The Old Stable

4.6★

4 Guests
2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Pets Yes
Show on map

Features

Off road parking
Ground floor bedroom
Open fire
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

53 Customer Review(s)

Helen
April 2024

“This was my 8th stay at this cottage and as always it was wonderful.”

Comfy accommodation, wonderful surroundings. My happy place. Thanks again for a lovely stay.

Comfy accommodation, wonderful surroundings. My happy place. Thanks again for a lovely stay.

- Helen, April 2024
Veronica April 2024

“On arrival we found dog hairs on the table and on carpets .”

Dirty roasting pans full of fat also when using the Hover it smelt disgusting of dogs

- Veronica, April 2024
Wendy December 2023

“Nice quiet location.”

Appreciated milk and mince pies. Very well equipped cottage. Beds extremely comfy. Although the bathrooms and bedrooms were clean, the kitchen and lounge were not. Crumbs left on worktop and sofa. Hob very greasy. Splashes on lounge radiator (coffee? Sauce?) Because of covid I ran some wipes over stair handrail and the wipe-clean tablecloth and both came away dirty.

- Wendy, December 2023
Alan December 2023

“We really enjoyed our stay, we were very comfortable and the property was well equipped and warm .”

The views were great being in the countryside!

- Alan, December 2023
Jeff September 2023

“Fabulous place, quiet location and well equipped property.”

Would happily recommend to others.

- Jeff, September 2023
Mirko July 2023

“We had a great stay with our two dogs at the Old Stable.”

It‘s a lovely cottage with lots of opportunities for trips and activities in the area. The cottage is located in the beautiful Devon countryside. The owners are very helpful and generous. If you are looking for a relaxing break in the country with your furry friends, the Old Stable will be a perfect choice. We’d love to come back!

- Mirko, July 2023
Stella May 2023

“We had a lovely lovely stay!”

The Old Stable is a perfect getaway..peaceful..lovely. Alpaca farm was our highlight. Donkey Sanctuary was also nearby. Sidmouth beach and shopping very close also. The weather was GLORIOUS all week! The shower was fab (important for me) The beds were excellent, so comfy. dishes/cutlery/cooker/microwave/toaster all clean. Flowers on arrival and biscuits too! For a perfect cup of tea! Lidl & petrol station nearby. We would definately return in future, that says it all. Thank you Mr & Mrs Norris xx

- Stella, May 2023
Kathryn May 2023

“We had a wonderful week in The Old Stable.”

Great facilities and a stunning location. The only issue we had was the lack of interest connection, even when we tried re-connecting it didn’t work.

- Kathryn, May 2023
Paul March 2023

“Lovely property in an idyllic setting.”

- Paul, March 2023
Gary March 2023

“A lovely remote location that was secure for the dog Clean and well maintained facilities”

- Gary, March 2023
Paula February 2023

“The cottage had everything we needed and more it was a delightful warm little cottage in a great location with easy access to great walks in beautiful countryside.”

The only thing that would improve it would be if the fence around garden was totally dog proof this wasn’t an issue for us but might be for some dogs? Thank you great place

- Paula, February 2023
Jean February 2023

“Loved everything about the old stables!”

. It was clean,warm and very comfortable. Lovely views from the cottage ,we had deer visiting every morning and badgers in the lane in the evening. Great walks nearby for the dog ( and child!)and the compendium of games was a hit in the evenings. We appreciated the milk and cookies on arrival as it was late and the flowers were a nice touch.Would definitely recommend if you enjoy peace and quiet.

- Jean, February 2023
William December 2022

“We all enjoyed a very warm and cosy Xmas week, accommodation had everything to make stay enjoyable.”

- William, December 2022
Robert November 2022

“As this was our fifth visit to this property there is no doubt that we rate this property and its beautiful situation very highly.”

A very cosy November holiday.

- Robert, November 2022
C November 2022

“A very lovely upside down barn conversion, views of the deer, cows and local wildlife.”

