torrington brambles cottage overview

brambles is one of a group of three self catering cottages - situated just a few miles from the historic Cavalier town of Great Torrington in a truly idyllic rural location but just half a mile from the Bideford to Okehampton road. Approach is via a single track lane to a gravelled open area in front of the cottages. The cottages have been converted from agricultural buildings to modern high standards yet retain a lot of their original features and charm like ceiling beams, tongue and groove doors with traditional metal latches, exposed woodwork and stonework. They are all centrally heated and have an excellent range of facilities including bathrooms with full size baths and showers. They also have modern well-equipped kitchens and living areas. As the lane is a ‘no through road’ there is no passing traffic to intrude on the tranquility. There is ample parking and each cottage has its own patio area that is illuminated at dusk.

As this is a rural location, dogs are most welcome, (there is a nominal charge and a maximum of 1 per cottage). The solitude of these cottages makes an ideal venue to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy an ‘at one with nature’ experience. There is an abundance of bird life and wild fowl, as well as many miles of country lanes and footpaths to ramble or explore by bicycle.

All bed linen, bath and hand towels are provided free of charge, central heating and electricity are also included.

living areas

Enter into brambles through the semi glazed front door and your eye is immediately drawn to the double french doors that provide a fantastic view of the garden and pond beyond. Like the other 2 cottages, there is a truly rustic feel, with exposed beams, natural wood features and stonework. This is the largest of the cottages, and benefits from a good sized separate lounge. Two large sofas mean that 6 people can be seated in comfort around the pine coffee table. Whilst the antique dresser adds to the farmhouse theme, guests modern entertainment needs are met, there is a TV, DVD player, music system including CD as well as a selection of DVD’s, CD’s and books are provided.

kitchen / dining

The kitchen with dining table creates a great social space. Solid wood farmhouse style units add to the rustic feel, whilst the kitchen itself is fully equipped with a comprehensive selection of pots, pans, crockery and cooking utensils. There is an electric hob with a single oven and grill, microwave, coffee machine, 4 slice toaster, fridge with icebox as well as a stainless steel sink. The oval dining table provides comfortable seating and dining space for 6.

bedrooms

On the landing, there is a wall mounted full length pine framed mirror.

Bedroom 1 is a good sized double room with a stunning view over the rear grounds, including the pond. The double bed is shouldered on both sides by 3 drawer bedside tables, each with a lamp, a built in cupboard provides ample hanging space.

Bedroom 2 is a light and airy twin room overlooking the front gravel drive. A central bedside table supports a lamp and clock radio. plenty of storage is provided by a built in wardrobe and pine chest of 5 drawers with lamp and vanity mirror.

Bedroom 3 contains adult sized bunk beds and has a large 5 drawer chest along with 3 drawer bedside table with clock radio and lamp. This room also enjoys a view out over the pond. Unlike the other 2 rooms, a travel cot can be easily accommodated here.

bathroom

The first floor family bathroom is well equipped with a modern suite, comprising a bath with shower over, wash basin and W/C. The appearance of suite is enhanced by downlighters. A heated towel rail provides generous warmth and an electric shaver socket is conveniently located by the mirror over the hand basin.

outdoors

The cottages are situated on the edge of a Shire Horse Washing pond and used to be part of the Smytham Manor Estate. This pond and the surrounding area are home to a myriad of wildlife including our own breeding pair of Moorhens and more recently a family of Mallards.

The pond is securely fenced from the immediate garden and patios to ensure safety for all. Well away from the pond is a private childrens play area is with swings, seesaw and wendy house. Each cottage has its own secluded patio with wooden garden furniture and seating for all, perfect for bathing in the tranquility of solitude or al-fresco dining, although you may be joined for dinner by friendly Mallards or Moorhens! Through a 5 bar gate, and still on private land, there is a communal picnic table and brick built barbeque (please note that the washing pond is unfenced in this area).

shared utility area

A washing machine, tumble drier, dishwasher and freezer can be found in the shared utility room and are freely available for guests to use. A portable charcoal barbeque and tools along with games equipment and a windbreak are provided for guests convenience Although barbeque charcoal is provided, guests are asked to use it on a use and replace basis for the benefit of all. For added convenience a payphone is located in this room with the property managers freephone number provided.

AT A glance

Location - Near Little Torrington; Pets - Yes; 3 bedrooms; Sleeps 6+; ; Ideal for families, couples, 50+; Changeover Day: Saturday during peak weeks (otherwise flexible); TV with freeview; DVD player; DVD Selection; CD/Radio Sound System; Board Games and Book Selection; Oven; Hob; Fridge with ice box, Microwave; Kettle; Toaster; Iron and Ironing Board; Central heating; Linen provided for 1 x double, 4 x singles; BBQ (charcoal); Garden table and chairs; Off road parking for 1 car. Bath and Hand towels included, Travel cot/High Chair available free on request (only space for the travel cot in bedroom 3); Garden with childrens play area: Cream Tea provided for your arrival.

(Washing Machine; Tumble Dryer; Freezer; Dishwasher and payphone located in shared utility area)

ADD TO basket

Dog: GBP 20.00 per dog per week/short break

High chair: GBP 0.00

Travel cot: GBP 0.00

E&OE