Rockinghorse Cottage

Rockinghorse Cottage: Devon

Tucked away in South Devon’s rolling hills, this 200-year-old cottage is the perfect blend of period charm and modern upgrades. Together with a rustic touch, the home feels warm and welcoming and, alongside its close proximity to Teignmouth Beach, establishes it as an impressive base for families looking to explore the stunning coastline.

Spend long summer days between the beach and the cottage where the generous backyard can accommodate impromptu games of football, a spur of the moment picnic, and, of course a good soak in the hot tub. Be sure to bring the fizz along, so you can truly sit back and unwind in the peace and quiet as you gaze out over the horizon. Bring nibbles out to enjoy with wine as you take advantage of the sunny garden from your seat on the L-shaped garden sofa. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a native hedgehog.

When you’re not eating at home, settled around the gorgeous farmhouse table, you can head out to the Crab Shack or any of the other surrounding eateries. Explore a hidden gem, Shaldon Beach, by hopping on a ferry from Teignmouth Back Beach, and watch a live band at Ship Inn on Queen Street.

After sundrenched days return home to curl up in front of the wood-burning stove with a glass of wine in hand. The Old Walls Vineyard, located just around the corner from this home, is worth a visit if you’re after a good vintage. Puzzle together or watch a movie and when you’re ready to retire, do yourself a favour and make one more stop outside – finish a cup of chamomile tea under the stars – you might hear some of the local owls hooting – and then take to the comfortable bed to recharge for the next day.

Home truths:
*There is unrestricted free on-street parking here
*Your host can provide a high chair for free upon request
*Hen and stag parties are not allowed at this home
*This home is spread over two floors, with no internal lift
*For those with reduced mobility, there's a ground floor bedroom and bathroom here
*You'll have your own private entrance here
*Though there isn't a dedicated desk here, the dining table doubles up as a laptop-friendly workspace