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Nethercote Byre

(Ref. 975976)

Winsford, near Exford, Devon Show on map

4.4

Sykes rating

  • 8 Guests

  • 4 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Cot available
  • Highchair available
  • Dishwasher
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • track (14)
  • our (11)
  • property (10)
  • perfect (9)
  • lovely (8)
  • well (8)

29 Customer Reviews

  • "Nethercote Byre was light, airy, spacious, well equipped and clean - a high standard conversion in a beautiful location."

    Walking our spaniel off lead right from the door was a real bonus! Yes, the track had to be negotiated, but it was worth it. A previous review comment said the master bed was uncomfortable - if so, this has been replaced - it is now very comfortable. We thoroughly enjoyed a wonderful week 'away from it all' and would definitely go back. Thank you.

    Very many thanks for your kind remarks. Yes, we bought new mattresses for the Masterbedroom. Glad to know that was appreciated and your spaniel had fun! Property Owner

    Reviewed by Suzy5.0Nov 2024

  • "The property itself is wonderful."

    However, and it is an important however. We know we will not be the first people to mention this. Whilst the drive from the gate to the property is really not very good even with improvements, it is on the whole safe. However, the second bridge with no palings is quite frankly dangerous. All the bridge needs to make it safe is a well marked white post at each corner with possibly the addition of fluerescent tape along the sides, in fact the same as the next door neighbours have at the entrance. Not a lot to ask but the difference between keeping within the regulations of health and safety or not. I would ask the agency to check this bridge for themselves.

    That is a very good idea. Thank you. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Dee4.7Oct 2024

  • "What an absolutely fantastic place."

    In the middle of nowhere (1.5mile down a farm road) and you can't hear anything other than the owls, cows, sheep and pheasants. So relaxing, really didn't want to leave

    Reviewed by Chris4.4Sep 2024

  • "What a lovely stay!"

    For someone that appreciates pure quiet surrounded with nature this is the perfect spot! Child safe house with all you may need! We thoroughly enjoyed our holiday! will be back soon

    Reviewed by Meir5.0Aug 2024

  • "Nice and remote to get away from daily hustle n bustle."

    Dawn very helpful and informative.Mind sheep on access road and cows on bridlepath.

    Reviewed by John4.7Jul 2024

  • "The cottage itself was lovely, very nice, peaceful and lovely views."

    Access to the property is not for the faint hearted. It says in the listing that it's more suitable for 4x4s or sturdy cars, I would say that it's only suitable for 4x4s. Do not take anything less, unless you want to risk getting stuck in the mud or scraping off your cars undercarriage. The king-size bed was uncomfortable and had a huge dip on one side which left for very sleepless nights. Kitchen was well stocked with utensils plates and cutlery, it was very warm, quiet and the WiFi was excellent. We did experience one bat flying around the living room which was fun, haha.

    Sorry about the mud on the track. We have just planted a lot of trees and the road took the strain. Should be improved soon - update; the track to the property has now been upgraded and is perfectly usable by all vehicles so please keep speed down to avoid danger to cattle sheep or indeed walkers with dogs! Property Owner

    Reviewed by Daniel3.4Apr 2024

  • "This is a very comfortable barn conversion in a secluded valley."

    Warm and well equipped with very hot water. If you love nature this is perfect. There are footpaths and bridleways starting from the property and a rushing river along the by way to access the barn. The owners and housekeeper are both very welcoming and friendly. The access road is challenging but that is made clear in the description.

    Reviewed by Tracy5.0Mar 2024

  • "As always, thoroughly enjoyed our week-long stay at Nethercote, despite the awful weather."

    It is a very comfortable property with every facility (bar a hairdryer), and the walking straight from the door or further afield is glorious . The driveway is a challenge but just adds to the uniqueness of the property!

    Reviewed by Jennifer5.0Nov 2023

  • "Apologies thought id done feedback at the time."

    Cracking cottage really in the middle of nowhere. Do not try and take a car that is lower than normal down the access track! Dawn the caretaker checked in via message during our stay and was amazing. The owner popped in at the start of the week and said hello. Suggest you plan your food carefully as nearest supermarkets are nearly an hour away! Amazing WiFi. No one else in the valley (pretty much). Wonderful!

