021

  • "Not dog friendly as dogs need to be on the lead in the garden?"

    Fortunately the owners were away with their dogs during our stay, so our dogs were off lead but supervised in the garden. When we arrived there was a lot of dog mess around the Barn garden. The tap in the kitchen needs a new washer. No welcome pack - to be fair this is not advertised - but we have stayed in many holiday rentals, and some local produce would have been a nice touch considering the cost of the rental. The bed was very comfortable and the shower was brilliant. A washing machine would be useful, and there is room and plumbing to have one in the bathroom cupboard. Also, not enough pegs as we had been to the launderette in Tavistock. A perfect get away for a couple without dogs. Lovely and quiet, no light pollution and with a great pub down the road

    Thank you for taking the time to leave your feedback and we are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your stay and found the bed comfortable and the shower brilliant! The owners were away during the period when you stayed and it is their usual practise to thoroughly check the garden for any trace of dogs prior to your arrival. If the cleaners missed this, this was an unfortunate oversight. Guests are generally very good at cleaning up after their dogs so we are sorry to hear this was not the case on this occasion. Dogs are always welcomed at this property and you'll see from the previous reviews that customers really enjoy bringing their dogs to Townend Barn. The garden is not advertised as enclosed: it is surrounded by hedges but it is not fenced, therefore adventurous dogs can access the owners garden. A welcome pack is of course complimentary but the owners will consider your comments regarding this. A plumber will be organised to attend to the kitchen tap - thank you for bringing this to our attention. A washing machine is not included in the listing for Townend Barn and is not present due to available space and because the property is suitable for just two guests. Our Reservations team are always happy to help with any queries prior to making a booking if this is a key requirement for your holiday. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Janet3.4Aug 2021

  • "Perfect location for exploring a beautiful part of Devon and within easy reach of many attractions."

    Reviewed by Stephen4.1Jun 2021

  • "The barn is set in an idyllic location with a lovely, peaceful, garden full of flowers and birdsong."

    The hosts are very welcoming and helpful and Lydford itself is great place for walks or as a base for exploration of Dartmoor. The local pub is within easy strolling distance and provides exceptional food and service.

    Reviewed by Keith4.7Jun 2021

  • "Peaceful, relaxing, quiet, lovely village, great pub (the castle inn) great ..."

    Peaceful, relaxing, quiet, lovely village, great pub (the castle inn) great location to go exploring plenty of walks both my dogs really enjoyed it in fact never seen them so relaxed, and our hosts were fantastic couldn't do enough for us if anything came up ,which it didn't

    Reviewed by Dave5.0Apr 2021

  • "Everything was perfect, just what we wanted for 3 days walking in the area."

    If we ever heading back to this part of Dartmoor again we would for sure book the barn. Lovey host's, really helpful and was out cleaning the path one morning when it snowed. Had a meal in the village pub which was also really good. The Barn is great place to spend a relaxing quiet new years eve.

    Reviewed by Claire5.0Dec 2020

  • "Absolutely wonderful few days in the 'piano barn'."

    Hunkering down in the warmth, rotating between eating, relaxing, gin and chamber music. Can't wait to return and get round to exploring a bit more of the local area too - although leaving the barn never seems like a good idea!

    Reviewed by Llinos5.0Dec 2020

  • "Fantastic cottage with a super log burner."

    Really cosy in some bleak weather. Typical Dartmoor weather.

    Reviewed by Sue4.4Oct 2020

  • "Extremely comfortable place to stay with the added bonus of the piano."

    Ideally located with great pub nearby for both good food & drink. Very pleasant & attentive owners who are always on hand if needed. Thouroughly recommended even out of season.

    Reviewed by Daren5.0Oct 2020

  • "Perfect! Owners were very welcoming, discreet but available."

    Property was spotless (which is really really important nowadays!) and extremely comfortable - home from home. Everything we needed for our well needed secluded hiking holiday.

