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The Retreat At Smythapark

Loxhore, near Barnstaple, Devon
Sleeps 2
Bedrooms 1
Bathrooms 1
Change Fri
Dogs welcome 1
4 star
Parking on site / nearby
Highchair available
Travel Cot available
Towels included
Internet access
Open fire / wood burner
Enclosed garden / patio
Decorated for Christmas
8 more

At a glance

  • Detached converted barn in an idyllic countryside setting with far reaching views from the sun-trap patio
  • Part of a historic estate yet nestling in a secluded setting at end of private lane, perfectly situated to watch local wildlife
  • Explore the immediate area on foot and visit neighbouring National Trust Arlington Court
  • Enjoy various cycle routes right on your doorstep
Property code: OC-77349

Within 7 miles of Exmoor, this contemporary country bolthole is perfect for couples who love spending time together in the great outdoors. After a day hiking the wild terrain of the moors or meeting the residents of Exmoor Zoo, head back to base for a quiet evening in. Get cosy in front of the wood burner watching a rom-com or enjoy a tipple on the front patio as you toast the wonderful countryside views that make this place so special.

Inside, natural light fills the open-plan living area during the day, and in summer you can bring the outside world in by throwing open the bifold doors. The kitchen has all the mod cons you’d expect from such a stylish, contemporary property. Grab a quick snack at the breakfast bar before you head out for the day or take the dog for a walk across the large field surrounding the property. Rise and shine to idyllic views of the countryside through the floor-to-ceiling windows in the king-size bedroom upstairs and kickstart your morning with an invigorating shower.

Enjoy an amble to the National Trust’s Arlington Court, 2 miles from the property. See Regency carriages, an impressive shell collection and beautiful blooms in the Victorian Garden. Alternatively, drive to North Devon’s largest town Barnstaple (7 miles). By day, browse the traditional pannier market and at night dress up for a show at the Queen’s Theatre. If you fancy a day out at the coast, head to Ilfracombe (15 miles) or travel between Lynton and Lynmouth (12 miles) on the famous cliff railway.

  • 1 bedroom - super king-size
  • 1 en-suite shower room
  • Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge with ice box and dishwasher
  • New separate freezer will be available for 2026
  • Wood burner (first basket of logs included)
  • Electric and electric underfloor heating included
  • Ample private off-road parking
  • Wi-Fi included
  • The size of the property accommodates small and medium sized dogs
  • Beach 9 miles, shop 6 miles and pub 4 miles
  • TV/DVD in the lounge area
  • Charcoal BBQ available
  • Due to the properties remote location, this property is not suitable for electric cars (nearest charging point 9miles)
  • Private water supply
  • Besshill Farm Shop 2.1 miles
  • This property will be decorated for Christmas
  • Arrival: 15:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00
  • 1 dog allowed. Additional charges may apply

 

 

Sarah Hardy

This property is personally managed by Sarah.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 30 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 5 starsOverall cleanliness 5 starsOverall cleanliness 5 starsOverall cleanliness 5 starsOverall cleanliness 5 stars5
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.7 starsOverall equipment 4.7 starsOverall equipment 4.7 starsOverall equipment 4.7 starsOverall equipment 4.7 stars4.7
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 stars4.9
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 Sonia 9th May 2026

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

Stunning views and warm comfortable cottage this being our third visit with a further booking later in the year says it all . Perfect get away for couples and their dogs , with plenty of walks near by . Ideally situated for access to beaches , shopping

Reviewed by Rus 8th April 2026

Guest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 stars

This cottage was lovely. Peaceful. Just what we needed for our getaway.

Reviewed by Michaela 20th November 2025

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

Perfect for a romantic getaway. Amazing views from comfy recliner chairs downstairs and the most amazingly snuggly super king bed upstairs which made you feel so glad to be alive when you opened the curtains in the morning. Bit of a tricky narrow lane to get there but so worth it! Everything we needed was provided in the kitchen and all bedding andRead more towels were luxurious. Thank you for making us feel special and very lucky to stay in this haven of peace. Hide

Reviewed by Rachel 25th October 2025

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

Our favourite holiday cottage stay yet! The views from front room and bedroom were magnificent. We felt extremely comfortable as the location was very private. We were only 15 minutes away from the beach but there were walks on our doorstep.

Reviewed by Jonathan 17th October 2025

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

Great views, well equipped,comfortable and very secluded have booked again for next year

Reviewed by Steven 26th September 2025

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

Lovely place to stay, fantastic views, the bed is so comfy. House very clean and well equipped, road to house narrow as stated in other reviews, but it is devon

Reviewed by Sonia 19th September 2025

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

The cottage is perfect, its clean, warm , has everything you need . The bedroom with the amazing views . In the lounge the views are amazing too , the place is so relaxing , peace quiet and nothing around except scenery as far as the eye can see . Places to visit, that arent that far away . The house is a proper holiday home . Theres nothing you Read moreneed its all there .perfect . Weve booked twice for next year as we love it so much . Hide

Reviewed by David 12th September 2025

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

Reviewed by Helen 1st September 2025

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

Reviewed by Paul 26th July 2025

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

Superb property, everything one could want , properly thought about from every angle from design to utilities, an amazing view which is totally private. Bed was so comfy and the peace and quiet - wow. Hosts available at end of phone if required. Thank you, will definitely return.

