The Old Workshop

Customer rating

3.9★

2 Guests
1 Bedroom
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
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Features

Off road parking
Ground floor bedroom
Garden / Patio
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

37 Customer Review(s)

Lydia
May 2026

“The Old Workshop served a purpose for our weekend away.”

Unfortunately, in our opinion, it would not suit us for a full week’s holiday. On the downside, the driveway was difficult to use with a car that is lower to the ground by design. When trying to leave the drive after our first night, we heard a loud bang, which was caused by a steep lip on part of the drive. This resulted in damage to the underside of the front bumper, which now requires repair. The owners, who live next door, added some gravel to try to level the section. We did mention the ...

Unfortunately, in our opinion, it would not suit us for a full week’s holiday. On the downside, the driveway was difficult to use with a car that is lower to the ground by design. When trying to leave the drive after our first night, we heard a loud bang, which was caused by a steep lip on part of the drive. This resulted in damage to the underside of the front bumper, which now requires repair. The owners, who live next door, added some gravel to try to level the section. We did mention the issue to them, however the response did not fully address our concerns.

- Lydia, May 2026

Thank you for your feedback following your stay at The Old Workshop. We’re sorry to hear that the property did not feel suitable for a longer stay, and we do appreciate you sharing your experience. In relation to the driveway, we would like to clarify that we have not received any previous complaints about access in the many years the property has been in use. We do understand from your comments that your vehicle sits lower to the ground, which can naturally make access to certain rural or uneven driveways more challenging and may result in contact with steeper sections. We also note that the owners responded during your stay by attempting to improve the area with additional gravel, although we appreciate this did not fully resolve your concerns at the time. We did not receive any direct communication from you during your stay regarding ongoing issues, which would have allowed us to look into this further whilst you were in residence. Thank you again for your review, as all feedback is helpful in continuing to monitor and maintain the property. Property Owner
Kathryn August 2025

“We underestimated the size of the property, although it was adequate for our needs.”

Would have liked somewhere nearer to go in the evening for a drink and a reasonable meal. I would suggest taking your own towels for the bathroom, as the ones provided were not the best, plus take extra toilet rolls (only 1 provided) and soap as none available. We always bring our own anyway. The owners were very friendly, and the ducks and a goose quite noisy at feeding times. Especially early in the morning. You certainly didn't need an alarm clock. In all it provided a reasonable stay for a short break.

- Kathryn, August 2025
Julie August 2025

“The property is exactly as what is described on the web-site, however it still feels like you are visiting your grandparent’s home as the furnishings seem outdated.”

On arriving we had some difficulties with the Yale lock as the key got stuck in. We spoke to the owner and we suggested that the lock needed oiling as it was stiff. The owner provided the oil but we had to oil the lock ourselves, but the lock then worked perfectly. There was still a foisty smell in the cottage near the chairs and under the sink. There was dirt and grime along all the skirting boards, and cobwebs all around. We even found quite an impressive snail/slug trail under the bed. The kitchen area was compact and did not have any workspace for preparing food. The sink drip mat tray did not allow you to stack much washing up so a drainer would have been helpful. The fridge did not have an ice-box which meant we could not buy any frozen products to store. This would have been helpful as the weather was lovely and hot and an ice-cream in the evening or ice cubes in our drinks would have been nice. The outside table & chairs were placed in an ideal suntrap, however we felt as though we were being over looked by the owner’s home and the other holiday lets in the courtyard. The bathroom still has not got a shower and there is no hooks to hang your clothing whilst bathing or shelves to store your toiletries. You do get a nice view of the countryside from the bathroom window, however this does not have any privacy glass which meant that every time we went to use the bathroom we had to close the curtains. Perhaps some privacy sticker sheets could be put on the bottom panes of the window or a net curtain hung up. We walked around the back of the cottage and found a broken waste pipe outside which meant that all the bathwater ran onto the ground quite near to the cottage- perhaps this is causing the damp? Overall we did enjoy our holiday in Devon as the property was a good “base-camp” for planning our days out to attractions in the area. If the property was given a face-lift and more attention to detail given then this would have been the perfect place to stay for offering value for money. In our opinion we do not believe that this property was worth the money we paid for.

