Apple Tree Cottage

Why you'll love staying here

Apple Tree Cottage is a delightful rural retreat set on a working farm in the picturesque village of Awliscombe, on the edge of the Blackdown Hills, within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Converted from a former milking parlour, the cottage has been beautifully restored, preserving many of its original features and character while offering comfortable accommodation for families or groups of friends looking to explore the East Devon countryside.

The stone-built cottage is reached via a private lane that winds through lush green fields. Guests are warmly welcomed with a traditional cream tea, with freshly baked scones, homemade jam, and rich Devonshire clotted cream.

Inside, the open-plan living room is bright and airy. Whitewashed walls, terracotta tiled floors, and exposed beams provide a charming backdrop to the stylish furnishings, while underfloor heating ensures warmth during cooler months. The well-equipped kitchen offers ample storage and a full range of modern appliances, ensuring the designated chef has everything at hand.

Patio doors flood the living area with natural light which has a spacious farmhouse-style dining table, ideal for hearty breakfasts or relaxed dinners while planning the coming adventures. Adjacent, a comfortable seating area arranged around a cosy wood-burning stove set within a brick fireplace provides the perfect spot to unwind with a glass of wine and a film after exploring the countryside.

The ground floor also includes a bedroom and an accessible wet room opposite, making the cottage suitable for guests with limited mobility.

Upstairs are three further bedrooms, thoughtfully designed for restful nights, with a neutral colour palette, comfortable beds, and crisp linen. A second bathroom on the first floor offers both a bath and a shower.

Outside, a large enclosed lawned garden backs onto a small orchard, which in turn leads to open farmland and woodland. Garden furniture and a barbecue make it a perfect setting for leisurely al fresco lunches or evening drinks while watching the sun set over the fields.

Guests also have access to the farm’s recently restored cider barn. The ground floor is still used for producing apple juice, while the upper floor has been transformed into a games room, offering entertainment for the whole family.

The farm itself spans almost 100 acres and has been in the same family since the early 1900s. It is home to a herd of Ruby Red Devon cattle and a flock of sheep, and children will delight in meeting the newborn calves and lambs in spring. A track winds through the farm’s fields and woodland, offering stunning valley views and plenty of opportunities to explore and spot the abundant wildlife.

Just 3 miles away lies the charming market town of Honiton, historically known for lace-making and pottery. Today, it is celebrated for its twice-weekly market, antique shops specialising in furniture, art, and second-hand books, as well as a wealth of independent shops, galleries, and cafés that contribute to its lively character.