Holidays in Devon, Self-Catering Cottages and Apartments

For many visitors, renting holiday cottages in Devon is the most enjoyable way to experience this charming County. Here are beach apartments overlooking wide sandy bays from Woolacombe in North Devon to Slapton Sands in South Devon. Discover thatched cottages in quaint coves such as Beer, Lee Bay, Blackpool Sands and Ladram Bay, with clear waters backed by lush green Devon countryside. 

Stay in a thatched Devon holiday cottage in the heart of the countryside to explore deep flower-filled lanes or the wild moorland landscapes of Exmoor and Dartmoor. The many picturesque and historic towns and villages from Clovelly to Budleigh Salterton scattered across Devon offer a fine choice of self-catering accommodation. 

Find quaint thatched cottages in sleepy villages, stylish barn conversions on working Devon farms or waterside apartments in converted fishing lofts and harbourside warehouses on the South Devon coast. Devon's mild climate makes the County a popular choice for self-catering cottage holidays all year round, as Christmas Day surfers on the North Devon beaches at Croyde and Saunton will testify. At the same time, wild daffodils and primroses appear in the hedgerows as early as February, adding colour to winter and early spring walks in the countryside. Looking for a relaxing staycation or active holiday? Click here to explore our full North Devon Holiday Cottages Listings.

Exterior of a North Devon mill cottage surrounded by gardens in a valley floor.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Set amongst mature waterside gardens in a gorgeous secluded location, Bratton Mill Cottage is a pet-friendly 17th-century cottage near the medieval village of Bratton Fleming in Devon, is a pet-friendly 17th-century cottage. It has been recently redecorated yet retains much of the character and charm of the original mill.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
A large old mill cottage nestles in a wooded Exmoor valley.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

Bratton Mill Farmhouse near the North Devon village of Bratton Fleming offers the perfect escape for large families and groups on holiday in the South West. A 17th-century former mill, It has been transformed into a child-friendly, large North Devon holiday cottage alongside a babbling trout stream.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
A one-bedroom, modern terraced holiday cottage with a large rear lawn.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

A country escape awaits at Brook Cottage. Expansive views of rolling green hills stretch forever from the romantic cottage near Challacombe in Devon. Boasting a four-poster bed and other luxury touches, the pet-friendly Exmoor cottage promises seclusion, a woodburning stove and a sunroom.

  • Active Holidays
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
Gable end of a wood panelled Dorset barn conversion with wooden steps to a front door and deck.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

Explore Brookhaven, the ideal Musbury holiday let—a barn conversion creating a modern, open-plan studio for couples seeking a rural retreat in East Devon. Recently finished to high standards, this charming apartment boasts a king-size bed, a well-equipped kitchen, and a private seating area overlooking the serene Axe Valley. Enjoy village amenities, coastal charm, and nearby attractions. Discover the allure of this Musbury cottage for couples and plan your escape. View full details for an unforgettable East Devon getaway.

  • Accessible By Train
  • Active Holidays
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
A table  with parasol and chairs tands on a sunny patio behind a stone built holiday cottage in Devon.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Escape to tranquillity at Buzzards View, a captivating holiday home in Cornworthy. Renovated in 2022, this South Devon country cottage nestles in the scenic Dart Valley. Revel in the open-plan kitchen/diner, unwind in the spacious sitting room, and relax on the tranquil patio. Three chic bedrooms, including a master with ensuite, guarantee comfort. Benefit from off-street parking and explore the fuller description for an in-depth look at this charming South Devon getaway.

  • Active Holidays
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Remote Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

C S Lewis Balcony is a stylish, two-storey Lynton holiday apartment overlooking the sea. The impressive property sleeps four and enjoys beautiful views from its furnished balcony. It offers an interior with dual-aspect windows, sophisticated décor, sunlit spaces, and luxurious details.

  • Active Holidays
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
A double fronted 3-storey coastal cottage in Inistow.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Cool Stone Cottage is sleek, modern and elegant. The pet-friendly cottage in Instow carries a distinct coastal vibe and lies just moments from the beach and the highlights of North Devon. Natural light floods the cottage, and the sea breeze can be enjoyed in the open-plan spaces or the lovely garden.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
3-storey contemporary holiday home with large balcony and patio overlooks a lawn.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Cormorant is a beautiful coastal cottage that makes for the perfect Dartmouth holiday retreat. It offers access to a communal pool, tennis court, and a golf course. This three-storey property is located in South Hams and provides modern comforts. The stylish interiors and open-plan design create a warm and inviting atmosphere. You can enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, log burner, and Smart TV. There are three bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom, providing ultimate relaxation. The front patio, BBQ area, and balconies offer the perfect space for outdoor living. This cottage is ideal for golfers, families, or couples. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore this Dartmouth holiday cottage with its alluring amenities.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
The exterior of a small terrace of thatched cottages overlooks a quiet North Devon village street.
  • Sleeps 3
  • Bedrooms 2

Cosy Nook is a gorgeous Grade II-listed holiday cottage in North Molton dating back 500 years. The thatched-roof cottage welcomes pets and sleeps three people. It features an inglenook fireplace, exposed beams, a raised, furnished garden, rural charm, and access to the coast and Exmoor National Park.