- Julie, August 2025

Thank you for taking the time to provide a review on your stay here with us. We're sorry to hear you weren't satisfied. The key got stuck because you took a key out of another door and tried to use that one when it doesn't fit. The owner is partially sighted and thats why she handed you the oil, if her son was about he would have done it for you. We think the smell may be due to the heatwave this summer and the fact that the property is next to the duck pond which has got a bit stagnant because of the weather, water is usually free flowing although we couldn't smell anything ourselves. The broken pipe was broke by the sheep but is only the sink outlet and has now been mended. We feel sorry you had to exaggerate about the cleanliness, spiders seem to turn up in old properties however hard you try and clean and they're only small. We pulled out the bed and just looks like something that could have been brought in on someone's shoe, nothing like you said. We agree a fridge freezer would be handy and something we will look into getting. The kitchen area is not very big but that can be seen in the advert. A hook on the bathroom door is a good idea. The advert states there is no shower. Yes the window is not frosted but its only small and there are curtains to pull, we have never had a complaint about this before and most enjoy the view especially when there are sheep outside. As for the garden area I can assure you we take no notice and you aren't overlooked anymore than you would be in a town garden. Prices are set by Sykes, not us, you came at the most expensive time of year. We feel sorry you had to write this review, you should have come to us and things could have been rectified. Property Owner
Allyson August 2025

“This property is ideal for a stopover but not really suitable for a long stay.”

There was nowhere to store food in the kitchen area and the crockery cupboard under the sink smelt very musty and damp.

- Allyson, August 2025
Heather November 2024

“Exactly what we wanted.”

Small, cosy and very warm. Everything was really clean and the bed comfy. Host was really friendly and helpful. Will definitely be going back

- Heather, November 2024
Anna October 2024

“I so enjoyed the holiday at the old workshop, I hope to stay there again.”

A very special, character filled place. Ducks a Goose and a not so shy family of Moorhens on a sheep farm, who on occasion need to be moved to new pasture through the courtyard. My car broke down halfway through this did not diminish my stay in any way, delightful local walks including sections of the Two Moors Way. The farmer and his friendly wife could not have been more helpful.

- Anna, October 2024

Thank you for your kind review, it is appreciated. We are pleased to hear you enjoyed your stay here with us. We were sorry you had trouble with your car which no doubt spoilt your stay with us but pleased you were happy to stay here and go walking and enjoy your time. We hope to see you again one day. Property Owner
Paul June 2024

“A lovely cottage in a peaceful location.”

Friendly owners & a cream tea welcome. Very nice sun-trap patio. Would be nice to have a view of the countryside but understand that's difficult to achieve with the layout of the cottage. Could benefit from having a fridge with an icebox. I would still like to return sometime.

- Paul, June 2024
Michael September 2023

“Very enjoyable stay in a cosy, secluded cottage on a working farm.”

An ideal base for touring the coast and Exmoor. We enjoyed watching the small farm animals at close quarters.

- Michael, September 2023
Martin September 2023

“Place is small but we had a lovely break owners where very nice ,room was clean and tied ,Very quiet”

- Martin, September 2023
Steph September 2023

“The property contained all I needed for a stress-free holiday.”

Thank you.

- Steph, September 2023
Joan July 2023

“It would have been nice to have a fridge with a freezer compartment, as no shops close by.”

The best place to watch the TV was on or in bed, as it causes problems with the neck sitting in a chair. Property was in a lovely area and easy to find. The bed was very comfortable so slept very well.Owners very nice, helped and friendly.

- Joan, July 2023
Darren May 2023

“Lovely stay dropped for the weather so brilliant.”

Lovely place to stop central location. Excellent sun trap in the afternoon. WiFi not fast enough for my son but he's a teenager so it's to be expected. Brilliant time made a few more memories. Thank you for the cream and scones took me 3 days to eat the cream but enjoyed every spoon tbh.

- Darren, May 2023
William Roy May 2023

“Would benfit from he provision of a shower.”

- William Roy, May 2023
Hazel September 2022

“Lovely little place on a rural farm, We had a fantastic week away even after having car trouble on the way down .”

