The Hidden Chapel

A luxurious TV-featured conversion of a 19th century congregational chapel, peacefully secluded in an ancient, rural Devon village.

The conversion story and process of The Hidden Chapel is so fascinating, that it has recently been documented as part of a Channel 4 series.

An 1856 congregational chapel that's ‘hidden' in the ancient Devon village of Zeal Monachorum (Latin for ‘cell of the monks'), it's easy to feel that you've travelled soothingly back in time as you arrive.  

Featured in the Domesday Book of 1086, the rural village is surrounded by acres of open farmland, as winding footpaths lead you past pretty, traditional cottages and through wildlife-steeped woods. On a clear day, you can even enjoy distant views of Dartmoor.

The chapel itself has been beautifully transformed into a sumptuous sanctuary for up to six guests. You and your favourite people can choose between three ornate double bedrooms; two of which are ensuite, while the third opens out onto a gorgeous terrace that's made for birdsong-surrounded morning coffee.  

(Whichever room you choose, you can relax into irresistibly downy bedding... perfect after a long day of doing nothing much at all!)

Meanwhile, there are some exquisite features to marvel at inside - including a magnificent round window, clawfoot bathtub, and a well-equipped kitchen area that's been expertly crafted from the chapel's original pews. Combined with contemporary fixtures and fittings, the visual effect is truly stunning.

The scene has certainly been well-set to prepare feasts that are fit for the church elders themselves - which you can then savour at the huge, twelve-seater dining table, chatting the evening away over good food (and good wine!)

Pour an after-dinner tipple, and curl up on the comfy sofas... or if you're in the mood for some fun, you could always play a record, choose your favourite costume from the vintage fancy-dress box, and mix a G&T from the honesty cocktail bar instead!

Later on, you'll find two wood-burners to help warm your evenings, one indoor, and one outside, so you can stay toasty as you stargaze in those clear, unpolluted skies.

How to fill your time? Well, you could take one of those winding footpaths and see where it leads you...

...or you could head for the locally famed Waie Inn, a welcoming bar and restaurant that boasts glorious gardens, and activities galore, both in and out of doors!  Not only are fishing, football, darts, pool, and skittles all on offer here, there's also an indoor swimming pool, and a ‘play barn' with slides and toys for the little ones.

For a romantic meal, get the Tarka line to Yeoford from Morchard Road station down the hill and enjoy gastro pub dining at it's finest at The Duck.

Just don't forget to join together in worship back at The Hidden Chapel by evening, as you light that wood-burner, and simply relax.

Things to note

Housekeeping services are available throughout your stay - just ask.