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The Watchtower

Barnstaple (1ml W), Devon
holidaycottages.co.uk logo

This property is managed by holidaycottages.co.uk info_outline

Sleeps 2
Bedrooms 1
Bathrooms 1
Change Sat
No Dogs
4 star
Waterside views
Enclosed garden / patio
Internet access
Pub nearby
Shop nearby
Beach within easy reach
Quirky
Parking on site / nearby
Towels included
Cot available
Highchair available
11 more

At a glance

  • A grade II listed watchtower with beautiful views over the River Taw
  • The perfect hideaway for a romantic couples escape just a few miles away from the seaside
  • Set high on a hill, which benefits from breath-taking sunsets
Property code: WATCT

Perched high on a hill with stunning panoramic views, this unique and quirky Grade II listed property is a fantastic hideaway for couples with a desire to escape and explore. The Watchtower’s location means you can climb the stairs and gaze out over the River Taw and its surrounding fields and hills from the bedroom/living area. Close to beaches, towns and seaside villages, you will be spoilt for choice each day when deciding on your next holiday adventure.

The open-plan living areas both upstairs and downstairs are light and airy, as the beautifully shaped traditional windows allow natural light to flood in. The space is cosy and relaxing, perfect for returning to after a day spent exploring local treasures. The kitchen is without an oven, but instead has a microwave for quick meals and the property is surrounded by a range of pubs serving food. On warm evenings, head outside into the garden which is shared with those staying in the other two properties on-site. Watch the sun set over the rippling river whilst enjoying a BBQ supper alfresco.

A pannier market, shopping centre and fascinating local museum lie just 1.5 miles away in the local town of Barnstaple. Here you can also enjoy delicious food at one of the many different restaurants, pubs and cafes. Sand and surf are just 8.5 miles away at Saunton; take a picnic and settle down in the dunes to shelter from the refreshing sea breeze, or don your wetsuit and dive in. If roaming blooming flowerbeds and kitchen gardens are for you, head 8 miles to Tapeley Park. Stop off in the seaside village of Instow on the way home for a meal in one of the many fabulous waterfront eateries.

  • 1 bedroom with double bed
  • 1 shower room with WC
  • Open-plan kitchen / diner
  • Electric oven, microwave, fridge
  • Bed linen and towels included
  • Electric included
  • Night storage heater
  • Smart TV/DVD
  • Regret there is no washing machine
  • Shared garden seating and BBQ
  • Cot available
  • Enclosed garden
  • Parking for 2 cars
  • Beach 4 miles, pub within walking distance, shop 0.5 miles.
  • 1 of 3 properties on owners grounds
  • Arrival: 14:30 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00, unless otherwise stated in your arrival details
  • Sorry, no dogs allowed
  • There is an Accidental Damage Deposit of £150 when booking at this property, however this may be waived for £20. We’ll provide more details about this when booking your holiday.

Alice Holt

This property is personally managed by Alice.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 53 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.4 starsOverall cleanliness 4.4 starsOverall cleanliness 4.4 starsOverall cleanliness 4.4 starsOverall cleanliness 4.4 stars4.4
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.6 starsOverall equipment 4.6 starsOverall equipment 4.6 starsOverall equipment 4.6 starsOverall equipment 4.6 stars4.6
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 starsOverall comfort 4.6 stars4.6
Overall location
Overall location 4.8 starsOverall location 4.8 starsOverall location 4.8 starsOverall location 4.8 starsOverall location 4.8 stars4.8

Reviewed by Rosalynn 20th November 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

The Watchtower was an amazing quirky and quaint property. Fully equipped with what you need, and if not would quickly be resolved by the Patels. Close to lots of places to visitFremington Quay lovely place to go on a nice day or dry day. The Pelican fish and chip shop was worth a takeaway ( but be prepared to wait as very popular) The Cedars Inn goRead moreod for a meal but service a bit slowbut food good. Will be back when the weather better Hide

Reviewed by Andrew 16th November 2024

Guest rating 2.6 starsGuest rating 2.6 starsGuest rating 2.6 starsGuest rating 2.6 starsGuest rating 2.6 stars

Beautiful location. Such a quaint and quirky property!

