West Bowden Farm
Description
South Molton 9 miles.
This lovely, detached barn conversion is across a courtyard from the owners' 17th century thatched farmhouse, on a working sheep farm, close to the small village of Knowstone and nine miles from the town of South Molton.
Set amidst quiet countryside in an idyllic rural location and overlooking a lovely duck pond, this comfortably-furnished cottage provides a traditional getaway for a family or a group of friends.
The spacious sitting room, with underfloor heating and floor-to-ceiling windows, provides a welcoming space for dining together, watching TV or playing board games.
There’s also a kitchen with a breakfast area, providing plenty of space for preparing dinner or a picnic for your day’s adventures.
Upstairs you will find exposed beams and three bedrooms; two doubles and a family room with a double and two singles, all having the added benefits of en-suite facilities and TVs, sure to be a big hit with all the family.
Guests are welcome to wander parts of the farm with permission, where you may be able to exercise your dogs in one of the fields, or take a footpath leading to open moorland close by.
The farmers also offer their guests the opportunity to admire the animals giving you an authentic taste of rural Devon life.
Just a mile away is the picturesque and friendly local village pub with a thatched roof and Michelin-starred restaurant, a great place to enjoy fabulous food with good company and a warm welcome.
By car it is also easy to reach the market town of South Molton, for retail therapy and exploring the weekly market.
Exmoor provides a great escape for walkers and wildlife lovers, whilst the spectacular North Devon beaches are all a short drive from your holiday cottage and provide endless sea, sand and surf for everyone in your party to enjoy.
A welcoming farm cottage, near rugged moorland and stunning coast, perfect for families and friends all year round.
Your dates
Everything you'll need
- Wifi
- Baby Friendly
- Dishwasher
- Garden / Patio
- Off Road Parking
- Wifi
- Baby Friendly
- Dishwasher
- Garden / Patio
- Off Road Parking
- Pet Friendly
- Smoke Free
- Near Walks
- Washing Machine
What guests are saying
Very comfortable and welcoming!
Well equipped and homely
Thank you for your kind review. Pleased you were happy with your stay.
This property is lovely.
It was really peaceful and great to wake up to the sound of the resident ducks. The grandchildren loved feeding them and they always got very excited watching the 2 sheepdogs barking as they drove by on the back of the quad bike, lovely to see how excited these beautiful dogs were when working. The owners couldn't have been kinder, our little dog kept getting out through the gate so they secured it for me. We had a box of chocolates left as a welcome gift which we all enjoyed. The cottage is so spacious even with 2 grandchildren running around. We've never stayed in a property with so many bathrooms. Everywhere was spotlessly clean, the kitchen had everything needed to cook meals. The bed were very comfortable. We all had a lovely holiday, thank you
Thank you so much for your kind words. We're pleased you all had an enjoyable holiday here on the farm.
It's a lovely place and the owners are very friendly .
The only thing that let it down was the water pressure in the showers . But we soon got used to that . I would be happy to stay there again .
Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. We're sorry about the water pressure, probably due to being in a drought, our well has dried up which supplies the water to our sheep and we're now having to use mains, the high consumption probably causing the problem. Hopefully it won't last long once we get some rain. Hope it didn't spoil your stay too much.
Very clean and homely accommodation.
Spacious open plan living room / diner was great for our party of 7 plus 2 dogs. Owners were on site and helpful. We thought the beds were probably the best beds we have had in holiday accommodation. Great location and was about 45 minutes to get anywhere. Can recommend South Molton Pannier Market for local and unusual produce. A lovely restful stay, thank you.
Thank you for your lovely review, pleased you enjoyed your holiday here with us.
We've had a wonderfull stay at West Bowden farm.
The familie was very kind and welcoming. It is a well accessible farmhouse, though nice and quiet. We woke up by the sound of the birds and lambs. The house was well described on the site and the kitchen was well equipped.
Thank you for your kind review, so pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us.
A lovely place to stay and unwind.
