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Ilfracombe harbour, North Devon
Ilfracombe harbour, North Devon

Holiday Cottages in Devon

Devon, once known as Devonshire, has plenty of attractions, a thriving harbour industry and spectacular, unspoilt, natural sites. Several places have also been designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Well known for its rugged moorlands, pretty villages and quaint chocolate box cottages, Devon is a must-see holiday destination, and we've got plenty of holiday cottages in Devon to make your stay a memorable one.

Where is Devon?

Situated in the South West of England, close to other popular tourist destinations such as Cornwall, Devon has long been a favourite holiday spot and with such a huge choice of places to visit it is little wonder, particularly North Devon.


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50.540672, -3.506298

About Merchant House Merchant House is in Shaldon and only a short walk from the River Teign, cafes, shops and welcoming pubs like The London Inn and The Ferry Boat Inn. It’s perfect for a holiday at any time of the year, with the house being particularly well-suited to families as it sleeps up to seven people in four bedrooms with room for a travel cot. Shaldon is a pretty Devon fishing village with loads of character and plenty to offer holidaymakers. It overlooks the River Teign, and there is a regular ferry that crosses the river to Teignmouth which is said to be the oldest operating passenger service in England. The river is a favourite spot for fishing, sailing, kayaking and paddle boarding, with equipment hire available locally for those who need it. Shaldon Beach and Ness Cove are both within a mile of the cottage with good conditions for swimming. They have the extra benefit of being quieter than Teignmouth Beach and never feel busy or crowded. Ignore the car for the week and enjoy having everything you need within walking distance. If you do feel like exploring further afield, then you will find the English Riviera and famous beaches such as Paignton, Torbay and Torquay less than half an hour away. Local attractions include Paignton Zoo, Dinosaur World, Torre Abbey, and the Babaccombe Cliff Railway which takes visitors to and from Oddicombe Beach. Kent’s Cavern Prehistoric Caves are ideal for keeping the kids happily amused in any weather, or perhaps Agatha Christie’s House, Greenway, is more to your taste. Walking is a delight not only along Devon’s Coastline but also through the gorgeous countryside. Dartmoor National Park is not very far away, providing even more opportunities for fun and adventure, including for climbers and mountain bikers. You certainly won’t struggle to find things to do when you stay at Merchant House no matter what time of year you visit, your age or your interests.

Weekly guide price:
£1288 to £1890

7  |   4  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 7 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

50.234119, -3.669391

The South Hams is one of the most beautiful parts of Devon with lush green fields rolling their way to wonderful beaches. A short walk from the Start Point Lighthouse and within easy reach of beaches like Hallsands, Blackpool Sands and Salcombe's North and South Sands, the cottage has space for up to six people in three bedrooms and is perfect for couples and families. Nearby Kingbridge, Dartmouth and Salcombe all offer a wide choice of amenities and attractions, and it is possible to walk from the front door directly to the South West Coast Path.

Weekly guide price:
£550 to £1500
Short breaks from £200 per night

6  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 3 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

50.234119, -3.669391

Rose Cottage ticks every box for those searching for a holiday cottage in Devon with incredible views, a location convenient for popular attractions and enough space for a family, including the dog. The two-bedroom cottage is on a non-working farm with loads of outdoor space and views over meadows and fields to Start Bay. Guests can walk from the picket gate to the South West Coast Path, North Hallsands Beach and the Cricket Inn in Beesands, while Salcombe, Dartmouth and Kingsbridge are only a short drive away.

Weekly guide price:
£300 to £950

4  |   2  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

51.075395, -3.943949

Surrounded by gorgeous countryside, fantastic walking and cycling routes and just a short drive to beaches such as Croyde, Woolacombe, Saunton and Westward Ho!, a holiday at the Tallet really does have something for everyone. Located a ten minute drive from Barnstaple, this house sleeps ten guests in five bedrooms and has a hot tub, patio for alfresco dining and wood burning stove for cosy nights in. Enjoy days on the beach, exploring Exmoor National Park or simply sit back and relax in beautiful surroundings.