Reviewed by Mark 28th October 2024

Guest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 stars

Reviewed by Margaret 19th October 2024

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Lovely secluded place to relax Located well for visiting local beauty spots Well equipped. Warm and cosy.

Reviewed by Andrew 5th October 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Yet another fantastic stay, this was our 6th visit in recent years, everything you could need for a comfortable stay is provided, Mr Patel is always on hand if you need anything and is full of local knowledge on the best places to visit. Dont worry theres no DVD player as its a Smart TV with Netflix etc if it rains, note that you are going to be liRead moreving next to fields and countryside so keep an eye out for the deer in the garden and dont fret over the cobwebs, weve already booked for 2025. Hide

Reviewed by Andrea 28th September 2024

Guest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 stars

The Watchtower is quicky small and basic. Mr Patel greeted us on arrival. Milk, tea. coffee and sugar were provided. Location is between Barnstaple and Bideford with good pubs serving good food nearby.

Reviewed by Mark 21st September 2024

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

The watchtower was absolutely amazing. Would definitely recommend a stay there .Saw deer on the grounds which was magical. Views were beautiful and had all you needed and more for a great stay. We honestly didn't want to leave .Brilliant place well done Mr and Mrs Patel for renovating this fantastic watchtower .

Reviewed by Richard 14th September 2024

Guest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 stars

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Reviewed by Peter 7th September 2024

Guest rating 2.8 starsGuest rating 2.8 starsGuest rating 2.8 starsGuest rating 2.8 starsGuest rating 2.8 stars

Lovely quiet peaceful and picturesque. Would recommend this property to walkers. Would not recommend to elderly people. Nowhere to relax indoors but has an outside area with seating. The views from this property are amazing. Beautiful on a nice sunny day.

Reviewed by David 27th July 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

An absolute gem conveniently located near Barnstaple. While the watchtower is not "spacious", it provided enough room for us to spend a week which we will never forget. The views from the top window, and especially the sunset are in a class of their own and I have admired them as often as I could. With so much to do and see nearby (and a bit furtheRead morer away), time flew by and we had to take our leave all too soon. Hide

Reviewed by John 6th July 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

'The Watch Tower' is such a unique holiday let, complimented by it's tranquil location. The access to the tower is by way of a single track lane, which we came to appreciate as a lovely way to return to 'our secret away from home' at the end our days out exploring the lovely coastal towns and countryside. The accommodation was perfect for our needsRead more. The owner Mr Patel, the kindest of hosts, brought back to life this once derelict building enabling those who stay there, 'something special'. Hide

Reviewed by Roger 29th June 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We were given a very warm welcome to The Watchtower, which provided stunning views, gave the pleasure of being able to watch the deer on several evenings and was a very comfortable base for our visits each day to local places of interest.

Reviewed by Tracey 22nd June 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Reviewed by Tom 8th June 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

very nice plenty of hot water heating if needed very nice surroundings perfect host perfect place for a peaceful getaway the deer were a bonus

Reviewed by Paul 1st June 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The Watchtower was very well equipped with everything you would need for your stay. Fresh milk was waiting for us in the fridge on our arrival, and Mr Patel welcomed us warmly and gave us some history of the Watchtower. He also gave us some guidance on different places to visit and the best local places to eat. We had a very enjoyable stay. One higRead morehlight was seeing the resident deer outside our window in the early morning! Hide

Reviewed by Andrew 25th May 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Once again a fantastic stay at The Watchtower, Mr Patel is a fantastic host and on hand if you need any assistance during your visit, he has a wealth of local knowledge and can point you in the direction of some lovely places. The property was, as always, extremely clean and tidy with everything you could want for your holiday, you are perfectly plRead moreaced for visiting Barnstaple and the coast with Ilfracombe just a short drive away. The Tarka Trail is also on the doorstep. Weve already rebooked. Hide

Reviewed by Paul 11th May 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Reviewed by Phillip 4th May 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Very good location the Watchtower was amazing clean and comfortable a good base for exploring the area. We were lucky enough to see some fabulous sunsets as well. Mr Patel was a good host and was very helpful.

