Key Features
- Property code: WPLATT
- Preferred changeover day: Friday
- Check in: 4pm
- Check out: 10am
- 2 or more bathrooms
- Access statement available
- Central heating
- Parking (see description for details)
- Dishwasher
- Electric vehicle charging (see description)
- Garden or outside space
- Nearby pub or restaurant
- Nearby shop
- Short breaks available
- Tumble dryer
- Village
- Washing machine
- WiFi
Description
With the famously sandy beaches of Bantham, Thurlestone and Bigbury on Sea all less than 5 miles' drive away, Willowplatt Barn offers the perfect holiday location from which placed to explore this popular holiday area. Its peaceful setting just above the Avon estuary offers equally easy access to Kingsbridge and Salcombe both within easy driving distance, which have a wide range of shops, bars and restaurants, and are also superb hubs for sailing and other water-based activities. The local shops and pubs at nearby Aveton Gifford and Churchstow villages are both under 2 miles away.
Combining the modern comforts of high quality beds, kitchen and bathroom fittings with cheerfully eclectic vintage furniture, the barn welcomes you to spacious open-plan living areas with wonderful views from the huge picture windows, and peacefully relaxing bedrooms. Dating back to 1737, the now fabulously restored Willowplatt Barn was voted Best Oak Frame Barn in the Build-It awards 2021, and is surrounded by beautiful walking country in this South Devon AONB, is brimming with character, warmth and charm and is a great choice for a big family or friends.
Don't miss the fabulous Lapland Barbecue Lodge within the grounds, which doubles as a beautiful outdoor garden room in spring and summer, as well as providing the perfect place year-round for those gorgeous evening barbecue gatherings around the central barbecue or log fire, surrounded by twinkly lights, rustling up some sausages with a glass of wine in hand.
Reached along a quarter-mile largely unmetalled farm track, the barn is situated on a no-through road, so there is no passing traffic other than those visiting the neighbouring property some 200 metres further along the track. A five minute walk leads down to the estuary and its Devon Wildlife Trust Reserve. Here you can access the 8-mile circular Avon Estuary Walk, which connects with the South West Coastal Path at Bantham. Architect designed and craftsman built, Willowplatt Barn - taken from an old farming name for ‘the place where the willows grow’ - is a charming place to stay with family or a group of friends at any time of year
PLEASE NOTE: the construction of the spiral staircase, hallway and terrace steps regrettably does not allow them to be fitted with stairgates, so vigilant parental supervision of babies and toddlers is required.
Key Features
- Property code: WPLATT
- Preferred changeover day: Friday
- Check in: 4pm
- Check out: 10am
- 2 or more bathrooms
- Access statement available
- Central heating
- Parking (see description for details)
- Dishwasher
- Electric vehicle charging (see description)
- Garden or outside space
- Nearby pub or restaurant
- Nearby shop
- Short breaks available
- Tumble dryer
- Village
- Washing machine
- WiFi
Description
With the famously sandy beaches of Bantham, Thurlestone and Bigbury on Sea all less than 5 miles' drive away, Willowplatt Barn offers the perfect holiday location from which placed to explore this popular holiday area. Its peaceful setting just above the Avon estuary offers equally easy access to Kingsbridge and Salcombe both within easy driving distance, which have a wide range of shops, bars and restaurants, and are also superb hubs for sailing and other water-based activities. The local shops and pubs at nearby Aveton Gifford and Churchstow villages are both under 2 miles away.
Combining the modern comforts of high quality beds, kitchen and bathroom fittings with cheerfully eclectic vintage furniture, the barn welcomes you to spacious open-plan living areas with wonderful views from the huge picture windows, and peacefully relaxing bedrooms. Dating back to 1737, the now fabulously restored Willowplatt Barn was voted Best Oak Frame Barn in the Build-It awards 2021, and is surrounded by beautiful walking country in this South Devon AONB, is brimming with character, warmth and charm and is a great choice for a big family or friends.
Don't miss the fabulous Lapland Barbecue Lodge within the grounds, which doubles as a beautiful outdoor garden room in spring and summer, as well as providing the perfect place year-round for those gorgeous evening barbecue gatherings around the central barbecue or log fire, surrounded by twinkly lights, rustling up some sausages with a glass of wine in hand.
Reached along a quarter-mile largely unmetalled farm track, the barn is situated on a no-through road, so there is no passing traffic other than those visiting the neighbouring property some 200 metres further along the track. A five minute walk leads down to the estuary and its Devon Wildlife Trust Reserve. Here you can access the 8-mile circular Avon Estuary Walk, which connects with the South West Coastal Path at Bantham. Architect designed and craftsman built, Willowplatt Barn - taken from an old farming name for ‘the place where the willows grow’ - is a charming place to stay with family or a group of friends at any time of year
PLEASE NOTE: the construction of the spiral staircase, hallway and terrace steps regrettably does not allow them to be fitted with stairgates, so vigilant parental supervision of babies and toddlers is required.
Four steps lead down from the parking area to entrance door into boot-room and utility area with washing machine, tumble dryer and adjacent cloakroom.
Double doors open into the stunning open-plan living space with its oak-framed vaulted ceilings, enormous picture windows and Sonos sound-system.
Kitchen with electric oven, ceramic hob, microwave, dishwasher, built-in fridge/freezer, under-counter drinks fridge, island with breakfast-bar stools, and a small kitchen table with two chairs.
Beautifully appointed central dining area to seat seven, set under fabulous atmospheric lighting, just perfect for entertaining. Book shelves brimming with books and games.
Lounge with huge picture windows, large comfy leather sofas, snuggle chair, plus Smart TV and DVD player.
Open tread spiral staircase to ground floor, with three comfortably furnished bedrooms with high quality beds and an eclectic selection of characterful vintage furniture.
Bedroom 1 (Coast) with 6ft superking bed, which will be made up Continental style with two single duvets ensuring a great night's sleep, wardrobe, dressing table, clothes cupboard and 4ft 6ins sofa-bed for an additional guest.
En suite shower room with shower cubicle, double basin vanity unit, heated towel rail, WC.
Bedroom 2 (Meadow) with 5ft king-sized bed (double duvet), wardrobe and chest of drawers.
Family bathroom just along the corridor with bath and separate shower cubicle, countertop basin and washstand, heated towel rail, WC.
Bedroom 3 (Woodland) with twin 3ft beds (which also zip together to form a superking if required – please specify at time of booking if this is required as a double bed, again made up Continental style with two single duvets). Wardrobe, chest of drawers.
En suite shower room with shower cubicle, countertop basin and washstand, heated towel rail, WC.
To the side of the barn is the magical Lapland Barbecue Lodge, a wonderful entertaining space with special Finnish indoor central barbecue grill and brazier, (complete with safety cowl and chimney) and comfortable built-in seating. Not only fabulous for enabling the fun and flavour of barbecue evenings in the Autumn and Winter months, the lodge also safeguards you year-round from any unexpected change in the weather disrupting your al fresco dining plans.
To the front of the barn is an enclosed, sunken terrace furnished with garden table and seating for seven, and charcoal barbecue. The terrace is convenient for al fresco dining and the partly walled, partly fenced garden can be accessed either by a path leading down from the parking area or through French doors leading out from the ground floor hallway.
Located at the head of the Avon estuary, a holiday in Aveton Gifford finds you ideally placed to discover the stunning scenery and wildlife of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The beautiful sandy beaches of Bantham, Bigbury and Thurlestone are all less than five miles’ drive away, 20 minutes brings you to Salcombe, and 30 minutes to Dartmouth or Dartmoor National Park.
The South Efford Marsh nature reserve is accessed from the bridge, complete with bird-hide for the best views of migrating swans, geese, ducks and wading birds in spring and autumn. From here you can also access the glorious 8-mile circular Avon Estuary Walk, which in turn connects with the South West Coastal Path at Bantham. The estuary is also popular amongst kayakers and paddle-boarders, who love gently drifting down to Bantham on the outgoing tide, and anyone can enjoy a peaceful stroll through this wildlife-rich landscape.
Aveton Gifford village has a pub, local shop and post office for essentials, and the shops, bars and restaurants of Kingsbridge and Modbury are both within a 10 minute drive. Seafood fans meanwhile will love The Oyster Shack – a South Hams favourite – just 1½ miles along the scenic estuary tidal road.
Ample parking for up to 3 cars on private designated parking area adjacent to barn entrance.
EV charging is possible at this property via an external mains socket. A weatherproof double 3-pin / 13 amp mains socket is fitted on the parking area fence to enable up to two electric cars to be charged at once. There is a charge of £30 per car per week. Guests are required to bring their own charging cables and equipment.
- Included: Bed linen, hand and bath towels, electricity, wifi, central heating (LPG) with underfloor heating throughout.
- Dogs: 2 medium sized well behaved dogs welcome (up to Labrador size) STRICTLY not permitted on furniture or in bedrooms. Pet charge £30 per week.
- Electric vehicles: Electric vehicle charging possible (see parking section for details)
- Telephone: no landline. Mobile signal good with most networks, wifi available.
- Smoking: Smoking is not permitted at this property.
- NB: Guests should be aware of a nearby unfenced pond approx. 100 metres away.
- Local Facilities: Beaches at Bantham 4 miles, Bigbury on Sea, 5 miles, Thurlestone 5 miles. Pub and shop in Aveton Gifford, just under 1 mile. Restaurant (The Oyster Shack), 1.5 miles. Kingsbridge with all facilities, 4 miles.