Weekly guide price:
£515 to £1580

10  |   5  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Saturday

50.234119, -3.669391

Grab the kids and the dog and head for Jasmine Cottage. This lovely stone terrace is on a non-working farm in the South Hams, with far-reaching views of the countryside and the coast. Salcombe, Dartmouth and Kingbridge are all an easy drive away, while the Cricket Inn pub in Beesands and the South West Coast Path are within walking distance of the front door. There is space for four people to sleep in two bedrooms, with a courtyard for sunny days and a woodburning stove for chilly nights.

Weekly guide price:
£450 to £950
Short breaks from £120 per night

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

50.799697, -3.088611

Hawley Farm is in a fantastic location close to Dalwood and Axminster and within walking distance of the friendly Tucker's Arms pub. There are three beautiful self-catering cottages on the farm, each sleeping between four and seven people and enjoying far-reaching views. Guests can enjoy countryside walks from the door, and because the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site is only ten miles away, days at the seaside as well. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold

Weekly guide price:
£475 to £1365
Short breaks from £140 per night

5+2  |   2  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Saturday | 4 Star Gold

50.236807, -3.837032

Sitting in one of Devon's most enviable positions, Seven Ocean Reach is just perfect for couples (one or two!) and is a stylish architect designed holiday home with magnificent sea views on the South Coast of Devon. Nestling within the popular South Hams area, this stylish holiday home is close to Hope Cove, Bolberry Down and Salcombe, and within easy reach of Dartmoor National Park. Wonderful coastal walks, beautiful beaches and an on-site bar and restaurant for meals out/take-aways - all the right ingredients for a relaxing holiday by the sea.

Weekly guide price:
£525 to £1400
Short breaks from £175 per night

4 +1  |   2  |   3+  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

50.996424, -4.230077

Kingfisher is on the ground floor of a converted hay barn on Robin Hill Farm. Two miles from Bideford and a ten-minute drive from Westward Ho!, the self-catering holiday cottage sleeps four guests in two bedrooms and is ideal for couples or families. Onsite facilities include an indoor swimming pool, games room, children's play area, and a dog exercise field. There are six 4-Star cottages on the site you can book together for extended families and friends. Although the property sleeps four, it's best suited to families with children rather than four adults. Wren or Swallow Cottages are an option if you have more adults in your group.  Tourist board rating: 4 Star

Weekly guide price:
£555 to £1190
Short breaks from £80 per night

4  |   2  |   1  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible | 4 Star

50.348010, -3.572688

You won't forget your stay at Morocco House. This stylish house has accommodation over four floors and has uninterrupted views of the River Dart from both the house and the garden. It's in the pretty village of Kingswear in the South Hams region of Devon, a short walk from the ferry to Dartmouth, train station, shops and local pub. The house has two bedrooms plus a double sofa bed and can sleep up to six people, with every room beautifully furnished to ensure a comfortable stay.

Weekly guide price:
£1120 to £2030
Short breaks from £135 per night

2-6  |   3  |   Enquire  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Friday

51.155262, -4.109380

Perfect for a family holiday and also couples, Smithy Cottage is one of six family-friendly holiday homes sitting amongst North Devon Countryside on the edge of West Down village and within easy driving distance of the coast and the areas many attractions. Spend your days walking in the surrounding countryside, relaxing on one of the gorgeous sandy beaches or getting out and about exploring. On-site fishing, plenty of space for children to play and a great pub serving food in the village.

Weekly guide price:
£374 to £1011

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Friday

50.996424, -4.230077

Swallow Cottage is on the first floor of a converted hay barn on the family-run Robin Hill Farm. The self-catering holiday home sleeps four people in two bedrooms, has a private garden, and far-reaching rural views. The layout suits couples and families, with guests loving the onsite facilities, including a children's playground, a huge games room, and a heated indoor swimming pool. Robin Hill Farm is two miles from Bideford and a ten-minute drive from Westward Ho! and the South West Coast Path. North Devon has excellent attractions, lots of walks, the traffic-free Tarka Trail, market towns, and picturesque villages.  Tourist board rating: 4 Star

Weekly guide price:
£555 to £1190
Short breaks from £80 per night

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible | 4 Star

51.155262, -4.109380

Blare Cottage is one of six well presented holiday retreats nestling amongst North Devon countryside on the edge of West Down village with a good local pub, shop for forgotten conveniences and an abundance of attractions close by. The glorious beaches of Devon's stunning north coast are just a car ride away with Croyde, Woolacombe and Saunton providing lovely days out by the sea. On-site facilities include fishing lakes and plenty of space for children to play.

