Property Summary
Hillway Lodge, near Withypool, perches on the side of the combe above the Barle Valley enjoying stunning views across the countryside and farmland to Withypool Common. Sleeps up to 6 guests in 3 bedrooms and welcomes horses and up to 2 dogs. One mile to the village with pub, shop and tea rooms.
Main Description
Hillway Lodge is a south-facing single storey barn conversion, on a 62 acre hill farm, nestled above the Barle Valley near the rural village of Withypool, within Exmoor National Park.
Sleeps up to 6 guests
One double bedroom
Two twin bedrooms
Tranquil location with stunning views
Single storey property - all on one level
Ideal for walking the Two Moors Way
Wifi, heating and electricity included
1 mile to the village with Pub/Shop/Tea Room
Up to 2 dogs welcome for £25 supplement per dog
Stabling for horses by prior arrangement (you can ride straight out onto the moor from the farm)
Fishing available in the Barle at no extra cost
Arrive from 4 pm
Depart by 10 am
Hillway Lodge has stunning views from nearly every room, across the garden and down to the River Barle. One small stone step leads up to the entrance door, into the hallway. The family bathroom is off the hall and a door leads through into the kitchen, which is open into the living-dining area. The double room has a communicating door to the first twin room, through which you have to walk to get to the rest of the cottage. Both of these bedrooms have french doors leading to the south-facing balcony above the garden. The second twin room is situated at the far end of the cottage (the other side of the living area).
Indoor Description
The fitted kitchen has a fridge, cooker, dishwasher and microwave oven - all the essentials.
In the open-plan living room you'll probably be distracted by the views across the valley and up to Withypool Hill, but there is a modest TV, plus DVD, CD/radio/cassette, books and games. Wifi/broadband is available but please don't expect ultra-fast fibre speed.
The family bathroom has a shower over the bath, a toilet and hand basin.
Bed linen and towels are provided.
The property is well insulated with double-glazed windows and has night-store heating. Electricity is included. The water supply is from the farm's own borehole.
Guests are requested to refrain from smoking inside the cottage.
Outdoor Description
A south-facing balcony runs along part of the cottage and there is a small bistro table and two chairs on the balcony – a perfect spot to soak in the view. From the end of the balcony, the lawn slopes down to a level area in front and below the cottage, which falls away to the combe below. The garden is available for guests sole use and is not enclosed.
Much of the farmland at Hillway is ancient upland oak woodland. Guests can walk among carpets of bluebells, violets and primroses when they are in flower. Look out for the small herd of roe deer and the buzzards overhead. The River Barle forms the southern boundary of the farm and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, as well as being home to otters, kingfishers and goosander ducks.
Withypool is just over a mile from Hillway Lodge, it's a small village in a truly beautiful setting within Exmoor National Park. Just upstream is Landacre bridge, popular with walkers and for picnics. Downstream is Tarr Steps with its famous clapper bridge. You are spoiled for walking and birding options here.
Parking
There is parking for up to 3 cars on the drive, adjacent to the cottage.
Pets Description
Dogs are welcome by arrangement, at £25 per dog. Two dogs maximum per booking, the owner may accept 3 small dogs on a case-by-case basis. Please get in touch to let us know the size/breeds of your dogs and we will check this.
Stabling is available on site for up to 3 horses. The stables are large individual stables and tack room within a barn, all with concrete floors. A field will be assigned for guests use only.
Trailers park in the yard, lorries can park at the top of the drive.
Bedding can be supplied or guests can bring their own.
Price above is per horse per week (excluding bedding if supplied).
The hacking from Hillway Lodge is outstanding.
Restricted mobility
The property is on one level. The main entrance has a single step but if you enter via the double bedroom, this is step free. There isn't a huge amount of room for a large wheelchair eg limited turning space in the bathroom. Standard bath with overhead shower only.
Exit in case of emergency
This has not been completed by the owner.
Christmas / New Year
This has not been completed by the owner.
The region
Withypool is just over a mile from Hillway Lodge, it's a small village in a truly beautiful setting at the heart of the Exmoor National Park. The River Barle runs right through the village and the Grade II listed arch-bridge crosses it to link the two sides of the village. To the southwest of the village lie Withypool Common and Withypool Hill, fantastic for walking and glorious views. It is believed that the area around Withypool has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, a stone circle can still be seen on top of Withypool Hill. The Two Moors Way passes through the village, it's a well-marked walking route.
The Royal Oak Inn, the village pub, has seen its share of history since its construction in the late 17th century. It is believed that R. D. Blackmore wrote part of the 'Lorna Doone' novel in this bar. The pub serves food and is dog and family friendly.
The Village Shop is open throughout the year, stocking a wide range of items including fresh fruit and vegetables, locally source diary produces, fresh bread, alcohol, soft drinks, household items, cards, newspapers and magazines, gifts, guide books and souvenirs. It's also the local Post Office and opposite is the village tea room which offers the classic local cream team as well as light savoury meals. Please support our local traders.
Just two miles upstream from Withypool is the delightful Landacre Bridge, a late medieval five-arch stone bridge, a great place for paddling and picnicking in good weather.
If you drive across stunning Winsford Hill, with its wild Exmoor ponies, you come to charming Dulverton with a range of independent stores to explore, a popular bakery and the co-op.
The rugged appeal of the North Devon coastline and miles of beach for surfing are to the NorthWest, just ten miles from the cottage lies Porlock bay, known for its fine views, oysters and of course fish.