The Fisherman's Rest
(Less than a mile)
(3)
A large riverside pub with a good choice of regional beers, wine and other drinks.
The Fisherman’s Rest Fore Street, Aveton Gifford TQ7 4JL (T: 01548 550284)
Cold atmosphere, locals made you feel welcome, but the landlady! Food just like your mom would have made 30 years ago, microwaved, drab and unimaginative.
October 2017
Nice pub food and friendly staff.
August 2017
April 2017
The Oyster Shack
(Less than a mile)
(31)
In a glorious location overlooking the Avon Estuary, Devon’s award winning seafood restaurant serves local oysters and other super fresh sustainable seafood in a laid back setting. Menus updated daily with what’s been landed that morning, meaning your meal will be straight from sea to plate. Devon’s answer to alfresco dining under a bright orange canopy, this is the place to be rain or shine.
The Oyster Shack Stakes Hill, Bigbury TQ7 4BE (T: 01548 810876)
Enjoy 10% off with your Toad Hall Cottages Discount Card
Excellent food with friendly and attentive staff. Thoroughly recommend
February 2024
Superb, if you like fish this is the place to go. Open only on Fri Sat Sun during winter, you need to book. Highly recommend.
January 2024
excellent place to eat with interesting menu.
September 2023
Fantastic food, attentive yet unintrusive service in a lovely setting that has lots of good vibes!
September 2023
Had a fantastic meal here, oysters were amazing!
July 2023
Great choice of seafood. Very friendly, will definitely go back next time we are down.
July 2023
Excellent food with additional menus for children and dogs. Friendly and efficient staff make for a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience
June 2023
Great food, perfectly dog and child friendly.
May 2023
Great place - we have been many times in the summer but a new experience eating inside in February. It was lovely. The food was fabulous, the fish is so well cooked. We had local food and local wine. A great evening. The staff were great, they even offer dinner for your dog, which was devoured in seconds.
March 2023
We had a superb family meal here just before New Year. Fish of the day and crab was delicious. Staff were attentive and friendly. My youngest thoroughly enjoyed his pasta too!
January 2023
Back for a fourth time service gone down hill .Had fresh whole crab no claw crackers ,crab fork plate for shell or finger bowl had to ask for, basic. Wine just left on the table did not open pour to taste [ screw top does that matter]?Could go on ,poor.
October 2022
Lovely atmosphere. Great food. I dislike oysters but husband loves them. He declared the Oyster Shack ones to be the best he had ever had (possibly also the most expensive). You need to book in advance. The Tidal Road to get there is only accessible at low tide, so allow extra time for the Devon lanes if travelling at high tide times.
June 2022
Excellent as always
May 2022
Food options now limited from previous visits a few years ago - why do these meals not have any sides included!
April 2022
Excellent restaurant and ambiance. Need to book. Great seafood
April 2022
Brilliant shabby chic restaurant with delicious food
September 2021
Had a great lunch here! Food was freshly cooked and beautiful! Staff were attentive and friendly and I wish we were able to go back several more times during our week away!
June 2021
Superb as always!! Great staff, fabulous food, great price and setting!
June 2021
Lovely relaxed lunch in late September, nicely cooked scallops then gurnard, very helpful staff
September 2019
We loved The Oyster Shack, great service and good value. Very dog friendly and they even have a dog menu for your hungry pups
July 2019
Actually visited twice plus a take away. Staff went out of their way to be helpful and excellent food, especially the oysters!
June 2019
An excellent venue, we had a lovely meal here,
September 2018
Went for a late lunch, it's very Mediterranean in style. The food was very tasty but portions were small and in order to have sufficient nutritional intake you needed to order extras - no veg or potatoes included in price of main.
July 2018
Friendly and zingy place to eat in an interesting location. A nice alternative to some of the more traditional restaurants and pubs. Good food but not dog friendly.
July 2018
Great food, friendly service. Excellent.
June 2018
One of our favourite places and it never disappoints. The food was as good as ever.
May 2018
Lovely meal here exceptional fish dishes not cheap but we were on holiday!
July 2017
Very disappointed with the slow service. The food was ok but certainly not somewhere we would not race to go again.
June 2017
Quaint location. You wouldn't know it was there unless someone had told you about it. Every friendly staff, lovely oysters and lobster. Not a place to go unless you like seafood, but great if you do
June 2017
A great fishy experience
May 2017
Great on a sunny day
April 2017
The Church House Inn
(2 miles)
(8)
A 13th Century village pub steeped in history with inglenook fireplace, log burners & beams a plenty, along with legends of smuggling monks and secret tunnels leading to the Church. A place to relax and enjoy really good honest pub food, a mix of classic & contemporary dishes with daily seasonal specials.
Church House Inn, Churchstow, Devon, TQ7 3QW (T: 01548 852237)
Just brilliant
September 2023
Nice pub meal in pleasant surroundings .
September 2023
Lobster course over- garlicked Seafood platter ridiculously overpriced at £125 for two A little disappointed by menu Friendly service i
August 2023
Great pub food best to book
October 2022
We had a wonderful evening at the Church House Inn. We booked a beach hut which was ideal during the very hot weather. Most importantly, the food was absolutely delicious. Cannot wait to return on our next visit to Kingsbridge.
July 2022
Great food and lovely atmosphere
April 2022
Great in every aspect.
June 2021
Booking is essential. We went for lunch and enjoyed the seafood stew and mussels. Not a grain of grit. Delightful food, location and staff
August 2020
Pickwick Inn
(2 miles)
(3)
Friendly local pub in prime location for a refreshing drink or a bite to eat on the way back from the beach. Serving a good range of local beers and ciders on tap alongside a simple, well cooked menu.
The Pickwick Inn, St Anns Chapel TQ7 4HQ (T: 07775 700230)
Limited menu and not particularly well furnished or clean.
September 2023
Nice to see it's open again
September 2023
Working hard to get back on its feet. Service is friendly. Average pub food and well kept ale. Dog friendly and generally friendly all round. Piped music needs variation please. Looking forward to seeing the new look garden.
June 2023
Aune Valley Farm Shop & Café
(2 miles)
(26)
A butchers, deli, farm shop and café located in a beautiful setting, selling high quality local produce from the surrounding area. The Valley View Café provides home cooked, fresh and tasty meals, either inside in the vintage decorated café or outside on the terrace.
Aune Valley Farm Shop & Café Rake Farm, Loddiswell TQ7 4DA (T: 01548 550413)
Love the walk to this place, had a fantastic breakfast here, lovely shop too
March 2024
Hard to get a table so arrive early for lunch! Great food, generous portions. The salad, burgers and hog roast all went down very well indeed. Highly recommended. Nice views too
September 2023
Great cafe for lunch or coffee and cake, dog friendly too. Great pasties in shop.
July 2023
Lovely restaurant. This was a return visit but food not so good on second visit although they were ver busy and maybe chef was slow.
July 2023
What a find, excellent choices of deli and local foods. Cafe excellent.
July 2023
Have visited the farm shop and cafe each time we have been in devon. We have found it to be excellent.
June 2023
A lovely, friendly place- great little farm shop which is well stocked. Valley View Cafe.... the breakfast is amazing....the stuff of dreams and what a view from the outside terrace! Highly recommended and would definitely return.
May 2023
Food from shop fanatic .The cafe is always clueless
October 2022
Brilliant food and take away. Good value for money and huge portions
March 2022
Excellent food and service - with a view. Good parking.
October 2021
fantastic, amazing breakfast, lovely girls visited on 17th July 2021
July 2021
Cafe is fantastic the best in Devon, possibly the country for a cooked breakfast. Don’t miss it if you are in the area. Great service, value and excellent quality food!
October 2020
Excellent quality and range of food.
October 2020
One of the locals on the Fallapit Estate recommended that we take advantage of Fish and Chip supper offered during Covid times. Order on a Tuesday and then pick it up Wednesday evening freshly cooked - absolutely brilliant!
October 2020
Great selection of local beers, fab deli counter (highly recommend picking up some of their pasties on the way to the beach), veg and butchers counter. Used a number of times during our stay - only downside is that we couldnt find a safe (i.e non road) way to walk there,
August 2020
We visited Aune Valley Farm Shop on a couple of occasions as we were based in Loddiswell. Very clean and tidy and lovely meats and pies. We tried the pork chops and pasties and they were absolutely delicious. Well worth a visit.
June 2019
We bought the most delicious rib of beef and their own Christmas pudding which is the best we have ever tasted. Friendly and helpful staff. Would recommend.
December 2018
Went for breakfast as a holiday treat. Lovely views, we were able to sit outdoors as the weather was so lovely. The breakfast was plentiful and of very high quality. Great coffee too.
July 2018
Excellent
July 2018
If you are staying anywhere nearby, absolutely visit this deli, butcher and cafe. The butcher (being a meat company) is first class, the deli is excellent and best of all - the cafe is fantastic - the best breakfast I think I have ever had (the big butchers), which had everything and the very best quality and best tasting ingredients. Do not miss this amazing treat!
May 2018
Super little find, enjoyed the ambience. Location out of the way not the easiest place to find but worth the effort.
October 2017
An absolute gem of a place. We had 2 cream teas here and also lunch and cakes. Food was superb on all occasions, dog friendly and the staff couldn't do enough for us. Well worth a visit you will not be disappointed
October 2017
Lovely cream teas and the Farm Shop has excellent produce. Highly recommended.
