Greenfinch

Why you'll love staying here

Situated just three miles from the border with Cornwall, Greenfinch is a stylish “upside down” barn conversion on a working smallholding overlooking Upper Tamar Lake.

Thoughtfully restored to retain original timber beams, vaulted ceilings, and exposed stonework, the cottage provides comfortable accommodation for a couple or solo traveller looking for a peaceful countryside break. Guests should note that due to the farm’s rural location, WiFi can be intermittent, and it is accessed via narrow country lanes which may be a challenge for some drivers.

Outside, Greenfinch benefits from a pretty patio garden, as well as a shared courtyard, and a dedicated field for exercising dogs. Guests are also welcome to explore the farm which is home to rare breed sheep, alpacas, goats, and free range chickens. Those visiting in spring will have the opportunity to see new born lambs and help out at feeding times.

The Tamar Lakes are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Head to the Upper Lake Activity Centre to hire equipment and try your hand at kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, windsurfing, or sailing. Or visit the nature reserve at the Lower Lake to spot a variety of wetland and woodland bird species. Both lakes are good for fishing and a 3 mile walking and cycling trail encircles the Upper Lake.

With easy access to the coast, there are plenty of excellent beaches close to Greenfinch. Summerleaze, the main beach at Bude, is a wide stretch of golden sand backed by dunes with a semi-natural, tidal pool that’s a safe haven for swimming, while Westward Ho! is one of Devon’s premier surfing spots with dogs welcome on the beach all year round.

Nearby Hartland Peninsula situated on the South West Coast Path is renowned for its unspoilt landscape, dramatic cliffs, and the opportunity to spot seals and dolphins.

Both Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks can be reached in around an hour, and other nearby attractions include St Nectan’s Waterfall, The BIG Sheep adventure park, and RHS Garden Rosemoor.

Known as the “last village in North Devon”, Bradworthy has the largest village square in England with a traditional 16th century coaching inn serving food, a village store, post office, and handful of independent shops.