Guest Room Digital Directory
Guest Room Directory
(Digital version)
Scott & Alistair welcome you to Brightham House Boutique B&B. We live on site and are on hand for anything you may require. This directory is designed to provide you with information you may need during your stay. If there is anything, we may not have covered, just ask and we will be more than happy to help.
Breakfast – Breakfast is served in our sunny conservatory or if you’d like to sit outside if it’s nice warm day, ask us to lay up a table for you. If you have any dietary requirements or allergies just let us know at the start of your stay.
Contact – If for any reason you need to contact us during your stay then just call 07799 114338 or 07771 801208 and we will be happy to assist. Our land line number here is 01548 560111
Wifi – All rooms and public areas and the garden have free wireless WiFi – the name is Brightham House and the password is Brighthamhouse2018 If you need to charge tablets or phones etc there are USB ports by the side of the beds.
Bedding – All rooms have feather and down duvets and pillows. They are treated so allergy sufferers are able to enjoy them also.
TV – The TV receives all freeview channels.
Check-out time –10.30AM – if you would like to check out later or need somewhere to store you bags just ask us.
Do Not Disturb – Rooms are refreshed 10.30am till mid-day. If you don’t want to be disturbed or would not like is to do this just leave the sign on the door.
Towel Hooks – Please hook towels on towel hooks only and not on the back of the door as these are stronger.
Bar – We have a fully licenced and stocked bar. We will serve you anything you would like from the bar. If we are not around you are free to help yourself and write down what you’ve had. This will get added to your bill at the end of your stay with us. Please can we ask that if you get a takeaway meal then this is eaten in downstairs only. If you have bought your own alcohol to consume, then please only do this in your room (you are welcome to borrow glasses). Only alcohol bought from our bar can be consumed in the public areas and garden and tub.
Smoking and Vaping – Brightham House is a non-smoking and vaping house but you can smoke and vape in the garden, but please be respectful of other guests.
Fire – All rooms and public areas are fitted with smoke detectors. Further instructions are given on the back of the door.
Doggies – If you have a dog staying with us, they are welcome everywhere but please can you leave them in your room when you come down for breakfast. If the weather is good you can ask for us to lay the table up outside and sit out on the terrace with them and all enjoy breakfast together. Please can you ensure if you let them off in the garden then you monitor them and clean up after them. Please depose of any number 2’s in the big general waste bin in the carpark. We have plenty of poo bags if you need them.
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TAXI’s – You can get a taxi easily if you book ahead. We recommend…
Nicks Taxi – 07517 399880
ONE 2 ONE – 01548 859359
24/7 Taxi – 07946 322824
In Hope Taxi 07719 730428
Moonraker Taxi 01548 560231
Totally Taxis 07542 626545
All the great restaurants get very booked up for the season. Below are a few of our regularly tasted & tested out by ourselves and top favourites …..
· The Oyster Shack (Bigbury)
Bigbury (25-minute drive away when the tide is out!)- Amazing seafood in a relaxed setting. It has a great terrace for a lazy lunch. If you say you are staying with us, you will receive a 10% discount off your bill.
· The Crab Shed (Salcombe)
Great seafood in an old crab processing shed on the water in Salcombe. Our favourite for great seafood.
· The Kings Arms (Salcombe)
A busy pub with a great fishy specials board and a sun terrace to soak up the views.
· The Crab Shell (kingsbridge)
Right on the creek and lots of outside seating, this trendy pub has a great vibe and, on a Friday, has live music outside on the terrace and serves great Pizza and a range of meat and fish dishes. Dog friendly outside and in the bar area too.
· Britannia On the Beach (Beesands)
A BYO fish shack that serves great seafood and charges a small corkage. Its had a mini refurb for this season and the seafood is so fresh it literally could have just jumped out the sea which is right over looking it. They also do takeaway so you can literally sit on the beach and enjoy the view.