Reviewed by Graham 20th April 2024

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

Reviewed by Alan 13th April 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

A unique and special property.

Reviewed by Daniel 16th February 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The watchtower was amazing, it is so quiet and relaxing, the views are amazing and it has everything you need for a relaxing trip away, the owner even left a pint of milk in the fridge so we could have a cup of tea on arrival. I would recommend this property to anyone and we will definitely consider coming back again.

Reviewed by Alison 14th February 2024

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Reviewed by John 3rd February 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Most relaxing holiday Ive had in years peace and quite used as a base to travel

Reviewed by Judith 20th January 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A unique property with great views. A comfortable and relaxing stay in this quiet location. The property was well maintained, clean and had all that we needed. The weather was very stormy as we had Storm Innis and Storm Jocelyn during our stay but we were warm and cosy in the Watch Tower. We enjoyed walking and may be back to cycle the Tarka trail Read moreand once again enjoy the cafe at Fremington. Hide

Reviewed by Peter 14th January 2024

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Reviewed by Robert 6th January 2024

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Reviewed by Peter 29th December 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The watchtower is an amazing property for its size. It's view's are delightful and considering the rainy, windy weather we had, we were so cosy. Couldn't find fault with anything. The place is spotless and having the owner on site was very good for local knowledge. There was everything we needed in the watchtower and we hope to return. Thank you MrRead more Patel for a wonderful relaxing break. Hide

Reviewed by Sarah 4th November 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Lovely peaceful place to stay. Unique and quirky but very well designed. Owner very friendly and helpful. Will be looking to go again.

Reviewed by Theresa 28th October 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Lovely quirky property. Great views. Everything we needed. Very cosy. Great location.

Reviewed by Andrew 7th October 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Another brilliant stay at The Watchtower, helped a little by the fantastic October weather, Mr Patel on hand as usual if needed and as nice as ever. The property has always been spotless when we arrive and has everything 2 people could need for a pleasant comfortable stay, you are so well placed to explore the whole of North Devon please dont just Read moreconfine yourself to Barnstaple, a little further afield you will find Cowley and also Bow with fantastic garden centres and both are great for a meal Hide

Reviewed by Sylvia 30th September 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

The watch tower was amazing and had amazing views we really enjoyed our stay there and it was walking distance to a lovely hotel that did amazing food and bus stop at the end of the road if you did not fancy driving.

Reviewed by Philip 5th August 2023

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Really lovely and unique place to stay. Location was perfect for exploring the coast of North Devon.

Reviewed by Mandie 29th July 2023

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

Stunningly beautiful building with the most amazing views. Friendly owner who greeted us with a bottle of wine and a carton of milk in the fridge. The watchtower is small but beautifully put together. Close to a dining pub and a handy sainsburys, close to barnstaple and Bideford. And a visit to Fremington Quay for breakfast is a must.

Reviewed by Adam 26th July 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

From the moment we stepped foot into the watchtower we loved it. It felt like a home from home. Its very comfortable and very warm too. everything was very clean neat and tidy when we walked in. first impressions were all very good. When we arrived it was raining hard and Mr Patel still came out to see us and welcome us. Its in a great location forRead more walks or for the beach and many other attractions. We have nothing bad at all to say about the watchtower we will definitely be returning. Hide

Reviewed by Helen 8th July 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

A unique and romantic holiday destination for two in an attractive grade II listed building. My partner and I loved it to celebrate his birthday. Mr Patel was a superb host and sent us very good directions to get here and excellent tips for places to visit. Our only niggle was the ceiling of the bedroom that had damp patches fron a previous leak, aRead morend an electric switch that had insulating tape on it. Other than that I'd thoroughly recommend The Watchtower for a restful relaxing holiday. Hide

Reviewed by Brian 24th June 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The watchtower is perfect for 2 people. We loved staying there. It's such a unique property and clean and has everything you need. The host is welcoming too.