July 2017
A superb breakfast - very friendly staff - excellent view - reasonable prices. And the farm shop is small but decently stocked and alongside what I guess (I'm vegetarian) is an excellent butcher's. Go there!
April 2017
Lovely food, good views
April 2017
Popped in here for lunch and loved it. Quite a small cafe but brilliant views and really generous portions. Would defintiely recommend.
December 2016
E-xplore Devon - Electric Bike Hire
(2 miles)
South Devon has lots of hills. Which we love of course because it makes it so gloriously beautiful but it also makes cycling a challenge. E-xplore have come up with the ultimate solution offering electric bikes to hire for your holiday, delivered direct to your cottage. So now you can explore the area’s stunning green lanes, cycle trails and beaches in a fun, healthy and hassle-free way. Based in Churchstow, near Kingsbridge serving the Salcombe, Kingsbridge, Hope Cove, Thurlestone , Bantham area.
Click here for further details
Bigbury Golf Club
(2 miles)
(3)
A friendly cliff top golf course close to Kingsbridge, Bigbury Golf Club is a links course with spectacular views of the South Devon coast. It is an 18-hole course where you can play as an individual or as part of a group. It’s 6,035 yards for men, 5,544 for ladies and par is 70 and 73 respectively. There’s a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar, but remember that dress should be smart/casual at all times, and in the clubhouse they ask that you don’t wear golf shoes, hats, untailored shorts, general beach wear, collarless tee shirts and non-golf sportswear like tracksuits and rugby shirts. The club offers rates for groups of 6-14 and society golf days for numbers over 14. Green fees are seasonal and depend on the time of day that you’re visiting so keep an eye on the website for full details.
Click here for further details
Hubby enjoyed his golf afternoon & was lucky to play with two members who kindly agreed to let him join them. Idyllic setting and very welcoming staff and members.
October 2021
Good course to play. Very hilly on the front 9. Don't forget the VIP card for the discount. You can book tee times on their website. Take plenty of balls if it's windy. ????
June 2017
Friendly and a lovely course, with great views. Tricky in any wind!
May 2017
Triocean Surf Shop
(2 miles)
(2)
When in South Devon get out onto the water – or at least, that seems to be the unwritten mantra. So what you will need is the right equipment and for that you need to go to Triocean Surf Shop. South Devon's largest surf and water-sports shop located just two miles from Bantham Beach, well known as one of the premier surf spots in Devon and where, as we have mentioned, you will find some excellent tutors to get you riding waves like a pro. This is the place to buy wetsuits, surfboards, surfboard shapers, kayaks, body boards and paddle boards. See you on the water!
Click here for further details
Enjoy 10% off any wetsuit in store with your Toad Hall Cottages Discount Card
Great place to hire equipment, they even provide soft racks if you don't have one
December 2016
Bought a wetsuit from here for the summer and the guys were so helpful. Price matched a website I'd seen the suit on and gave me loads of good advice about the local beaches. Bantham is great but mind the rip!
December 2016
SUP2You
(2 miles)
Sup2You offers simple online hire of inflatable paddle boards making it easier than ever to get out and enjoy the UK’s beaches, coastline and waterways. Paddleboarding is the perfect way to stay active, have fun with your family and explore the beautiful region where you’re staying; but with everything else you need to bring on holiday sometimes you won’t have the car space to bring your own! With SUP2You the process couldn’t be easier, simply click the link below, select the board and duration online, and your paddleboard will be couriered next day to your holiday cottage.
Click here for further information
Toad Hall Cottages guests can enjoy 10% off their hire when booking for 3 days or more with code Toad10
Bantham Surfing Academy
(3 miles)
(6)
Operating from the car park at postcard perfect surfer’s paradise Bantham Beach, Bantham Surfing Academy is run by experienced SurfingGB qualified instructors who offer tuition and coaching for all levels, including beginners, as well as supervised surfing sessions and a Kids Club. In addition to surfing lessons, the team offer Stand Up Paddle Boarding lessons, hire and tours around Burgh Island and the River Avon, and lifeguard and surf instructor tuition and qualifications.
Click here for further details
two of grandchildren had surfing lessons which they enjoyed.
August 2023
The surf lesson was great however the customer service & facilities at the beach were found wanting. The changing room was in the sand dune at the back of the container!
September 2021
Had asked to hire a board last week and the guy suggested that I arrived at 10am. I did, I waited forty minutes. No show. Apparently, we were informed this happens and even to people who have paid in advance for lessons.
October 2020
Really friendly, relaxed helpful people with good equipment.
July 2019
Amazing!!!
July 2018
My granddaughter had expert tuition and was so thrilled to be able to stand on her board. She was well looked after (5yrs)
August 2017
Bigbury on Sea
(3 miles)
(36)
It won’t come as a surprise to anyone who has visited that Bigbury on Sea is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Perfect for sand castles and rock pooling as well as tucking into lengthy summer picnics, it is an unusual beach to visit because the tide comes in from both sides. As a result, it is an endless source of fascination for children, not least for its sea tractor which provides transport from one end of the beach to the other in order to reach Burgh Island. Burgh Island is connected to mainland England by the beach alone, it’s home to the famous art deco Burgh Island Hotel which has hosted Agatha Christie and Noel Coward since its incarnation in 1929, and has even made an appearance in the TV adaptation of Christie’s Poirot. On a practical note there is on-site parking available close to the beach with daily charges from £3.50. Toilets and shower facilities with disabled access are also nearby, and lifeguards are present from May to September. The Venus café offers teas, coffees and other refreshments including the ice creams that are of such fundamental importance for a day at the beach. Meanwhile, dog lovers will be pleased to know that four legged friends are welcome at Bigbury on Sea, but restrictions apply from 1st May until 30th September. Ultimately, Bigbury on Sea is a supremely beautiful location and fun family day out with abundant wildlife to enjoy and coastal footpaths to explore as well, making it a wonderful destination to visit on holiday in Devon, no matter what time of the year it is.
Great beach dogs allowed it's our favourite beach in south Devon
September 2023
Absolutely world class beaches around bigbury and bantham,stunning at all times.
September 2023
Fabulous sandy beach with good cafe and toilets. Advisable to get there early as parking can be an issue.
September 2023
Lovely area to visit our grandchildren loved it for body boarding. It was safe for them and also had RNLI lifeguards present. A trip on the sea tractor was quite a highlight for them.
August 2023
A beautiful beach, soo close to our holiday accommodation we could go home for lunch. Just ass well because the beach cafe is overpriced and very average.
August 2023
Great beach especially for children. Ample parking, cafe, surf shop and very clean free toilets
August 2023
Favourite sandy beach, part dog friendly over summer,
July 2023
Wonderful place, lovely walk to Burgh Island and up to top.
July 2023
A delightful spot and good water sport activities. Burgh Island is a must.
July 2023
Fabulous convergence of two tides and wonderful beaches. Beach Barista on the Bigbury side selling great coffee and ice cream. Beach shop very handy for topping up on beach gear.
June 2023
Get there early to get a car parking space. Great location for families
May 2023
Loved this beach we spent a lot of time here. Plus side - the car park machines don’t work and it was impossible to pay via the App. The parking attendant told us not to worry about trying! Minus - very smelly toilets.
August 2022
Excellent beach for all the family with dog friendly sections. Massive sandy beach when tide out. Cafe and toilets above beach. Paying for car park very difficult unless you have coins.
August 2022
Fantastic beach! The walks we had at low tide were amazing. Especially when we walked along the river looking over to Bantham.
July 2022
Wonderful beach at low tide. Great spot.
October 2021
A tranquil, enchanting destination for families and dogs alike. Away from the hustle and bustle , outstanding views, fabulous beach for walkers and bathers.
August 2021
Amazing beach and in our opinion the best in the area. Great cafe and surf shop where we hired SUPs. Visited most days and was always impressed. Visit in the evening for a beautiful sunset too. Walking over to the island and exploring there is also worth it.
August 2021
Clean and safe
July 2021
A beautiful location, and just the right amount of facilities. The roads to Bigbury can sometimes be a challenge due to narrowness, but it's worth it when you get here.
June 2021
What a really stunning beach, well worth the trip round the estuary from Noss Mayo. Gorgeous sand and very dog friendly. Worth having a coffee at the Pilchard Inn on Burgh Island.
May 2021
Beautiful location, lovely large sandy beach. If you go across to Burgh Island when the tide is out be warned the prices at Pilchard's Inn are extortionate!
May 2021
We have visited Bigbury and Burgh Island over many years, and it never disappoints; the picturesque environment does much to enhance the holiday atmosphere, and meets the needs of a relaxed holiday.This year, we enjoyed the wonderful experience of cream tea and cocktails at the famous hotel at a very reasonable price; we booked in advance, were driven to the entrance via the hotel transport, and sea tractor back - perfect afternoon!
September 2019
Bigbury bay which I have visited since a child and an amazing beach for all the family.
August 2019
Wonderful - with greats loos & cafes. The Beach Barista coffee is also great!
August 2019
Really lovely sandy beach, perfect for young families as the water stays shallow and the dog can join you in certain areas too, so makes for an all round great day out!
July 2019
Excellent beach for small children. Very clean. The sea tractor gave it an added dimension. Our 2 year old granddaughter loved riding on it!
June 2019
Fab, sand spit beach, covered at high tide, access to Burgh island. An absolute must.