· Oceans Restaurant (Bolberry)
A great restaurant that is really dog friendly and do a great Tapas night on a Thursday (3 dishes for £10) and a fish BBQ on a Sunday lunch in the summer. They also do an early bird offer on a Friday and Saturday between 6-7pm for 2 main courses of the menu and a bottle of house wine for £30! Great deal! This is a five-minute drive from us right on the cliff top and a sunset walk on the coast path after is the perfect way to end the day.
· Twenty Seven by Jamie Rodgers (Kingsbridge)
Our nearest fine dining restaurant. Jamie was on Masterchef the professionals and the food is amazing. One for a special treat!
· Cove Cafe Bar (Hope Cove)
While you are here you must go to the Cove Cafe Bar at our local sunset beach – Hope Cove for food and to watch the Devon sun set which are spectacular if you get a good one! You can’t book this one but they do a great table wait service and have a sun terrace overlooking the beach to wait with a glass of vino or craft ale (they have loads) for you to be called to your table and served… its really dog friendly and the food is great, local and good value too.
· The Old Inn (Malborough)
Our local, serving home-cooked food at realistic prices. With many special & offers on throughout the week such as ‘Pie & Pint’ or ‘Curry & Pint’ both £10 per person and they also have a variety of live entertainment on throughout the year.
Woodies (Kingsbridge)
A new addition for 2020. Its owned by our butcher/farmer Alex from the Salcombe Meat Company and is a burger and steak restaurant. Relaxed dining with great local produce. Give it a go! Say you are staying here to get a midweek special discount, so ask us for more information.
WOOD FIRED HOT TUB
If you would like to use the hot tub while you are here, just advise Scott or Alistair at breakfast a rough time you would like to use it that day. It takes a few hours to prepare and get up to temperature. We only light it and use it when the weather is dry and calm. It’s no fun sitting in it blowing a gale and raining!
Please read the T’s and C’s below then send Scott a text to confirm you have digested and then enjoy!
DUE TO COVID ONLY 1 ROOM IN THE TUB AT ANY ONE TIME – PLEASE WIPE THE EDGES TO THE WATER LINE WITH THE SANITIZER SPRAY AND CLOTH PROVIDED
- THE TUB IS FREE TO USE BUT WE ASK FOR A £5 DONATION TOWARDS THE COST OF THE LOGS PER ROOM PER STAY. YOU CAN USE IT AS MANY TIMES AS YOU WISH ON DIFFERENT DAYS BUT JUST LET SCOTT KNOW AND HE WILL GET IT READY EACH DAY FOR YOU.
- PLEASE ONLY USE PLASTIC CUPS PROVIDED ON THE BAR IN THE TUB AND PLEASE ONLY DRINK ALCOHOL PURCHASED FROM BRIGHTHAM HOUSE.
- PLEASE BE COURTESOUS AND RESPECTFUL TO OUR NEIGHBOURS AND OTHER GUESTS WHILE IN IT AND TRY TO KEEP NOISE TO A MINIMUM.
- WEAR CORRECT SWIMMING ATTIRE
- BE CAREFUL WHEN ADDING LOGS AND ONLY ADD 1 LOG AT A TIME TO MAINTAIN THE OPTIMIM 38 DEGREES C TEMPERATURE
- PLEASE DRY OFF BEFORE COMING BACK INTO THE HOUSE
- YOU CAN USE YOUR TOWELS FROM THE ROOM
- OPENING HOURS ARE 10.30AM TILL 10.30PM
- IF THE WEATHER IS BAD IE RAINING AND/OR VERY WINDY IT WILL NOT BE ABLE TO BE USED
- THE BUBBLES AND LIGHTS SWITCH IS ON THE SIDE OF THE TUB. SWITCH OFF BUBBLES WHEN FINISHED
Things to do …….
our lovely beaches….
We have lots of children friendly and dog friendly beaches extremely close to Brightham House, the South Hams district are famous for them!
They are all listed below, with the closest being first and have also where we can, given dog friendly info too!
Hope Cove Beach
Is our nearest beach being only just under two miles away.
