Castlebury Barn

A welcoming, pet-friendly Devon haven with luxurious features and a wood-fired hot tub, beautifully set within the picture-perfect Axe Valley.

Perfect for all-weather family stays (well-behaved dogs included!), Castlebury Barn occupies prime scenic position in the Devon town of Axminster, within the rolling Axe Valley.

The views are so glorious here, in fact, that even though the relaxed open-plan living area features a TV, you may find your eyes stray away from the screen, out to the green valley beyond.

When the sun is shining, simply open up the bi-folding doors and invite the outside in... or take a wander out to the patio, and engulf your souls in the myriad charms of nature.

Be warned, however, since once you've headed outside you may never want to spend time indoors again! A true slice of private paradise, you'll find cosy seating and dining furniture for those sizzling al fresco suppers prepared on the barbecue.  

Just down a small set of steps is a wood-fired hot tub that's ideal for greeting the stars as they appear in that vast, clear night sky... and there's even a firepit for storytelling and marshmallow-toasting all together.

Oh - and not to mention a private lawn that's perfect for exercising energetic pooches, complete with an al fresco dog shower to rinse off any muddy paws afterwards!

When the weather misbehaves, all you have to do is light the wood-burner and cradle a hot drink on the sofa to feel ridiculously cosy. You'll even find a handy sofa bed in the living room that's ideal for two extra guests.

As for the elegant bedrooms themselves, there's a kingsize and a superking ready and waiting (the superking can also be made into a twin if you prefer). Whichever you choose, you'll also enjoy luxurious en-suite facilities that include an indulgent free-standing bath tub, a separate shower, and his-and-hers sinks.

When you rise, prepare a slap-up breakfast in the fully-fitted kitchen - you're going to need the energy if you're planning to get out and explore!

You could start by heading for the nearby World Heritage Jurassic Coast, with the pretty towns of Lyme Regis and Seaton just 20 minutes away. Here you can laze on the beach or enjoy watersports galore... though if you're up for a challenge, how about walking all the way to the ‘Golden Cap', the highest and most scenic point of the coast?

Of course, checking out the local pubs is a must, and you'll find plenty of those to while away your holiday time in. There's a wealth of independent shops selling tasty local produce, too - ideal if you're staying put at the barn, enjoying this precious quality time with your loved ones.

Things to note

Well-behaved dogs are welcome - there's even an outdoor dog shower to clean muddy paws!