Holiday cottage in Westward Ho!, Devon - Sleeps 3 (FCH74819)

A gem in the crown of nine cottages, this engaging property is the perfect base for couples or small families, longing for a taste of rural Devon life. Whether you want to experience the Tarka Trail's sublime scenery, relax on the beach at Westward Ho! (2 miles), Northam (4 miles) and Instow (5 miles), learn to ride white waves, or savour luscious cream teas, this glorious crescent of English coast has it all.

Appledore (4 miles) has some lovely pubs, a maritime museum and an antiques emporium. Spreading out behind like a green velvet cloth, Northam Burrows Country Park is a paradise for both visitors and the resident wildlife. Inside the single-storey cottage, you'll find character, charm and loving touches.

The lounge has delightful views, a smart TV and a sleek electric fire for cosy nights in. After a dip in the heated pool, and a BBQ on the shared rear patio, sink into a relaxing bubble bath and drift into a blissful sleep in the tranquil triple bedroom. Outside, are kunekune pigs, sheep and goats, who all have their own names.

There's a shared front lawn for gatherings, an excellent shared play area for children, 15 acres of private farmland to explore and superb countryside views. Discover divine beaches at Braunton (17 miles), Croyde and Putsborough (20 miles), Combe Martin and Woolacombe (22 miles), and savour delicious seafood at Ilfracombe (23 miles).

Clovelly (11 miles) is an unspoilt fishing village, tumbling down steep lanes to the sea. Wander the rugged Hartland Peninsular (16 miles), with its secret coves, ancient abbey, white lighthouse and quaint quay. For days out, catch a train from Barnstaple (11 miles) to Exeter, Newquay, St Ives and Penzance.