Hope Cove consists of two sandy bays, Inner and Outer Hope. As the name suggests Inner Hope is more sheltered and is actually home to a small harbour tucked away behind the rocks at the northern end.
The twin beaches back onto the charming village which has plenty of facilities making this a popular family beach.
This popular South Hams village lies in the shelter of Bolt Tail, within the wide arc of Bigbury Bay.
Both beaches are sandy and backed by the red sandstone cliffs familiar to this part of Devon.
The northernmost, smaller of Hope Coves two beaches is also known as Mouthwell Sands. This is generally the more popular of the two, benefiting from a seasonal lifeguard service.
The wider, harbour beach is a great place for exploring with rockpools at either end and often something interesting going on.
Although tourism surpassed fishing as the villages main industry many years ago there are still a few small boats operating from here.
Dogs friendly beach?
Dogs are allowed on the bigger village beach all year but must be kept on leads. There is a seasonal dog ban during the day on the other beach (Mouthwell) (May to Sept)
Thurlestone Beach (South Milton Sands)
Thulestone offers the visitor two sheltered sandy beaches to choose from. Leasefoot, the smaller of the two lies next to Thurlestone Golf Club, while the larger Thurlestone Sands is just along the coast, closer to South Milton.
Thurlestone Sands is a popular location for a wide variety of watersports.Because Thurlestone Sands is accessed via a single-track road, it is relatively remote and does not get the crowds that are usual on equivalent Devon beaches.
The beaches lie in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and it’s easy to see why. They have a distinctly rural feel, and children will love splashing about in the clear shallow water at the shoreline. Care does however need to be taken further out to sea as signs here warn of dangerous riptides, currents and sudden shelving.
A notable feature at Thurlestone Sands is the famous Thurlestone Rock- an arched natural rock formation lying just off the rocks at one end of the beach. This is best viewed at high tide. The rocky outcrops flanking the beach provide shelter to the main beach area and expose some interesting rockpools at low tide.
Dog Friendly Beach? YES!
Although dogs are allowed on the beach at any time of year, there are strongly enforced dog-fouling laws here, which help to keep the golden sand here lovely and clean.
Leas Foot Sands Beach (Leasfoot)
Leas Foot Sands is a lovely little sandy beach located in front of the Thurlestone Golf Club, just north of Thurlestone beach.
The beach here is nearly always far less busy than its better-known neighbour and is often more sheltered from the breeze by the headland of Warren Point.
There is plenty to do at Leasfoot and it is generally safe to swim, although there is no lifeguard service. The rocks at either end of the beach make for some good snorkelling and are great for rock-pooling when the tide goes out.
Being slightly off the beaten track Leas Foot beach has no facilities itself. T
here are however some public toilets across the road beyond the golf course. Parking is also available a short walk away on the far side of the golf course.
Dogs friendly beach? YES !
North Sands
North Sands is a sandy beach located to the south of Salcombe and is an easy fifteen minute walk along Cliff Road from the town centre.
The nearby ruins of Salcombe Castle, also known as Fort Charles, provide an impressive backdrop to this already beautiful beach.
Although the beach is relatively small compared to a lot of beaches in the area, the soft golden sand and clean blue water make it a popular beach with families. The bay makes it an ideal place for swimming and the waters are calm and safe for children.
While the beach is completely submerged at high tide, at low tide the sand is nice and soft for sunbathing and relaxing.
There are also several convenient amenities nearby, including ample parking and the beach’s own cafe and shop.
Dog Friendly? Yes!
Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round and North Sands has been named numerous times as one of the most dog friendly beaches in the area.
South Sands
An unspoilt sandy cove at the mouth of the Salcombe Kingsbridge estuary. Some parking close to the beach or take the passenger ferry from Whitestrand Quay in Salcombe. Facilities for canoeing, sailing, windsurfing and diving.
Dog Friendly?
Dogs are banned between May September.
Surfing…..Swimming……
Bantham Beach
Bantham beach is one of the best in the area and ticks all right the boxes if you want a typical English seaside holiday.