Weekly guide price:
£250 to £1050

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Friday

51.155262, -4.109380

Enjoying a countryside position and with plenty of space for children to play and adults relax, Lower Aylescott is home to six family-friendly holiday homes surrounded by North Devon countryside within easy driving distance of the coast. Enjoy on-site fishing, lovely countryside walks from the front door or jump in the car and head for the popular beaches at Croyde, Woolacombe and Saunton. There is an excellent pub in the village as well as a shop for provisions.

Weekly guide price:
£250 to £825

4  |   2  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Friday

51.155262, -4.109380

Sitting alongside the fishing lake, Lake View Cottage is a popular choice for a family holiday and sleeps up to six guests in three bedrooms. Located at Lower Aylescott Farm on the edge of the North Devon village of West Down (with a very good pub serving food and a shop), the cottage is a great self-catering base for exploring the North Coast of Devon with its glorious beaches and the areas many attractions. Guests can enjoy plenty of space inside and out for relaxing, a log burner for winter breaks, on-site fishing and lovely walks with Exmoor National Park within easy reach.

Weekly guide price:
£350 to £1050

6  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Friday

50.241098, -3.858614

Daisy Cottage at Bolberry Farm Cottages is ideally located on the South Devon coastline in the peaceful hamlet of Bolberry, just a mile from Hope Cove, half a mile from Bolberry Down (NT) and within easy reach of Malborough, Kingsbridge and Salcombe. A perfect self-catering base for exploring the many attractions of the South Hams.

Weekly guide price:
£535 to £1665
Short breaks from £140 per night

7  |   3  |   3+  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

51.155262, -4.109380

Perfect for families and friends, Duror Cottage is one of a collection of six holiday retreats located at Lower Aylescott, on the edge of the North Devon village of West Down. With extensive grounds (including a fishing lake) for relaxing during the summer months, a log burner for cosy winter breaks, good pub within walking distance and an abundance of attractions within easy reach (including the coast and Exmoor), this is a great self-catering base for enjoying everything Devon has to offer.

Weekly guide price:
£295 to £995

6  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: Enquire

Preferred arrival day: Friday

50.996424, -4.230077

With space for six people to sleep in three bedrooms and an onsite indoor pool, games room and play area, Heron Cottage is a popular family holiday home in North Devon. It's on Robin Hill Farm, two miles from Bideford and a short drive from Peppercombe Beach and Westward Ho!, offering a delicious blend of coast and countryside. Throw in proximity to favourite family-friendly attractions like The BIG Sheep and The Milky Way Adventure Park and verified 4-Star standard self-catering accommodation, and you won't be surprised to learn that guests of Heron Cottage make a stay here an annual highlight.  Tourist board rating: 4 Star

Weekly guide price:
£690 to £1520
Short breaks from £98 per night

6  |   3  |   No  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Flexible | 4 Star

50.996424, -4.230077

Gull Cottage is a family-friendly holiday home on Robin Hill Farm, two miles from Bideford and ten minutes from Westward Ho! It is a charming barn conversion with a modern kitchen for self-catering, panoramic rural views, and space for six people to sleep in three bedrooms. As well as their private garden, guests enjoy using the farm's indoor swimming pool, games room, children's playground, and a dog-exercise area. There are scenic walks from the cottage through the surrounding countryside to the coast, and you can access the 180-mile Tarka Trail nearby.  Tourist board rating: 4 Star

Weekly guide price:
£695 to £1520

6  |   3  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 7 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri | 4 Star

50.236807, -3.837032

Treat yourself to a fantastic holiday at Nine Ocean Reach. The gorgeous ground floor apartment enjoys spectacular ocean views and a location close to Hope Cove and the South West Coast Path. It offers a superb standard of accommodation for couples or individuals and is also pet friendly. Salcombe and Totnes are all close by, and you can see Burgh Island from the window. Plymouth and Dartmouth are within reach for a day out, and there are miles of fantastic footpaths within easy reach, including the South West Coast Path. Short breaks are possible, depending on availability, and the holiday apartment is available all year round.