  • Active Holidays
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
A large country house at dusk.
  • Sleeps 15
  • Bedrooms 8

Coulscott House is a luxury North Devon holiday cottage situated in Combe Martin; it's a superb rural retreat for exploring the rugged North Devon coast and its award-winning beaches. With three bedrooms, including a master bedroom with an ensuite bathroom and a separate family bathroom, it comfortably accommodates up to 6 guests. Inside, you'll find a well-equipped kitchen, a dining area, and a cosy living room with a wood-burning stove. Outside, enjoy the beautiful garden and patio area, along with the indoor heated swimming pool and hot tub for ultimate relaxation. Explore the charming village of Combe Martin or venture into Exmoor National Park for outdoor adventures. Coulscott House offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your North Devon holiday. Book now for a memorable stay

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages with Car Chargers
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
  • Cottages with Hot Tubs
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Farm Cottages
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
The rooftops of a large holiday cottage surrounded by a sloping lawn and trees with a river estuary in the distance.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

Dower House is a large 18th-century Devon holiday farmhouse that sleeps 8 in 4 bedrooms. It is located in the village of Dittisham, between Dartmouth and Totnes, and offers panoramic views across the Dart Estuary. It is ideal for holidays with families or small groups of friends.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Farm Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
A single-storey holiday cottage overlooks a courtyard with a table laid for a meal
  • Sleeps 9
  • Bedrooms 5

Discover comfort at Firm Anchor, a pet-friendly South Devon coastal cottage in Salcombe. With spacious living across three floors, a well-equipped kitchen, and estuary views from the terrace and balcony, it's a super family-friendly retreat. The property accommodates up to 5 guests, boasts a child's relaxation area, and is just a 10-minute walk from the town centre. Explore the detailed description of this inviting seaside holiday haven for more information.

  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
A stone built Exmoor cottage  faces a lawn containing a sheltered hot tub  and a two outdoor chairs around a tea-table.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

Hartford Cottage is a beautiful romantic Exmoor holiday home in a moorland village near South Molton in Devon. The pet-friendly cottage with a hot tub enjoys tranquillity, far-reaching views, a generous sunroom, traditional character and access to a tennis court, games room and Exmoor.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
  • Cottages with Hot Tubs
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
Exterior of a thatched cottage facing a paved, flower-filled courtyard in Brixham.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

Hearthstone East Cottage is a large, thatched holiday cottage in Brixham, a popular seaside resort in Torbay. Set in idyllic surroundings, the pet-friendly cottage boasts stone walls, exposed beams, tiled floors and antique furnishings, plus a log fire, a lovely sunny garden and proximity to sandy beaches.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterpark Nearby
An exterior of s Victorian holiday villa in Torquay with ample car parking space in front.
  • Sleeps 12
  • Bedrooms 6

Holcombe House is a large and luxuriously presented Torbay holiday cottage in Torquay. This detached period property can sleep twelve people in six bedrooms.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterpark Nearby

Why Stay in a Holiday Cottage in Devon?

  • Devon has something for everyone. There are plenty of coastal, countryside and moorland Holiday Cottages in Devon to choose from. Enjoy bustling market towns, quiet villages and varied coastal settings.
  • Devon has something for everyone. Families will enjoy the beaches and adventure parks. Hikers will love the coast paths and moors. Surfers will be able to enjoy well known surf spots, while birdwatchers and nature lovers will have an array of places to visit.
  • For many visitors, renting holiday cottages in Devon is the most enjoyable way to experience this charming County. Here are beach apartments overlooking wide sandy bays from Woolacombe in North Devon to Slapton Sands in the South Hams. Discover thatched cottages in quaint coves such as Beer, Lee Bay, Blackpool Sands and Ladram Bay, with clear waters backed by lush green Devon countryside.
  • Stay in a thatched Devon holiday cottage in the heart of the countryside to explore deep flower-filled lanes or the wild moorland landscapes of Exmoor and Dartmoor. The many picturesque and historic towns and villages from Clovelly to Budleigh Salterton scattered across Devon offer a fine choice of self-catering accommodation.
  • Find quaint thatched cottages in sleepy villages, stylish barn conversions on working Devon farms or waterside apartments in converted fishing lofts and harbourside warehouses on the South Devon coast. Devon's mild climate makes the County a popular choice for self-catering cottage holidays all year round, as Christmas Day surfers on the North Devon beaches at Croyde and Saunton will testify. At the same time, wild daffodils and primroses appear in the hedgerows as early as February, adding colour to winter and early spring walks in the countryside.
  • Devon's centre is the wonderful Dartmoor National Park - offering picturesque wild walks and drives across the moors. Visit Widecombe and Princetown - the latter now earning a reputation as an artistic centre as well as being the location of the famous prison. Above all, find and climb a tor - there are hundreds from which visitors can choose. Dartmoor is also home to England's 'newest castle' Castle Drogo which is now wonderfully restored by the National Trust.

