More about Parkgate Cottages (the location)

Parkgate Cottages are five beautiful barn conversions renovated and finished to an extremely high standard. Located in the pretty North Devon village of Tawstock on the edge of Barnstaple, the cottages enjoy wonderful countryside views.

The area around Parkgate is ideal for walkers and cyclists with magical woods and country roads within easy reach. If you don't fancy going out then Parkgate does not disappoint with excellent onsite leisure facilities, including a tennis court, games room and two children's play areas.

Four of the cottages are happy to accommodate dogs, whilst The Stables is reserved for families and groups of friends looking to enjoy first class luxury.

Just a few minutes from Parkgate is North Devon's largest town. Barnstaple is a lovely market town and features many of the well known high street stores and banks. There are also a selection of supermarkets and petrol stations. Barnstaple has its own theatre that shows a variety of shows, a multi screen cinema and a leisure centre with gym.

Parkgate is only a short drive from the North Devon coastline, which is home to some of Britain's best beaches, including Woolacombe, Croyde and Saunton. With miles of golden sands and clean blue seas they are wonderful places to enjoy a walk, sunbathe or take part in one of the many water sports on offer. Many of the smaller coastal villages such as Lee Bay offer more secluded beaches that can be a good alternative to those that are more popular. The coastline is also a great place to walk the South West Coastal Footpath, which has some beautiful views and wildlife on show.

East of Barnstaple is Ilfracombe one of the popular tourist destinations during the Victorian era. Today this pretty seaside town has a beautiful harbour that is well worth a visit. You can enjoy locally caught fish in some of the restaurants in Ilfracombe, as well as ice-cream and Deveonshire cream-teas. Sitting proudly at the harbour is Damien Hirst's statue 'Verity,' this large bronze figure has been donated to the town by the artist who also own's one of the local restaurants 11 The Quay.

From Ilfracombe or Bideford set sail for Lundy Island a remote island in the Bristol Channel, and home to a wonderful pub, rare flora and fauna and of course spectacular views.

Other places that are worth visiting in North Devon, include Lynton and Lynmouth, Appledore, Clovelly, Hartland and Combe Martin. There are also several gardens and tourist attractions that provide entertainment for all ages, these include The Big Sheep, Milky Way, Rosemoor, Castle Hill, Broomhill and Exmoor Zoo.

Exmoor is less than a 30 minute drive from Parkgate and gives guests the opportunity to witness some incredible views and wildlife. There are also some excellent pubs hidden away in the National Park.

The Stables (the cottage)

Luxury six bedroom barn conversion perfect for large or dual families, as well as groups of friends.

Set in a magical countryside location, The Stables is a wonderful hidden gem. The house comfortably sleeps up to 12 in six bedrooms all of which have an en-suite bathroom. The whole house has underfloor heating that keeps it wonderfully warm during the chilly winter months and floor to ceiling windows in the lounge take full advantage of the views.

Downstairs the house has a large very well equipped kitchen with fresh wood units and flag stone floors. Overhead wood beams give the whole room a wonderful country feel. The kitchen has been fitted to a high standard and appliances include an American style fridge/freezer, microwave, dishwasher, double range oven with gas hob, washing machine and tumble dryer. A central island is also a handy addition for early risers or cook's helpers.

The dining room features a lovely pine table that compliments the wood floors. The table easily seats up to 12 and a high chair is available for any infants. Windows adorn one whole side of the dinning room, which also has direct access to the sun trap terrace. The dining room can be used for all occasion but is extremely popular for special celebrations or the festive period.

The living room at The Stables is bright and spacious with large windows and direct access to the rear terrace. Neatly divided into two sections the lounge has a comfy family area with TV, wood burner, sofas and floor cushions, and a more stylish area for relaxed evenings and quiet conversations. Hidden around the lounge in a variety of cupboards are a range of toys, books and games.

The bedrooms at The Stables are split over two levels. Downstairs you will discover a beautiful double with king-size bed and en-suite wet room and a pretty twin with access to the sun trap terrace and a en-suite wet room.

In the East wing of The Stable are two further double bedrooms, both of these have king-size beds and en-suite bathrooms with roll top baths. In the West Wing is fourth double bedroom again with king size bed and en-suite shower room and a second twin bedroom with en-suite bathroom.

All the bedrooms at The Stables are tastefully decorated and feature a TV.

Outside The Stables has two terrace areas. The large south facing terrace and patio is accessed via the lounge and has beautiful countryside views, tables and chairs to seat 12 and a couple of wooden benches. This terrace is fully enclosed and therefore ideal for children. To the side of The Stables is the second smaller sun trap terrace that is a lovely place to enjoy quiet afternoons.

Whilst staying at the cottage guests can also take full advantage of the onsite leisure facilities, which include a tennis court, games room and two children's play area with slide and swings.