    Reviewed by Anthony4.4Jul 2023

  • "We had a great stay, the property is very spacious."

    It is situated in a stunningly beautiful, quiet and remote valley. There are amazing walks directly from the property. Perfect for a complete getaway.

    Reviewed by Chris5.0May 2023

  • "First let me say we had no problems with the cottage."

    Dawn, the caretaker, had done a great job getting it clean and welcoming for our arrival and we were very happy with the facilities in the property. We had great weather and enjoyed sitting and eating in the south facing courtyard. The property was very remote (as described) and the vast majority of the time we could hear and enjoy the silence and beautiful night skies. However, potential renters should be aware just how many people, horses and bikers use the bridleway right in front of the cottage from early in the morning to early in the evening so you really need to keep the gates shut to prevent random dogs and cows joining you in the courtyard! The big (big!) issue was the drive into to the property. We knew it was a track, and that was not a problem in principle as we have a 4 wheel drive, but I would like to warn anyone planning to book the cottage that it it took on average about 15-20 minutes to drive the 2 miles because the road was just so so (so) full of potholes. Even something as simple as getting rid of rubbish bags was a challenge as the bins were at the far end of the drive and we were asked not to leave rubbish bags outside the property overnight. This was particularly a pain when we were clearing up before going home as we either had to pack up the car then find room for 3 bags of rubbish or make a separate trip down the drive (40 mins round trip) before we left just to drop off the rubbish. One of my sons and his family actually decided not to join us for a long weekend during our fortnight we were concerned whether their car would navigate the drive. Such a shame as otherwise it would be a nice little bolthole for a quiet walking break.

    Thank you for your review and we are pleased that you enjoyed your visit. It is true that the drive is fairly long, approx 1 1/2 miles and yes there are potholes or bumps which slow you down and it can easily take 10 minutes to drive up and down, however the river which runs near by and the scenery can be enjoyed during this drive. The owner has spent thousands of pounds trying to better the lane but with no avail, alas country lanes and potholes go hand in hand! Careful navigation will be worth it when you arrive at Nethercote Byre to enjoy the peace and tranquility that it offers. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Fiona3.4Sep 2022

  • "We had a wonderful stay in this large barn conversion."

    Very suitable for a large family or several families to stay. We did not have 4x4 cars and the track was bumpy but drivable, luckily it had been very dry so it was not too muddy. The barn was well equipped and the enclosed courtyard area very useful for children and dogs to play in safely. Surrounding walk were beautiful and the peace and tranquillity was just what we needed. We would definitely return to Nethercote Byrne.

    Reviewed by Andrea3.8Aug 2022

  • "Perfect. We will be back."

    Reviewed by Stephen4.4Jul 2022

  • "We loved our stay there."

    The drive is very long and bumpy so do need to take care but once you are there it is idyllic!

    Reviewed by Charlie4.7May 2022

  • "Wonderful fully equipped spacious dwelling off the beaten track in stunning countryside location."

    2nd visit to the Byre and once again loved the peace and tranquility of this getaway. Our energetic border collie loves it here too ,especially going for a dip in the bubbling River Exe which is a small stroll away. Enjoyed sitting in the large living area reading books and listening to the birds outside. Thanks to Dawn the caretaker for being so helpful and hope to be back soon.....Lyndsey,Rob and the nutty border milo

    Reviewed by Robert4.7May 2022

  • "A fantastic isolated location."

    Clean well equipped and presented. A bonus that equipment and toys were available for our 2yr old granddaughter. The track to the property was well described and despite some previous adverse comments from other guest reviews, presented no issues, one of our party had a VW Up and coped in icey conditions Highly recommended this property thank you

    Reviewed by Robert5.0Jan 2022

  • "Please don’t change anything… we love it as it is!"

    Reviewed by Julia5.0Nov 2021

  • "We’ve been to this barn conversion three times and on every visit it’s the same it’s a very lovely place plenty of room for everyone to have there own space and a living room with a fire which is perfect for family activities after a long day out."