Out of the hustle and bustle, on a working farm. Nice to see the ducks wandering around. Lambs bouncing about. Nice to have all 3 bedrooms ensuite too. Comfortable and everything you would need. Second time staying here. I'm sure we will be back.
Thank you for your return visit and your kind words. Hope to see you again one day.
We had a wonderful week with family, the property is very comfortable and spacious.
It is very well equipped and in a beautiful location. Thank you very much we would love to return.
Thank you for your kind review, pleased you enjoyed your stay here.
We stayed of a family of 8 including 3 young children.
The place was really nice and comfortable very spacious and perfect as each bedroom had an en suite. Great Location and the best of it was the ducks and goose right outside our doorstep.
Thank you for your kind words, we're pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us.
Beautiful, quiet farm.
So spacious and comfortable and warm! Had everything we needed for a family of 4 adults and 2 teenagers. Easy drive to Lynton and Lynmouth (so worth the visit to the funicular railway and lovely, quaint shops), and to Barnstaple (for the parkrun). Will definitely return
Thank you for your kind review. We hope to see you again one day.
Lovely spacious cottage with everything you would need for a great stay.
A bonus to have ensuite bathrooms for each bedroom. The owner has thought of everything including stair gates, very important for our young grandchildren. Kitchen well equipped for every eventuality. Wonderful setting on a beautiful farm, everyone very friendly and welcoming.
Thank you for your kind review, so pleased you enjoyed your week here with us.
Very enjoyable week.
Relaxing. Great place as a base to visit.
Thank you for your kind review, we're pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us.
Superb.
We had a lovely stay in this beautiful barn conversion. Oodles of space,everything we could need was provided. My little dog loved being able to watch the ducks and squirrels from numerous windows. We all loved having an en suite bathroom each and the beds were very comfortable. The owners were very welcoming and friendly,thank you for the welcome gift of chocolates. They were very appreciated.
Thank you so much for your kind review, we're pleased you all enjoyed your half term stay here with us.
A lovely stay away.
Warm and comfortable. The decor may not be to everyone's taste but we didn't mind the dated interior as it was cosy and in keeping with the accommodation however it may attract more people if was a little more modern with the furniture and furnishings. Having said that it had everything we needed and was a great value stay so would definitely recommend. We meant to inform the owners about the outside entrance light not working which was not great as we had elderly guests with reduced mobility staying with us. Thank you for a warm welcome.
Thank you for your review. We're pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us. We're sorry about the light but if you had only told us we would have replaced the bulb immediately. We are very reasonable on price and if we modernised everything to top spec would have to charge a lot more which would put people off coming. Your stay was right at the end of the season and after being let most of the year gave us no time to do any decorating etc. We do try and replace a few things every year.
This is a beautiful property, well furnished and very spacious for our party of five adults and a dog.
It was spotlessly clean and we appreciated the chocolates waiting for us on arrival. The kitchen was well stocked and the bedrooms were very comfortable. We had a few niggles. The WiFi was very erratic and frequently non-existent and there was renovation work going on in the adjoining cottage which was sometimes quite noisy. We didn’t feel this was an ideal property for our dog because there was no outside space for her and the farm dogs were very noisy and intimidating whenever they saw her.
Thank you for leaving us a review. We're pleased you were happy with the accommodation but sorry you had a few issues. We appreciate the WiFi is a problem due to the rural location, we have been very badly let down by openreach over the past five years with the promise of bringing us fibre which they can't provide. We are now looking into installing starlink which will hopefully solve these problems. We apologise for the building work which is finished now, the project was meant to be completed by the summer but were let down by the builders. Our farm dogs are well controlled and are tied up on the quad and yes they do bark when they are on it due to excitement and going to work, they are very protective of the bike which is their favourite thing, otherwise they are good as gold and kept out of the way of guests. We ask people just to take their dogs up into the field above the barn as we have free ranging poultry in the yard.
The owners where so friendly and welcoming.
We were able to go and feed the lambs which are Grandchildren enjoyed as did myself and my daughter. The cottage was spacious and comfortable and I don't think any of us wanted to leave. The bird song in the morning was nature's alarm clock or you would just drift back off if needed. We loved our stay and hope to return. One thing I would mention is possibly less kitchen ware so there is room to store dried goods.
