Engine House

Customer rating

4.8★

4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
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Features

Ground floor accommodation
Ground floor bedroom
Garden / Patio
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

41 Customer Review(s)

Nicholas
July 2026

“Lovely location, peaceful but Bridford and Christow readily accessible, good walking, nobody else about!”

Beautiful night skies, Comfortable accommodation, beds good. Maybe take a comfy garden chair if it’s hot. Well equipped kitchen, good bathroom, decor in good order. Track to the accommodation is fine for normal cars; only low slung sport sets might ground a bit. We used the front garden which was great for us and our dog. If you want to use the back garden (yard?), it could do with a little bit of a tidy up. On the list of places to keep in mind for a return visit to the area.

Beautiful night skies, Comfortable accommodation, beds good. Maybe take a comfy garden chair if it’s hot. Well equipped kitchen, good bathroom, decor in good order. Track to the accommodation is fine for normal cars; only low slung sport sets might ground a bit. We used the front garden which was great for us and our dog. If you want to use the back garden (yard?), it could do with a little bit of a tidy up. On the list of places to keep in mind for a return visit to the area.

- Nicholas, July 2026

Thank you so much Nicholas; your comments are greatly appreciated. Property Owner
Marion September 2025

“Lovely cosy Engine House.”

- Marion, September 2025

Thank you both - lovely to meet you and so glad you had a good holiday. Property Owner
Natasha July 2025

“Fabulous place to stay.”

Like a home from home. Lovely front garden, extras like biscuits tea and coffee were lovely after our travel down. We have left a message in the book too :) The track up is more of a gravel road than a farm track personally, some lowered cars would not be able to access the property. Double bed is abit hard and if over 5'8 would be uncomfortable with leg room. Would certainly stay again!

- Natasha, July 2025
Debbie July 2025

“Had a wonderful week all the peace and relaxation we needed.”

. Loved it so much that for the first time ever we booked our next trip to the engine house as soon as we got home...

- Debbie, July 2025

Dear Debbie We couldn’t be more delighted that you had such a good time … look forward to seeing you next Spring! Lucie and Steven Property Owner
Judi May 2025

“We loved Engine House.”

Its location is incredibly private and rural but with fabulous views from the garden and only a short distance to village facilities. It’s an unusual building with a history that adds to its character and it was beautifully cool inside on hot days. We slept like logs. Initially, a friend joined my husband and I for 2 nights but for the bulk of the week it was just us two and our dog. As noted in the details, you may need to be cautious with dogs and small children due to the steep slope below the garden but our dog was quite happy playing, exploring or lazing with us. We saw a deer one evening on the track but our dog didn’t - if yours likes chasing things, be extra careful! We cooked supper most evenings and everything is provided to accommodate that. The location is terrific for exploring Dartmoor but you can also be in the South Hams in about 30 minutes by car or indeed the Jurassic Coast within an hour. We would love to return which is probably the best review to give.

- Judi, May 2025
Alison May 2025

“Fabulous setting - def an 'away from it all' destination.”

If seclusion, privacy and a return to nature is your priority then this is the property for you - the only sound was birdsong and the river below. Boiler issue resulted in owner appearing to sort out within 30 mins and could not have been more helpful. Well equipped for a self catering stay although a barbeque would be a great addition. Exeter, Dartmoor and coast all easily accessible so the best of all worlds. Very much hope to return to this idyllic spot.

- Alison, May 2025
Frank May 2025

“This property needs a good clean and refurbishment.”

The outside area could not be used as the whole area required cleaning.

- Frank, May 2025
Naomi May 2025

“What a lovely holiday home!”

It's perfect for those who seek quiet and solitude, with unrivalled privacy. The house itself is well equipped and pleasantly decorated with good quality furnishings. The hosts were very helpful and welcoming. Would definitely recommend staying here.

- Naomi, May 2025

Thank you Naomi - is was such a pleasure to hear all about your stay; really glad you both had such a good time Property Owner
Jill September 2024

“Very unusual, quirky property to stay in which added to it's charm with a fantastic historical backdrop.”

The owners were particularly friendly and helpful and put themselves out to give us a tour of their land which completed the history of the building. Everything everybody could want.

