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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

This charming watchtower is set high on a hill above the River Taw, less than a mile from the market town of Barnstaple and its array of pubs, shops, restaurants, cinema and a theatre. The long sandy beaches of Westward Ho! Saunton and Croyde are within easy reach too and are popular surfing spots if you enjoy watersports. To make your break extra special you could take the iconic day trip across to Lundy Island from nearby Bideford or enjoy long evening walks through the Braunton or Northam Burrows, where you’ll be sure to witness romantic sunsets when the weather allows.

Step through the front door of the property and into the open-plan accommodation, which due to its unique nature offers a great setting for guests who wish not to cook during their break. The downstairs open-plan kitchen/diner offers a electric oven, microwave and fridge. On the floor you will also find a shower room with WC. Stairs take you to the first floor where a beautifully decorated open-plan lounge, double bed, woodburner effect fire, Smart TV awaits. It’s here that you can truly appreciate the beautiful views across the river too.

Outside there is a vast enclosed, shared lawn garden with seating and BBQ for you to enjoy. On sunny evenings you can relax outdoors and watch the sun set over the river.

  • 1 bedroom
  • 1 shower room with WC
  • Open-plan kitchen / diner
  • Electric oven, microwave, fridge
  • Bed linen and towels included
  • Electric included
  • Night storage heater
  • 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 Newby

This property is personally managed by Alice.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 50 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.6 starsOverall cleanliness 4.6 starsOverall cleanliness 4.6 starsOverall cleanliness 4.6 starsOverall cleanliness 4.6 stars4.6
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 4.7 starsOverall comfort 4.7 starsOverall comfort 4.7 starsOverall comfort 4.7 starsOverall comfort 4.7 stars4.7
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 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

Reviewed by Kevin 19th November 2022

Guest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 stars

Reviewed by Andrew 8th October 2022

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

Once again a fantastic stay at this unique property, the minor changes that the owner has made since our visit last year have made the stay even more of a pleasure. As long as you do not mind living on top of each other as there are only the 2 rooms then this property is certainly worth a try. The views are fantastic & you are within very easy reacRead moreh of all the local facilities and the Tarka cycle route is on the doorstep. We love the place so much we have already booked for 2 stays next year. Hide

Reviewed by Wayne 24th September 2022

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

Reviewed by Jo 3rd September 2022

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

The Watch Tower is in a central location for visiting places of interest in North Devon, and has been cleverly refurbished to make the maximum of its limited space. Mr Patel the owner provides a warm welcome and his local knowledge of the area was most useful.

Reviewed by John 20th August 2022

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

The Watchtower was well equipped for two people. The views are spectacular, Mr Patel is a very good host, his local knowledge and recommendations were much appreciated. The Watchtower is in easy reach for visiting numerous places of interest. The Watchtower has a unique appeal. Would definitely recommend a visit.

Reviewed by Dilip 13th August 2022

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

Reviewed by Sue 6th August 2022

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

This was a great base to explore this part of North Devon. The quirky watchtower has been very cleverly fitted out, making good use of the limited space. The views were lovely, with beautiful sunsets. The bathroom is quite small but served us perfectly well. Because this is such a small property, there is no real clothes storage space - didn't worrRead morey us but some might find it a bit inconvenient. The owner was very welcoming and keen to ensure that we had a great stay. Would definitely return. Hide

Reviewed by Elizabeth 25th June 2022

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

Reviewed by Jackie 18th June 2022

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

Wonderful quiet location perfect to recharge your batteries well worth the stay.

Reviewed by Pippa 4th June 2022

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

The Watchtower is really unique. It has been beautifully renovated and designed and has everything you need. Great kitchen, lovely comfy bed, very warm. It is a great spot to explore the area. The upstairs is incredibly light with wide views in all directions. We loved it for the week we spent there.

Reviewed by Nigel 28th May 2022

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

The property is perfect if you fancy staying somewhere quirky , It suited us perfectly to have the peace and quiet and listen to the birds in the morning . There is a nice area to sit outside and eat (weather permitting ) which has a nice privacy hedge around . Everything you need is on site with a number of supermarkets within 15mins walk or 3 minRead mores in a car . There are plenty of local places to visit coastal and inland. I would recommend this to any couple wanting a relaxing break . Hide

Reviewed by Steve 21st May 2022

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

Excellent holiday at the watchtower and great location

Reviewed by Ann 7th May 2022

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

Very individual and unique property. Excellent 360 views from the 4 upstairs windows. The dawn chorus was amazing with plenty of birds to spot. Well situated for short or longer trips. Very quiet and private with no road noise. Owner available and very quick to respond to any requests.

Reviewed by Thomas 30th April 2022

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

An excellent place for a weeks stay. Secluded but on a bus route that covers a lot of North Devon. Plenty to do in the area. Lovely views particularly at sunset. Accommodation has everything you would to get started (remember to take shower gel). Mr. Patel pops by occasionally to make sure everything is ok.

Reviewed by Gary 23rd April 2022

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

Brilliant

Reviewed by Paul 19th April 2022

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

Excellent property, highly recommended.

48 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.
The Travel Chapter Limited trading as Stay In Devon 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 Stay In Devon | 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.