Gardens

ENCHANTING GARDENS

The three-acre gardens surrounding the cottages are full of charm and atmosphere with an abundance of plants, trees and wildlife. There are several lawned and wooded areas and a charming pond with a small island. There is a lovely circular walk up and around Humphrey's Hill, with excellent views of the surrounding countryside. Whatever the time of year, there is always wildlife in the garden and something is in flower. The bird table in the courtyard is often full of birds and the graceful swallows return to the farm every year in the summer.

Map of grounds, lawn, meadow, pond, orchard

"We were enchanted by the atmosphere here on our very first visit and knew we would be proud to welcome guests to this special place" (Melanie & John Moore)


The Lower Lawn is surrounded by mature trees (including eucalyptus, oak and cherry) providing shelter and privacy for summer picnics and ball games. The sloping hill up through the forest is an exiting place for children to play and there is a small "Delve" where stone was quarried for the Farmhouse.		The Pond beside the lower lawn is a haven for dragonflys, tadpoles, newts, and other wildlife. Sometimes there are mallard ducks or moorhens nesting around the pond. The chorus of crickets lends a Mediterranean feel to summer evenings.

The pond is surrounded by exotic plants, including astilbe, iris, skunk cabbage and a giant hogweed.		In springtime there are a profusion of daffodils around the site and many unusual wild flowers, including snake's head fritillary, wood anemone, and dog's tooth violet.



There are two paths up to Humphrey's Hill, forming a charming circular walk, ideal for walking the dogs, or for trying to surprise the local wildlife. It is quite common to see rabbits, pheasants, and occasionally, wild deer.		The path behind the Farmhouse is very colourful, lined with different azaleas which blaze with colour in spring and the path is overhung by an ornamental maple which is spectacular in the autumn.


The wildflower meadow, at the top of Humphrey's Hill, has lovely views to the east, and even in the winter there is a blaze of colour from the gorse.		The meadow is left to grow long in the summer and has many wild flowers and grass seed-tops which wave in the wind. There are paths cut through the meadow, but the children may prefer to tunnel through the long grass!


The orchard copse has a spectacular show of wild buttercups and violets in the early summer.		Another view of the orchard copse in early summer, showing the winding paths and excellent views to the east. This is our favourite place to relax when we should be working...


Check out our special offers and competitive all-inclusive prices	Peaceful rural village with friendly local shop and traditional pub	Ideal base from which to Exmoor and the North Devon coast