- Jill, September 2024

Thank you Jill - it was so good to meet you both and show you around and tell you a little about this special place. Property Owner
Tom August 2024

“Beautiful place, total seclusion.”

Everything we needed, very comfortable. We had a great stay.

- Tom, August 2024

Thank you Tom. Steven and I are delighted you were all able to unwind. Property Owner
Lynn August 2024

“Lovely property in beautiful surroundings - very peaceful.”

Although we had a very quick visit to Devon to visit family, we found the cottage very comfortable. Thank you.

- Lynn, August 2024

Thank you - we’re delighted you had such a good break. Property Owner
Julie May 2024

“Absolutely wonderful stay.”

Very comfortable. Would recommend if your looking for a quiet stay.

- Julie, May 2024
Stephen April 2024

“The property was exactly as described and very quiet , the river in the valley below was the only sound, a perfect setting to get away from it all.”

the owners were very friendly and helpful via e mail keeping us informed of local events etc will definitely return

- Stephen, April 2024

Thank you so much, Steve and Annette. We’re so glad you experienced our beautiful valley and managed to do lots of exploring. We look forward to seeing you again. Property Owner
Kelvin February 2024

“We had a really good stay as it's so peaceful were still working but it was good to have a peaceful evening and especially good having no phone signal.”

My little buddy Spike enjoyed his morning explores of the front garden each morning, this morning he was adventurous and went off up the little track a little bit obviously on his lead under supervision and had a never ending supply of sticks in the back garden to play with so he seemed to enjoy himself. Thanks for a good stay I've already tried to recommend the cottage to a friend if they end up staying down this way at any point

- Kelvin, February 2024

How lovely - so glad you had the restful break you had hoped for, surrounded by nature at the Engine House. Take care. Property Owner
Jean October 2023

“No better place to chill in the peace and tranquility.”

Just you and the resident Robin. He comes and sits on the door handle and sings for some food. The cottage has been converted very well and has everything that you need.

- Jean, October 2023
David October 2023

“2nd time staying here & there will be a 3rd.”

Lovely & peaceful easy to get to places of interest or have a lazy day. Highly recommend.

- David, October 2023
Ellie September 2023

“The owners were very helpful and communications good.”

The Engine House was a little more remote than we had perhaps appreciated but it very quiet and had magnificent views from the gardens. The house was a little tardis and a good size. As it is set within the walls of the Quarry it was a little dark inside not helped by the weather! However there was lots of lighting throughout. At night it is pitch black so you really need a torch if you need the loo in the night and don't want to leave lights on. Absolutely wonderful for star gazing on a clear night though - we were blessed to have one of them! A few treats left in the fridge and on the side and a dog bed and blankets too. The bedrooms were well equipped with hanging space and chest of drawers but the bed was a little firm for our liking. Lots of blankets and extra pillows too. A well stocked kitchen with plenty of pots, pans and utensils for self catering. The dishwasher wasn't working whilst we were there but that had been communicated to us and an engineer did come out to try and fix it. A lovely bathroom with great shower over the bath. Open plan living including a TV, dining room table, a sofa and chair so seating for 4 adults which was comfortable. Good WiFi and a stock of games, books and DVDs on the side to choose from. We had a terrific storm whilst we were there which tripped the electrics. We tried fixing it but to no avail and Steven and Lucie came straight out when we called them. We unfortunately had to cut our stay short due to family illness back home and Lucie was very kind in her response. There were some nice walks from the Engine House and we enjoyed a walk up to the Quarry and learning the history of the building. A nice get away from it all holiday but i think a little too remote for us to return. However we would recommend to friends for a cosy short break in beautiful surroundings.

- Ellie, September 2023
Lucy August 2023

“Excellent property, gorgeous location and everything available to make the stay comfortable.”

Would definitely recommend to anyone wanting a break away from it all!

- Lucy, August 2023

Thank you, Lucy. We’re so pleased to had such a good holiday. L/S Property Owner
Sandra July 2023

“The hosts left a few welcome things biscuits, milk, juice, tea, coffee and sugar including some flowers which was really nice touch.”

The place was nice and quiet and even saw the squirrels, a jay and a deer in the garden, there was a bird of prey flying overhead on the first day. As stated in ad if your pet or child is adventurous there is a drop if they climb on the side bank at front of property but i just had the dog roaming on a training lead whilst outside. The house had everything you could possibly need on the inside.