Weekly guide price:
£325 to £990
Short breaks from £76 per night

3-4  |   1  |   3+  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 3 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Mon/Fri

50.283961, -3.895071

Bigbury 7 is a superb seafront holiday apartment in Devon where you can enjoy uninterrupted sea views from the living area, main bedroom and spacious patio. Located in the coastal village of Bigbury on Sea, the self-catering holiday home sleeps four people in two ensuite bedrooms. It is ideal for couples or families, including those with dogs. There's nothing better than being able to stroll from your front door to the sand, popping back and forth as it suits you. Plymouth, Dartmouth, Dartmoor National Park and the English Riviera are all nearby for days out. 

Weekly guide price:
£750 to £2250

4  |   2  |   2  |   Yes  |   Yes

Min nights: 7 (off peak) | 7 (peak)

Preferred arrival day: Thursday

Devon Cottages

Where to Stay in Devon

Many of Devon’s fascinating towns and villages are rich in history and archaeological sites. Their narrow, cobbled streets are home to unique boutiques, craft shops and art galleries, providing visitors with plenty of shopping to do.

Exeter is at the very centre of Devon and its magnificent cathedral attracts tourists from afar. As do the beautiful rolling Blackdown Hills and the famous Jurassic Coast, which has been named a World Heritage Site.

The diverse north Devon coast makes an ideal place for tourists that like their outdoor activities, including water sports. There are miles of coastal paths to explore making Devon a perfect holiday destination for walkers and dog owners.

From the pebble beaches of East Devon to the golden sands of Ilfracombe and Croyde on the north coast, and the much loved English Riviera and South Hams on the south coast, Devon has plenty to offer beach lovers. The vast, blue sea is great for surfing or sailing and Devon is also home to many shipwrecks, so if you enjoy diving, you'll find plenty of sites to explore.

Regardless of where you choose, you're bound to find a delightful cottage that fits the bill. This part of the country is made for UK self-catering holidays, with quaint greengrocers and local takeaways aplenty. For a tranquil retreat with loved ones, pick a Devon cottage with a private hot tub or holiday cottages that boast direct access to the beach with fantastic sea views. Who needs swimming pools when you've got sandy beaches on your doorstep?

Devon Travel Guide

Before booking your holiday cottage in Devon, you can find all the information you need for your trip below. For more tips, check out our complete guide to South West England.

When to Visit Devon

Devon is renowned for a number of things, including its impressive coastline, stunning beaches and great weather. Being in the south of England means that you will find better year-round weather in comparison to other tourist spots in the UK. Devon’s warm summers and mild winters are what make it an attractive holiday destination for many.

During summer, Devon’s incredible countryside is heightened as the sun beams down on the greenery and sandy shores. The temperatures average around a comfortable 20°C with plenty of sunshine and blue skies; perfect for a dip in the sea!

The climate in Devon in spring is generally milder with a mix of sunshine and some cooler, wetter days. Spring is a great time to visit as the weather makes the perfect atmosphere for those who want to enjoy the multiple hikes around Devon, with comfortable temperatures of around 16°C.

Winter in Devon brings shorter days and much cooler temperatures of around 8 or 9°C. However, don’t let this deter you from visiting during this time, as the chance of snowfall is higher which creates a beautiful white dusting over the rolling hills and countryside. If you want to spend your days bundled up exploring the towns or just get cosy by the fire, this is a great time to visit.

What to Do in Devon

There are two national parks in Devon which should be on everyone's list of things to see when they visit. The Dartmoor National Park offers something for everyone. Aside from the magnificent views Dartmoor provides, visitors can also explore the local wildlife; tourists can watch the Dartmoor ponies run wild or see if they recognise any of the scenes from movies such as The War Horse which was filmed in the area. Moreover, Dartmoor National Park has many archaeological sites to visit, so it is a magnificent place for anyone who enjoys exploring or digging up history.

The breathtaking sites of Exmoor National Park have to be seen to be believed. This spectacular park, which spans more than 250 square miles, provides a unique combination of farmlands, rugged moorlands, valleys and so much more. While in Exmoor, why not take time to see the Landacre mediaeval bridge or the beautiful Exmoor ponies? There are plenty of attractions to visit for the whole family, including many that are dog-friendly (and that goes for our Devon cottages too!)