    Reviewed by Frederique5.0Sep 2020

  • "The cottage is absolutely delightful, very warm and cosy and fully equipped."

    Great location and loved the farm shop and the pub down the road, they made the dogs very welcome. Nick Ann Tania are perfect hosts and did all they could to make our stay relaxing and enjoyable. I would highly recommend, particularly with dogs.

    Reviewed by Rachel5.0Feb 2020

  • "This cottage gives us everything we want from a cottage holiday, so much so that this was our second visit and we will be back in 2020."

    I've selected 'met expectations' because I knew what to expect and I've used Helpful Holidays many times and they always deliver to a high standard.

    Reviewed by John5.0Sep 2019

  • "We had a fantastic week at Townend Barn."

    The welcome and communication with Nick (the owner) was exceptional. The location was perfect and the accommodation was spacious with a very comfortable bed and a great powerful shower. The garden was secluded although it was a shame dogs aren't permitted to roam freely, this was explained on arrival so not a problem. The Castle Inn is just a short walk away and served fantastic food and very friendly staff. Our only recommendation to make this completely perfect for us would be to have a 3-seater sofa so we could stretch out for those lazy evenings. Would highly recommend this accommodation for those seeking peace and quiet, privacy in a picturesque setting close to all the main points of interest in Dartmoor and the surrounding areas.

    Reviewed by Tracy3.8Sep 2019

  • "The Barn is very well appointed and was perfect for us and our dog ."

    A very safe garden and in a beautiful location .the owners are on site and were so friendly and helpful .we would highly recommend Townend Barn and would certainly go back again ,

    Reviewed by Chris4.7Aug 2019

  • "Nous avons passe une semaine fantastique a townend barn."

    le barn est vraiment tres cosy, tout en etant parfaitement fonctionnel. pour les passiones de piano c'est un privilege de pouvoir poser ses mains sur un piano a queue steinway. il est ancient mais offre de tres belles nuances. pour le quotidien, vous trouverez dans ce village charmant un farm shop qui propose de bons produits. lydford est idealement situe pour decouvrir le dartmoor: il y a de nombreuses ballades a faire, et pour ceux qui ne conduisent past (comme c'est notre cas), des bus vous emmenent a Tavistock ou a Okehampton . nos hotes etaient adorables: presents si necessaire et tres discrets. a noter superbes ballades a faire dans le Dartmoor. Olivier et Alice de Paris

    Reviewed by Olivier5.0Jul 2019

  • "Our expectations were met because this is the third time we have stayed at Townend Barn and we know it is an excellent facility."

    Since we last stayed central heating and a new shower has been installed. The owners are as pleasant and helpful as ever and we thoroughly recommend the barn as ideal accommodation for a couple seeking to stay in a beautiful area.

    Reviewed by Dave5.0Jun 2019

  • "Peace and quiet."

    Reviewed by Giles5.0Jun 2019

  • "What a lovely week we enjoyed!"

    The barn is such a tranquil place with unique features and was spotlessly clean. Although the weather was very rainy we managed one afternoon in the beautiful garden which we shared with six ducks! The owners of the barn were very friendly but not intrusive at all. The village of Lydford is a lovely place and the Castle Inn was a great retreat where we enjoyed very good food and a relaxed atmosphere alongside locals and other visitors. The Dartmoor Inn, which was approximately a 10/15 minute walk away, served the best Sunday lunch we have ever had! We would recommend without hesitation and will certainly try and return some time in the future.

    Reviewed by Andy5.0Jun 2019

  • "This is a beautiful converted barn in a lovely village."

    Very close to an popular pub and lovely walks and footpaths for walking the dog and explore. We went to the Lydford Gorge and had an adventures time there. The cottage itself is functional and very well equipped - situated in a wonderful garden, made up like a little park to walk along. We’ve enjoyed staying there having breakfast at the table outside or a drink. We’ve taken two dogs, one of them only 1 year and after the ducks which belong to the owner. Which was quite tiring as we couldn’t let her of the leach at all. The shower in the bathroom is great, but I wished there would be more storage - like shelves in the bathroom or a bigger wardrobe for clothes. All in one everything was perfekt and we would defently come back. Thanks to Tania and Nick for your hospitality and kindness.

