The Dovecote

Why you'll love staying here

The Dovecote is a delightful single-storey lodge set on a working livestock farm in the village of Hartland. Situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is perfectly placed for families, couples, or groups of friends looking to explore Devon’s beautiful countryside and dramatic coastline.

Guests are welcomed with a generous hamper filled with local produce, homemade cake, fresh eggs from the farm’s hens, and seasonal flowers, a thoughtful introduction to the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the cottage. Inside, a spacious entrance hall provides plenty of room for coats, boots, and outdoor gear after a day spent exploring the surrounding area.

The country-style kitchen forms the heart of the home, with ample storage and workspace alongside a full range of modern appliances, including a large range cooker that makes preparing relaxed home-cooked meals a pleasure. A kitchen table is the perfect spot for hearty farmhouse breakfasts or somewhere to gather with a drink and chat while dinner is being prepared.

Glazed doors lead into the sitting room, an inviting space with plush leather sofas and double-aspect windows that frame lovely views of the garden and surrounding farmland. It’s a wonderful place to unwind in the evenings, whether watching a film together or enjoying a family board game.

Both bedrooms are designed as peaceful retreats, with comfortable beds and crisp linens ensuring a restful night’s sleep. The principal bedroom benefits from its own en-suite bathroom, while the twin room enjoys distant views of the sea. A stylish family shower room completes the accommodation.

Outside, the enclosed lawned garden is a safe space for children to play and dogs to roam freely. A sunny decked terrace with outdoor dining furniture is perfect for morning coffee or leisurely al fresco lunches while taking in views across the surrounding fields. Sheep graze nearby and may wander over to say hello, while in spring the sight of playful lambs adds to the charm of farm life.

Hartland itself is a characterful coastal village, home to a Grade II listed lighthouse and historic quay. The village has a good range of independent shops, along with cosy pubs and cafés serving fresh local seafood and traditional Devonshire fare. During the summer months, Hartland hosts an annual art trail where local artists open their studios to visitors, alongside regular food and music festivals. Just a mile from the village lies Hartland Abbey, where visitors can admire an impressive collection of paintings and porcelain before exploring the beautiful gardens.