We went in November, the property was warm and cosy. All the kitchen utensils you could think of plus more. Our weather was not good, but we still had a nice time, in the summer it would be ideal. Our only criticism is the farm track to the barn, it is pot-holed an rutted, if not careful the underside of our car rubbed the central mound. However, all in all, we had a good time. We did notice that this comment also appeared in the visitors book. Thank you.

- C, November 2022
Trevor September 2022

“Completed the visitors book, with positive comments.”

Was very peaceful, and had everything we needed. Added enjoyment was the Netflix etc on the TV, especially as rubbish Freeview is the usual offering. Comfy bed. Nice and warm. The two greyhounds had plenty of room. Just a bit concerning in winter, that as stairs carpeted , and straight up from front door, muddy paws might be a problem. Some lovely walks on site. Lovely holiday.

- Trevor, September 2022
Robert September 2022

“This was our 5th stay.”

We love the tranquility, and peaceful location. Great for dog walks. So many wonderful places to visit nearby. Sidmouth , Budleigh Sauterton , Lyme Rygis and one of my favourites Charmouth. The old stable is like home from home and has a lovely welcoming atmosphere. All you need is provided. Milk , biscuits, tea and coffee on arrival. Always a vase of flowers to welcome you. The bed and bedding is so comfortable. My only negative is the sofa which I have always found uncomfortable . I highly recommend this holiday stay with everything it has to offer. It’s rugged rural location I love, and we look forward to many more stays in the future.

- Robert, September 2022
Donna September 2022

“We enjoyed our stay at The Old Stable.”

It was clean and homely with a good kitchen. But visitors should be aware that it is a little off the beaten track. Very narrow roads and not many passing places. Also, if you have dogs, the paddock is not dog safe so, unless you have very lazy dogs that don’t like chasing pheasant or deer, keep them on the lead.

- Donna, September 2022
Andrew April 2022

“A very peaceful location with excellent walks from the door in every direction.”

The cottage is a modern "upside-down" conversion which meant that there was a good view over the fields and woods from the living room french window. Our dog loved sitting at the window watching the cows and pheasants, and even a deer on one occasion.The sitting/ dining/ kitchen area was ample for four people although the bedrooms and especially the en suite bathrooms were rather compact. The drive to the cottage was pretty level with a few shallow potholes. It was very easy to navigate compared to some cottages we have stayed at. The owners live 10 miles away but were quick to respond when we had one minor issue.

- Andrew, April 2022
Debbie April 2022

“Beautiful and peaceful location with good access to country walks on the doorstep and many lovely seaside resorts nearby.”

Very comfortable and well equipped. Milk, choccie biscuits and fresh flowers a nice welcoming touch. My father who is 90 and a little unsteady found the en suite shower room a bit difficult to use as it’s very small and narrow. I was totally ok with the shower room en suite to my bedroom which was same dimensions. Altogether very happy with the Old Stable.

- Debbie, April 2022
Janet April 2022

“Great place to stay, peaceful and great for wildlife spotting .”

The garden could do with something to make it more secure for dogs. Overall would definitely use this cottage again.

- Janet, April 2022
Richard March 2022

“Weve been to several cottages now and can say this was genuinely very relaxing.”

Everyone including the dogs enjoyed their stay. The cottage was brill, the places to visit were all so close and and in many ways like taking a step back to the age of the victorians. would come again !

- Richard, March 2022
Caroline March 2022

“Great location.”

Very clean and comfortable cottage. Everything that you need.

- Caroline, March 2022
Susan January 2022

“The cottage was ideal for us.”

Quite a drive down narrow lanes. Paddock for dogs great but post and rail fencing so your dog probably could get underneath. Unfortunately the people ahead of our stay had not picked up after their dogs.

- Susan, January 2022
Sheila October 2021

“We really loved the cottage and surroundings which were very peaceful.”

Facilities were good and we appreciated tea, coffee, milk and flowers being there. When we arrived we had difficulty finding the cottage but had no problem getting around afterwards. I would stay there again.

- Sheila, October 2021
Kathleen October 2021

“The only negative aspect was actually getting to it from a decent road.”

The cottage was really lovely and met all the standards we’ve come to expect from a Sykes Holiday Cottage.