July 2018
Gorgeous beach - very large and areas suitable for dogs. Check tides before you go. Walk over to Burgh island is great. Good toilets and shop - very clean.
July 2018
Wonderful beach and great view of Burgh Island and the marvellous hotel.
July 2018
Perfect
June 2018
Spent a happy afternoon watching the sea.
May 2018
Perfect location. Excellent to walk across the tombolo and explore the island. Very safe for dogs. We visited on a very sunny day in April and were lucky to get a free parking spot right by the slipway. Views from the top are wonderful. Watching the waves meet from both directions is fascinating.
April 2018
Great beach for walking the dog - only part of the beach is restricted. Not overcrowded as we visited out of season and some lovely views in all directions.
September 2017
Lovely place. Child friendly with fantastic views. Only downside is the dogs that are allowed on. It can get very busy in high season and the dogs can be a pain if running loose especially if you have got little ones. We have got a dog so it's not because we aren't dog lovers!
July 2017
Rather run down and disappointing that visitors are made to feel rather unwanted with only a small section of the pub open to non-residents and the hotel off limits completely to non-residents. View from the top lovely, but I wouldn't drive miles and miles to visit. What attracted me was the parting of the sea and that was a lovely view
June 2017
Fantastic unique place with sea both sides of the beach when the tide is out and Burgh Island to walk to with a lovely old pub but inefficient service.
April 2017
Challaborough Bay
(3 miles)
(6)
Close to Kingsbridge, Challaborough Bay is a sandy beach in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that’s perfect for enjoying all the seaside activities nature can afford. At low tide the beach is ideal for visiting families to build sandcastles and explore the rock pools, while the swells and shore breaks also attract surfers and bodyboarders. There are some beautiful walks along the coast path that surrounds it, heading towards Bigbury on Sea in particular. Making it an ideal spot to spend the day, the beach has toilets, a café and a beach shop close by, although access is via steps and small paths so accessibility isn’t wheelchair friendly. There is a car park but it’s rather small, so it’s good to know that a 15-minute walk to Bigbury will see ample parking available – seasonal charges apply so remember to bring cash with you. While four legged friends are welcome in the winter, they are not allowed on the beach between May and September, so do plan their walks with that in mind. It’s a lovely spot along the coast path to bring them to, you can even beach hop from one to the next!
Cempletely different atmosphere to the rest of the South Hams. Part of a beautiful coastline set amidst class South Hams countryside.
June 2023
Good if you’re staying all day with children but expensive to park, only whole day parking not good if you don’t want to stay a long tome
April 2022
I didn't like it here. I found it a bit tacky. Also on my walk I popped into the Cafe in the morning but had missed their breakfast time which ended at 11.30 and I was there at 11.34 so they refused to serve me toast with coffee! So I walked out! A guy behind me in the queue was left open mouthed and said if I go on to Bigbury I'll get it anytime I want!
September 2021
Beautiful place to watch the sunset. Good fish and chips on the beach in the evening. Wouldn’t spend the day there as holiday park attached and the beach was left absolutely covered in rubbish by the guests ????
September 2019
Lovely, & just a short walk from Bigbury on Sea car park. It also has a fantastic chip shop that does gluten free fish & chips!
August 2019
Lovely beach
April 2017
Bantham Beach
(3 miles)
(15)
What an amazing beach, perfect for doggy adventures, love it love it love it, the river beach is especially nice
March 2024
Lovely beach but no dog's allowed
September 2023
Lovely beach and walk over cliffs to Thurlestone. Beautiful views.
July 2023
One of the most beautiful and relaxing places on earth.
June 2023
Worth the £4.50 to park for the afternoon plenty of walking and rock pools to explore, a good wide sandy beach for people with children
April 2022
Great beach particularly at low tide
October 2021
The most extaordinary place and great for kids. Lots to see and do - great sand and very shallow waters so very safe. if you get a chance to go on the water tractor that is great.. and do visit the Pub on the island. Great day out.
August 2021
A lovely beach. £6.50 to park for the day - it's a private estate - but a shame that the owners aren't prepared to put some of the money towards improvements to the toilets - one small sink in each of the men's & women's toilets with a malfunctioning tap is not enough for a beach full of people, children & dogs!
August 2019
Lovely beach for gentle surfing with ice creams, coffee, snacks and pizzas close to the car park.
July 2019
Glorious especially at low tide.
April 2019
Best beach in the South Hams.
July 2018
Can get busy with surfers, but a beautiful place with a wide sandy beach. Lots of room for everyone.
April 2018
Beautiful beach. Nightmare of a road (especially in high season) to get to it. Worth it though when you get there.
July 2017
A short walk (less than a mile) from Thurlestone, this is a stunning beach. Lots of shallow water with sand underfoot, truly amazing.
July 2017
Fantastic sandy beach and so big. My dog loved running around and jumping into the water. Plenty of space for all.
April 2017
Leas Foot Sands
(3 miles)
(8)
A small sandy beach belonging to Thurlestone Golf Club, those who have been on regular Devon weekend breaks and holidays will have seen this beach change somewhat in recent years thanks to storm damage, but the evolving landscape merely adds to its charm. A 200-metre walk down a paved path from the golf club and its car park and you find yourself heading down a gentle slope onto the sand, with the option of enjoying the beach in its own right or walking along the coast in either direction towards Bantham or South Milton Sands. Dogs are allowed here at any time, which of course adds to the appeal for walkers, and if you fancy stopping somewhere for lunch then Thurlestone village nearby is home to a charming pub that’s cryptically named The Village Inn, which is suitable for the whole family and wonderfully cosy in the winter months. Alternatively head to the Beachhouse café at South Milton for lunches and evenings meals with a view of the sunset, or cups of tea and brownies from the Gastrobus at Bantham. It is one of the area’s quieter beaches, often acting as a place to wander past rather than one to spend the whole day on, but given its easy access and the proximity of the car park, and the golf club, it’s a delightful little spot in which to while away the afternoon.
We visited this beach most days either morning or early evening to take the dog and enjoy the sunsets
September 2021
We found this to be a very pleasant spot for a coffee. The sands were pristine.
September 2021
Lovely beach for swimming and supping
June 2021
a fabulous beach, dog and heart friendly
December 2020
We like this beach. We walk to it from the property we stay in in Thurlestone. It's always quiet. There are lovely views out to sea and you really feel close to nature when swimming. There is good sand, some rocks on either side of the beach, it's easy to access and we usually walk home along the coast path for more lovely views.
August 2019
Great quiet beach with wonderful coastal walk alongside gold course round to Bantham. Parked free in field adjacent to golf club, although we understand they will be charging for parking soon. Only downside was that the public toilets were closed - we went October 2018.
November 2018
This is possibly the best beach in the whole of England
July 2017
A very nice beach with quite a lot of sand at times. So easy to access, even managed to get both (octogenarian) parents to it and my mother in the sea for a paddle!
July 2017
Ayrmer Cove
(4 miles)
(20)
Roughly one kilometre (20 minutes depending on your pace) from the National Trust car park at Ringmore, and with a selection of footpaths to get to it, Ayrmer Cove is a quiet secluded beach on the South West Coast Path. For anyone on holiday in South Devon it’s a peaceful place to sit and contemplate the natural scenery amongst the shingle, pebbles and rock pools, admiring the cliffs. It makes for a beautiful destination to walk to from Ringmore itself, which is a small village (population 230) with views towards the cove itself as well as Bigbury Bay – it makes for a wonderful holiday cottage destination in South Devon as well as a place to visit as part of your day. Walking to the beach allows you to discover the surrounding woodland, wildlife and history of the area – taking in old smugglers’ routes and hedgerows that have been in situ since the 1800s. It is a little tricky to get to so it’s not ideal for wheelchairs, and there aren’t any toilets or facilities at the beach itself so if you want to stay for a little while don’t forget to take snacks or a picnic if the weather is right. This is all about enjoying the environment that’s such a proud part of the National Trust – it’s everything a holiday in Devon is about, and yes, dogs are permitted all year round and will very much enjoy the walk!
Fabulously unspoilt and beautiful.
June 2023
Childhood memories and very clean
May 2022
Lovely location for photography and any easy walk from the National Trust car park
April 2022
Beautiful place!
September 2021
Beautiful clean quiet beach , well worth a visit
September 2021
Beautiful cove, first visit. Quite a challenging walk to get there but fascinating to see the slate formations.
August 2021
Perfect swim spot
May 2021
What a wonderful, quiet little haven!
September 2019
A beautiful little cove and fun for dogs and children.
August 2019
You can walk to this secluded cove from the cottage. Probably about 20 mins away, depending on your pace. Plenty of blackberries to eat/collect on route when in season! No facilities at the cove but beautifully unspoilt.
August 2019
Really beautiful secluded beach - great for the dog too!
July 2019
A lovely beach at the end of a beautiful valley. Absolutely perfect for dogs and never busy.
June 2019
Parked in the NT car park at Ringmore and took the 15 min walk down to the beach. Saw a beautiful sunset and had the place to ourselves. Bliss
November 2018
What a fantastic place. So quiet - we had the whole beach to ourselves a lot of the time. Our dogs loved it.
September 2018
A lovely quiet cove, with excellent rock pools at low tide. No sand but the kids enjoy it as an alternative to the massive sandy beaches at Bigbury and Bantham.
September 2018
stunning little beach, very quiet and great for snorkelling
July 2018
Beautiful cove. Very quiet with lots of bird life.