Thank you for your kind review, so pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us and all enjoyed seeing the new arrivals. We will take on board your comments about the kitchen. Hope to see you again one day.
We stayed at The Barn for a week at Easter.
The accommodation was scrupulously clean and very cosy. The kitchen was extremely well equipped with plenty of crockery, cutlery and utensils. Each bedroom having an en suite was perfect for our party. Our weather was rather chilly but the Barn was always warm and there was plenty of hot water for baths and showers. The cream tea that welcomed us on our arrival was delicious. The owners lived across the courtyard and were very friendly.
Thank you for your kind review, we're pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us, just sorry we couldn't provide better weather for you.
We had a lovely stay at the farm.
A lovely home baked cream tea on arrival, our only issue was a stair light that didn't work which was swiftly given new bulbs. Thank you Rachel for allowing us a viewing of your maternity barn and the new lambs. We got some pictures to show the grandchildren. Only down side was the very damp british weather!
A lovely place to stay plenty of space, a plus all bedrooms on suite.
Nice to be on a working farm and be woken by the ducks in the morning. The farmhouse roof was having a new thatch ridge which interested us all including our two friends from Normandy staying with us. We found relatively local pubs to eat in each night, all supplied good wholesome food. If you want to push the boat out the pub in Knowstone village provides lovely food at a cost, but well worth it. The owners were very friendly and helpful. For this time of year the weather was damp on a couple of days but there was plenty to do locally and further afield. In all a lovely place to stay and will consider coming back at a different time of year.
Beautiful setting, so quiet and peaceful.
Onsite owners very kind and helpful. Even left us a cream tea on our arrival!
Thank you so much for your lovely review, we're pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us.
Our third year staying in this comfortable cottage.
It has everything you need, all bedrooms have en suits which is wonderful. The farm itself is so picturesque and quiet. Our granddaughter loved helping to feed the ducks and goose. Rachel, Mark and family were so helpful and accommodating, but not interfering. West Bowdon is ideally placed for trips to the various seasides. We like surfing, and walking. We visited, Lynmouth, Lynton, Putsburough for the surf, Saunton for sandcastle and paddling. Croyde, Ilfracombe, Appledore which is a lovely town, Instow and on the way home, Minehead for the amusements! Thoroughly recommend this lovely holiday cottage.
Thank you Claudia for your lovely review, once again we're pleased you enjoyed your holiday here with us and we hope to see you again another year.
Wonderful setting, beautiful area and excellent host!
We’ve had the best holiday and will definitely be returning!
Thank you for your lovely review, we're pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us and that this year's summer weather didn't put you off. Thank you for re booking for next year and we'll look forward to seeing you again.
This was a last minute booking so we were lucky with a substantially reduced July deal.
The accommodation is for up to 8 and there were 3 of us plus a dog, hence lots of space. The kitchen is well-stocked with crockery etc. There were a few useful consumables like dishwasher tablets but don't assume everything will be supplied or there'd be enough for your entire week. Tesco delivers. We set up a delivery for our first evening. Cream scones on arrival appreciated! There's a small gated area for hanging washing where the dog can be outside. The only real negative is that the floorboards upstairs are very creaky. Hence when my elderly father got up each time to go to the bathroom it woke us in the next room. But if you aren't with people who move about a lot or aren't light sleepers that'll not be a concern. The accommodation is a little tired and could be amazing with a re-fresh. Beds are 4' 6" doubles. Might be time to upgrade to king-size as there's enough space. An instruction book would be so useful. It took us time to work out how to open skylights, where switch for dishwasher was etc. Overall we had a great stay. Happy to recommend.
Thank you for taking the time to review your holiday accommodation. In 17 years of letting the barn this is the first time anyone has ever commented on creaky floorboards, we're sorry if this was an issue but it's just a natural occurrence with timber. We try and upgrade a few things each year, this year we have had a new washing machine and fridge freezer but to do a full upgrade at once the price of a holiday would have to double for us to see any return, we aim to keep the accommodation decent and affordable. If you had any problems using any equipment we were always around to ask. We're sorry we couldn't provide any better weather for you but overall pleased you enjoyed your stay.