- Kathleen, October 2021
Barry September 2021

“Excellent location for quiet evenings but close enough to all major beaches and amenities.”

Very accommodating hosts, leaving milk,tea, coffee and biscuits for us.Would definitely return!

- Barry, September 2021
Robert September 2021

“The barn is set in an incredible setting.”

It is peaceful. Birds singing,great walks with the dog or just relaxing in the garden. Cows are often at the top of the lane adding to the whole ambiance. Not far for exploring coastal destinations and other places around The barn has all the facilities needed. The most comfiest bed ever. My only niggle is the comfort of the sofa which has the odd dip and hard area. This was our 3rd visit and we will defiantly be making many more. I find stairs difficult having arthritic knees but I shall be crawling up them if I have to. The owners are always friendly and helpful certainly never intrusive. I highly recommend The old Stable and look forward to my next visit

- Robert, September 2021
Lisa September 2021

“Cottage was very pleasant.”

However, WiFi did not work which was a little bit of a let down but otherwise we had a lovely stay.

- Lisa, September 2021
Simon September 2021

“Lovely location, and nicely converted building.”

One bedroom is fairly small, and the shower/toilet very compact. Overall the accommodation was comfortable and we enjoyed our stay.

- Simon, September 2021
Sarah August 2021

“Make you step outside at night time the amount of stars you see will take your breath away!”

- Sarah, August 2021
Ann June 2021

“The old stable has a beautiful location and lots of wildlife, would definitely recommend it”

- Ann, June 2021
Colin April 2021

“The access road was very poor, deep ruts , not suitable for saloon cars, I did a lot of damage to my car, and lost a days holiday repairing it in Holiton.”

- Colin, April 2021
Susan September 2020

“Smaller upstairs than we thought but manageable very quiet lovely views”

- Susan, September 2020
Roger July 2020

“The cottage was just as expected.”

it was very comfortable, and although in the countryside it was not far from many pretty towns and villages. Lyme Regis is only fourteen miles away, and Sidmouth, Seaton and Beer even closer. I have no hesitation in recommending this cottage to someone wanting peace and quiet, but not far from tourist spots. overall a very good holiday.

- Roger, July 2020
John March 2020

“Ideal location pet dogs and rambling/walker owners.”

Very rural with plenty of footpaths and bridalways. The cottage was very comfortable with plenty of space.

- John, March 2020
Richard July 2019

“If you want a quite and tranquil break this is it in a beautiful setting.”

The cottage is only six miles away from the magnificent East Devon coast and there are many things to do such as the Seaton Tramway, Donkey Sanctuary and both cricket and theatre at Sidmouth.

- Richard, July 2019
Andrew May 2019

“An excellent and well presented modern holiday stable, which includes a fully fitted kitchen, central and under floor heating, as well as one of the best internet connections I’ve found in the middle of the countryside.”

This stable is in a group of other buildings, some of which also look to be rented as holiday locations, these buildings are located off a private road which leads off a single track country lane. Having said all of that my wife’s heart sank when she realised the size of the location (on first sight), although nothing has been done to hide the fact that this is in my view an extremely compact location, its only when you see the place you realise how compact it is. Some examples are, closing the doors in the bedroom is hard as if the bed is moved or even if the duvet is hanging of the end of the bed. In both bathrooms the sink is so small and there is an awkwardly placed shelf above the sink making it extremely hard to brush your teeth. One item which was not on the pictures is the bin in the kitchen, which as all the upstairs rooms are merged it’s like having a kitchen bin in your kitchen, dining room and sitting room. I think this is due to the very compact nature of the stable. Personally, we found it hard for 3 people, and in my view if the upstairs and downstairs were swapped (like a traditional location) and there was only one bedroom for two, this would be a much better offering. Also, with the bedroom upstairs you would not get up and the first thing you see in the morning is another building (which I think was also rented). The natural views from this location are stunning and it’s a shame they can’t be fully appreciated. This would also reduce the chance of waking people up if someone is walking around upstairs. We knew there was no fan, so we bought our own, however we had difficulty finding somewhere to put it, again due to space issues. There are a few minor maintenance issues which I’m sure the owners will fix, for example if you flush the toilet sometimes it makes a strange noise which you can hear everywhere until its flushed again, and the only way to turn the tv on and off is via the main switch as the button on the remote does not appear to work. It’s a relatively short trip to the coast road where you can quickly get to all the local amenities. My personal view, I always headed for the main road first and tried not to cut through Sidbury, as this minimises the risk of having to reverse up single country lanes. Lastly the family who own the locations seem very friendly and helpful.