June 2018
Well worth the walk with beautiful views of Burgh island from the coast path. We were the only ones there on a very sunny day in April. Perfect.
April 2018
Simply stunning and well worth the steep (ish) walk down from the National Trust car park at Ringmore. When there - it's hard to imagine the horrors of today's modern world.
September 2017
Gorgeous beach for an evening swim and barbecue. So peaceful and beautiful
June 2017
February 2024
The little box of cleaning stuff wasn't great! not enough washing up liquid and no scrubber! That's all, we had a fabulous time.
December 2023
Loved our stay. Lucky with the weather. Super location. Amazing property.
November 2023
Most enjoyable an extremely pleasant break, we look forward to returning perhaps next time not during a storm, however everything held up well, so quiet the services were unaffected and no flooding.
September 2023
This was our second visit and it was just as lovely,great barn lovely area hope to visit in the future.
September 2023
Maha Bharat Indian restaurant in Kingsbridge and The Oyster Shack restaurant on the way to Bigbury are both outstanding places to dine!
July 2023
It’s a beautiful place to stay, the welcome box was great too, we really had a lovely time
June 2023
Thoroughly enjoyable week in a stunning location.
April 2023
The barn was wonderful in every way and would love to return one day
October 2022
Amazing property, location and with the perfect hosts. Highly recommended but don't tell too many people ... we want to return!
We're so glad you had a wonderful stay - and look forward to hopefully welcoming you back to beautiful Willowplatt in the future!
- The Toad Hall Team
July 2022
What a wonderful property! We rarely stay anywhere we think is as nice as our home but at last we have found somewhere. This property is simply stunning. The attention to detail both in the workmanship, finishes and fittings is simply outstanding and we cannot recommend it highly enough. We were very lucky to chose a week with beautiful weather so we could enjoy the house and the surrounding countryside. When we return to Devon with family or friends we will certainly chose WillowPlatt Barn
July 2022
Fantastic conversion with excellent facilities in an outstanding position. Hosts very helpful, and cottage with lots of thoughtful and helpful design ideas. Highly recommend.
June 2022
We had the most amazing stay at Willowplatt Barn, despite inclement weather at times. This was by far the best place we have ever stayed in and the pictures do not do the barn or the location justice. Our expectations were exceeded on every level. The owners have thought of everything and we loved nothing more than sitting on the window seat looking out onto the trees. The Hoot Hut is also such fun. Just wanted to let you know that the fridge in the island leaked water all onto the floor just the once. We would have let you know had it happened again, and very strange as we never used it. Please thank the owners, Andy and Sue, for letting us share their little piece of magic! Best wishes, Nikki Powell
June 2022
Absolute stunning property. Andy & Sue have thought of every detail. Would thoroughly recommend this property, especially for a special occasion.
April 2022
My comments re duvets and beds were remedied quickly and efficiently- thank you. This property is absolutely the best we've stayed in.
April 2022
We had a lovely relaxing time and enjoyed our stay in the barn
November 2021
Wonderful property
November 2021
A truly amazing place to stay and one I wouldn't hesitate to recommend!
August 2021
Had a fantastic stay!
August 2021
Willowplatt is very beautiful and guests feel very welcome. It is a very difficult place to stay with an active dog.
Thanks so much for your feedback which we have passed on to the owner. We have had many many bookings with dogs staying at Willowplatt and all have found the property to be most suitable for their requirements, with all the space the garden and terrace offer, together with great walks from the front door. We look forward to hopefully welcoming you back to South Devon in the future. From the Toad Hall Team
- The Toad Hall Team
June 2021
Beautiful house, attention to detail is first class! We have taken away lots of ideas for our home, We will be back!
June 2021
Willowplatt is such a beautiful, unique, and peaceful place! It is amazing! We have felt so relaxed and wish we could have stayed for more time. We loved the Avon estuary walk, dinner at the Fishermans Rest and our BBQ at the barn with the sun shining through the trees! A very special place.
May 2021
We had a amazing week at this beautiful barn , the barn is stunning and in a very secluded position. The walks very close to the property are awesome and we walked to Bantham twice during our stay which is lovely. So close to so many lovely places to visit including Bigbury and Salcombe. We were so lucky to have found this place and we did not want to leave. Our Cockapoo enjoyed the surrounding countryside . Sue & Andy have thought of everything and the instruction book was very detailed. Can’t wait to rebook for 2022. Toad hall Cottages also gave us clear instructions for arrival and departure and we would always be happy to rebook with them again. Memories we will treasure .
April 2021
Just perfect.
April 2021
What a stunning place! We were delighted to be the first guests and enjoyed the delicious welcome. Every detail had been well thought out, the local countryside and beaches offer fantastic walks and kept the whole family happy especially our springer! On a clear night the evening sky is so mesmerising! We hope everyone enjoys it as much as we did!
February 2024
The little box of cleaning stuff wasn't great! not enough washing up liquid and no scrubber! That's all, we had a fabulous time.
December 2023
Loved our stay. Lucky with the weather. Super location. Amazing property.
November 2023
Most enjoyable an extremely pleasant break, we look forward to returning perhaps next time not during a storm, however everything held up well, so quiet the services were unaffected and no flooding.
September 2023
This was our second visit and it was just as lovely,great barn lovely area hope to visit in the future.
September 2023
Maha Bharat Indian restaurant in Kingsbridge and The Oyster Shack restaurant on the way to Bigbury are both outstanding places to dine!
July 2023
It’s a beautiful place to stay, the welcome box was great too, we really had a lovely time
June 2023
Thoroughly enjoyable week in a stunning location.
April 2023
The barn was wonderful in every way and would love to return one day
October 2022
Amazing property, location and with the perfect hosts. Highly recommended but don't tell too many people ... we want to return!
We're so glad you had a wonderful stay - and look forward to hopefully welcoming you back to beautiful Willowplatt in the future!
- The Toad Hall Team
July 2022
What a wonderful property! We rarely stay anywhere we think is as nice as our home but at last we have found somewhere. This property is simply stunning. The attention to detail both in the workmanship, finishes and fittings is simply outstanding and we cannot recommend it highly enough. We were very lucky to chose a week with beautiful weather so we could enjoy the house and the surrounding countryside. When we return to Devon with family or friends we will certainly chose WillowPlatt Barn
July 2022
Fantastic conversion with excellent facilities in an outstanding position. Hosts very helpful, and cottage with lots of thoughtful and helpful design ideas. Highly recommend.
June 2022
We had the most amazing stay at Willowplatt Barn, despite inclement weather at times. This was by far the best place we have ever stayed in and the pictures do not do the barn or the location justice. Our expectations were exceeded on every level. The owners have thought of everything and we loved nothing more than sitting on the window seat looking out onto the trees. The Hoot Hut is also such fun. Just wanted to let you know that the fridge in the island leaked water all onto the floor just the once. We would have let you know had it happened again, and very strange as we never used it. Please thank the owners, Andy and Sue, for letting us share their little piece of magic! Best wishes, Nikki Powell
June 2022
Absolute stunning property. Andy & Sue have thought of every detail. Would thoroughly recommend this property, especially for a special occasion.
April 2022
My comments re duvets and beds were remedied quickly and efficiently- thank you. This property is absolutely the best we've stayed in.
April 2022
We had a lovely relaxing time and enjoyed our stay in the barn
November 2021
Wonderful property
November 2021
A truly amazing place to stay and one I wouldn't hesitate to recommend!
August 2021
Had a fantastic stay!
August 2021
Willowplatt is very beautiful and guests feel very welcome. It is a very difficult place to stay with an active dog.
Thanks so much for your feedback which we have passed on to the owner. We have had many many bookings with dogs staying at Willowplatt and all have found the property to be most suitable for their requirements, with all the space the garden and terrace offer, together with great walks from the front door. We look forward to hopefully welcoming you back to South Devon in the future. From the Toad Hall Team
- The Toad Hall Team
June 2021
Beautiful house, attention to detail is first class! We have taken away lots of ideas for our home, We will be back!
June 2021
Willowplatt is such a beautiful, unique, and peaceful place! It is amazing! We have felt so relaxed and wish we could have stayed for more time. We loved the Avon estuary walk, dinner at the Fishermans Rest and our BBQ at the barn with the sun shining through the trees! A very special place.
May 2021
We had a amazing week at this beautiful barn , the barn is stunning and in a very secluded position. The walks very close to the property are awesome and we walked to Bantham twice during our stay which is lovely. So close to so many lovely places to visit including Bigbury and Salcombe. We were so lucky to have found this place and we did not want to leave. Our Cockapoo enjoyed the surrounding countryside . Sue & Andy have thought of everything and the instruction book was very detailed. Can’t wait to rebook for 2022. Toad hall Cottages also gave us clear instructions for arrival and departure and we would always be happy to rebook with them again. Memories we will treasure .
April 2021
Just perfect.
April 2021
What a stunning place! We were delighted to be the first guests and enjoyed the delicious welcome. Every detail had been well thought out, the local countryside and beaches offer fantastic walks and kept the whole family happy especially our springer! On a clear night the evening sky is so mesmerising! We hope everyone enjoys it as much as we did!
The Fisherman's Rest
(Less than a mile)
(3)
A large riverside pub with a good choice of regional beers, wine and other drinks.
The Fisherman’s Rest Fore Street, Aveton Gifford TQ7 4JL (T: 01548 550284)
Cold atmosphere, locals made you feel welcome, but the landlady! Food just like your mom would have made 30 years ago, microwaved, drab and unimaginative.