Mark the farmer and his wife were brilliant and helped us to sort out the car .. we would have been stuck without their help We would recommend the old workshop 100%, close to local pubs with fantastic food and not far from coastal towns , The farm is a joy with its wildlife and animals and is so peaceful . It is set in outstanding scenery . Very friendly family run Business .

- Hazel, September 2022

Thank you so much for your great review, we're pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us. We were only too happy to help with your car, these things happen and we're glad you were able to get it sorted, not easy when away from home. Property Owner
Peter September 2022

“A comfortable, clean little dwelling at a reasonable price with plentiful hot water.”

It would benefit from some attention in the bathroom e.g. the wobbly lavatory seat etc. Some basic instructions on how to use the oven and microwave would have been useful.

- Peter, September 2022

Thank you for your feedback and for bringing to our attention the wobbly loo seat. A new one has been ordered. Unfortunately if people don't tell us there is a problem we don't always realise there is. If you had told us while you were here we would have swapped it over for you with another one. Again if you had asked we would have come in and run through how to use the oven and microwave with you, we are only next door. Hope this didn't affect your stay with us too much and you had an enjoyable time. Property Owner
Robin August 2022

“Property was fine.”

Shower would be nice but not the end of the World.

- Robin, August 2022

Thank you for your feedback, we are pleased you enjoyed your stay here with us. We are aware the lack of a shower is a problem to some but our property listing does show there isn't one. It is something we are looking into for another year. Property Owner
Andrea May 2022

“A friendly greeting and well equipped accommodation.”

Would have liked a shower attachment to the bath, but we knew there wasn't one listed when we booked. Lovely little bolt hole thank you and nice to be able play fetch with the dog in the enclosed garden. Although it is worth noting the garden is shared with the owners and our dog ran into their house for a visit at one point, which they were very understanding about!

- Andrea, May 2022
Lena October 2021

“Cosy little home from home studio.”

Very nice owners who made sure we had everything we needed. Situated on a working farm it has a genuine country feel about it and is in an Ideal position for exploring Exmoor and North Dartmoor.

- Lena, October 2021
Joanne September 2021

“Lovely place and lovely host.”

Myself and Welsh sheepdog Betty had a cosy stay and enjoyed the dog friendly beaches a drive away. A happy holiday in a lovely part of the world.

- Joanne, September 2021
Joanne September 2021

“Although the accomodation was as described, it was very dated and basic.”

There was an old dast food container catching the drips from the leaking toilet, plumbing was very noisy. The mattress was uncomfortable and pillows provided little support. Poor selection of crockery and cutlery. There was a removable hand-held shower whuch didn't seal around the taps so was unusable. The property has potential but needs considerable updating and investment.

- Joanne, September 2021
Mary August 2021

“Lovely little spot on a Devon farm in the middle of beautiful countryside.”

Owners made us very welcome with cream tea on arrival. Accommodation has everything a couple needs for a very comfortable stay.

- Mary, August 2021
David July 2021

“The Old Workshop is very dated and could do with being brought up to date No ...”

The Old Workshop is very dated and could do with being brought up to date No internet No Mobile signal Intimidated by East European workers that would sit right outside your property Door lock would not open for over 30 minutes on very hot day that I had to fix Equipment could do with being modernised and more comprehensive Would not stay here again and would not recommend

- David, July 2021
Derek June 2021

“The old workshop was very dated.”

The bathroom needed a complete refurbishment and the kitchenette needed replacing, having said that though, the place was clean and comfy.

- Derek, June 2021
David May 2021

“A relaxing break.”

Watching the ducks and chicken in the farm yard. Homemade scones and cream and jam on our arrival,a nice surprise. Was lucky enough to be able to feed lambs. A farmer who took time to show me round farm , then had a really nice conversation. You will need a car to get around.

- David, May 2021
Carol April 2021

“The accommodation was perfect after the hard year we had we needed to get away with fresh scenery which there is mom better than Devon and Cornwall we were situated in the middle of the working farm and also had privacy.”

Each day we travelled to different town. Whole time was magical and the Accommodation was perfect t too we recommended it whole hearted

- Carol, April 2021
Derek October 2020

“We had a lovely time There As stated above it was clean and warm with constant hot water and a very comfortable bed but perhaps a little dated.”