- Sandra, July 2023
Geoffrey June 2023

“A very quiet spot and comfortable accommodation.”

The owner was quick to come when there were difficulties with the supply of hot water and worked hard to sort out the problem. Otherwise we had no issues with any of the facilities. All in all it was a most enjoyable stay.

- Geoffrey, June 2023
Ryan May 2023

“A lovely place to stay and we would definitely go back”

- Ryan, May 2023
David December 2022

“An absolute gem.”

Peaceful, nice views and plenty of places for a walk or go out and about visiting other places. Cannot recommend highly enough.

- David, December 2022
Philip November 2022

“Honestly lost count of the number of times I've stayed at the engine house either with family of friends.”

It is simply my favourite property, unlike so many properties that claim to be secluded then you find out there 1 of 3 or that the owners live next-door this is secluded and set in a lovely location on its own. Great base for exploring Devon or just a great place to relax and unwind, always clean and tidy Lucie and Steven keep a lovely property equipped with everything you need.

- Philip, November 2022
Sally October 2022

“Lovely well equipt, cosy, secluded property in a fabulous location.”

- Sally, October 2022
Brenda September 2022

“We had a very peaceful and relaxing holiday at the Engine House.”

This was our second visit and we will hopefully visit again next year. The Engine House is set in it's own private grounds and is in a very quiet location. The accomodation is very comfortable and provided all we needed. The walks at the reservoirs are lovely and we didn't feel the need to explore further afield. We were very rested after our visit.

- Brenda, September 2022
Alf July 2022

“The Engine House is located in woodland in a beautiful area of Devon.”

Very clean on arrival with some little gifts and flowers. Well equipped kitchen. Lawned garden to sit in with views of the countryside. Ideal for our dog too. Regular visits from Jays, Squirrels, Blackbirds, Robins and birds too quick to spot. Easy to access the coast or inland to Dartmoor and its many villages. The cottage is very quiet and peaceful and an ideal escape.

- Alf, July 2022
Claire July 2022

“A delightful place to stay for peace and quiet.”

Great location, didn't have to travel far to find things to do. 2 local pubs, great atmosphere and amazing food which could be takeaway as well. Would definately recommend if you need to relax. Roads close by are tiny and take a bit of getting used to. Owners are really kind, welcome pack of tea, coffee, milk, juice and cookies when we arrived. Happy to advise with places to visit, if needed. Would definately go back. Thank you x

- Claire, July 2022
Adrian June 2022

“Absolute solitude and amazing place could of stayed for a month , had amazing ...”

Absolute solitude and amazing place could of stayed for a month , had amazing weather which meant could just sit with French doors open and enjoy the view, property was spotless and we'll equipped ,if you like being in the middle of no where with pubs within walking distance this is the ideal place , gets absolutely pitch black at night so don't go if your scared of the dark

- Adrian, June 2022
Maureen May 2022

“The Engine House is a brilliant place to go if you want peace and quiet.”

We enjoyed our stay there very much. I especially liked the extra personal touches and my dog Tess loved her bag of treats and the extra dog bed.

- Maureen, May 2022
Julie May 2022

“The Engine House is in a wonderfully peaceful location, is extremely well equipped and comfortable.”

It was generally clean, although lacked some attention to detail (cobwebs etc) and did have a residue doggy smell for the first couple of days of our stay. There are so many wonderful places of interest within a 30-45 min drive and we were never bored! It would be nice to include a mention of the very narrow country lanes surrounding the property, as negotiating these could be very stressful to a less confident driver. However, for us this wasn't much of an issue, and we would happily return to the cottage.

- Julie, May 2022
Jean April 2022

“Such a lovely property.”

Clean comfy and great attention to detail

- Jean, April 2022
Michelle July 2021

“An idyllic and incredibly peaceful setting for a family holiday.”

Although a car is needed to reach most attractions, the Engine house is well placed to access both the moors, beaches and tourist attractions in the area. Walks in the surrounding area are also wonderful and we enjoyed many hikes in the local area. We could not have been more impressed with the setting and the accommodation.

- Michelle, July 2021
Geertje May 2021

“The Engine House was amazing.”

