The North Devon coastline is made for sightseeing. We are fortunate enough to have some of the most awesome beaches, coves and headlands in the UK, contrasting with the expanses of Exmoor. These landscapes have been a source of inspiration to many. Henry Williamson was inspired to write the famous book “The Tarka and the Otter” in the village of Georgeham. We are proud to be able to offer the property Henry Williamson rented himself during this period of time, Skirr Cottage and the neighbouring property Clare Cottage, both now owned by one of our awesome property owners. “Encouraged by his Aunt Mary Leopoldina, with whom he had stayed in Georgeham just before the war broke out,who had herself written a short but powerfully mystical book in 1910, and who had sent him a volume of the work of Francis Thompson whilst he was in the trenches, which was to prove a great influence on the young adolescent, Henry Williamson had already begun to write secretly in his room whilst on army duty and whilst on leave but he felt very isolated and very much a lone voice in the wilderness.

He arranged to rent the same cottage next to the church in Georgeham for £5 a year which he named ‘Skirr’ after the calls of barn owls living in a space under the thatch, and began his writing life. He walked day and night on the cliffs and beaches at Baggy Point, Putsborough Sands, Braunton Burrows, and the high moors drained by the rivers Taw and Torridge. He enjoyed an almost mystical relationship with Exmoor, thinking of The Chains as his ancestral homeland, giving race-memory of the source of divine creation that he called ‘ancient sunlight’.

Family days out in North Devon include the beaches and moors, admire the National Trust stately homes and castles; National Trust Gardens, and, of course, Rosemoor in Torrington. Learn about our maritime past by visiting the picturesque village of Clovelly with its steep cobbled streets and ancient harbour, drink in the beauty of Lynton and Lynmouth. Venture a little further to Dunster and it’s medieval village and castle, travel home via Tarr Steps or take a journey back in time on the steam train in Minehead. BUT, don’t forget the railway at Woody Bay! North Devon and Exmoor National Park in particular are unique spots and the vast majority of the coastline comprise Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and privately owned land by the National Trust.

The South West Coast Path and coastal paths make for an excellent walking holiday in Devon. Some of our properties may accept a well behaved pet. Enjoy the surf, golf, swimming, kayaking, enjoy the beach, eat ice cream, fish and chips from Squires in Braunton. A marvellous carvery at Country Cousins Restaurant, Westward Ho!, The Merry Harriers Garden Centre, Woolsery and The Williams Arms, Braunton, so much to see, eat and do!