10 Chocolate Box Thatched Cottages in Devon
Of all our delightful dwellings in Devon, it’s the quintessential thatched cottages that continue to have you smitten. Tucked away down quiet, primrose lanes, nestled into hillsides, and perched on riverbanks, these chocolate box cottages help capture the wistful image of the English countryside idyll.
In celebration of the ancient craft of thatching and in adoration of these prettiest of homesteads, here are ten of Toad Hall’s Devonshire thatched cottages for you to coo over.
Let’s wend our merry way to the charming coastal village of Torcross in South Devon. Here, in the meadows, lies Old Thatch, an adorable Grade 2 listed cottage dating back to the 16th century with many of its traditional farmhouse features still lovingly maintained. With sweeping views towards Start Bay and a pretty cottage garden to potter around in, you’ll never want to leave this blissfully peaceful retreat.
Our next stop takes us to the pretty village of Malborough, just inland from the sparkling seaside town of Salcombe. With views over rolling farmer’s fields, Rose Thatch is as sweet as they come. Full of olde worlde features, this delightful property places you right in the heart of the South Hams and surrounds you with spectacular beaches, coastal walks and quiet country pubs.
Follow the wildflower lanes to the historic village of Thurlestone and Thatchways, a gorgeous 17th century cottage only a short stroll from beautiful beaches. This spacious dwelling can accommodate up to ten guests making it perfect for large family get-togethers and gatherings of friends. One of Thatchways’ many attractive features is its lovely sun-room and patio area, ideal for alfresco dining. It’s also one of our many dog-friendly holiday cottages, so your four-legged chum doesn’t have to miss out on all that Devonshire fresh air and those endless country walks.
Staying in Thurlestone, let’s travel up the main honeysuckle street to the impressive Home Cottage. One in a row of prominent 17th century cottages built from stone, cob and wattle and daub, this stunning dwelling is a joy to behold. Behind the draping wisteria and the grand oak front door is a spacious home that’s been elegantly furnished in a way that befits the tone of its original character. Open the antique French doors to find an outdoor swimming pool, complete with sauna, and decked out with sun loungers. A stroll down the street, past the friendly local pub, and you’ll find the golden shores of Thurlestone Sands and the well-manicured greens of Thurlestone Golf Club.
Further along the coast lies the neighbouring fishing village of Hope Cove, home to a pair of our most delightful thatched holiday cottages. Tucked away along a quiet lane sits Beach Cottage, a handsome period property full of character and charm. From its open beam ceilings to its original stone fireplace, this adorable bolthole also has its own boat stand with access to a slipway not far from the cottage. A little way up the valley is Smuggler’s End, another one of our cosy seaside retreats with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the ocean beyond. Here, you’ll enjoy nothing but blissful days and quiet, starry nights. Hope Cove has two sandy beaches, pubs and restaurants, and lies on the magnificent South West Coast Path.
Adam’s Orchard is a beguiling thatched cottage set of the tranquil banks of the River Dart in the beautiful South Devon village of Stoke Gabriel. Step inside to find rustic wood floors, pine ledge and brace doors, open beams, and many more attractive and distinguished features. Outside, you’ll enjoy a breakfast terrace and garden house bordered by vibrant flower beds and pretty pot plants. This riverside cottage is the ideal haunt for boaters, a place where you can enjoy peaceful riverbank strolls and a quiet pint of local ale in a sleepy pub garden.
Set in the historic upland village of Manaton, surrounded by the ancient granite tors and sweeping wilds of Dartmoor, is 1 Freelands Cottage. This lovable hideaway is the ideal setting for a romantic escape or a ramblers’ retreat, a welcoming homestead to return to after your days spent exploring the local sights, such as, Haytor, Hound Tor, Becky Falls and Bowerman’s Nose. Discover one of the British Isles’ most cherished national parks and exercise your right to roam when you book a stay at ‘Freelands’, an Enjoy England Gold Award winner.
Staying on Dartmoor, only this time we’re headed for the idyllic hamlet of Higher Brimley. Compass Cottage is set on the end of a quiet thatched terrace, encompassed by the heather-bound hummocks and brooding barrows of the moors. Dressed in brilliant white to help accentuate its characterful old timbers, this authentic cottage remains one of Toad Hall’s absolute gems, placing you in the heart of Dartmoor.
Off the quiet backwaters of the Kingsbridge Estuary, where the herons fish for mullet, lies the scattered hamlet of Goodshelter. This truly idyllic location can only be found by way of narrow, winding lanes and incoming tides. Goodshelter is every inch the chocolate box cottage with its immaculate mature gardens, climbing roses, babbling brook, and of course, its gorgeous thatched roof. Behind the threshold lies a handsome dwelling full of olde worlde features, comfy living spaces and bags of rustic charm. Why not indulge your curiosity further and take one of Toad Hall Cottages’ exclusive 3D Showcase Tours.
Why settle for chocolate box sentiments when you can experience the real thing. Come and browse Toad Hall’s long list of holiday cottages and discover your dream escape.