    Reviewed by Beate5.0May 2019

  • "Bed could do with new mattress otherwise lovely"

    Reviewed by Julian3.8May 2019

  • "Nicholas and Tania are the most welcoming hosts, with extreme attention to detail in their barn."

    You are surrounded by amazing art -- paintings, statues and pottery -- and a lovely landscape of flora in the garden. We were spoilt for choices of amazing hiking right from their doorstep. Fantastic location and accommodations. Thanks so much for sharing this gift with us.

    Reviewed by Lori5.0May 2019

  • "Honestly the best holiday cottage I have ever stayed in."

    Very clean, tidy, well presented and thought out, and well resourced with everything you could possibly need for a stay on Dartmoor - long or short. Great quality throughout, comfy bed, warm, quality furniture, wonderful grand piano for those who play. The hosts are spot on - welcoming, helpful, there if you need anything but otherwise leave you to your privacy. Extra bonus of 2 lovely dogs and 2 hilarious ducks, if you are lucky enough for them to deign to visit you as they 'do their rounds' in the garden. Lovely private garden, off road parking, quiet, comfortable and a real gem. Easy in to Tavistock, Oakehampton, Moretonhampstead, if you need anything ( launderette in Tavistock if absolutely necessary) easy out onto the moors and wilderness. Great local farm shop for supplies, not too far from some amazing coastlines and sitting in the middle of the best of all worlds - coast, woods, moors, towns, amazing rivers - its got the lot. Wonderful base and a true home from home. Cannot recommend highly enough.

    Reviewed by Claire5.0Mar 2019

  • "Great time."

    Piano was perfect for me. Shower was also excellent. Location of pub down the road was a big help. Thanks.

    Reviewed by Peter4.7Mar 2019

  • "Super quiet little barn conversion."

    Very comfortable, with beautiful artwork and a good set of facilities for cooking / a couple of decent pubs in the village. Really nice place. Thanks, Nicholas!!

    Reviewed by Ben5.0Nov 2018

  • "I had the most wonderful stay in Townend Barn - it was everything I hoped for, and more."

    The conversion here is so comfortable and warm and charming and all the facilities, just perfect. Of particular note, the beautiful Steinway grand piano is every pianist's dream, making work and play a glorious experience. And Nick and Tania are friendly, generous and accommodating in every way. Thank you for a wonderful stay! I shall be back!

    Reviewed by Clair5.0Nov 2018

  • "Lovely warm cosy space to return to after walking on the moor."

    Friendly owners with everything you would expect provided by a Helpful Holliday's property.

    Reviewed by Sue4.7Oct 2018

  • "We thoroughly enjoyed this holiday, the cottage is in a quiet village and we had a very relaxing week - just what we wanted."

    It was also great having the piano which I enjoyed playing. If I return to the area I would stay in this cottage again.

    Reviewed by John5.0Sep 2018

  • "The Barn is a perfect bolt hole for two."

    It's secluded, peaceful and has all the necessary comfort. Situated in the quiet village of Lydford with a good pub, and Lydford gorge which is not to be miss is just up the road. Plenty of local walks and for cyclist the Granite Way to Oakhampton and the Camel trail are highly recommended. Our host Tania and Nik made us very welcome. The Barn also has a baby grand piano for any pianist, sulphture and art work in the premasis with accompanying literature made interesting reading, well stock with books, DVD etc . Loved the place and surrounding area, a week was not enough !.

    Reviewed by Kwai5.0Jul 2018

  • "Townend Barn is set in the heart of Lydford and is within walking distance of Lydford Gorge."

