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Balches Hayloft

Newton Tracey, near Instow, Devon
Sleeps 4
Bedrooms 2
Bathrooms 2
Change Sat
Dogs welcome 1
4 star
Parking on site / nearby
Highchair available
Travel Cot available
Towels included
Family friendly
Internet access
Downstairs bedroom
Decorated for Christmas
Downstairs bathroom
Pub nearby
Beach within easy reach
Country houses
12 more

At a glance

  • Charming converted farmer barn situated within easy drive of the North Devon coast
  • Just 5 miles from the nearest beaches like Croyde, Saunton Sands and Woolacombe
  • Explore the expansive Exmoor National Park for great walks and lengthy treks
Property code: OC-28959

Situated in the quiet village of Newton Tracey with a pub just 160 metres up the road, this property is a stunning barn conversion that’s ideal for families or friends looking for a base to explore the Devon coast. Just 6 miles from Instow, it’s an easy drive to the sandy beaches that are perfect for relaxing or outdoor games. The lovingly restored barn is bright and airy during the day with high ceilings and exposed beams, but it becomes a cosy haven to come back to in the evenings.

With two comfortable bedrooms which promote a great night’s sleep and a tranquil lounge with wood burner effect fire to spend the nights in, it’s easy to see why the barn is popular with its visitors. The interior is light and neutral which provides a peaceful feel, with thoughtful touches of the countryside in its furnishings. The kitchen has everything you need to cook a hearty meal after a long day out, and you can enjoy it sitting at the dining table that’s perfect for four. If the weather’s nice, there’s the opportunity to dine alfresco under the gazebo in the shared garden that even has a BBQ. 

This property is a great place to stay if you’re after a beach holiday. As well as Instow, Westward Ho! is just 12 miles away, so there’s no shortage of places to build sandcastles, swim or surf. Keep children occupied by visiting The Milky Way (19 miles) or The BIG Sheep (12 miles), or go hiking around Exmoor National Park (19 miles) where the more daring can also give horse riding, surfing or canoeing a go.

  • 2 bedrooms - 1 double, 1 twin
  • 1 en-suite bathroom bathroom with WC and shower, 1 bathroom with shower over bath and WC
  • Kitchen with oven and hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, dishwasher, washing machine
  • Electric and heating provided
  • Smart TV and DVD player in lounge
  • Off-road parking for 2 cars
  • Instow Beach 5 miles away
  • Village pub within walking distance
  • This property will be decorated for Christmas
  • Arrival: 15:30 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 11 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.3 starsOverall cleanliness 4.3 starsOverall cleanliness 4.3 starsOverall cleanliness 4.3 starsOverall cleanliness 4.3 stars4.3
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.4 starsOverall equipment 4.4 starsOverall equipment 4.4 starsOverall equipment 4.4 starsOverall equipment 4.4 stars4.4
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 4.4 starsOverall comfort 4.4 starsOverall comfort 4.4 starsOverall comfort 4.4 starsOverall comfort 4.4 stars4.4
Overall location
Overall location 4.7 starsOverall location 4.7 starsOverall location 4.7 starsOverall location 4.7 starsOverall location 4.7 stars4.7

Reviewed by Sharon 20th September 2026

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

Balches Hayloft is a single storey building within the grounds of a farm. The owner (Jess) lives in the main house and is very friendly and welcoming. The property is ideally situated for visiting Ifracombe, Woolacombe, Saunton Sands, Appledore/Instow and Lynmouth beaches which are all within 20/30 mins drive away. The decor is a little daRead moreted but this adds to its rural charm. It is clean, quiet and comfortable. The kitchen has all the equipment required including a washing machine and dishwasher. Having a private BBQ area and 2 allocated parking places are also a bonus. There is a lovely pub within 2 minutes walk but the road is narrow and quite fast so you need to be careful getting there. Hide

Reviewed by Kathryn 6th September 2026

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

A good queit base for visiting North Devon, a great location that was close to lot of lovely places. Great sized garden round the side of the property and bbq area - unfortunately we didnt get to try it out due to the great British weather! As others have said, the bedrooms are quite small and there is limited storage in the bedrooms so bare that iRead moren mind when packing. I would also say that if you were on the larger side, you would struggle with the en suite as it is quite tight. The other bathroom is nice and large though! Beds were nice and comfy! Overall a good property that had everything we needed. I just wish the sofa was comfier, but I am being picky here and I can't complain for the price we paid as good value for money. Best wishes and thanks for the stay! Hide

Reviewed by Joanne 10th August 2026

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

Hayloft is a lovely barn/bungalow with lots of character. It is in a quiet village with no amenities other than a pub, so you do have to drive to get about. We were happy that it is an excellent base to see North Devon. Jess was a fantastic welcoming host and provided great local information about places to visit. The cottage is well equipped, comfRead moreortable and the perfect place to relax and unwind. There is also a beautiful garden to relax with charming wooden shelter and BBQ facilities. Loads of beautiful towns and beaches to visit. We spent 2 weeks here and absolutely loved it! Hide

Reviewed by Suzannah 6th July 2026

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

Reviewed by Nicky 5th July 2026

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

This is a beautiful part of North Devon, and the cottage and gardens match perfectly. Jess is unobtrusive but extremely welcoming and friendly. I highly recommend this place.

Reviewed by Sarah 1st June 2026

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

Lovely lodge, easy ish to find and good host. Has everything you need. Enjoyed our stay.

Reviewed by Esther 19th April 2026

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

Comfortable and tranquil cottage. Well presented. Lovely host. The outside space and retreat were a fantastic unexpected cozy addition.

Reviewed by Cliff 21st September 2025

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

Reviewed by Stephen 6th September 2025

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

Reviewed by Paul 21st June 2025

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

Reviewed by Andrew 29th March 2025

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

Cottage & grounds are nice Local pub is very nice too & great food

9 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.