Often there was no online service but just due to the valley position

- Derek, October 2020
Susan September 2020

“The farm location is good but you do need a car to go any were .”

If you just want to relax and read this is for you. The cottage is ok for a couple they accept a well behaved dog. It’s a bit old fashioned and could do with a proper shower but it had all other things you would need. The area is very beautiful and good for sight seeing . They also do larger cottages that cater for families.

- Susan, September 2020
Jo September 2020

“The only thing that would of been nice is to have a shower over the bath.”

The tap shower wasn't very good. But this did not effect the over all accommodation. It was very peaceful just the sound of duck, geese and sheep which was lovely. Defiantly will recommend to others. Thank you.

- Jo, September 2020
David September 2020

“Good clean and comfortable expieriance”

- David, September 2020
Cherelynne October 2019

“Hello had an amazing time such a lovely place I would just to like to mention ...”

Hello had an amazing time such a lovely place I would just to like to mention that the garden is shared with cottage next door it's just we have a dog that isn't good with other dogs but our neighbours who also had a dog were very nice

- Cherelynne, October 2019
Kenneth September 2019

“A lovely part of the country to visit we enjoyed it you do need to drive to places but worth it tiverton is the best place to buy provisions Morrison's and Tesco there.”

Take in the coastal area it's beautiful

- Kenneth, September 2019
Jean September 2019

“This was a beautiful place to stay.”

Although quite remote, I would recommend bringing provisions. The landlady was helpful as were her family. You can buy lovely fresh eggs from the farm which were a real treat. Ducklings come to meet you as you arrive as the duck pond is close to the studio building. We would definitely recommend a visit.

- Jean, September 2019
Vanessa October 2018

“Lovely people.”

Very cosy cottage. Would suggest that anyone coming here should bring provisions.

- Vanessa, October 2018
Owen October 2018

“An excellent "get away" break.”

Difficult to do anything but simply relax and yet plenty of shopping and browsing activities just a few miles away.

- Owen, October 2018
Phil July 2018

“This place is ideal for a relaxing tranquil break, it's quiet and secluded but with a pub, restaurant a few minutes away and North Molton 15 minutes by car.”

We found that it was the perfect place for us. The only thing that could improve our stay would be to improve the WiFi speed as we were unable to watch Netflix on the TV.

- Phil, July 2018
Jenny October 2017

“Perfectly placed for walking on Exmoor and getting away from it all.”

I loved seeing the geese and ducks in the farm yard. If you need a shower spray to wash your hair and a prefer a large, soft towel, then take your own. Storage heater warms the room up lovely, but just be aware this takes a while when you first arrive.

- Jenny, October 2017
Tracey July 2017

“Beautiful location on a working farm.”

To wake up to cows sheep geese and ducks was amazing. Owners are helpful and approachable. I Would thoroughly recommend this holiday

- Tracey, July 2017

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Summary

All ground floor
Open plan studio accommodation with double bed, kitchenette and sitting area
Bathroom with bath, basin and WC
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge,central heating , TV with Freeview, good WiFi (has recently been updated to Starlink)
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Ample off road parking
Front patio with furniture
One well-behaved pet welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Pub 10 mins walk and shop 15 minute drive ( 8 miles way )

The property

This conversion of a small barn into a double studio is on a working farm in beautiful Devonshire countryside just south of Exmoor National Park.

The stone building with slate roof is one of only two holiday cottages on West Bowden Farm and has been carefully converted and equipped to provide high-grade accommodation suitable for couples who want to experience the real farming countryside.

All accommodation is on the ground floor.

There is a studio with double bed and two large armchairs, a kitchen and bathroom, full central heating.

Next to a beautiful thatched cottage and pond, the Old Workshop is opposite traditional stone barns used for cattle.

As well as being a working farm, the owners run a small B&B in the farmhouse.

The farm is remote and quiet but, surprisingly, is less than a mile from the main A361 where there is a rest area with a diner open from 8am to mid-afternoon.

Less than a mile to the north is the 13th Mason Arms at Knowstone, a pub with a very well-regarded restaurant.