What a wonderful property that is extremely well located.
Although tucked nicely away from the crowds it is located minutes away from the main road. As such we were able to explore all of devon easily. The owners are extremely friendly and helpful. Highly recommended for a peaceful holiday
Thank you for your lovely review. It was nice to meet you and we're pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us.
Excellent stay excellent hosts 3rd time staying at west bowdon farm definitely will be coming back.
A beautifully presented holiday cottage in an idillic setting.
The owners were on hand to answer any questions. Being able to observe lambing season close up was a delight.
very enjoyable stay
We had a fantastic stay at the barn to celebrate my husband's birthday.
Mrs Bray met us on our arrival and was very welcoming. The scones, cream and jam were a thoughtful touch. We have never been to such a well stocked kitchen before, need not have taken my food mixer and cake tins. The property really caters for eight people. We all enjoyed walking through the fields and our grandsons especially enjoyed watching the ducks and chickens being fed. The window in the middle bedroom makes a good viewing point for young ones to watch the ducks on the pond. Plenty of space for six adults, a three year old and a baby. Both Mrs Brays were very helpful and we will definitely be booking again. If just the two of us might try The Old Workshop also in the farm yard.
Very welcoming and helpful.
Well equipped and comfortable. This is the second time we have stayed here and we love the cottage and having the farmyard outside the font door. Plenty of room for everyone to be comfortable and relaxed. Plenty of good walks for dogs. Well placed for places to visit. Great place to stay to unwind and get away from the fast pace of life.
Very clean and friendly, made us very welcome, bit out of the way and a bit dated, few bits need up dating ,had all the facilities you needed , had a lovely Christmas there thank you .
Nicely situated and well equipped cottage with all the amenities one could hope for in a Holiday Home.
Well situated for visiting coastal and countryside interests. The ideal cosy, spacious, homely venue for a "Relaxing get away from it all Holiday.
Mrs Bray met us when we arrived and was very welcoming.
The property was extremely clean, the underfloor heating made it nice and cosy. Set in the countryside there are some lovely walks. It is a fair way from any attractions but when you book a holiday in the countryside it’s because you want peace and quiet, so this is ideal. Would definitely recommend if you need a “ get away from it all “ break.
Thank you very much for your great feedback and review, it is appreciated, we are pleased you enjoyed your holiday here with us.
We had a great time and the barn was a super place to stay.
We had to bring our own hairdryer and bathroom comestibles which I am not used to. As the location is in a dip we had no phone signal or internet which was fine for us but some folks may find that a problem. If 8 people here then low water pressure in bathrooms may be inconvenient.
Thank you for your feedback, we are pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us and found the barn comfortable. I would just like to say we do have Internet here, we unfortunately have been unable to get fibre brought to us yet (we have been in contact with BT for the last 3 yrs trying to get this sorted) so the connection is no doubt slower than what you are used to. As regard mobile signal and depending on what network you are with you can usually get a signal just outside which we saw you were able to. A minute walk up our drive you will come into a strong signal. You mention water pressure being low, we're sorry you had a problem with this but we often get 8 people and have not had any problems reported to us before.
We had an awesome time at the cottage.
Everything you could possibly need was provided.Very comfortable beds in all the bedrooms. Wouldn't hesitate to stay here again.
Thank you very much for your positive feedback and great review. We are pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us.
Yes
Excellent
Lovely house that is fully equipped with everything you need and in a fantastic peaceful location.
A good base to explore the surrounding area and within easy reach of local towns & villages. Would definitely visit again
The barn was really great lovely and clean and comfortable and everything was supplied with a beautiful Devon cream tea on arrival
Very happy with the accommodation a very nice and relaxing weekend and lovely to see the farm animals
very nice and relaxing holiday
Very homely and cosy cottage, welcoming and easy to get to ,would recommend to friends and relatives and we will hopefully book again.
