If you’re planning a stay in North Devon this year, why not grab the chance to live like a local by booking a farm stay? Farm stays are a great way to experience North Devon, not only do you have a real home from home with a friendly atmosphere, but you have plenty of space, access to fresh, local produce and with your hosts often on site, you have the very best in local knowledge and advice.

Though North Devon is known for its incredible coastline, nearly the whole region falls within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and with the Exmoor National Park on the doorstep, it is a great place to get out and enjoy the countryside. Many of the farms in North Devon are surrounded by acres of glorious countryside while still being close to the coast – giving you the best of both worlds.

Set within 35 acres with a private valley, Lower Campscott Farm Holiday Cottages is perfect for families, couples and groups and is even dog friendly. Guests are welcome to join in with the daily animal feeding, ride the tractors and explore the farm at their leisure. The farm has a lovely view over Lee Bay and is quiet and tranquil despite being close enough to all the main attractions and amenities.

lower campscott
Image: Lower Campscott Farm Holiday

If being close to the region’s attractions is a must, take a look at Torridge House Farm Cottages. Nestled within the countryside of the Tarka area, this is an idyllic retreat for anyone who is looking for somewhere quiet and peaceful, without being too rural. Top attractions including RHS Garden Rosemoor and Dartington Crystal are less than two miles away and there are plenty of activities in the immediate vicinity to keep you entertained. Though this is a small farm, guests have plenty of space for games, meeting the animals and enjoying the outdoor pool. 

For those of you travelling with children, North Hayne Farm Cottages is a must. Not only is it completely child and toddler friendly, but it is also accessible and a regular winner of Autism Friendly accolades. The farm has its own purpose built accessible children’s area which has twice daily activities supporting learning in Early Years and KS1, plenty of activity areas and accessible accommodation options. Families have the choice of cottages, all named after childhood book characters and some with hot tubs – so the adults can rest too. There are relaxing therapies for the adults too, so there really is something for everyone. If you want to venture out into the wider region, the farm is close to the popular beaches and attractions.

On the outskirts of North Devon’s premier town of Barnstaple and just a few moments from the Exmoor National Park are Bampfield Farm Cottages. Both the site’s cottages are spacious and feature a wood burner with unlimited logs for cosy nights in. Being equal distance to the coast and the National Park, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure and being so close to Barnstaple, there is no end to food and drink options.

If you’re on the hunt for something larger that can accommodate a group or the extended family, take a look at a stay at Deer’s Leap Retreat, a traditional old Devon farmhouse on the edge of Exmoor with relaxed grounds, a lake and stunning views. The farmhouse sleeps a maximum of 21 people – so, perfect for those larger groups who want to be all together and have enough space to enjoy themselves. Deer’s Leap also offers glamping opportunities and smaller accommodation, making it a truly versatile place to stay. Whatever property you choose, you can enjoy all the cosy home comforts you could wish for, plus a private garden and, for those of you in the farmhouse, additional relaxation with the hot tubs and sauna. There are lots of local activities to keep you entertained during your stay and your hosts are always on hand and happy to help with finding things to do – not only that but dogs are welcome too!

birchill farm
Image: Birchill Farm and Cottages

Another option is Birchill Farm and Cottages which is just three miles from the town of Great Torrington and is hidden away in lush countryside. The onsite cottages are all child friendly and highly rated and with daily animal feeding, you can really get a sense of what it is like to live on a farm. Another way that you can have a true Devon experience here is on check in – guests are welcomed with a complementary cream tea – an absolute must for anyone coming to the county!

If you want a few more options of places to visit, a stay at Broad Close Farm would be idea. Located in Tiverton on the border between the North Devon and Mid Devon regions, a stay here opens up much more of the county. These apartments are perfect for couples or anyone wanting a rural get away. With their own private courtyard, you can really feel at home and you have easy access to both National Parks, numerous heritage attractions and larger towns and cities like Barnstaple.

This is just a selection of the farm stays available in North Devon, you can find more and a host of other accommodation options here.

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