With the A361 being so easily accessible, Tiverton in one direction and Barnstaple in the other are both less than twenty minutes away.

The main attraction is, of course, Exmoor, the wild and wonderful National Park dotted with small towns and villages, with dramatic landscapes and wildlife.

The beaches of the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are also only half an hour on from Barnstaple.

Tastefully done, this character conversion makes a perfect base for couples who wish to explore Exmoor and the wider attractions of North Devon while getting the full farming experience

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About the location

KNOWSTONE

South Molton 10 miles; Barnstaple 20 miles.

Just a few miles from the southern edge of Exmoor, the quiet village of Knowstone with its thatched cottages and beautiful country church is the epitome of rural life. Surrounded by a tapestry of woodland, deep valleys, lush green meadows and winding country lanes, it is the place to relax and reinvigorate. Exmoor National Park, with its superb walking country, breathtaking scenery and rugged hills, is a short drive away, while the North Devon Blue Flag beaches are within easy reach. The nearby market town of South Molton, famous for its many antique shops and weekly pannier market, is a must, while Bampton, a small-town winner of Britain in Bloom is a mere 14 miles. The area also has several other visitor attractions such as Dulverton, the gateway to the moor – a perfect starting point for exploring the wild empty spaces of the region with its large population of red deer. Dunster Castle (NT), Wimbleball Lake nature reserve and water sports centre, the Grand Western Canal with its horse drawn barges and the surrounding area’s historic houses, beautiful gardens and country pubs will keep the active visitor occupied for days. The city of Exeter, with its Norman cathedral, vibrant shopping centre, restaurants and clubs can be reached in about 40 minutes.

This property offers the following short breaks:

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Features

Reviews & Ratings

“The Old Workshop served a purpose for our weekend away.”

“We underestimated the size of the property, although it was adequate for our needs.”

“The property is exactly as what is described on the web-site, however it still feels like you are visiting your grandparent’s home as the furnishings seem outdated.”

“This property is ideal for a stopover but not really suitable for a long stay.”

“Exactly what we wanted.”

“I so enjoyed the holiday at the old workshop, I hope to stay there again.”

“A lovely cottage in a peaceful location.”

“Very enjoyable stay in a cosy, secluded cottage on a working farm.”

“Place is small but we had a lovely break owners where very nice ,room was clean and tied ,Very quiet”

“The property contained all I needed for a stress-free holiday.”

“It would have been nice to have a fridge with a freezer compartment, as no shops close by.”

“Lovely stay dropped for the weather so brilliant.”

“Would benfit from he provision of a shower.”

“Lovely little place on a rural farm, We had a fantastic week away even after having car trouble on the way down .”

“A comfortable, clean little dwelling at a reasonable price with plentiful hot water.”

“Property was fine.”

“A friendly greeting and well equipped accommodation.”

“Cosy little home from home studio.”

“Lovely place and lovely host.”

“Although the accomodation was as described, it was very dated and basic.”

“Lovely little spot on a Devon farm in the middle of beautiful countryside.”

“The Old Workshop is very dated and could do with being brought up to date No ...”

“The old workshop was very dated.”

“A relaxing break.”

“The accommodation was perfect after the hard year we had we needed to get away with fresh scenery which there is mom better than Devon and Cornwall we were situated in the middle of the working farm and also had privacy.”

“We had a lovely time There As stated above it was clean and warm with constant hot water and a very comfortable bed but perhaps a little dated.”

“The farm location is good but you do need a car to go any were .”

“The only thing that would of been nice is to have a shower over the bath.”

“Good clean and comfortable expieriance”

“Hello had an amazing time such a lovely place I would just to like to mention ...”

“A lovely part of the country to visit we enjoyed it you do need to drive to places but worth it tiverton is the best place to buy provisions Morrison's and Tesco there.”

“This was a beautiful place to stay.”

“Lovely people.”

“An excellent "get away" break.”

“This place is ideal for a relaxing tranquil break, it's quiet and secluded but with a pub, restaurant a few minutes away and North Molton 15 minutes by car.”

“Perfectly placed for walking on Exmoor and getting away from it all.”

“Beautiful location on a working farm.”

Summary

The property

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About the location

KNOWSTONE