Beyond the National Parks, you don't have to look far in Devon to find picturesque countryside. Along the north coast, the sandy beaches of Woolacombe and Saunton Sands are among the best in the country, so make sure you pack a bucket and spade with your hiking boots. In south Devon, the English Riviera awaits with its seaside towns and fishing ports renowned for their seafood, so make sure you make the most of the local restaurants while you're on the Devon coast.

How to Travel to Devon

If you are travelling from one of the major cities in the UK, below shows an average distance to Devon, so you know what to expect when choosing to get to Devon holiday cottages by car.

London: 200 miles

Birmingham: 165 miles

Glasgow: 448 miles

Liverpool: 257 miles

Bristol: 84 miles

Manchester: 244 miles

Leeds: 285 miles

Edinburgh: 451 miles

Newcastle: 374 miles

There are multiple ways to travel to Devon. Its excellent public transport means you can journey by train or bus from many major UK cities. If you travel by car, there are some great service stations to stop off and rest up whilst on your trip, as well as alternative routes depending on what roads you prefer to drive on.

Learn More About the Region

With two national parks (Dartmoor and Exmoor), fantastic beaches, and the busy cities of Exeter and Plymouth, you'll easily pack your days with fun. The Jurassic Coast is 95 miles of UNESCO World Heritage site, protected for its amazing geological features dating back over 200 million years, and covering both East Devon and Dorset.

If you're coming for the beaches, you certainly won't be disappointed. The English Riviera on the south coast including Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham is every bit as popular as Dartmouth, Salcombe and Kingsbridge in the neighbouring South Hams area. Saunton Sands, Croyde and Woolacombe on the north coast are all popular choices with surfers and families, as are Lynton and Lynmouth, fringed by the magical beauty of Exmoor National Park. For those torn between the two, mid-Devon and the tranquil beauty of the Blackdown Hills are good central places to stay for your Devon holiday.

Devon FAQs

  • Which part of Devon is the best for holiday cottages?

As Devon offers such a variety in its landscape from rugged coastline to pretty beaches and historical towns, it can be hard to narrow it down to the best place in the county when picking one of our Devon holiday cottages.

If you are looking for history then you will want to visit Appledore, renowned for its ancient maritime shipbuilding. The pretty little town sits on a hill that overlooks the water. Multiple pubs and cafes are perfect for those who want to stop off for a bite to eat whilst exploring the area.

Woolacombe is famous for its beach offering with its 3-mile stretch of sandy shore providing plenty of space for visitors. This seaside town has a plethora of shops, bars and restaurants and is a hot spot for surfers as the tides here are some of the best in the UK.

Dartmoor is a great place to visit if you seek some incredible walking routes around the rugged countryside. The National Park is the largest open area in Southern England, allowing for more than enough space to explore. The heather-clad moors, quaint villages and bustling towns make Dartmoor a great option for those seeking variety. When it comes to holiday cottages, Devon is hard to beat.

  • Why is Devon famous?

Devon is famous for its national parks, incredible coastline, beautiful countryside, quaint villages and vibrant market towns. There is so much happening here that it comes as no surprise as to why so many choose Devon when deciding to holiday in the UK. Its archaeological offering and history are other reasons that numerous tourists are attracted to the area.

  • Is Devon expensive?

Your trip to Devon will be as expensive as you choose it to be. With so many things to do in the county for free, such as exploring the great outdoors or making the most of the multiple beaches, it doesn’t have to cost a lot to visit here.

However, as Devon is a popular tourist destination, the prices of holiday cottages are slightly higher in comparison to some of the other UK holiday places. The higher price tag is justified by the stunning scenery and activities that are on offer.

  • Which is the prettiest town in Devon?

Pretty towns come in abundance in Devon, which is why it is so hard to narrow it down to just one.

Brixham sits on the coast at Berry Head, overlooking a stunning bay. This pretty little town brims with culture and countryside, alongside colourful houses that sit atop a hill.

Croyde is a stunning place to visit mainly because of its beautiful sandy bay that is full of sand dunes. The town is encompassed by rolling hills and sits in the Cridda Valley, providing lovely surroundings.

There are many more pretty towns in Devon, all of which offer something unique to visitors. You just have to find the right one for you, or, why not book holiday cottages in multiple locations and set out on a road trip between them?

Devon Inspiration