Woodlands at Porlock Weir - Self catering holiday cottage in Porlock Weir, Somerset, Exmoor, England - Sleeps 8+2

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‘Woodlands’ is a comfortable, well equipped, light and spacious detached holiday home in an enviable position on the coast just above the small picturesque harbour of Porlock Weir, Exmoor. Sleeping up to ten guests, (but still cosy for two), it has the most incredible open views of the sea from virtually all of the rooms, and from the large private terrace where you can dine in peace and enjoy the clean air.

Set in a large private garden with mature camellias, rhododendrons and three small lawns, this is a perfect place for a relaxing holiday by the sea. Ideal for family get-togethers, but also popular with walkers, the house is traditional in style and homely with no minimalism. There are two sitting rooms, one with open fire, and the bathrooms and kitchen are fully up to date.

Woodlands provides an idyllic ‘away from it all’ haven and to stay here is to step back to a time when the pace of life was more leisurely. Wander down to Porlock Weir (five minutes walk) for a pub meal at the 14th century Ship Inn, or eat at any of a variety of venues which can be found here. Stroll along the beach, watch the birds and the boats; drink in the unique atmosphere created by the natural landscape and changing seasons. Walk along the South West Coast Path from here to Culbone Church, the smallest parish church in England which can only be reached on foot.

Serious walkers will find many walks from the house and there is a regular bus service from Porlock Weir. Attractive Porlock village is a fairly easy walk away, either via the beach or the woods, or a five minute drive. Here you will find a good selection of shops, traditional butcher, good pubs, restaurants, tea room and museums.

‘Woodlands’ is well situated for visiting every part of Exmoor National Park. There are plenty of places to visit, including: Porlock Ridge (salt marsh), one mile - a sight of Special Scientific Interest, well known for birdlife; Greencombe Gardens, one mile - famous woodland garden with several National Collections; Selworthy Village, four miles - lovely thatched cottages and cream teas; Bossington, three miles - a pretty village with walks and a Falconry and Animal Farm; Dunster, ten miles - with its castle and historic village with old Yarn Market; Minehead, seven miles - a traditional sea side town with sandy beach, golf, parks and pleasant walks up North Hill and West Somerset Steam Railway; Lynmouth, ten miles - a Cliff Railway driven by water, putting green, Valley of the Rocks and a nice walk to Watersmeet; Tarr Steps, ten miles - with an ancient ‘clapper’ bridge, lovely walks by River Barle and a tea room; Dunkery Beacon, seven miles - the highest point on the moor, with great views; Woolacombe thirty four miles - with its huge sandy beach, surfing and golf and RHS Rosemoor thirty nine miles - Royal Horticultural Society Gardens.

Exmoor National Park has plenty to offer, with its panoramic moorland, dramatic coastline, and six hundred miles of waymarked walks. There are historic buildings, beaches, beautiful gardens, local crafts and a steam railway. Picturesque villages and wooded river valleys to explore, and horse riding, boat trips, fishing, wildlife safaris, cycling, hang gliding, canoeing and sailing are all available. Exmoor is home to the largest herd of native wild red deer in England, and to the Exmoor Pony, an ancient rare breed living in herds on the heather-clad moor. This is 'Lorna Doone' country and the varied scenery has to be seen to be appreciated - as well as the moor itself there are charming woodland walks and Exmoor's coastline includes the highest cliffs in England. .