- Andrew, May 2019
Martin April 2019

“The Old Stable was perfect.”

It was very secluded despite being surrounded by three other properties. We were amazed by how dark it got at night! The accommadation was excellent, obviously a lot of thought had gone into the conversion. Although there was only the two of us because both double bedrooms had ensuites it would be easy to increase the party size. It really turned out to be a home from home.

- Martin, April 2019
John April 2019

“This was an amazing setting and gave us a great base to work from.”

The weather went from 6 degrees to 23 degrees and the cottage was comfortable with both ends of the spectrum. Dishwasher, washer, cooker, microwave, log burner, everything you will need for a home from home. Marlyn is friendly and cannot so enough for you. We would definitely recommend to anyone and we will definitely be coming back.

- John, April 2019
Robert March 2019

“It was our second visit to this lovely, restful holiday home.”

We would gladly go again.

- Robert, March 2019
Paul December 2018

“This was the holiday we were looking for beautiful cottage fantastic ...”

This was the holiday we were looking for beautiful cottage fantastic surroundings lovely country walks a dog walkers paradise your a quarter of a mile down a farm road some potholes but a it’s not to bad lovely upside down cottage well design for your comfort with all amenities would highly recommend for those looking to get away from the rat race

- Paul, December 2018
Patricia October 2018

“A lovely quiet cottage, would not hesitate to recommend to friends, but with a warning about the track to the cottage.”

No problem for those with an SUV type car or 4 wheel drive, but uncomfortable for a low slung saloon car. However did not spoil the holiday.

- Patricia, October 2018
Michael October 2018

“The holiday accommodation was very good and the facilities excellent.”

The only drawback being the very rough farm track that led up to the cottage, however this was not a problem if you drove very slowly.

- Michael, October 2018
Robert September 2018

“This was a return visit to the old stable as it was a beautiful location ideally suited to visiting local beaches/towns.”

The cottage itself was lovely, had everything anyone should need and very nicely furnished. Sofa could be a little more comfy but everything else wonderful. The cottage is in a lovely location,great walks for the dog and views. Owner friendly and helpful, flowers and lovely biscuits on arrival with complimentary tea ,coffee and milk. A visit to the dairy farm was on offer.We will defiantly return and recommend. Maddy and Bob Norman with Maisey the golden cocker

- Robert, September 2018
Gareth September 2018

“Accomadation was satisfactory, but could have done with a good clean throughput.”

Some of the utensil etc needed replacing as quite marked/dirty. Sink in one en suite took all day to drain. So didn’t use it after 1st day. Owner also told us sometimes there would be a loud hiss/noise from the en suite!! Told us if this happens flush the toilet!! Helpful when you have to get up at 2am to flush the loo. Also garden not fully enclosed. Thankfully we had beautiful weather which meant we where out all day.

- Gareth, September 2018

Thank you for your feedback. We always try to act on customer’s comments as soon as they come up. The sink has been fixed and I know my wife came to speak to you about the private water supply. There are notices around the property explaining how the system works. On your departure we did check all the utensils and couldn’t find any problems with them. I’m delighted the weather was good and you had a good holiday. Property Owner
Carol August 2018

“We had a lovely relaxing time at the old stable, our only bug bear was we had no ...”

We had a lovely relaxing time at the old stable, our only bug bear was we had no mobile aigbal unless we were in the garden and for the first few days it was great and we didn't bother about missing them, unless you needed to look something up

- Carol, August 2018
Jonathan July 2018

“Delightful peaceful setting, upside down dwelling, the facilities all worked well (there was an annoying noise emanating from the cistern eradicated by reflushing!”