Beautiful and Safe
This crackingly good beach is part of the designated South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s also won awards from the Marine Conservation Society and the coveted Blue Flag, so you know its clean. You can see Bigbury Bay and Burgh Island from the beach – a couple of interesting locations that are well worth a visit. You can get to Burgh Island by taking a ride on the famous sea-tractor, which the kids will love. Bantham is shallow and sandy so it’s great for families with kids who want to do a little swimming or paddling, and to keep anxious parents minds at rest there are lifeguards on duty from May to September. At low tide, you’ll find loads of shallow pools that warm up quickly in the sun and are perfect for crab hunting.
Surfing Trips
But theres more to Bantham beach than just sun, sand and ice cream. Its also one of the best surfing beaches in South Devon. The beach has got mellow waves for beginners (known in surf-speak as ankle slappers), while the mouth of the River Avon fires out enough rips and breaks to test even the most radical hot-doggers.
Once you’ve had enough of the waves theres a pub nearby serving great beer and home-cooked meals. If you want to stay near the beach there are plenty of great B&Bs in the local village. The beach is well served with its own facilities, including a beach shop where you can buy all those little essentials. While dogs are not allowed on the beach between May and September they are allowed on the Estuary all year round, which you can get to at low tide.
Bigbury on Sea
Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Bigbury on Sea beach in South Devon is ideal for family holidays. Dusted with sand and lapped by shallow waters, the beach offers safe fun for groups particularly if you’ve got children in tow. In addition, Bigbury on Sea beach is dotted with rock pools, so theres plenty of entertainment for budding marine biologists who like to explore.
Bigbury on Sea Beach has a wide and varied selection of water sports available to visitors who prefer their holidays to feature a little adrenaline rush. If you want to try something different from the usual bodyboarding or surfing then windsurfing and kitesurfing are popular here, with hire facilities located right on the beach.
To give you some peace of mind, there are lifeguards present at Bigbury on Sea beach during May to September and the beach also has a first-aid room. The beach has excellent water quality so you can be sure the whole family is safe to enjoy the sea, whether its paddling your feet or swimming along the beautiful beach. You can even take the dog onto Bigbury on Sea beach, although they are restricted to certain areas during the summer.
Bigbury on Sea beach has good facilities including a cafe that specialises in selling organic and local food. Its surf n turf is one of the best in the area and makes good use of locally sourced ingredients to create a delicious platter that everyone will enjoy.
Blackpool sands
If you fancy all the atmosphere and excitement of a holiday abroad but without actually breaking out the passports, then get yourself down to Blackpool Sands Beach. Its a Blue Flag Award-winning beach backed by evergreens and scented pines, giving it more than a whiff of the Mediterranean. Blackpool Sands is privately managed and has kept its standards high, making it one of the most popular family beaches in the region.
Blackpool Sands is also on the South West Coast Path, and so is in ideal place to start or finish a walk along this beautiful piece of South Devon coastline.
A Holiday Abroad in South Devon
On top of the pines and the sunshine, the waters at Blackpool Sands Beach are unusually clear and are tested regularly by the Environment Agency to confirm their cleanliness. There is also a superb range of facilities on hand. As well as the usual showers, toilets and disabled facilities, Blackpool Sands also has sand pits so that the kids can enjoy safe and supervised play.
Upgrade your Downtime
If you like to add a little adrenaline to your downtime, then why not try your hand at some exciting water sports? Kayak, paddle boards and wetsuits are all available to hire on the beach. But if you’re thinking of taking the dog then you’d be best advised to find another of South Devons beaches, as dogs are not allowed in the car parks or on Blackpool Sands from March to the end of October.
A beach shop caters for all those beach essentials and there is plenty of accommodation close to the beach.
Slapton Sands and Torcross
On top of being an extremely picturesque and popular beach, Slapton Sands plays an important part in the survival of some of the UK’s rarest flora and fauna. So if you’re looking for a cracking beach holiday with the opportunity to do a little bit of exploring on the side, Slapton Sands should be on your list of must visit destinations.
