-
"Property was in a very quiet location with lovely views Access to
Higher Bumsley was ,at tines, difficult."
The road from Parracombe to the farm turn-off was narrow with occasional passing points, but due to it being a farm road, meant at times , reversing back some distance. Also the actual farm access toad was quite narrow between heavily foliaged local brick walls. For me it could have been an ideal location to retire, but not for my wife. Expect vehicles to get very dirty ( Cows ).Hosts very pleasant and helpful, especially after our car problems. We could not get a phone signal, and had to rely on Watsac.
Reviewed by John4.4★Jun 2024
-
"We had a lovely stay , stunning property, milk and eggs where a lovely touch."
Location was amazing exactly what we needed, liked watching cats play ponies are lovely saw a woodpecker and a deer . We loved our wk away
Reviewed by Margaret5.0★Jun 2024
-
"Wonderful unique property."
Perfect holiday place for 3. Stunning country views all around. Enjoyed it so much, we have booked another week in October. Just be aware that there is no calls/text phone signal as it is so isolated (you have to walk up their driveway to get it) but the property has a land line and Internet.
Reviewed by Margaret5.0★Jun 2024
-
"Fantastic setting and loved our stay there."
Definitely off the beaten track and would definitely return.
Reviewed by Barry5.0★May 2024
-
"Absolutely beautiful, peaceful place to leave."
Bed was so comfortable didn't want to get up in the mornings. Brilliant place for easy access to Loads of places. Amazing night skies.
Was a bit concerned as someone had previously mentioned that track was not suitable for low cars. My husband has a low car and managed perfectly well with no damage whatsoever.
Would definitely love to go there again. Highly recommend.
Reviewed by Nicola5.0★Apr 2024
-
"Returned home early after experiencing poor sleep due to very disappointing and ..."
Returned home early after experiencing poor sleep due to very disappointing and poor quality beds
Good quality beds and bedding and large fluffy towels would transform the stay
View lovely and barn well equipped but could do with de cluttering the nicknacs on every surface and the faded photos and irrelevant pictures on the walls
In its current state I couldn’t recommend it as a place to holiday for a restful break
We greatly appreciate all the feed back from our guests as this helps us to make Higher Bumsley Barn as good as it can be. To this end following the above feedback we replaced the single bed with a new one as soon as we became aware of the feedback. We have also re arranged things as well. The photos are black and white prints that I took during the snow in the winter of 2010, indeed we have some of the same photos in the farm house . We were very sorry that these particular guests didnt find the barn quite to the taste, we do our very best to give our guests a warm, homely and comfortable stay where they can relax and enjoy the quite and peaceful surroundings and panoramic views. If guests experience any problem at all during their stay please do come to the farm house and tell so that we may resolve anything that needs resolving.
Property Owner
Reviewed by John2.8★Dec 2023
-
"The cottage was lovely and warm even without the wood-burner."
The cottage was also very clean with a beautiful view and everything we needed was provided.
Our only very minor suggestion would be to offer a choice of pillows.
Reviewed by Lee5.0★Nov 2023
-
"Beautiful place, stunning views, clean ."
.just what you need. The owners are lovely, and have Beautiful cats who made my week.
Reviewed by Alice5.0★Aug 2023
-
"The barn sits in a stunning location, rolling green hills, beautifull views, wildlife to watch for hours, total peace and quiet."
There are numerous walks from the doorstep and many attractions a short journey away. The barn is very well equipped and felt like a home from home. We have stayed here before and would love to do so again.
Reviewed by Linda5.0★Jul 2023
-
"We left complimentary feedback in the guestbook the last evening we were at the barn (late June 2023), however after we arrived back at home we realised that we had left several items."