Lovely and homely, big enough for the 8 of us, thank you for the welcome too especially the chocolates x
Lovely accommodation in a great location, the cream tea on arrival was a lovely finishing touch.
Lovely holiday with beautiful scenery.
Comfortable home with everything we needed. Very friendly owners living across the farmyard.
Very welcoming.
Everything you need to assist our stay. Child friendly
From the moment we arrived we felt so relaxed.
The cottage was lovely and clean. Owner was lovely and friendly and couldn’t do enough to help us feel settled. Was lovely watching the ducks and ducklings on the lake and Lucy the goose kept everyone in check! Would definitely recommend to all
The farm was picture perfect with spacious rooms, beams, windows overlooking the courtyard, and all the equipment you would need.
There was a welcoming tray of scones with jam and cream on arrival and the hosts were never far away if we needed anything. The location was beautiful and we were blessed with a beautiful week of sunshine! We couldn't have asked for anything more!
Absolutely fabulous barn conversion on a farm - and seems to be isolated and very quite although not too far from the main road
The family Bray were excellent hosts and couldn't have been more helpfull.
The converted barn was spot on. This is an ideal location for walking and cycling on Exmoor and area.
The barn was very clean, and the photos of don't do it justice.
This was a great cottage for the whole family.
Our 2 and 1/2 year old grandson loved the animals and ducks. Loved every minute. It was a good base to explore Devon we spent quite a lot of time in westward ho!, instow ilfracombe and Appledore. People so friendly. Quince honey farm and Darlington class well worth a visit. We packed a lot into our week away, crabbing at appledore use bacon!!! Mackerel fishing and deep see fishing off Ilfracombe were extremely good fun. After covid a cottage holiday was the way to go with the whole three generations.
We thoroughly enjoyed our week at West Bowden Farm in accommodation which is comfortable and spacious and has a well equipped kitchen.
Well away from the road, the peaceful location proved to be ideal for accessing the north west Devon coastline from Minehead through to Westward Ho and the beautiful Exmoor and Tarr Steps are particularly recommended. One of the best we have had the privilege to stay at.
People should be aware that the cottage is quite remote and it is a good idea to order a supermarket delivery of food as there are very few restaurants/pubs/shops within a 10 mile radius.
The owners are very welcoming, and the barn conversion is very well equipped. There is no private garden attached and the farm dogs can become a nuisance with their barking. This is a working farm so expect tractors and animals. However, we had a very enjoyable stay and would recommend, especially if you like walking. Most seaside resorts are within an hours drive.
What can I say, the barn was perfect for our family get away.
The farm itself is beautiful and the area surrounding had so many places to see and walk. Id recommend it without hesitation to anyone.
good value for money.
We would definitely like to make a visit again.
Lovely cottage, in attractive location.
Clean and comfortable, spacious rooms and well equipped kitchen. Excellent location to get to Exmoor and North Devon coast.
We found the holiday home very comfortable and great for relaxing.
It's a great base for exploring the many delights of both Exmoor and Dartmoor. The only issue we found is a lack of mobile phone reception and poor internet. Personally, I didn't have a problem as it was actually good to almost be "off grid".
Very nice cottage with 3 ensuites.
Fully equipped kitchen. Very large and comfortable living room. Friendly owners. Stunning views in superb Devon.
The family that own West Bowden Farm have a lovely place for a holiday we really enjoyed it there The family were most hospitable and watching the ducks and geese were really funny We were even given the privilege of being able to watch lambs being born A really enjoyable break would highly recommend
Lovely comfortable cottage
It was an ideal spot for visiting local area and the costal towns
Lovely Easter Holiday with husband, daugher's family and son.
Plenty of room for 5 adults and a 3 year old. Lovely clean well equipt accommodation. will definitely look at this property again.
Good to know
House Rules
Smoking
Not permitted
Property notes
Please note: Electric cars can't be charged at this property.
Stay Information
Check-in / Check-out
15:00 / 10:00
Property ref
924911
Parking
Off Road Parking
Guest & Pet Policy
Pets
Allowed
Children
Children and infants welcome