Slapton Sands’ Past
If you like your scenery to have a bit of history then Slapton Sands has a very moving story attached to it. In 1943, the beach was taken over by the allied forces to use as a rehearsal area for the D-Day Landings. Unfortunately, a combination of live ammunition and poor visibility resulted in the deaths of 749 American servicemen. You can visit a stone monument which was set in place on Slapton Sands to commemorate the ill-fated Operation Tiger, along with a Sherman Tank at nearby Torcross.
Slaptons Sands’ Present
Today, Slapton Sands is a beach where families and friends can enjoy great holidays. South Devons Mediterranean style climate means that the sea is safe, clean and calm, and there are plenty of water sports such as surfing, windsurfing and canoeing to try out. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months and there is a flag system in place telling you where its safe to swim and when to stay out of the water.
You can pick up a flag guide at the local Post Office or check local websites including the RNLI for details.
If you get peckish and have forgotten to pack the sandwiches, theres a beachside cafe serving drinks and light refreshments and Slapton Sands has facilities for anyone with mobility restrictions, with disabled beach access and toilets. If you want to bring the dog, you’ll be pleased to hear that Slapton Sands is a dog-friendly beach, allowing dogs throughout the year.
Many visitors come to observe wildlife in the Nature Reserve. Throughout the year the plants and animals living in the freshwater lake, Slapton Ley, vary according to the seasons, giving you the chance to see something different every time you come. The whole stretch of this particular piece of coastline has been designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is a great destination at any time of the year.
Things to do and See!
Walking the South West Coast Path
Walking South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Need we say more! The South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty was designated by government in 1960. It covers 60 glorious miles of coastline, estuaries and countryside between Plymouth and Torbay.
We also have maps you can borrow and can tell you great places to walk and
explore.
Walk to Hope Cove – our local nearest beach
It will take you around 45 minutes and is mostly across the fields taking in the breathtaking views of our coastline and out to sea. Start by going out our car park and turn right and walk past the church. Go right at the fork and follow the lane down towards Hope Cove. Watch out for tractors! After 10 minutes or so you will see a footpath sign on the left. Take this and cross the field and the next. You will see 2 wind turbines in a field. Walk across this field to the side and you will open up to the amazing views and be on the bridge at the top of the valley of the beautiful Devon countryside. You will then see a tractor track going downhill all the way to the coast keep going straight and you will eventually come into the middle of hope cove. Turn right after the church and that will take you to the most popular beach as you can sunbathe and swim even when the tide is in. Also check out the Cove Café Bar while you are down there. As this walk is across fields it gets muddy in winter and when we have had loads of rain.
Salcombe to Bolt Head Walk
A 3-mile moderate walk along part of the South West Coast Path National Trail passing through an enchanted landscape of rocky spires and jumbled pinnacles to the mouth of the Salcombe estuary, with inspiring views in all directions, this is a coastal walk guaranteed to lift the spirits. If your feeling more adventurous you can continue until you reach Hope Cove and reward yourself with lunch and a drink at the Cove Cafe Bar.
The Gara Rock Circular Walk
This walk takes in all the great things about Devon. Beaches, amazing views on the coast path, a rewarding G&T halfway round at the gorgeous Gara Rock Hotel and then a downhill walk through ancient woodland back to the foot ferry to take you back across the water to Salcombe town centre. If you don’t stop it takes around 2 hours but most stop for a refresh and chill at the hotel. Be sure to ask where the foot ferry goes from as its slightly different in Salcombe depending on the time of year. Top tip also is when you get across the other side of the estuary off the foot ferry walk along the beaches first if the tide is out enough (if not you can walk the road) when you get to the toilet block pick up the coast path and keep heading to the right. Don’t be tempted to go left as this will take you inland straight to the hotel and you will miss the amazing views. Once you get to the hotel after 90 minutes on the coast path you can stop there its open to non-residents. To get back just walk up the lane 100 metres and bear left through the woodland track and this will take you back to the toilet block where you started to get the ferry back (check the last ferry times on your trip over).