We contacted Sykes cottages five days later through their website feedback process to inform them and to arrange the return of the items. Sykes replied within a couple of days to say that they had contacted the owners who had no knowledge of our items. We then wrote directly to the owners in early July but over a month later (mid August) we have not received an acknowledgement. This is very disappointing. We have been renting holiday cottages for over 40 years, both in the UK and in Europe and this is the first time this has happened to us. It is also the first property where the owners request that the property is 'left as you find it' with a note to say where cleaning products and appliances are located. It is one thing to request that the property is left clean and tidy but to imply that we were expected to thoroughly clean the property is unreasonable and a distraction at the end of an otherwise agreeable week; not least because the cleaners were waiting in the car park to go in and clean the barn as we left at 9.40 am. Overall, an unsatisfactory conclusion to our holiday.
Reviewed by Paul3.8★Jun 2023
-
"The barn is well equipped with everything you should need."
It's a quiet location with fabulous views where you can see a wide variety of wildlife. The owners, who live onsite leave you to enjoy your holiday but are friendly and helpful if you need them.
We had a lovely, relaxing holiday.
Reviewed by Glynn4.7★Jun 2023
-
"This is a fantastic base for anybody who loves nature as the barn is situated in a lovely valley with an abundance of wildlife in the area!"
There are walks from the door & for avid geocachers like ourselves, there are many series with in a short 20 minute drive!
We would recommend walking some of the Coastal Path as there are lots of wild flowers as well as fantastic views to be seen!
The barn itself is warm, clean & well equipped with a great balcony to sit on & watch the birds flitting about.
We enjoyed our stay, it would have been nice for the owners to have introduced themselves as we only saw fleeting glances of them despite living next door!
Reviewed by Susanne4.7★Apr 2023
-
"It was very disappointing that we could not arrive until after 4pm and have to leave by 9."
30 am. This renders the holiday quite expensive as our 4-day break was essentially 2 days. If I were cleaning and changing bedding in this small cottage it would take 2 hours. To have to wait 6.5 hours is too long.
Reviewed by Teresa3.8★Apr 2023
-
"A really peaceful stay with some great walks and view's"
Reviewed by Huw5.0★Mar 2023
-
"Lovely time here, enjoyed walks from and nearby too."
Reviewed by Alan5.0★Feb 2023
-
"Cannot praise this property high enough."
Lovely setting and really comfortable. You can see (and feel) the owners care about their guests. Will be back!
Reviewed by Richard5.0★Dec 2022
-
"Great walking from the door, and a warm comfortable place to return to."
Reviewed by Jane5.0★Nov 2022
-
"Very comfortable, clean and a stunning quiet setting."
The views from the three main rooms are wonderful. Plenty to do nearby and great log burner so warm.
Reviewed by Andrew5.0★Oct 2022
-
"Exceeded all expectations with location, cleanliness and creature comforts."
Would definitely recommend.
Reviewed by Valerie5.0★Oct 2022
-
"Fantastic property set in a beautiful location."
Peter and Alison were the perfect hosts along with the five Exmoor Ponies and of course the cats - Paddington cat found our car very comfortable and was there to greet us most days. The Ponies would come to say hello especially if they knew we had apples for them. The wildlife here was everywhere - we were lucky enough to see Red deer on the hillside on our first night and the Barn and Tawny Owls calling most nights was lovely to hear. The added bonus of the telescope was perfect as the Harvest Moon was full during our visit - the views were amazing. Fresh flowers, milk and an assortment of eggs from ducks, chickens and bantams was a lovely surprise - Thank you. We would recommend both the Fox and Goose - food very good and Parracombe local community shop - butter and Pasties a must. Our week spent here was wonderful and we shall certainly return.
Reviewed by Elaine5.0★Sep 2022
-
"The barn is very comfortable with a fantastic shower and balcony from where you can soak up the sights and sounds of the area."
Just a word of warning that to walk anywhere involves a lot of up and down but is well worth the effort.
Reviewed by Robert4.7★Aug 2022
-
"Returned for a 2nd visit to this fantastic cottage."
We all loved it. Really clean and welcoming. Perfect for 3 people. Will definitely book again.
Reviewed by Angela5.0★Jul 2022
-
"Lovely location with great views."