A little piece of paradise. All you could hear was birdsong and running water from the river below. Gorgeous views and walks as well as welcoming pubs nearby. Had a great time.

- Geertje, May 2021
Sarah April 2021

“We really enjoyed our stay here, Lucie and Steven clearly care very much about their guests having a great time.”

The views and bird song were a highlight, such a great way to wake up. The local area is a delight and we enjoyed exploring it all. It's a hideaway spot, but within walking distance are 2 pubs and a shop, so it's the best of both worlds.

- Sarah, April 2021
Susan April 2021

“We had a wonderful time exploring Devon from the engine house.”

Sunrises were stunning over the Haldon hills and the Lawrence castle Belvedere. Walks in the hills and around Tottisford/Kennick resevoirs were very short drives away. Further afield we did Burrator, Mothecombe Beach, FingleWoods and Dawlish Warren. It was always so nice to come back, up the lane and shut the gate. It was the very first week out of complete lockdown in April, the weather was great and we occasionally found an open pub. Shower was great, kitchen well equipt, views wonderful.

- Susan, April 2021
Sarah October 2020

“This is just the most perfect place for a peaceful getaway!”

Beautiful location, lovely cosy well-equipped and nicely furnished space with all sorts of thoughtful little extras (like biscuits, milke & juice, a spare bed/blanket for the dog, and more). It's so quiet and secluded, with wonderful walks right from the door. But also so great for visiting the Teign Valley, Dartmoor, Dawlish and the coast as well as having Exeter nearby. I love this place, stayed here before many years ago when it was under different ownership and am so pleased to have found it again, if anything it's even better than before!

- Sarah, October 2020
Christine September 2020

“The views from inside and outside the property are amazing and its in a quiet and peaceful location.”

- Christine, September 2020
Pippa August 2020

“This cottage is wonderfully secluded and private with a sense of being in nature with views and wildlife.”

Lucie and Steven gave us a warm welcome and we were warm and comfortable.

- Pippa, August 2020
Meryl August 2020

“Lucie & Steven were very helpful & knowledgeable about the Engine House's industrial past life.”

The countryside was beautiful & views stunning-this is the place to go to unwind & reconnect with nature. The Engine House was very well equipped - we love to cook! There's a lovely relaxed vibe to the place. Thank you for helping us make some beautiful memories.

- Meryl, August 2020
Roger February 2020

“For anyone who wants a holiday away from it all, Engine House is the place.”

Very isolated but with wonderful views and not far from Dartmoor and plenty of walking, although given our ages and atrocious weather we stayed put, except for necessary food shoppinig. Good facilities at Engine House but mobile signal was very weak so made use of What'sApp because wi-fi was excellent. Lots of narrow roads in the area but over two weeks only had to reverse once.

- Roger, February 2020
Philip September 2019

“Great accommodation, well appointed and about all quiet and private!”

Just what the doctor ordered.

- Philip, September 2019

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Summary

All ground floor
Two bedrooms: 1 x double and 1 x twin
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
Open-plan living room with kitchen, dining area, and sitting area
Oil central heating
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, washing machine, dishwasher and TV with DVD
WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Off-road parking for four cars
Enclosed garden to the back, and garden and patio to the front
One well-behaved dog welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Shop 1 mile, pub 0.8 miles
Note: The back garden is multi-level with some steep areas
Please note: the road leading up to Engine House is a farm track
Note: Short breaks are a minimum of 3 nights

The property

Once the original engine house for Scattor Rock quarry that once produced the hardest road stone known to man, Engine House is now a delightful holiday home on the outskirts of the village of Bridford, in Devon.

The building once housed a steam engine that drove the crushing mill next door, with some of the brickwork of the buildings still remaining to the back of the property, and other remains of the old mining buildings dotted through the landscape, now taken over by the luscious green wildlife.

The building has since been converted into a comfortable base for up to four people, featuring an open-plan living area containing a kitchen, dining area and sitting area, so you can still spend time together with your loved ones whilst doing different things.

To the back of the property are the two bedrooms - a double and a twin - along with a contemporary and modern bathroom with shower over.

At the back of the property an enclosed garden formed from the remaining industrial walls with table and benches for you to sit out on a peaceful summer evening with a glass of wine, under the stars.