The Jewel of the South Hams just under 3 miles down the hill from us you can walk on the footpath (40 minutes) or drive (5 minutes) or in season drive part way and take the park and ride. There are loads of great eateries and a stunning harbour. If you like walking, sailing or boat tours and eating seafood (try and get a table at the Crab Shed….it’s amazing seafood) and watching the world go by then you will be in heaven here. It is also the origins of the now famous Jack Wills brand and of course where Crew Clothing was born. It has a lovely chilled vibe and there are some great shops and quirky eateries sampling all the local Devon delights. It is also home to our 2 other closest beaches North Sands and South Sands. You can also get the ferry across the other side of the water and laze on the beaches or go on the famous Gara Rock circular walk taking in the amazing views on our world-famous coast path.
Overbecks National Trust Museum and Garden
This National Trust property is on the top of a cliff and takes full advantage of the brilliant sea views. The views up the estuary are wonderful from the exotic gardens including a banana garden, palms and woodland. You need to be a confident driver to tackle the twisty climbing route to this place and be prepared to park along the road and walk the last part, up-hill. The car park at the end is small. Lovely bay at the bottom but you will have to pay to park there.
Burgh Island Bigbury on Sea
You must visit this great spot while you are here. As the name suggests its an island but you can walk out on the sand while the tide is out look around. The amazing views of the coast and beyond are worth the walk and then to reward yourself you can also get lunch at the ancient and enchanting Pilchard Inn built in 1336 it serves great ales and light lunches. Don’t worry if the tide comes in while you are exploring as the hotel on the island run a sea tractor for everyone for a small fee and will transport you back to the mainland in a jiffy! (just check in the pub that it’s running as out of season it has a limited service) You can also sunbathe and swim on the beach here and dogs are allowed on the right hand side in the summer season and all year for the winter season. You can also take dogs on the island as long as they are on the lead.
Kingsbridge
If you love the hustle and bustle of a traditional English market town, you’ll love the South Devon estuary town of Kingsbridge. Situated in the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Kingsbridge sits on the Salcombe estuary and is surrounded by lush, green rolling countryside, making it a popular destination for walking and sailing all year round. Kingsbridge is a great place to base yourself during a holiday for exploring South Devon beaches, the South West Coast Path and nearby towns and villages. From surfing to vineyards, there’s a lot to see and do in the Kingsbridge area.
The estuary provides plenty of opportunities if you’re a water sports enthusiast, such as kayaking, sailing and stand up paddle boarding. Nearby beaches such as Slapton and are great for days out building sandcastles or just relaxing in the area’s beauty. Kingsbridge has an eclectic selection of independent shops and a whole host of intriguing antique shops, art galleries, and gift shops to explore.
With a three-screen cinema, yoga studio and leisure centre with swimming pool there are plenty of opportunities to stay active and entertained. Go to the Crabshell pub on the water and have a nice lazy lunch and you can even paddle board from here at high tide. You can also pick up the Salcombe ferry that does a return trip in the summer season (high tide depends the times)
Totnes
Is very bohemian and prides itself on being very different indeed!
Totnes is an historic market town that combines alternative therapies, breathtakingly beautiful countryside and a fascinating history. Sitting in the heart of South Devon on the banks of the River Dart, this unique and charming town has an international reputation for its lively and diverse community and relaxed atmosphere. For shopping addicts Totnes offers an excellent range of small independent retailers and unique shops, the town is famed for its promotion of ethical products, whole-foods and fair trade goods.
In the Civil Hall Square, you’ll find the weekly market which held on Fridays and Saturdays, an Elizabethan market held each Tuesday morning (May-September), when traders dress in Elizabethan period costumes and the Totnes Sunday Good Food Market held the third Sunday of the month in the Market Square.