Reviewed by Julia 17th June 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Great location and accommodation, with a pub serving food within a 15 minute walk. Definitely a place where you can kick back and relax.

Reviewed by Zoe 3rd June 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

We had an amazing stay, the views from the watchtower are breathtaking especially at sunset. Host is very welcoming and friendly. Its a lovely set up for cooking or eating out with a great fish and chips, and Pubs nearby. Excellent access for the beach with a great place to rest after a day exploring Devon! Would definitely recommend.

Reviewed by Andrew 27th May 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Another fantastic stay at The Watchtower, as usual a very friendly welcome from Mr Patel, nothing is too much trouble for him. Make sure you take in the superb sunsets by looking westwards over the fields. This is one of the most unique holiday locations you will find so dont be afraid to give it a try. You are well placed to visit all of North DevRead moreon without having to travel too far. We love it so much that we have already booked another stay for later this year. Hide

Reviewed by Peter 29th April 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Very pleasant stay in an unusual "house". Owner helpful and pleasant. The sink in the bathroom was awkward to use

Reviewed by Pauline 25th April 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Just returned from a lovely 4 night stay. Very comfortable and well equipped for a 2 person stay. The views of the surrounding area from The Watchtower are beautiful, especially the sunsets. Greeted by Mr Patel, owner/host, on arrival and departure, also one morning on on our way out for the day. Im sure we will return.

Reviewed by Carol 15th April 2023

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Loved our break at The Watch Tower- a cosy retreat for two. Lots to do locally and we enjoyed exploring this corner of Devon but one of the highlights was watching the sun set each evening from our arm chairs!

Reviewed by Brian 8th April 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Philip 1st April 2023

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Reviewed by Brenda 22nd March 2023

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Reviewed by Owen 11th March 2023

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Perfect for two and very warm and cozy. Tower is situated at edge of owners garden, some 50 yards from any other building so it is nice and secluded. Good views over the Tawe estuary and very well located for trips to Ilfracombe, Woolacombe and Croyde.

Reviewed by Karen 25th February 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Lovely property within easy reach of the sites. Watch tower was a quirky Lovely find.

Reviewed by Gordon 11th February 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The watchtower is a quirky place to stay with good views across the estuary, we were very comfortable .

Reviewed by Michael 6th February 2023

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Reviewed by Stephen 21st January 2023

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by John 29th December 2022

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Great place to stay. Three pubs within walking distance, supermarket less than five minutes drive. The kitchen has everything you need if you want to eat in.

Reviewed by Helen 22nd December 2022

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The Watchtower is an ideal place to stay for a couple who like an out-of-the-ordinary experience. With so much to see and do just around the corner, with the Tarka Trail nearby and Cornwall within 40 minutes' drive, it makes an ideal place to explore North Devon. Local amenities are good too with supermarkets and pubs within walking distance. The oRead morewner was charming and knowledgeable, and made us feel very welcome. We are already looking forward to spending another week here next year. Hide

Reviewed by andrew 3rd December 2022

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

What a lovely and quirky little place, even in the snow and cold it was great to come back to, love the refitted kitchen

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Location

Map
Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.
The Travel Chapter Limited trading as Marsdens Devon Cottages is an appointed representative of ITC Compliance Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (their registration number is 313486) and which is permitted to advise on and arrange general insurance contracts as an intermediary.
The Travel Chapter Limited trading as Marsdens Devon Cottages | The Travel Chapter Limited is registered in England and Wales. | Registered office Travel Chapter House Gammaton Road Bideford EX39 4DF Company No. 02431506 | VAT reg: 143053210.