) - overall very well thought out, the garden area could do with some attention from an aesthetic point of view Good value, would be happy to return

- Jonathan, July 2018
Ralph July 2018

“The old stable in Sidbury is a fantastic property and excellent base to explore the areas.”

We had a lovely week there with glorious weather and will be definitely returning again to this gem we have found.

- Ralph, July 2018
Susan July 2018

“We both had a most enjoyable and relaxing time at this peaceful cottage surrounded by the beautiful Devon countryside.”

Our dog enjoyed the local walks through the woodland and bridle ways. The cottage had everything you could need and the beds were so comfortable. The Wifi was good. A vase of flowers to welcome us along with milk, tea, coffee and biscuits! Sitting outside at night we heard owls calling to each other which was lovely. This cottage is an ideal base to go to Sidmouth, Budleigh Salterton, Beer, Lyme Regis, Honiton and the nearest village Sidbury where the local pub was very friendly and served good food. Further on the Hare and Hounds did the best carvery, we ate their twice! We hope to return soon.

- Susan, July 2018
David June 2018

“Cottage was very comfortable and in a lovely position and we very much enjoyed our stay.”

Access drive was a cart track best suited to large, robust vehicles but not so good for a Smart car! Bathrooms were extremely compact with probably the smallest wash basins known to man and a glass shelf above making wet shaving a challenge!!!!

- David, June 2018
Raymond June 2018

“Need for clearer instructions about recycling of packaging, paper, cardboard, etc.”

Suggest new pans for cooking. The non-stick surfaces were well worn, which means the aluminium exposed surfaces can be a potential problem.

- Raymond, June 2018
Robert April 2018

“The location of the cottage was peaceful and private.”

Great walks for the dog. The owner was very friendly helpful but unobtrusive. We were given a great welcome . Flowers left with cookies and tea , coffee, sugar and milk left for use on arrival. The cottage was very clean, well equipt and nice furnishings. Good quality and taste. Well placed for visiting local beaches , towns etc. Info left in cottage for the cottage and tourist leaflets.we found it hard to leave and will definitely be staying there again.

- Robert, April 2018

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Summary

Over two floors
Two ground floor bedrooms: 1 x double with en suite shower room, 1 x twin (zip-linkable to 6' double) with en suite shower room
First floor open-plan living area with sitting area with wood burning stove, kitchen and dining area with balustrade.
Central heating, underfloor heating with wood burning stove
Microwave, fridge, freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, TV with DVD, WiFi, Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Cot and highchair available on request
Off road parking for four cars
Enclosed garden
Two well-behaved dogs welcome at an additional cost
Sorry no smoking
Note: This property has a private water supply which is tested regularly
Note: This property accepts Saturday arrivals only.

The property

1½ miles from Sidbury, in beautiful rolling farmland and 170 yards of tarmac farm track from the road, an ‘upside down’ cottage neatly converted from a dairy.

Help on the neighbouring farm (by arrangement).

To the sides, an enclosed terrace and rough lawned garden (table/chairs).

Glazed door to small hall.

Upstairs, open-plan living/dining/kitchen (slimline dishwasher, washing machine, microwave, freezer, fridge, electric cooker) with woodburner, TV/DVD, iPod dock and French windows to balustrade and lovely rural views.

Downstairs, two bedrooms - a twin (zip-linkable to 6' double) and a double, each with trim en suite shower-room (suite).

Spring water.

An easy, practical, rural base close to the east Devon coast. Sidbury: little village (Norman church, shop, pub) in glorious country of lush farming valleys below tree-crowned hill-tops, 3 miles up the River Sid from the seafront at Sidmouth (big low-tide sand/pebble beach between red cliffs, handsome esplanade, golf course, tennis courts, indoor swimming pool).

Sidford (award-winning fish and chips), 1 mile.

Exeter, 15.