A very comfortable sofa and great Internet access plus plenty of books and games made it relaxing when not exploring the beautiful surroundings. Great walks from the door including
the Heddon Valley down to Heddon Mouth and the Hunter's Inn. Would love to visit again in the autumn to see the changing colours.
Reviewed by Sarah5.0★Jul 2022
-
"Lovely location, being convenient for visiting family locally."
We loved the views but didn't manage to find the path to the lake. Access was well described except that it was much narrower that anticipated, particularly when nearing the cottage where wing mirrors brushed the hedge growth. The unsealed section of road was difficult, particularly for lower sitting vehicles where it was very easy to bottom. Our stay not quite as peaceful as expected due to work being carried out on the main house. A broader selection of TV programmes would have been welcome (Sky, Netflix etc). Dining chairs could do with re-upholstering due to staining.
Reviewed by William John3.4★Jun 2022
-
"Amazing accomadation, the veiw from the balcony stunning."
Cleanliness to a very high standard, hats off to the cleaners. Consideration given to the decor and finishing touches. We walked to the lake and met the Canadian Greece and her goslings, later we saw the wild pony's, a pub nearer would have been the icing on the cake. No complaints from your guests kind regards June and Graham Hand
Reviewed by June5.0★May 2022
-
"Nice cottage area lovely but no local shops nearby ."
In general a very steep area in and around the cottage. Kitchen slightly over stocked no work surface hardly to prepare food and no where to store food , beds comfortable a Tv in the bedroom would be nice . But in general enjoyed our stay great peace and quiet .
Reviewed by Gordon4.4★May 2022
-
"What an idiotic place to stay, Bunsley is ideal holiday home that has all the 5*’s it constantly receives."
Set in the hillside of one of the most beautiful stops of Devon countryside with stunning views 360 degrees. Our very short Easter break was made something special by staying here. Faultless
Reviewed by John5.0★Apr 2022
-
"Great location, warm and comfortable, very well equipped, quiet and restful"
Reviewed by Faye5.0★Apr 2022
-
"Fantastic accommodation and beautiful location."
This was my second visit and I will certainly be visiting again.
Reviewed by Tina5.0★Mar 2022
-
"So good we have booked it again."
Really lovely, well designed space, perfect for our family of 3. It felt really welcoming.
Reviewed by Angela5.0★Feb 2022
-
"Lovely spot."
Comfortable accommodation. Great view from the wonderful big window (patio doors). And loved the Christmas decorations and Christmas tree with lights - very nice touch.
Reviewed by Stephen5.0★Dec 2021
-
"Lovely property ideal so long as you are active enough to cope with step hills also tight lanes too property so need to be very aware of oncoming traffic and animals."
Reviewed by Sharon5.0★Oct 2021
-
"Really nice cottage in a great location."
Had everything we needed. Loved the countryside around the place, and how easy it was to access with footpaths starting from the front gate.
Reviewed by Jonathan5.0★Oct 2021
-
"A lovely warm comfortable barn conversion with great views in an amazing location."
Some great walks from the door and a couple of pubs in walking distance.
Reviewed by Sheena5.0★Oct 2021
-
"Fantastic location with walks straight from the door."
Beautiful views from the living room and via attached balcony. Incredibly peaceful at night. Would recommend for those who really like peace and quiet.
Reviewed by Howard5.0★Oct 2021
-
"The property is very isolated, reached down narrow lanes and finally down a long very steep drive half way down the Combe."
, some distance outside Parracombe. All walks from the property likewise are very steep. None of this was indicated prior to our arrival! This should be indicated in cottage info.
A larger fridge / freezer would be helpful.... particularly as the barn is so isolated.
Reviewed by Dreena4.7★Sep 2021
-
"The property was over equipped which is unusual, unfortunately there was not ant cupboard space to store our food items without reorganisation!"
Some areas were somewhat dusty.