    The only slight and I mean slight downside to the property is the track leading to the property which is extremely better than when we visited on our first visit but it’s still very bumpy but if you drive slow its perfectly fine. This property is one of the best places we’ve found and we’ll be definitely coming back.

    Reviewed by Sue5.0Nov 2021

  • "Lack of recycling facilities was disappointing."

    We were unable to take the rubbish bags to the bins at the end of the drive at the end of the stay as the car was full. The condition of the track precluded making two trips Also, the large grey sofas in the living room were extremely uncomfortable, the seat support having gone. We had to move alternative seating in place whilst we were there. Otherwise we thought it was a lovely place, and would go back

    Thank you for your feedback. The instructions for the bins will be updated to make it more clear. The sofas are largely down to personal preference and it can be really hard to tailor to suit everyone's needs. We have not had any other comments on the sofas before. We are sorry they were not right for you on this occasion. We are glad to hear that you would return. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Christina4.7Oct 2021

  • "Wonderful quiet and peaceful location."

    Plenty of walks from the front door and the cows were great entertainment

    Reviewed by Lucy5.0Sep 2021

  • "The location of the Byre was perfect for our family, the views across the valley ..."

    The location of the Byre was perfect for our family, the views across the valley were stunning, it’s seclusion up the track and it’s close proximity to the River Exe

    Reviewed by Steve5.0Sep 2021

  • "A spacious barn conversion 1."

    5 miles up a very rough track. There are great walks (and lots of marked footpaths and bridle ways) right from the door and pretty villages and towns and the North Devon coast within easy reach. The only problem was the access road - our friends’ rented Range Rover had 3 flat tyres! The directions for finding the place could also be clearer, especially as there is no phone reception or internet in the area (although the wifi at the house worked fine!). Perfect for keen hikers with lots of all weather gear and tough tyres!

    Reviewed by Anne3.8Jul 2021

  • "An amazingly spacious barn tucked away at the end of a very long private track."

    If you want shops and entertainment on the doorstep and an enclosed garden, this barn is not for you. But if you want total relaxation, amazing scenery, clean air and plenty of space, I recommend it highly.

    Reviewed by Caroline4.1Jun 2021

  • "If you seek peace and quiet in the most beautiful of surroundings then this is the most fabulous of places to stay."

    The barn has been beautifully converted, is very spacious, warm and well equipped. It is positioned on the hill side catching the sun and the river exe runs through the valley below. Lovely views. There are truly lovely walks from the door down ancient lanes and footpaths. Grand old trees and wild life. You are down a track, which runs along the river and over a couple of bridges, a mile or more from the road. Best to have a car with reasonable ground clearance or you would need to take it slowly in places. Very well positioned for exploring Exmoor. Very well stocked small shop at Withypool a short drive away. Can't recommend this place highly enough, we loved it.

    Reviewed by C5.0Nov 2019

  • "The property is in the most beautiful area with lots of different walks on the doorstep."

    Perfect for dog walking and nature lovers. We loved the property but felt it could have been slightly better equipped and needs a more thorough clean (although first impressions were that the place was clean, it was only looking more closely that we noticed a few areas). Despite this we would happily have stayed another week and would definitely return. We would suggest upgrading the oven/hob and the fridge tended to leave a lot of condensation on everything. The track leading to the property definitely needed to be taken very slowly for a reasonably comfortable ride, this would be much improved if the potholes were filled!

    Reviewed by Naomi4.1Aug 2019

  • "Lovely cottage in quiet remote location, but access road very difficult as ..."

    Lovely cottage in quiet remote location, but access road very difficult as listed Beds very comfortable , fresh clean bed sheets & towels Main lounge rug covered in dog hairs & sliding door windows very grubby Garden parasol broken - unusable Wood burner not cleaned from previous use & obviously not reset BBQ filthy - unusable Many lightbulbs in kitchen not working Double bed duvet too big for cover or cover too small for duvet Cottage could do with deep clean & a bit of updating

    Reviewed by Martin3.1Jul 2019

  • "Amazing location so peaceful lovely walks from the barn."

