Guests say
Higher Bumsley Barn in Devon is a well-received cottage, praised for its stunning location, cleanliness, and comfort. Guests appreciate the thoughtful touches, such as fresh flowers and eggs, and the property's proximity to nature and walking paths. While some mention narrow access roads and a desire for better TV options, the overall sentiment is positive, with many planning to return.
Reviews consistently mention the high standard of cleanliness, with guests commending the property's tidiness and the efforts of the cleaners. A few minor comments about dust do not detract from the overall excellent impression.
The location is highly praised for its beauty and tranquility, with stunning views and wildlife. Some guests note the steepness of the area and the narrow access, but these aspects are part of the rural charm and do not significantly impact the positive feedback.
Guests find the barn very comfortable, with special mentions of the fantastic shower, comfortable sofa, and the warmth provided by the log burner. A few comments about bed quality suggest room for improvement, but overall, comfort is rated highly.
The property is well-equipped, with a great shower, balcony, and internet access. Some guests suggest decluttering and updating the TV options. The mention of a lack of freezer space and the expectation of guests cleaning are noted, but these do not overshadow the positive experiences.
While guests frequently mention and appreciate the thoughtful gestures, such as fresh eggs and flowers, there are not enough reviews explicitly discussing the consistency of these gifts to guarantee their provision. Therefore, while the sentiment is positive, a score cannot be accurately assigned.
About this property
A characterful barn conversion nestled in the beautiful Heddon Valley, offering magnificent panoramic views over the valley to the lake and wooded hillsides beyond, Higher Bumsley Barn is a truly wonderful location to enjoy a break to Devon. Situated just outside the village of Parracombe in the heart of the Exmoor National Park, the property lies within 50 acres of traditional hill farm, perfect for a family of three or a couples’ escape. Although still a traditional hill farm with an enclosed field system, Higher Bumsley is now an Environmental/Conservation Farm with a small herd of wild Exmoor ponies, Hebridean sheep, chickens, ducks, geese and cats, and has a site for one of Britain’s rarest butterflies, the High Brown Fritillary.
Being a County Wildlife Site too means you can be witness to a diversity of plant species and wildlife, even spotting red deer in the fields in very early morning, as well as buzzards and peregrine falcons, making this a sublime spot for nature enthusiasts. The property itself dates from 1862 and has been stylishly converted from a former barn, set just a short distance from the owner's own home, it boasts accommodation all on the first floor. Upon entering this property over the rustic bridge, you are welcomed into a light and spacious open-plan living space with a vaulted ceiling, with a fully-equipped kitchen and dining area for the budding chef to prepare a mouthwatering meal.
Afterwards you can sink into the inviting sofa and light the woodburning stove, a real luxury on those cooler evenings, before you enjoy entertainment from the TV, with the last of the evening light coming in from the large glass balcony doors. Throw open the doors and step onto the decked balcony for some alfresco dining on a balmy summer evening or for your morning coffee, soaking up the stunning views over the River Heddon, across wooded hillsides and out to Exmoor. Retire to one of the two attractive bedrooms, with a double and a single, both excellently decorated and with plenty of storage, as well as enjoying more spectacular views from the windows, served by a spacious shower room.
Spend time relaxing in the garden too, indulging in an afternoon Devon cream tea, or head down into the village of Parracombe to the local pub for a mid-afternoon treat, with more eateries and restaurants to choose from in the seafront town of Lynton or the village of Combe Martin. An energetic hike or cycle over Exmoor National Park is a perfect way to take in the scenery, revealing outstanding beauty spots and locations for a picturesque picnic, with a public footpath which runs right past the door offering the best place to start. Visit the wonderful Exmoor Zoo for a great day out, especially with a little one, with the zoo home to a wide range of animals, including the only pair of black leopards on exhibit in the UK!
Head to the stunning beaches of Combe Martin, Ilfracombe, or Lynmouth, great for surfing and water sports as well as paddling and sunbathing, with many hidden coves and bays scattered along the coast, explore the South West Coast Path to uncover some secret secluded places! Barnstaple also boasts a theatre, cinema, plenty of eateries and nightlife for the young at heart. For a refreshing retreat to North Devon, book Higher Bumsley Barn.
Resting amidst the pleasant surroundings of North Devon is the village of Parracombe, where heather-clad moorland, sparkling trout streams, and wooded valleys are all around. The village is home to a specialist book shop and a local inn with a bar, while Besshill Farm Shop is around 5 miles away, with more selection found in Lynton and Combe Martin. Discover the amazing North Devon coast, as well as Exmoor National Park and the fantastic Exmoor Zoo.
Accommodation
First-floor accommodation with level access from the rear.
Two bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x single.
Shower room with shower, basin and WC.
Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with woodburning stove
Electric thermostat controlled central heating with woodburning stove.
Purified spring water.
Electric oven and hob, fridge/freezer, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer, TV and WiFi.
Fuel, power and starter pack for woodburning stove included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Off-road parking for two cars.
Lawned garden area with bench seating.
Balcony with table, chairs and parasol.
Secure mountain bike storage.
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.
Shop 5.2 miles, pub 1.9 miles.
Check-in time 4pm.
Note: There is a landline in the property for local or incoming calls only.
Note: The property is approached by a long partially unmade lane which is uneven in places at the beginning but leads on to a tarmacked drive.
Note: Property cannot accommodate a sunday changeover
Nearby points of interest
- Woolacombe Beach
Reviews (41)
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Elizabeth
It is very comfortable and in beautiful surroundings, yet it is convenient to explore the coast and country. Previous guests upset by cows and potholes would do well to understand the countryside and drive more slowly. The countryside is to be understood and appreciated. It is where hardworking people strive, in all weathers, to provide food and a sustainable environment - it is not a theme park for town and city dwellers!
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John
The road from Parracombe to the farm turn-off was narrow with occasional passing points, but due to it being a farm road, meant at times , reversing back some distance. Also the actual farm access toad was quite narrow between heavily foliaged local brick walls. For me it could have been an ideal location to retire, but not for my wife. Expect vehicles to get very dirty ( Cows ).Hosts very pleasant and helpful, especially after our car problems. We could not get a phone signal, and had to rely on Watsac.
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Margaret
Perfect holiday place for 3. Stunning country views all around. Enjoyed it so much, we have booked another week in October. Just be aware that there is no calls/text phone signal as it is so isolated (you have to walk up their driveway to get it) but the property has a land line and Internet.