Reviewed by Shelagh4.7★Sep 2021
-
"Lovely quiet location with stunning views"
Reviewed by Paul5.0★Jul 2021
-
"I am already telling others about this wonderful gem of a cottage!"
! I was already recommending it just 2 days into my holiday, when visiting my brother living nearby.
The cottage was so fantastic that I feel I no longer need to look elsewhere for future holidays - this was perfection - I will just keep coming back to this cottage! It was superb in every way - spotlessly clean, well equipped, stunning location, totally peaceful, the most beautiful views, away from the world, a total retreat, which was exactly what I needed. The whole area is just beautiful.
The absolutely perfect holiday - look no further :-)
Reviewed by Janice5.0★Jun 2021
-
"Wonderful setting."
Clean and very comfortable accommodation . Lovely friendly hosts that didn’t intrude on our holiday but were there if we needed them.
Reviewed by Fiona5.0★Jun 2021
-
"A wonderful, quiet retreat for 2."
Definitely hoping to book again.
Reviewed by Brian5.0★May 2021
-
"We had the most perfect stay here."
The barn has been so thoughtfully converted and kitted out with everything you need. Fabulous views from the balcony, and lovely to have (and hear) the farm animals around. It’s a great base for walks (straight out the door, no need to drive) and day trips along the coast (Ilfracombe harbour and Woolacombe beach our favourites).
Reviewed by Rosie5.0★Apr 2021
-
"Wonderful location at the top of the Hendon Valley, with great walking from the doorstep."
Fabulous views through the big patio doors, and a balcony too. Very comfortable, for 2 people, and well equipped. Very warm!
Reviewed by Stephen5.0★Apr 2021
-
"This cottage has a spectacular location & the view from the cottage is amazing."
Although compact it has everything you need with many places to visit nearby.
Reviewed by David4.7★Oct 2020
-
"The accommodation exceeded all expectations."
It was bigger than it looked in the pictures. It was warm, light & sunny, with sunshine pouring in for most of the day. The balcony & the view are just stunning. And it was heavenly to hear the rush of the river from the house. The kitchen & bathroom were fabulous & the bed was comfy. The owners Pater & Alison were delightful (& shared fresh eggs & apples from the farm). High standards of comfort, linens and towels. And everything I needed in the kitchen. (Just note there is a standard fridge, but not a freezer (just the icebox). So don't do a big shop & not have cool storage for it all)
The location is perfect for those who truly appreciate walking (and want to walks miles not minutes). I know Exmoor very well & have explored many of the footpaths & coast paths. Bumsley is situated (in my opinion) in the most brilliant position to explore the most spectacular parts of the South West Coast Path.
I left the car at the barn most days & enjoyed the simply delightful walk down the along the river valley to Hunters Inn (In my opinion this walk down the Heddon is every bit as lovely as Lynmouth & Waters Meet - but without any of the other walkers and the hassle of the A39!)
Once at Heddon's Mouth you can then go one way to follow the coast path through Woody Bay, Lee Abbey to Valley of the Rocks. Or turn the other way and do a glorious walk over Trentishoe, climbing the Coombe and then Great & Little Hangman to Woolacombe. And there are many other lovely walks all around, with great footpaths & stunning views. These are long, but wonderful walks, and quite honestly you can arrive at the cottage. Park the car. Then walk all day from the doorstep, in some of the finest woodland, moor & coastal scenery that Exmoor has to offer. Come with good boots & eager to put the miles in & you won't be disappointed!
I can also highly recommend The Black Venus Inn (about 15 min away by car) for amazing food (it felt very safe & was very well organized and managed during Covid).
I have stayed on Exmoor, in various locations, too many times to count. But this was one of my favorite places ever. I will definitely return next year.
Reviewed by Adrian5.0★Aug 2020
-
"A well appointed property in a lovely location."
Ideal for nature lovers, walkers and those seeking peace and quiet. Well located for access to South West Coastal Path and Exmoor.
Reviewed by Julia5.0★Jul 2020
-
There are no reviews featuring this term
Show all reviews