    However the barn was a little tried and felt unloved, very old oven so not much cooking done, both shower screens leaked and the floor was alway damp and i know it not a big thing but a nice size TV would have helped in the evening. would come back to the area again, but not to the barn.

    Reviewed by June2.5Apr 2019

  • "Lovely accomodation."

    Access is a bit tricky driving up a long farm track.

    Reviewed by Geoff3.8Apr 2019

  • "Another perfect break in a Helpful Holidays property."

    You can always be sure that they live up to their name with ample information and an entirely hassle free process from booking through to checking out.

    Reviewed by Claire5.0Apr 2018

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This property is part of the Helpful Holidays collection.
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Summary

  • Four bedrooms: 1 x super king-size double, 3 x twin
  • Kitchen with dining area, sitting room with wood burning stove and glazed doors to courtyard
  • Sitting room/playroom
  • Two bathrooms, both with bath, hand-held shower, basin and WC.
  • Central heating with wood burning stove
  • Microwave, fridge-freezer, washer-dryer, dishwasher, TV with DVD, Fibre Optic Broadband, WiFi, 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
  • Enclosed courtyard garden
  • Two well-behaved dogs welcome
  • Sorry no smoking
  • Note: This house is approached over 1¾ miles of rough hardcore track, this has now been upgraded and is perfectly usable by all vehicles so please keep speed down to avoid danger to cattle sheep or indeed walkers with dogs!
  • Note: This property has a private water supply which is tested regularly.

The property

A little under 3 miles from Winsford and Exford, off the beaten track in the centre of the moor, is Nethercote Byre.

A lovely, comfortable and relaxed house, Nethercote Byre has been converted from a large U-shaped barn and sits in a wonderfully tranquil spot - perfect for nature watching, walking or simply escaping modern life.

With wooden floors, good fabrics, original artwork and natural timber the huge living room with a wood burning stove is great for getting the family together.

Two pairs of sliding glazed doors lead from here to the courtyard.

A second sitting room/playroom with TV, sofa, table football, table for jigsaws or games provides space for children to play on those not so sunny days.

There are four bedrooms, two at each end of the house, a super king-size double and three twin rooms, all sharing two bathrooms.

Outside is a private enclosed courtyard with table and chairs and you are welcome to wander and explore the owner's’ surrounding land.

Nearby, you can fly fish with tuition in Exebridge or frequent one of the many countryside inns in the surrounding villages.

Dulverton and Bampton are interesting towns to browse and Wimbleball Lake offers a whole range of exciting water sports.

A wonderfully remote place to stay and explore Exmoor on foot.

There is a charge of £40 for a second dog

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

View on map

About the location

WINSFORD

The picturesque village of Exford is situated in the heart of the Exmoor National Park. In a lovely setting by the River Exe, Exford boasts a village green, tea rooms, a shop, Post Office and two traditional inns serving excellent food and drinks. Exford is at the centre of a walkers' paradise with many miles of waymarked paths down the Exe and River Barle valleys and up to the nearby hills, including Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor, with outstanding views over 17 counties. Exford is renowned for fishing and riding, with the village hosting a horse show every August. The largest herd of wild red deer in England and Exmoor’s unique wild ponies roam the moors just above and around Exford, as they have done since the time of the Domesday Book. Guided walks with a National Park Ranger take place throughout the summer, and Exmoor is home to Lorna Doone and Tarka the otter, it is a place of rolling hills, medieval villages, such as Dunster with its castle, wild moors and a dramatic coastline. The coastal towns of Lynmouth, Porlock and Minehead are only a short drive from Exford and there are a variety of beaches along the coast, consisting of sandy and shingle beaches, plus some are ideal for surfing and bodyboarding. In 2011 Exmoor National Park was designated an International Dark Sky Reserve, the first place in Europe to achieve this prestigious award and only the second in the world.

Note: This house is approached over 1¾ miles of rough hardcore track, best for 4x4s or sturdy cars, Much regret inconvenience caused by the state of the track, the property land had recently had a major Tree Planting operation within the valley but work on the track is scheduled and with any luck improvements will soon be made, Best to drive slowly and avoid the low-slung cars, and for safety reasons too, please keep speed down!

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Off-season