The village of Bridford offers the essentials with a pub and a shop, while the neighbouring villages such as Chudleigh and Dunsford can offer you more selection.

Being on the eastern edge of Dartmoor, there are many superb walks, reservoirs, heather-clad tors and Dartmoor ponies to be enjoyed with most activities being under a 30-minute drive away.

The Engine House is a very special place to spend a wonderful break away with loved ones, with nature on your doorstep, and stunning countryside views.

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

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About the location

BRIDFORD

Chudleigh 8.6 miles; Chagford 9 miles; Okehampton 19.2 miles

Located in the South West of England in the Teign Valley is the village of Bridford, on the edge of Dartmoor. It contains all the amenities you would need including a village shop and a pub, with regular buses to both Exeter and Newton Abbot when you want to go further afield. Teign Valley Golf Club is four miles away and in the neighbouring village of Christow just a few miles up the road, is a football pitch and tennis courts to be enjoyed with the kids in the summer months. Over at the Haldon Forest Park, which is around a 15-minute car journey, is a Go Ape centre, which is a brilliant day out with the family, and if there’s some not-so-enthusiastic members of the party, they can always take a stroll around the forest and take in the gorgeous woodland scenery, while the more daring swing through the trees!

Note: The garden is flat but there are some uneven surfaces and, whilst mainly enclosed, there is one side of the garden with a steeply wooded bank

Please note: the road leading up to Engine House is a farm track.

Note: Short breaks are a minimum of 3 nights.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Christmas

Your selection:

Features

Reviews & Ratings

“Lovely location, peaceful but Bridford and Christow readily accessible, good walking, nobody else about!”

“Lovely cosy Engine House.”

“Fabulous place to stay.”

“Had a wonderful week all the peace and relaxation we needed.”

“We loved Engine House.”

“Fabulous setting - def an 'away from it all' destination.”

“This property needs a good clean and refurbishment.”

“What a lovely holiday home!”

“Very unusual, quirky property to stay in which added to it's charm with a fantastic historical backdrop.”

“Beautiful place, total seclusion.”

“Lovely property in beautiful surroundings - very peaceful.”

“Absolutely wonderful stay.”

“The property was exactly as described and very quiet , the river in the valley below was the only sound, a perfect setting to get away from it all.”

“We had a really good stay as it's so peaceful were still working but it was good to have a peaceful evening and especially good having no phone signal.”

“No better place to chill in the peace and tranquility.”

“2nd time staying here & there will be a 3rd.”

“The owners were very helpful and communications good.”

“Excellent property, gorgeous location and everything available to make the stay comfortable.”

“The hosts left a few welcome things biscuits, milk, juice, tea, coffee and sugar including some flowers which was really nice touch.”

“A very quiet spot and comfortable accommodation.”

“A lovely place to stay and we would definitely go back”

“An absolute gem.”

“Honestly lost count of the number of times I've stayed at the engine house either with family of friends.”

“Lovely well equipt, cosy, secluded property in a fabulous location.”

“We had a very peaceful and relaxing holiday at the Engine House.”

“The Engine House is located in woodland in a beautiful area of Devon.”

“A delightful place to stay for peace and quiet.”

“Absolute solitude and amazing place could of stayed for a month , had amazing ...”

“The Engine House is a brilliant place to go if you want peace and quiet.”

“The Engine House is in a wonderfully peaceful location, is extremely well equipped and comfortable.”

“Such a lovely property.”

“An idyllic and incredibly peaceful setting for a family holiday.”

“The Engine House was amazing.”

“We really enjoyed our stay here, Lucie and Steven clearly care very much about their guests having a great time.”

“We had a wonderful time exploring Devon from the engine house.”

“This is just the most perfect place for a peaceful getaway!”

“The views from inside and outside the property are amazing and its in a quiet and peaceful location.”

“This cottage is wonderfully secluded and private with a sense of being in nature with views and wildlife.”

“Lucie & Steven were very helpful & knowledgeable about the Engine House's industrial past life.”

“For anyone who wants a holiday away from it all, Engine House is the place.”

“Great accommodation, well appointed and about all quiet and private!”

Summary

The property

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About the location

BRIDFORD