October 2017
Nice pub food and friendly staff.
August 2017
April 2017
The Oyster Shack
(Less than a mile)
(31)
In a glorious location overlooking the Avon Estuary, Devon’s award winning seafood restaurant serves local oysters and other super fresh sustainable seafood in a laid back setting. Menus updated daily with what’s been landed that morning, meaning your meal will be straight from sea to plate. Devon’s answer to alfresco dining under a bright orange canopy, this is the place to be rain or shine.
The Oyster Shack Stakes Hill, Bigbury TQ7 4BE (T: 01548 810876)
Enjoy 10% off with your Toad Hall Cottages Discount Card
Excellent food with friendly and attentive staff. Thoroughly recommend
February 2024
Superb, if you like fish this is the place to go. Open only on Fri Sat Sun during winter, you need to book. Highly recommend.
January 2024
excellent place to eat with interesting menu.
September 2023
Fantastic food, attentive yet unintrusive service in a lovely setting that has lots of good vibes!
September 2023
Had a fantastic meal here, oysters were amazing!
July 2023
Great choice of seafood. Very friendly, will definitely go back next time we are down.
July 2023
Excellent food with additional menus for children and dogs. Friendly and efficient staff make for a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience
June 2023
Great food, perfectly dog and child friendly.
May 2023
Great place - we have been many times in the summer but a new experience eating inside in February. It was lovely. The food was fabulous, the fish is so well cooked. We had local food and local wine. A great evening. The staff were great, they even offer dinner for your dog, which was devoured in seconds.
March 2023
We had a superb family meal here just before New Year. Fish of the day and crab was delicious. Staff were attentive and friendly. My youngest thoroughly enjoyed his pasta too!
January 2023
Back for a fourth time service gone down hill .Had fresh whole crab no claw crackers ,crab fork plate for shell or finger bowl had to ask for, basic. Wine just left on the table did not open pour to taste [ screw top does that matter]?Could go on ,poor.
October 2022
Lovely atmosphere. Great food. I dislike oysters but husband loves them. He declared the Oyster Shack ones to be the best he had ever had (possibly also the most expensive). You need to book in advance. The Tidal Road to get there is only accessible at low tide, so allow extra time for the Devon lanes if travelling at high tide times.
June 2022
Excellent as always
May 2022
Food options now limited from previous visits a few years ago - why do these meals not have any sides included!
April 2022
Excellent restaurant and ambiance. Need to book. Great seafood
April 2022
Brilliant shabby chic restaurant with delicious food
September 2021
Had a great lunch here! Food was freshly cooked and beautiful! Staff were attentive and friendly and I wish we were able to go back several more times during our week away!
June 2021
Superb as always!! Great staff, fabulous food, great price and setting!
June 2021
Lovely relaxed lunch in late September, nicely cooked scallops then gurnard, very helpful staff
September 2019
We loved The Oyster Shack, great service and good value. Very dog friendly and they even have a dog menu for your hungry pups
July 2019
Actually visited twice plus a take away. Staff went out of their way to be helpful and excellent food, especially the oysters!
June 2019
An excellent venue, we had a lovely meal here,
September 2018
Went for a late lunch, it's very Mediterranean in style. The food was very tasty but portions were small and in order to have sufficient nutritional intake you needed to order extras - no veg or potatoes included in price of main.
July 2018
Friendly and zingy place to eat in an interesting location. A nice alternative to some of the more traditional restaurants and pubs. Good food but not dog friendly.
July 2018
Great food, friendly service. Excellent.
June 2018
One of our favourite places and it never disappoints. The food was as good as ever.
May 2018
Lovely meal here exceptional fish dishes not cheap but we were on holiday!
July 2017
Very disappointed with the slow service. The food was ok but certainly not somewhere we would not race to go again.
June 2017
Quaint location. You wouldn't know it was there unless someone had told you about it. Every friendly staff, lovely oysters and lobster. Not a place to go unless you like seafood, but great if you do
June 2017
A great fishy experience
May 2017
Great on a sunny day
April 2017
The Church House Inn
(2 miles)
(8)
A 13th Century village pub steeped in history with inglenook fireplace, log burners & beams a plenty, along with legends of smuggling monks and secret tunnels leading to the Church. A place to relax and enjoy really good honest pub food, a mix of classic & contemporary dishes with daily seasonal specials.
Church House Inn, Churchstow, Devon, TQ7 3QW (T: 01548 852237)
Just brilliant
September 2023
Nice pub meal in pleasant surroundings .
September 2023
Lobster course over- garlicked Seafood platter ridiculously overpriced at £125 for two A little disappointed by menu Friendly service i
August 2023
Great pub food best to book
October 2022
We had a wonderful evening at the Church House Inn. We booked a beach hut which was ideal during the very hot weather. Most importantly, the food was absolutely delicious. Cannot wait to return on our next visit to Kingsbridge.
July 2022
Great food and lovely atmosphere
April 2022
Great in every aspect.
June 2021
Booking is essential. We went for lunch and enjoyed the seafood stew and mussels. Not a grain of grit. Delightful food, location and staff
August 2020
Pickwick Inn
(2 miles)
(3)
Friendly local pub in prime location for a refreshing drink or a bite to eat on the way back from the beach. Serving a good range of local beers and ciders on tap alongside a simple, well cooked menu.
The Pickwick Inn, St Anns Chapel TQ7 4HQ (T: 07775 700230)
Limited menu and not particularly well furnished or clean.
September 2023
Nice to see it's open again
September 2023
Working hard to get back on its feet. Service is friendly. Average pub food and well kept ale. Dog friendly and generally friendly all round. Piped music needs variation please. Looking forward to seeing the new look garden.
June 2023
Aune Valley Farm Shop & Café
(2 miles)
(26)
A butchers, deli, farm shop and café located in a beautiful setting, selling high quality local produce from the surrounding area. The Valley View Café provides home cooked, fresh and tasty meals, either inside in the vintage decorated café or outside on the terrace.
Aune Valley Farm Shop & Café Rake Farm, Loddiswell TQ7 4DA (T: 01548 550413)
Love the walk to this place, had a fantastic breakfast here, lovely shop too
March 2024
Hard to get a table so arrive early for lunch! Great food, generous portions. The salad, burgers and hog roast all went down very well indeed. Highly recommended. Nice views too
September 2023
Great cafe for lunch or coffee and cake, dog friendly too. Great pasties in shop.
July 2023
Lovely restaurant. This was a return visit but food not so good on second visit although they were ver busy and maybe chef was slow.
July 2023
What a find, excellent choices of deli and local foods. Cafe excellent.
July 2023
Have visited the farm shop and cafe each time we have been in devon. We have found it to be excellent.
June 2023
A lovely, friendly place- great little farm shop which is well stocked. Valley View Cafe.... the breakfast is amazing....the stuff of dreams and what a view from the outside terrace! Highly recommended and would definitely return.
May 2023
Food from shop fanatic .The cafe is always clueless
October 2022
Brilliant food and take away. Good value for money and huge portions
March 2022
Excellent food and service - with a view. Good parking.
October 2021
fantastic, amazing breakfast, lovely girls visited on 17th July 2021
July 2021
Cafe is fantastic the best in Devon, possibly the country for a cooked breakfast. Don’t miss it if you are in the area. Great service, value and excellent quality food!
October 2020
Excellent quality and range of food.
October 2020
One of the locals on the Fallapit Estate recommended that we take advantage of Fish and Chip supper offered during Covid times. Order on a Tuesday and then pick it up Wednesday evening freshly cooked - absolutely brilliant!
October 2020
Great selection of local beers, fab deli counter (highly recommend picking up some of their pasties on the way to the beach), veg and butchers counter. Used a number of times during our stay - only downside is that we couldnt find a safe (i.e non road) way to walk there,
August 2020
We visited Aune Valley Farm Shop on a couple of occasions as we were based in Loddiswell. Very clean and tidy and lovely meats and pies. We tried the pork chops and pasties and they were absolutely delicious. Well worth a visit.
June 2019
We bought the most delicious rib of beef and their own Christmas pudding which is the best we have ever tasted. Friendly and helpful staff. Would recommend.
December 2018
Went for breakfast as a holiday treat. Lovely views, we were able to sit outdoors as the weather was so lovely. The breakfast was plentiful and of very high quality. Great coffee too.
July 2018
Excellent
July 2018
If you are staying anywhere nearby, absolutely visit this deli, butcher and cafe. The butcher (being a meat company) is first class, the deli is excellent and best of all - the cafe is fantastic - the best breakfast I think I have ever had (the big butchers), which had everything and the very best quality and best tasting ingredients. Do not miss this amazing treat!
May 2018
Super little find, enjoyed the ambience. Location out of the way not the easiest place to find but worth the effort.
October 2017
An absolute gem of a place. We had 2 cream teas here and also lunch and cakes. Food was superb on all occasions, dog friendly and the staff couldn't do enough for us. Well worth a visit you will not be disappointed
October 2017
Lovely cream teas and the Farm Shop has excellent produce. Highly recommended.
July 2017
A superb breakfast - very friendly staff - excellent view - reasonable prices. And the farm shop is small but decently stocked and alongside what I guess (I'm vegetarian) is an excellent butcher's. Go there!
April 2017
Lovely food, good views
April 2017
Popped in here for lunch and loved it. Quite a small cafe but brilliant views and really generous portions. Would defintiely recommend.