As well as shopping and exploring the towns history there are many wonderful things to see and do in and around Totnes. You can enjoy river trips on the Dart, discover one of the towns museums, visit Totnes Castle, take a ride on a steam railway or visit one of the many arts galleries
Dartmouth
The beautiful town of Dartmouth situated on the mouth of the River Dart is one of South Devons most popular and enchanting towns. With its charming historic streets, scenic river location and surrounded by South Devon countryside you have to go a long way to find a town as pretty. The beauty of the landscape, the historical buildings, and the exceptional local produce all make Dartmouth the perfect holiday destination.
The River Dart is the perfect water sports playground sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, boat trips and more are all on offer you can even learn to surf at one of the nearby beaches, or just spend a lazy day enjoying the views. One of the countrys top beaches Blackpool Sands is just a short drive from Dartmouth and is not to be missed. Dartmouth is full of history in Heritage, no trip to Dartmouth would be complete without visiting Dartmouth Castle, or Agatha Christies Greenway National Trust Holiday Home. For the kids, there are plenty of local attractions such as Woodlands Theme Park, and activities and crabbing is a popular pastime on the embankment to keep them amused.
Spend a day exploring the town, with its museum, art galleries, independent shops and places to eat. After you have finished exploring the town make sure you head out into the surrounding countryside. Take one of the many footpaths surrounding the town and discover the wonderful countryside or costal views. Walk parts of the South West Coast Path and enjoy spectacular views across the coastline.
Catch one of the many ferries and head for Torquay, Salcombe or Totnes or just enjoy a trip around the river month. Or catch the steam train from Kingswear for a nostalgic trip through the South Devon Countryside.
Dartington Hall Estate and Gardens
The Dartington Hall estate is a 1200-acre mix of farmland, woodland, commercial spaces and residential accommodation. It is home to 25 acres of Grade 2* listed gardens, which are open year-round from dawn till dusk. With a rich sense of history and a host of delightful features from a new bridge by artist Peter Randall Page to a sculpture by Henry Moore to 500-year-old Spanish Chestnut trees the gardens at Dartington are worth exploring all year round.
The Dartington Hall Estate also houses 41 listed structures. Public access to some buildings may not be available but any that have received funding for restoration are accessible when possible, and many buildings can be visited if participating in an event.
Totnes Rare Breeds Farm
Looking for a fantastic day out? This family-owned attraction is small enough to provide a friendly and personal service, with enough to keep visitors happy all day. What sets Totnes Rare Breeds apart is the opportunity to be within hugging range of all the animals. Most enclosures can be entered for close-up stroking, patting and cuddling.
The Garden Cafe (outside the farm) offers made-to order dishes at reasonable prices, from indulgent snacks to tasty meals.
Pennywell Farm
Pennywell Farm is a multi-award winning attraction, the largest farm attraction in the South West. There are different hands on activities, shows or displays every half hour and four farm rides included in the admission price. Pennywell is also the home of the world famous Pennywell Miniature Pigs. There is a licensed restaurant, acres of free parking and free dog kennels provided for four legged visitors.
Open Feb Oct and during December for Nativity Plays and visits to Father Christmas.
Paignton Zoo Environmental Park
Paignton Zoo Environmental Park is a conservation and education charity located in South Devon. With around two thousand animals, they have more species than anyone else in the South West. These include crocodiles, snakes, lions, tigers, giraffes, elephant, rhinos, lemurs, meerkats, orangutans, the list is endless! They also have indoor play areas, the Jungle Express train and a lakeside restaurant.
If you wish, they also offer special feeding experiences with certain animals, e.g. meerkats, giraffes, giant tortoises, etc. Paignton Zoo is a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums
The National Marine Aquarium
The National Marine Aquarium (NMA) is the UKs largest aquarium, located in Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth. It is run by the Ocean Conservation Trust, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the Ocean.
ADVENTURE STUFF
If you like outdoors and adventure, then we recommend you use Adventure South. A great local company and specialise in the coasteering, paddle boarding, wakeboarding, rib rides, scenic tours. Just go to www.adventuresouth.co.uk or call 07930 077205.
Make sure you book at the start of your stay to avoid disappointment though as they get busy at weekend and holidays…