Floorplans

1st FloorGround Floor

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

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About the location

Sidbury

Orchard Cottage is a smart contemporary cottage converted from a barn on a smallholding near the Devon town of Honiton. The cottage sleeps six people in three bedrooms, two double, one with en suite shower room, and a twin, plus a bathroom. On the ground floor is a sitting room with wood burning stove and a kitchen with dining area. Outside is a neat lawn garden at the front and, at the back, a shared courtyard with outdoor furniture, barbecue and a games barn. Orchard Cottage is a friendly base for exploring this peaceful part of Devon.

Note: Spring water.

Note - Saturday arrivals Only.

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“This was my 8th stay at this cottage and as always it was wonderful.”

“On arrival we found dog hairs on the table and on carpets .”

“Nice quiet location.”

“We really enjoyed our stay, we were very comfortable and the property was well equipped and warm .”

“Fabulous place, quiet location and well equipped property.”

“We had a great stay with our two dogs at the Old Stable.”

“We had a lovely lovely stay!”

“We had a wonderful week in The Old Stable.”

“Lovely property in an idyllic setting.”

“A lovely remote location that was secure for the dog Clean and well maintained facilities”

“The cottage had everything we needed and more it was a delightful warm little cottage in a great location with easy access to great walks in beautiful countryside.”

“Loved everything about the old stables!”

“We all enjoyed a very warm and cosy Xmas week, accommodation had everything to make stay enjoyable.”

“As this was our fifth visit to this property there is no doubt that we rate this property and its beautiful situation very highly.”

“A very lovely upside down barn conversion, views of the deer, cows and local wildlife.”

“Completed the visitors book, with positive comments.”

“This was our 5th stay.”

“We enjoyed our stay at The Old Stable.”

“A very peaceful location with excellent walks from the door in every direction.”

“Beautiful and peaceful location with good access to country walks on the doorstep and many lovely seaside resorts nearby.”

“Great place to stay, peaceful and great for wildlife spotting .”

“Weve been to several cottages now and can say this was genuinely very relaxing.”

“Great location.”

“The cottage was ideal for us.”

“We really loved the cottage and surroundings which were very peaceful.”

“The only negative aspect was actually getting to it from a decent road.”

“Excellent location for quiet evenings but close enough to all major beaches and amenities.”

“The barn is set in an incredible setting.”

“Cottage was very pleasant.”

“Lovely location, and nicely converted building.”

“Make you step outside at night time the amount of stars you see will take your breath away!”

“The old stable has a beautiful location and lots of wildlife, would definitely recommend it”

“The access road was very poor, deep ruts , not suitable for saloon cars, I did a lot of damage to my car, and lost a days holiday repairing it in Holiton.”

“Smaller upstairs than we thought but manageable very quiet lovely views”

“The cottage was just as expected.”

“Ideal location pet dogs and rambling/walker owners.”

“If you want a quite and tranquil break this is it in a beautiful setting.”

“An excellent and well presented modern holiday stable, which includes a fully fitted kitchen, central and under floor heating, as well as one of the best internet connections I’ve found in the middle of the countryside.”

“The Old Stable was perfect.”

“This was an amazing setting and gave us a great base to work from.”

“It was our second visit to this lovely, restful holiday home.”

“This was the holiday we were looking for beautiful cottage fantastic ...”

“A lovely quiet cottage, would not hesitate to recommend to friends, but with a warning about the track to the cottage.”

“The holiday accommodation was very good and the facilities excellent.”

“This was a return visit to the old stable as it was a beautiful location ideally suited to visiting local beaches/towns.”

“Accomadation was satisfactory, but could have done with a good clean throughput.”

“We had a lovely relaxing time at the old stable, our only bug bear was we had no ...”

“Delightful peaceful setting, upside down dwelling, the facilities all worked well (there was an annoying noise emanating from the cistern eradicated by reflushing!”

“The old stable in Sidbury is a fantastic property and excellent base to explore the areas.”

“We both had a most enjoyable and relaxing time at this peaceful cottage surrounded by the beautiful Devon countryside.”

“Cottage was very comfortable and in a lovely position and we very much enjoyed our stay.”