December 2016
E-xplore Devon - Electric Bike Hire
(2 miles)
South Devon has lots of hills. Which we love of course because it makes it so gloriously beautiful but it also makes cycling a challenge. E-xplore have come up with the ultimate solution offering electric bikes to hire for your holiday, delivered direct to your cottage. So now you can explore the area’s stunning green lanes, cycle trails and beaches in a fun, healthy and hassle-free way. Based in Churchstow, near Kingsbridge serving the Salcombe, Kingsbridge, Hope Cove, Thurlestone , Bantham area.
Click here for further details
Bigbury Golf Club
(2 miles)
(3)
A friendly cliff top golf course close to Kingsbridge, Bigbury Golf Club is a links course with spectacular views of the South Devon coast. It is an 18-hole course where you can play as an individual or as part of a group. It’s 6,035 yards for men, 5,544 for ladies and par is 70 and 73 respectively. There’s a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar, but remember that dress should be smart/casual at all times, and in the clubhouse they ask that you don’t wear golf shoes, hats, untailored shorts, general beach wear, collarless tee shirts and non-golf sportswear like tracksuits and rugby shirts. The club offers rates for groups of 6-14 and society golf days for numbers over 14. Green fees are seasonal and depend on the time of day that you’re visiting so keep an eye on the website for full details.
Click here for further details
Hubby enjoyed his golf afternoon & was lucky to play with two members who kindly agreed to let him join them. Idyllic setting and very welcoming staff and members.
October 2021
Good course to play. Very hilly on the front 9. Don't forget the VIP card for the discount. You can book tee times on their website. Take plenty of balls if it's windy. ????
June 2017
Friendly and a lovely course, with great views. Tricky in any wind!
May 2017
Triocean Surf Shop
(2 miles)
(2)
When in South Devon get out onto the water – or at least, that seems to be the unwritten mantra. So what you will need is the right equipment and for that you need to go to Triocean Surf Shop. South Devon's largest surf and water-sports shop located just two miles from Bantham Beach, well known as one of the premier surf spots in Devon and where, as we have mentioned, you will find some excellent tutors to get you riding waves like a pro. This is the place to buy wetsuits, surfboards, surfboard shapers, kayaks, body boards and paddle boards. See you on the water!
Click here for further details
Enjoy 10% off any wetsuit in store with your Toad Hall Cottages Discount Card
Great place to hire equipment, they even provide soft racks if you don't have one
December 2016
Bought a wetsuit from here for the summer and the guys were so helpful. Price matched a website I'd seen the suit on and gave me loads of good advice about the local beaches. Bantham is great but mind the rip!
December 2016
SUP2You
(2 miles)
Sup2You offers simple online hire of inflatable paddle boards making it easier than ever to get out and enjoy the UK’s beaches, coastline and waterways. Paddleboarding is the perfect way to stay active, have fun with your family and explore the beautiful region where you’re staying; but with everything else you need to bring on holiday sometimes you won’t have the car space to bring your own! With SUP2You the process couldn’t be easier, simply click the link below, select the board and duration online, and your paddleboard will be couriered next day to your holiday cottage.
Click here for further information
Toad Hall Cottages guests can enjoy 10% off their hire when booking for 3 days or more with code Toad10
Bantham Surfing Academy
(3 miles)
(6)
Operating from the car park at postcard perfect surfer’s paradise Bantham Beach, Bantham Surfing Academy is run by experienced SurfingGB qualified instructors who offer tuition and coaching for all levels, including beginners, as well as supervised surfing sessions and a Kids Club. In addition to surfing lessons, the team offer Stand Up Paddle Boarding lessons, hire and tours around Burgh Island and the River Avon, and lifeguard and surf instructor tuition and qualifications.
Click here for further details
two of grandchildren had surfing lessons which they enjoyed.
August 2023
The surf lesson was great however the customer service & facilities at the beach were found wanting. The changing room was in the sand dune at the back of the container!
September 2021
Had asked to hire a board last week and the guy suggested that I arrived at 10am. I did, I waited forty minutes. No show. Apparently, we were informed this happens and even to people who have paid in advance for lessons.
October 2020
Really friendly, relaxed helpful people with good equipment.
July 2019
Amazing!!!
July 2018
My granddaughter had expert tuition and was so thrilled to be able to stand on her board. She was well looked after (5yrs)
August 2017
Bigbury on Sea
(3 miles)
(36)
It won’t come as a surprise to anyone who has visited that Bigbury on Sea is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Perfect for sand castles and rock pooling as well as tucking into lengthy summer picnics, it is an unusual beach to visit because the tide comes in from both sides. As a result, it is an endless source of fascination for children, not least for its sea tractor which provides transport from one end of the beach to the other in order to reach Burgh Island. Burgh Island is connected to mainland England by the beach alone, it’s home to the famous art deco Burgh Island Hotel which has hosted Agatha Christie and Noel Coward since its incarnation in 1929, and has even made an appearance in the TV adaptation of Christie’s Poirot. On a practical note there is on-site parking available close to the beach with daily charges from £3.50. Toilets and shower facilities with disabled access are also nearby, and lifeguards are present from May to September. The Venus café offers teas, coffees and other refreshments including the ice creams that are of such fundamental importance for a day at the beach. Meanwhile, dog lovers will be pleased to know that four legged friends are welcome at Bigbury on Sea, but restrictions apply from 1st May until 30th September. Ultimately, Bigbury on Sea is a supremely beautiful location and fun family day out with abundant wildlife to enjoy and coastal footpaths to explore as well, making it a wonderful destination to visit on holiday in Devon, no matter what time of the year it is.
Great beach dogs allowed it's our favourite beach in south Devon
September 2023
Absolutely world class beaches around bigbury and bantham,stunning at all times.
September 2023
Fabulous sandy beach with good cafe and toilets. Advisable to get there early as parking can be an issue.
September 2023
Lovely area to visit our grandchildren loved it for body boarding. It was safe for them and also had RNLI lifeguards present. A trip on the sea tractor was quite a highlight for them.
August 2023
A beautiful beach, soo close to our holiday accommodation we could go home for lunch. Just ass well because the beach cafe is overpriced and very average.
August 2023
Great beach especially for children. Ample parking, cafe, surf shop and very clean free toilets
August 2023
Favourite sandy beach, part dog friendly over summer,
July 2023
Wonderful place, lovely walk to Burgh Island and up to top.
July 2023
A delightful spot and good water sport activities. Burgh Island is a must.
July 2023
Fabulous convergence of two tides and wonderful beaches. Beach Barista on the Bigbury side selling great coffee and ice cream. Beach shop very handy for topping up on beach gear.
June 2023
Get there early to get a car parking space. Great location for families
May 2023
Loved this beach we spent a lot of time here. Plus side - the car park machines don’t work and it was impossible to pay via the App. The parking attendant told us not to worry about trying! Minus - very smelly toilets.
August 2022
Excellent beach for all the family with dog friendly sections. Massive sandy beach when tide out. Cafe and toilets above beach. Paying for car park very difficult unless you have coins.
August 2022
Fantastic beach! The walks we had at low tide were amazing. Especially when we walked along the river looking over to Bantham.
July 2022
Wonderful beach at low tide. Great spot.
October 2021
A tranquil, enchanting destination for families and dogs alike. Away from the hustle and bustle , outstanding views, fabulous beach for walkers and bathers.
August 2021
Amazing beach and in our opinion the best in the area. Great cafe and surf shop where we hired SUPs. Visited most days and was always impressed. Visit in the evening for a beautiful sunset too. Walking over to the island and exploring there is also worth it.
August 2021
Clean and safe
July 2021
A beautiful location, and just the right amount of facilities. The roads to Bigbury can sometimes be a challenge due to narrowness, but it's worth it when you get here.
June 2021
What a really stunning beach, well worth the trip round the estuary from Noss Mayo. Gorgeous sand and very dog friendly. Worth having a coffee at the Pilchard Inn on Burgh Island.
May 2021
Beautiful location, lovely large sandy beach. If you go across to Burgh Island when the tide is out be warned the prices at Pilchard's Inn are extortionate!
May 2021
We have visited Bigbury and Burgh Island over many years, and it never disappoints; the picturesque environment does much to enhance the holiday atmosphere, and meets the needs of a relaxed holiday.This year, we enjoyed the wonderful experience of cream tea and cocktails at the famous hotel at a very reasonable price; we booked in advance, were driven to the entrance via the hotel transport, and sea tractor back - perfect afternoon!
September 2019
Bigbury bay which I have visited since a child and an amazing beach for all the family.
August 2019
Wonderful - with greats loos & cafes. The Beach Barista coffee is also great!
August 2019
Really lovely sandy beach, perfect for young families as the water stays shallow and the dog can join you in certain areas too, so makes for an all round great day out!
July 2019
Excellent beach for small children. Very clean. The sea tractor gave it an added dimension. Our 2 year old granddaughter loved riding on it!
June 2019
Fab, sand spit beach, covered at high tide, access to Burgh island. An absolute must.
July 2018
Gorgeous beach - very large and areas suitable for dogs. Check tides before you go. Walk over to Burgh island is great. Good toilets and shop - very clean.
July 2018
Wonderful beach and great view of Burgh Island and the marvellous hotel.
July 2018
Perfect
June 2018
Spent a happy afternoon watching the sea.
