Best East Devon Cottages for Walking Holidays

East Devon: A Walker’s Paradise

From ancient wooded combes and spectacular valleys to the majestic clifftops of the Jurassic Coast, East Devon continues to captivate all those who venture along its many tracks and trails.

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If you’ve got a walking holiday in mind, East Devon could be your ideal destination. We’ve picked out a handsome handful of Toad Hall holiday cottages surrounded by some of the region’s most scintillating walks and rambles.

Brookhaven, Musbury

Located on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Musbury, Brookhaven finds itself in one of East Devon’s quietest corners. This stylish self-contained apartment would provide the perfect bolthole for a couple’s retreat and has the added bonus of being encompassed by endless leafy tracks and trails. Not far away lies the historic market town of Axminster, a charming community built on the rolling hills that overlook the River Axe. You’ll also be within easy driving distance of the popular seaside resort of Lyme Regis, famous for its old stone Cobb pier and beautiful beaches. Popular local walks take in the verdant valleys around Colyton and the majestic Jurassic Coast as it winds its way eastwards along Lyme Bay towards the neighbouring county of Dorset.

brookhaven

Terry Holt, Branscombe

Set along a quiet lane in the idyllic coastal village of Branscombe and steeped in rustic charm is Terry Holt. Having undergone an impressive recent refurbishment, this adorable terraced cottage will provide an excellent base for your East Devon walking holiday. The traditional village pub is only a couple of doors down, providing a welcome journey’s end for all your day’s adventures. When it comes to nearby walks you really are spoilt for choice with fabulous local strolls along this magnificent region’s grassy clifftops and sweeping shorelines right at your doorstep. Explore the neighbouring seaside village of Beer – found nestled along the coastline – as you follow the ancient waymarks to savour spectacular views. There’s no better setting for a romantic weekend away with your special someone.

terry-holt

Haven Retreat, Axmouth

The next setting for our handpicked selection of East Devon holiday cottages is the pretty coastal village of Axmouth. Nestled into a wooded valley on the banks of the River Axe, you’ll find Haven Retreat, a spacious and stylish cottage with far-reaching views of the surrounding countryside and the gleaming waters of Lyme Bay. Recently refurbished, this popular holiday cottage can sleep up to six guests making it ideal for a family getaway or a gathering of friends. There are some gorgeous traditional pubs close by where you’ll be able to savour some of the region’s best seafood and home-grown fayre. Haven Retreat is also a prime location for all those keen to indulge in their love of countryside walks with the Axe Estuary Wetlands Wildlife Reserve literally at your doorstep; a tranquil setting that attracts an exciting array of water birds. There are endless local tracks and trails to be explored, setting out from the majestic red cliffs of Seaton and along the South West Coast Path as it winds along this impressive sweep of the peninsula, famous for its natural history and geological significance. Walkers, hikers and ramblers flock to this majestic coastal corridor, such is its world renown, all of them enjoying the many characterful coastal towns and historic fishing villages that help to chart the course.

haven-retreat

Colyford Cottages, Colyford

Colyford Cottages is a row of three delightful holiday properties which once served as a milking parlour and cider press. Lovingly converted, the cottages are nestled into the peaceful East Devon backcountry and can accommodate up to ten guests, making it a particularly attractive option for large family gatherings, friends’ reunions and combined couple’s retreats. What’s more, it’s on Toad Hall’s long list of dog-friendly holiday cottages, so there’s no need to worry about organising dog sitters or the extra expense of boarding and kennels. Step inside and you’ll be infinitely impressed be the décor and furnishings, the lovely oak-beamed ceilings and wooden floors, and the chic and modern kitchens and inviting living areas. Outside you’ll be surrounded by country trails and clifftop tracks that run wild across this beautiful corner of the South West. Colyton is an exceptional hub for all those looking to explore the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just follow the waymarks and cross the stiles to find ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows and sleepy riverbanks.

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Ashridge Farm Barn, Nr Exeter

Not far from the bustling cathedral city of Exeter, Ashridge Farm Barn is a rural hideaway set amid the grounds of a working organic farm. Sleeping up to eight guests, the barn has an impressive open-plan design and has been skilfully converted with green credentials in mind. The bedrooms of this single-storey dwelling boast ensuite bathrooms, and its large garden and pretty patio area help to make the most of this enchanting locations. Not far away are the roaming heaths, ancient woodlands and rushing rivers of Dartmoor, one of Britain’s great landscapes encompassing more than 450 square miles of public rights of way. The coastal paths and sweeping beaches of Lyme Bay and the Jurassic Coast are also within an easy driving distance, making Ashridge Farm Barn a superb hub for your East Devon walking retreats.

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East Devon is a wonderful place to spend a holiday. Perfectly positioned on the world-famous Jurassic coast, it offers stunning coastal walks where you might stumble across an ancient fossil or two whilst taking in the magnificent scenery. The vibrant city of Exeter, an abundance of lively market towns and picturesque villages, as well as the bleak and rugged beauty of Dartmoor, all help to capture the region’s enchanting tapestry.

With hundreds of beautiful holiday cottages on our books, it’s no wonder Toad Hall Cottages remains the agency of choice for holidaymakers looking to discover and explore the idyllic West Country region. Take your pick from our impressive list of holiday properties and start planning your South West getaway.’