-
3 Guests
-
2 Bedrooms
-
1 Bathroom
-
Pets No
Features
- Off road parking
- Open fire
- Garden / Patio
- Washing machine
- Dishwasher
- Broadband / WiFi
Reviews & Ratings
46 Customer Reviews
-
"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.
-
"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
-
"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.
-
"Fantastic setting and loved our stay there."
Definitely off the beaten track and would definitely return.
-
"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.
-
"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
-
"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.
-
"Beautiful place, stunning views, clean ."
.just what you need. The owners are lovely, and have Beautiful cats who made my week.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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!
-
"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.
-
"A really peaceful stay with some great walks and view's"
-
"Lovely time here, enjoyed walks from and nearby too."
-
"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!
-
"Great walking from the door, and a warm comfortable place to return to."
-
"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.
-
"Exceeded all expectations with location, cleanliness and creature comforts."
Would definitely recommend.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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
-
"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 .
-
"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
-
"Great location, warm and comfortable, very well equipped, quiet and restful"
-
"Fantastic accommodation and beautiful location."
This was my second visit and I will certainly be visiting again.
-
"So good we have booked it again."
Really lovely, well designed space, perfect for our family of 3. It felt really welcoming.
-
"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.
-
"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."
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"Lovely quiet location with stunning views"
-
"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 :-)
-
"Wonderful setting."
Clean and very comfortable accommodation . Lovely friendly hosts that didn’t intrude on our holiday but were there if we needed them.
-
"A wonderful, quiet retreat for 2."
Definitely hoping to book again.
-
"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).
-
"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!
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
Summary
- First-floor accommodation with level access from the rear
- Two bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x single
- Shower room with shower, basin and WC
- Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with woodburning stove
- Electric thermostat controlled central heating with woodburning stove
- Purified spring water
- Electric oven and hob, fridge/freezer, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer, TV and WiFi
- Fuel, power and starter pack for woodburning stove inc. in rent
- Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
- Off-road parking for two cars
- Lawned garden area with bench seating
- Balcony with table, chairs and parasol
- Secure mountain bike storage
- Sorry, no pets and no smoking
- Shop 5.2 miles, pub 1.9 miles
- Check-in time 4pm
- Note: There is a landline in the property for local or incoming calls only
- Note: The property is approached by a long partially unmade lane which is uneven in places at the beginning but leads on to a tarmacked drive
- Note: Property cannot accommodate a sunday changeover
The property
A characterful barn conversion nestled in the beautiful Heddon Valley, offering magnificent panoramic views over the valley to the lake and wooded hillsides beyond, Higher Bumsley Barn is a truly wonderful location to enjoy a break to Devon.
Situated just outside the village of Parracombe in the heart of the Exmoor National Park, the property lies within 50 acres of traditional hill farm, perfect for a family of three or a couples’ escape.
Although still a traditional hill farm with an enclosed field system, Higher Bumsley is now an Environmental/Conservation Farm with a small herd of wild Exmoor ponies, Hebridean sheep, chickens, ducks, geese and cats, and has a site for one of Britain’s rarest butterflies, the High Brown Fritillary.
Being a County Wildlife Site too means you can be witness to a diversity of plant species and wildlife, even spotting red deer in the fields in very early morning, as well as buzzards and peregrine falcons, making this a sublime spot for nature enthusiasts.
The property itself dates from 1862 and has been stylishly converted from a former barn, set just a short distance from the owner's own home, it boasts accommodation all on the first floor.
Upon entering this property over the rustic bridge, you are welcomed into a light and spacious open-plan living space with a vaulted ceiling, with a fully-equipped kitchen and dining area for the budding chef to prepare a mouthwatering meal.
Afterwards you can sink into the inviting sofa and light the woodburning stove, a real luxury on those cooler evenings, before you enjoy entertainment from the TV, with the last of the evening light coming in from the large glass balcony doors.
Throw open the doors and step onto the decked balcony for some alfresco dining on a balmy summer evening or for your morning coffee, soaking up the stunning views over the River Heddon, across wooded hillsides and out to Exmoor.
Retire to one of the two attractive bedrooms, with a double and a single, both excellently decorated and with plenty of storage, as well as enjoying more spectacular views from the windows, served by a spacious shower room.
Spend time relaxing in the garden too, indulging in an afternoon Devon cream tea, or head down into the village of Parracombe to the local pub for a mid-afternoon treat, with more eateries and restaurants to choose from in the seafront town of Lynton or the village of Combe Martin.
An energetic hike or cycle over Exmoor National Park is a perfect way to take in the scenery, revealing outstanding beauty spots and locations for a picturesque picnic, with a public footpath which runs right past the door offering the best place to start.
Visit the wonderful Exmoor Zoo for a great day out, especially with a little one, with the zoo home to a wide range of animals, including the only pair of black leopards on exhibit in the UK!
Head to the stunning beaches of Combe Martin, Ilfracombe, or Lynmouth, great for surfing and water sports as well as paddling and sunbathing, with many hidden coves and bays scattered along the coast, explore the South West Coast Path to uncover some secret secluded places!
Barnstaple also boasts a theatre, cinema, plenty of eateries and nightlife for the young at heart.
For a refreshing retreat to North Devon, book Higher Bumsley Barn.
About the location
PARRACOMBE
Lynton 4.9 miles.
In and around Parracombe, encounter acres of heather-clad moorland, wooded valleys and crystalline trout streams and if you are fortunate - red deer and the Exmoor ponies. Capture photographs of where the moor meets the sea. Be inspired by majestic cliffs and rocky coves. Guided Exmoor ranger walks are also available both along the coast and inland. At the point where the Exmoor National Park and the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty meet, is where you'll find Combe Martin. This small seaside resort, with all of the necessary amenities, is a great attraction for locals and visitors alike, and is home to a very popular beach as well its own Dinosaur Park! Follow the 230 hidden steps down to Golden Cove for some spectacular views. Situated on the South West Coast Path, Combe Martin is also home to several dog-friendly pubs and local stores; great for provisions along your journey. If you fancy getting out on the water, book a chartered fishing or wildlife trip, or alternatively hire a kayak and take to the calm waters in the bay.
Property cannot accommodate a sunday changeover
This property offers the following short breaks:
- Winter
- Off-season
- Last minute
- Christmas