May 2018
Perfect location. Excellent to walk across the tombolo and explore the island. Very safe for dogs. We visited on a very sunny day in April and were lucky to get a free parking spot right by the slipway. Views from the top are wonderful. Watching the waves meet from both directions is fascinating.
April 2018
Great beach for walking the dog - only part of the beach is restricted. Not overcrowded as we visited out of season and some lovely views in all directions.
September 2017
Lovely place. Child friendly with fantastic views. Only downside is the dogs that are allowed on. It can get very busy in high season and the dogs can be a pain if running loose especially if you have got little ones. We have got a dog so it's not because we aren't dog lovers!
July 2017
Rather run down and disappointing that visitors are made to feel rather unwanted with only a small section of the pub open to non-residents and the hotel off limits completely to non-residents. View from the top lovely, but I wouldn't drive miles and miles to visit. What attracted me was the parting of the sea and that was a lovely view
June 2017
Fantastic unique place with sea both sides of the beach when the tide is out and Burgh Island to walk to with a lovely old pub but inefficient service.
April 2017
Challaborough Bay
(3 miles)
(6)
Close to Kingsbridge, Challaborough Bay is a sandy beach in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that’s perfect for enjoying all the seaside activities nature can afford. At low tide the beach is ideal for visiting families to build sandcastles and explore the rock pools, while the swells and shore breaks also attract surfers and bodyboarders. There are some beautiful walks along the coast path that surrounds it, heading towards Bigbury on Sea in particular. Making it an ideal spot to spend the day, the beach has toilets, a café and a beach shop close by, although access is via steps and small paths so accessibility isn’t wheelchair friendly. There is a car park but it’s rather small, so it’s good to know that a 15-minute walk to Bigbury will see ample parking available – seasonal charges apply so remember to bring cash with you. While four legged friends are welcome in the winter, they are not allowed on the beach between May and September, so do plan their walks with that in mind. It’s a lovely spot along the coast path to bring them to, you can even beach hop from one to the next!
Cempletely different atmosphere to the rest of the South Hams. Part of a beautiful coastline set amidst class South Hams countryside.
June 2023
Good if you’re staying all day with children but expensive to park, only whole day parking not good if you don’t want to stay a long tome
April 2022
I didn't like it here. I found it a bit tacky. Also on my walk I popped into the Cafe in the morning but had missed their breakfast time which ended at 11.30 and I was there at 11.34 so they refused to serve me toast with coffee! So I walked out! A guy behind me in the queue was left open mouthed and said if I go on to Bigbury I'll get it anytime I want!
September 2021
Beautiful place to watch the sunset. Good fish and chips on the beach in the evening. Wouldn’t spend the day there as holiday park attached and the beach was left absolutely covered in rubbish by the guests ????
September 2019
Lovely, & just a short walk from Bigbury on Sea car park. It also has a fantastic chip shop that does gluten free fish & chips!
August 2019
Lovely beach
April 2017
Bantham Beach
(3 miles)
(15)
What an amazing beach, perfect for doggy adventures, love it love it love it, the river beach is especially nice
March 2024
Lovely beach but no dog's allowed
September 2023
Lovely beach and walk over cliffs to Thurlestone. Beautiful views.
July 2023
One of the most beautiful and relaxing places on earth.
June 2023
Worth the £4.50 to park for the afternoon plenty of walking and rock pools to explore, a good wide sandy beach for people with children
April 2022
Great beach particularly at low tide
October 2021
The most extaordinary place and great for kids. Lots to see and do - great sand and very shallow waters so very safe. if you get a chance to go on the water tractor that is great.. and do visit the Pub on the island. Great day out.
August 2021
A lovely beach. £6.50 to park for the day - it's a private estate - but a shame that the owners aren't prepared to put some of the money towards improvements to the toilets - one small sink in each of the men's & women's toilets with a malfunctioning tap is not enough for a beach full of people, children & dogs!
August 2019
Lovely beach for gentle surfing with ice creams, coffee, snacks and pizzas close to the car park.
July 2019
Glorious especially at low tide.
April 2019
Best beach in the South Hams.
July 2018
Can get busy with surfers, but a beautiful place with a wide sandy beach. Lots of room for everyone.
April 2018
Beautiful beach. Nightmare of a road (especially in high season) to get to it. Worth it though when you get there.
July 2017
A short walk (less than a mile) from Thurlestone, this is a stunning beach. Lots of shallow water with sand underfoot, truly amazing.
July 2017
Fantastic sandy beach and so big. My dog loved running around and jumping into the water. Plenty of space for all.
April 2017
Leas Foot Sands
(3 miles)
(8)
A small sandy beach belonging to Thurlestone Golf Club, those who have been on regular Devon weekend breaks and holidays will have seen this beach change somewhat in recent years thanks to storm damage, but the evolving landscape merely adds to its charm. A 200-metre walk down a paved path from the golf club and its car park and you find yourself heading down a gentle slope onto the sand, with the option of enjoying the beach in its own right or walking along the coast in either direction towards Bantham or South Milton Sands. Dogs are allowed here at any time, which of course adds to the appeal for walkers, and if you fancy stopping somewhere for lunch then Thurlestone village nearby is home to a charming pub that’s cryptically named The Village Inn, which is suitable for the whole family and wonderfully cosy in the winter months. Alternatively head to the Beachhouse café at South Milton for lunches and evenings meals with a view of the sunset, or cups of tea and brownies from the Gastrobus at Bantham. It is one of the area’s quieter beaches, often acting as a place to wander past rather than one to spend the whole day on, but given its easy access and the proximity of the car park, and the golf club, it’s a delightful little spot in which to while away the afternoon.
We visited this beach most days either morning or early evening to take the dog and enjoy the sunsets
September 2021
We found this to be a very pleasant spot for a coffee. The sands were pristine.
September 2021
Lovely beach for swimming and supping
June 2021
a fabulous beach, dog and heart friendly
December 2020
We like this beach. We walk to it from the property we stay in in Thurlestone. It's always quiet. There are lovely views out to sea and you really feel close to nature when swimming. There is good sand, some rocks on either side of the beach, it's easy to access and we usually walk home along the coast path for more lovely views.
August 2019
Great quiet beach with wonderful coastal walk alongside gold course round to Bantham. Parked free in field adjacent to golf club, although we understand they will be charging for parking soon. Only downside was that the public toilets were closed - we went October 2018.
November 2018
This is possibly the best beach in the whole of England
July 2017
A very nice beach with quite a lot of sand at times. So easy to access, even managed to get both (octogenarian) parents to it and my mother in the sea for a paddle!
July 2017
Ayrmer Cove
(4 miles)
(20)
Roughly one kilometre (20 minutes depending on your pace) from the National Trust car park at Ringmore, and with a selection of footpaths to get to it, Ayrmer Cove is a quiet secluded beach on the South West Coast Path. For anyone on holiday in South Devon it’s a peaceful place to sit and contemplate the natural scenery amongst the shingle, pebbles and rock pools, admiring the cliffs. It makes for a beautiful destination to walk to from Ringmore itself, which is a small village (population 230) with views towards the cove itself as well as Bigbury Bay – it makes for a wonderful holiday cottage destination in South Devon as well as a place to visit as part of your day. Walking to the beach allows you to discover the surrounding woodland, wildlife and history of the area – taking in old smugglers’ routes and hedgerows that have been in situ since the 1800s. It is a little tricky to get to so it’s not ideal for wheelchairs, and there aren’t any toilets or facilities at the beach itself so if you want to stay for a little while don’t forget to take snacks or a picnic if the weather is right. This is all about enjoying the environment that’s such a proud part of the National Trust – it’s everything a holiday in Devon is about, and yes, dogs are permitted all year round and will very much enjoy the walk!
Fabulously unspoilt and beautiful.
June 2023
Childhood memories and very clean
May 2022
Lovely location for photography and any easy walk from the National Trust car park
April 2022
Beautiful place!
September 2021
Beautiful clean quiet beach , well worth a visit
September 2021
Beautiful cove, first visit. Quite a challenging walk to get there but fascinating to see the slate formations.
August 2021
Perfect swim spot
May 2021
What a wonderful, quiet little haven!
September 2019
A beautiful little cove and fun for dogs and children.
August 2019
You can walk to this secluded cove from the cottage. Probably about 20 mins away, depending on your pace. Plenty of blackberries to eat/collect on route when in season! No facilities at the cove but beautifully unspoilt.
August 2019
Really beautiful secluded beach - great for the dog too!
July 2019
A lovely beach at the end of a beautiful valley. Absolutely perfect for dogs and never busy.
June 2019
Parked in the NT car park at Ringmore and took the 15 min walk down to the beach. Saw a beautiful sunset and had the place to ourselves. Bliss
November 2018
What a fantastic place. So quiet - we had the whole beach to ourselves a lot of the time. Our dogs loved it.
September 2018
A lovely quiet cove, with excellent rock pools at low tide. No sand but the kids enjoy it as an alternative to the massive sandy beaches at Bigbury and Bantham.
September 2018
stunning little beach, very quiet and great for snorkelling
July 2018
Beautiful cove. Very quiet with lots of bird life.
June 2018
Well worth the walk with beautiful views of Burgh island from the coast path. We were the only ones there on a very sunny day in April. Perfect.
April 2018
Simply stunning and well worth the steep (ish) walk down from the National Trust car park at Ringmore. When there - it's hard to imagine the horrors of today's modern world.
September 2017
Gorgeous beach for an evening swim and barbecue. So peaceful and beautiful
June 2017
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