 

What Can You Do and Where Can You Visit From Your Devon Holiday Home?

  • To the south of the County are the bustling Victorian seaside resorts of Torquay, Paignton, Exmouth and Teignmouth, these days offering much more than a traditional bucket and spade holiday (although buckets and spades are still essential holiday must-haves). It's a haven for superb family theme parks such as Diggerland, an adventure theme park with a real emphasis on DIGGERS! An invigorating construction experience for adults & children. It is highly recommended!
  • To the southeast corner of Devon are the charming and genteel Edwardian resorts and villages of Sidmouth, Beer, Branscombe and Budleigh Salterton. Here, a perfect day can be spent chuntering around Lyme Bay in a self-hire boat, and catching mackerel to BBQ back at your holiday cottage in the evening. For delightful views of the River Ax estuary - and the chance of a Devonshire Cream Tea in Colyton, enjoy a sedate ride on restored trams at The Seaton Tramway that runs from Seaton along the estuary to Colyton.
  • North Devon is much wilder and quieter than the south but just as welcoming to visitors. Here are the extensive sandy surfing beaches of Croyde, Woolacombe, Westward Ho! and Saunton Sands (perfect for beach cricket and sandcastle building when the tide is out).
  • Tiny coast-hugging villages such as Lee Bay or Clovellyin North Devon will delight visitors at any time of the year.
  • The main North Devon coastal towns of Barnstaple and Bideford provide all the services and supplies you need to enjoy a self-catering holiday in a rural or seaside holiday cottage.
  • North Devon also has the occasional geographical claim to fame, such as the biggest village in England (Braunton) and the longest High Street in England (Combe Martin). For visiting walkers and cyclists, the superb Tarka Trail offers more than 40 miles of level cycling on old North Devon railway lines that follow the river valleys and estuaries of the Taw and Torridge. There are plenty of bike hire shops along its route if you don't have space to bring your bikes.
  • In North Devon, visit The Gnome Reserve, where over a thousand gnomes add colour and enchantment to a woodland walk. The Reserve was once nominated for a Turner Prize. If not Gnomes, they try sheep: The Big Sheep in Bideford has everything from baby lambs to feed to roller coaster rides - all year round! It is no wonder that many of Devon's self-catering holiday cottages and seaside apartments welcome the same visitors year after year!

 

Find Cottages in Dartmoor and the Heart of Devon

Inland Devon is equally inviting to visitors. Quiet thatched villages such as Broadhembury, Coleford, Sampford Courtenay or Chittlehampton can be found at the end of slow drives down deep Devon lanes (all replete with excellent pubs and idyllic holiday cottages). Exeter's city centre is well worth at least one day's visit to see the magnificent Cathedral (picnic on Cathedral Green) followed by a trip down to Exeter Quay on the River Exe, full of craft shops, bars and restaurants. Hire a bike and follow the ship canal towpath through Starcross to the coast. Make it past the enticing pubs such as the Twin Locks, and you'll find yourselves collecting sea shells and nibbling seaside candy floss on the beach at Dawlish Warren before a leisurely ride home to your holiday accommodation.

 

South Devon Coast and Countryside Cottages

Devon's maritime heritage and traditions can be discovered in the south coast ports of Dartmouth. Taking an Edwardian paddle steamer upriver to Dittisham past Greenaway, Agatha Christie's house, is now open to the public. Discover more of Devon's scenic heritage by water at Salcombe or Plymouth, where a boat trip visiting all the historic maritime naval yards along Plymouth Sound will provide an entertaining history lesson.

For steam train lovers, occasional mainline rail excursions to and from Exeter, steam a-plenty can be found within an easy drive of many holiday cottages. In the popular (and idyllic) South Hams region in Devon's southern corner, ride the South Devon Railway from Buckfastleigh to Totnes or from Paignton to Kingswear (and then by ferry to Dartmouth). In North Devon, discover the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway, which operates a mile or so of scenic track from Woody Bay Station - combine this with a clifftop walk along the South West Coast Path between Woody Bay and Martinhoe and you have the perfect day out!