    The barn is set in it's own wildlife garden at the back of Tania and Nick (the owner's) home, Townend House. There is off road parking. The garden has seating and is very private, peaceful and relaxing. The barn has an open plan kitchen, dining and living room with high vaulted ceiling. There are double doors with a Juliette balcony which makes the room beautifully light and airy. There is a curtain that separates the double bed size bedroom and ensuite shower room from the rest of the living area. , Baby grand piano and artwork make this barn a little bit special. There is a woodburner should you need it in the colder months. TV, DVD and radio are all here should you want to use them. There was everything in the barn that we could have wanted and had a relaxing week. The Castle Inn is within walking distance and we ate here every day as it was so good. Book a table to be sure of one as it did get busy in the evening. The Lydford House Hotel in the other direction serves lovely afternoon cream teas which can be taken of their terrace. Snacks and cream teas are also very good at the Lydford Gorge National Trust café. There is a shop and another pub, The Dartmoor Inn within a mile of the barn. Buses from Lydford are also very good if you would rather take public transport. This is an ideal place for exploring Dartmoor with Tavistock and the B3357 which takes you onto the moor about 8 miles from the barn. Tania and Nick were welcoming hosts who then let you have your own space and privacy to enjoy your holiday. We would definitely stay here again as we love the barn and it's location.

    Reviewed by Patricia5.0Jun 2018

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Summary

  • On one level
  • 1 x double bedroom, open plan living area, with sitting area with wood burning stove and fully tuned Steinway grand piano, fitted kitchen and dining area
  • Shower-room with shower, basin and WC.
  • Central heating with wood burning stove
  • Microwave, fridge, dishwasher, TV with DVD, WiFi, Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Off road parking for one car
  • Two behaved dogs welcome; if two large dogs, please enquire
  • Please note there is a charge of £10 for the 2nd dog
  • Sorry no smoking
  • Pub less than 1 mile from property
  • Note: Guests will be required to log in to their own account for any streaming services on the TV.

The property

In the centre of Lydford, converted from the top floor of a barn, tucked quietly within the owners' acre of garden is Townend Barn.

Surrounded by original sculptures and artwork, this is a wonderful retreat from the hurly burly of the modern world.

Inside is lofty and open-plan with ceilings to the apex, oak floors and a clever marriage of old and new furniture creating an intimate, cosy atmosphere.

The living accommodation, dining area and sleek fitted kitchen, feature notable artwork and sculptures, a wood burning stove and a handsome fully tuned Steinway grand piano.

A heavy curtain separates the pretty, comfortable double bedroom with a beamed ceiling.

Outside a sloping gravel path leads to your own lawned garden with a table and chairs.

Lydford, on Dartmoor's western edge has two good food pubs, a farm shop and is famous for its National Trust gorge and waterfall, and ruined medieval castle.

You can cycle or walk along the Granite Way, fish on the river Lyd or ride a horse across the moors from local stables.

Further afield the market town of Tavistock has plenty of shops, restaurants, an indoor pool and cinema.

Equidistant between the north and south coasts, the sea and beaches are about 25 miles away.

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

View on map

About the location

LYDFORD

Tavistock 6 miles; Okehampton 6 miles.

Nestling among mature woodland on the western slopes of Dartmoor, the historic village of Lydford is a jewel in this area of outstanding scenic beauty. To the north, just half a mile away, the high tors come right down to the village edge, while to the south the River Lyd winds its way through Lydford Forest on its tumbling course northwards. Lydford village has an interesting medieval castle and nearby Lydford Gorge (National Trust) with its peaceful woodland walks and White Lady waterfall is a must. The village also has a Post Office, pub and award-winning restaurant. Whether walking the moors, fishing, watching the amazing wildlife or just visiting the many attractions of this stunningly beautiful area, you'll never be lost for something to do. The moorland market towns of Tavistock and Okehampton are both a short drive away.

Note: This property has a refundable Good Housekeeping bond of £100
Note: Guests will be required to log in to their own account for any streaming services on the TV.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute
  • Christmas