Reviewed by Kevin 18th July 2025

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

Fantastic peaceful location - winding lanes to get there but well worth it. Lovely clean property with welcome bottle of wine, milk and fresh veg! Large opening bi-folds and great views made for a relaxing time. Well equipped kitchen. Log burner and logs. Upstairs felt luxurious with spacious rainfall shower. And of course more great views across tRead morehe valley. Fully enclosed garden. Extra field was great for the dog. Deer came close to the house. Good base to visit many coastal areas. Hide

Reviewed by Colin 11th July 2025

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

Reviewed by Alan 4th July 2025

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

This very modern cottage is beautiful in a very quiet,private and peaceful location . The shower was brilliant the best we have ever had on holiday .The view was stunning .The bed was really comfortable .Extremely clean .Wine and milk on arrival .Any problems sorted out straight away . Would highly recommend.

Reviewed by Jean 27th June 2025

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

For that getaway holiday in a highly rural area this was excellent in every way. Great hosts, cottage kitted out with everything you could need. Near enough to Barnstaple for any supermarket shopping and also very near to Allington Court National Trust. Definitely would recommend to any couple wanting a nice peaceful holiday with a doggie companionRead more. Hide

Reviewed by Elizabeth 30th May 2025

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

Property was absolutely gorgeous. The views were fantastic and so quiet. Very clean and modern. Bed very comfortable. Our dog, Toby, loved it. Thank you.

Reviewed by Kathryn 16th May 2025

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

Reviewed by Sonia 2nd May 2025

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

This is an idyllic property for those seeking a comfortable , peaceful property with stunning far reaching views, you need look no further than the retreat .

Reviewed by Tina 11th April 2025

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

Beautiful peaceful location and really lovely modern property. The view, especially from the bedroom, is stunning and well worth staying there for this alone whatever the weather. The use of the field for our dog was an extra bonus, she loved it and we could make sure she had some exercise prior to popping her in the car when we were out and about.Read more Good National Trust sites not too far away, we visited Arlington and Heddon Valley, both worth a visit. Lovely friendly farm shop not far away. Hide

Reviewed by Vincent 14th March 2025

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

Reviewed by John 20th December 2024

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

We have been to some places within the UK and I can wholeheartedly say this The Retreat is the best so far, a lot of thought has gone into what is there, The kitchen is very well equipped, The outside areas perfect for a dog, and as for the Views, EPIC. Even the bed is sooooo comfortable, it really is a credit to its owners, thank you. Some have meRead morentioned the approach roads are narrow, to be honest yes they are, but not as bad as some, and totally useable by a normal car, Follow the directions! Hide

Reviewed by Alison 8th November 2024

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

A beautiful cottage in a superb location, although the lanes to get there are quite narrow. Very clean , well equipped and has wonderful views and good location for spotting wildlife. We had an amazing week, although it was helped by the weather.

Reviewed by Mathew 25th October 2024

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

A perfect retreat for two. The cottage was cosy and beautifully renovated, it made for a very relaxing break. The views from the cottage were stunning and waking up to see deer in the field was an added bonus. We will definitely be returning as it is one of the best places we have stayed. Thank you Nick and Karen for the warm welcome and wine.

Reviewed by Lynn 11th October 2024

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

Our stay was blessed with some nice weather between the showers so we were able to walk the footpath which runs from the side of the cottage to Bratten Flemming, the next village. Beautiful walk and our four legged friend loved playing in the stream at the bottom of the valley. The scenery was gorgeous and a highlight was watching a family of red dRead moreeer each morning in the field at the end of the garden. The cottage is in the middle of nowhere with narrow windy roads. Hide

Reviewed by Deborah 4th October 2024

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

Absolutely beautiful, high spec property. Fabulous views. Perfect for 2 and a dog; secure garden plus a field. Aptly named Retreat because it is away from it all. Highly recommend.

Reviewed by Bryony 27th September 2024

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

The little house was really wonderful. Everything we needed, beautifully decorated, warm, quiet with a view to die for. Lovely to have a bottle of wine too for our arrival. We loved it and have booked it for spring! Thank you.

Reviewed by Geoffrey 20th September 2024

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

Lovely comfortable stay very secluded and quiet. Pet secure. Has everything you need Downside A good mile of single track road just enough space for one car and very few passing points this might be a concern a few people but worth it in my opinion

Reviewed by Kathryn 13th September 2024

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

Fantastic position with glorious views and very well appointed. Watching deer in the morning from bed was an added bonus. Abundance of good walks direct from the property. Would definitely recommend.

Reviewed by John 6th September 2024

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

Reviewed by Caroline 12th July 2024

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

Perfect cottage for two ( plus a dog).We'll equipped and comfortable. Very dog friendly. Biscuit, our cavilier loved the garden and the use of the ajesent field was a bonus. Stunning views. Ideal for either a relaxing break or for the more energetic as there's plenty of walks nearby. The welcome bottle of wine and milk were very much appreciated, tRead morehank you! Hide

Reviewed by Hilary 21st June 2024

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

We had a very enjoyable stay in this comfy, well equipped property. It's in a peaceful location with lovely views, walks from the doorstep and a secure garden for the dog.

28 more
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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.
Marsdens Devon Cottages is a trading name of The Travel Chapter Limited | 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.