Haldon Belvedere Penthouse Apartment

• Sleeps: 2
• Bedroom: 1
• Bathroom: 1
• Minimum stay: 2 nights

Also known as Lawrence Castle after its original namesake, Major General Stringer-Lawrence, the Haldon Belvedere soars 244 metres above sea level on a remote edge of Exeter. Its sweeping 360-degree views take in the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic coast and the rolling Quantock Hills, in a sensational feast for the eyes.

Visited by King George III and Queen Charlotte just before the French Revolution in 1789, the striking, white-turreted folly has been elegantly restored by the Devon Historic Buildings Trust, with a breath-taking exterior renovation taking place in 2016.

Inside, many of the folly’s original features have been carefully preserved, including the breath-taking stone cantilevered spiral staircase, rich mahogany flooring, and gothic-style doors and windows.

Perfect for a romantic escape, the Haldon Belvedere Penthouse Apartment occupies the top floor of the tower. You’ll also have access to that incredible rooftop for savouring glorious sunrise-and-sunset views, stargazing… and surveying your new-found kingdom, of course!

Full self-contained facilities include a fully-equipped kitchen and an opulent bathroom with a soaking tub, premium towels, and fine scented toiletries. You’ll also have a relaxing living space to unwind in, complete with a large Freeview TV and deep leather armchairs.

At the end of a long day exploring the local area – or doing absolutely nothing, your choice – you’ll get to curl up in the supremely comfortable superking bed, in a refined, high-ceilinged bedroom with Georgian gothic detailed doors and windows.

(A more dream-like setting for lazy lie-ins simply can’t be imagined – especially if you can persuade your loved one to rustle up a delicious breakfast in bed!)

At a glance

• An opulent penthouse apartment in an 18th century turreted folly, elevated 244 metres above sea level in a remote part of Exeter.
• The 360-degree views from the rooftop are truly spectacular, taking in the Jurassic Coast, the Quantock Hills, and the rolling hills of the South Hams.
• The apartment boasts full self-contained kitchen and bathroom facilities.
• The magnificent, high-ceilinged bedroom features a superking bed and Georgian gothic detailed doors and windows.
• There are picnic benches within the grounds for al fresco dining.

Features

• Adults Only
• Dog Friendly

More information

The folly’s grounds are dotted with picnic tables for al fresco dining on balmy summer evenings, and there’s a gloriously remote feeling to these surroundings that will make you feel blissfully isolated from the rest of the world. However, if you’re keen to make your acquaintance with the area, you’ll soon find plenty to see and do close by.

You could start by taking a ramble through the nearby Haldon Hills, one of the few sites in Devon with evidence of Neolithic settlements, or pack a picnic and find the perfect spot along the banks of the River Exe.

Head into Exeter, a UNESCO City of Literature, to immerse yourselves in the many charms of city life: shopping, dining, and sight-seeing. Yet you’re sure to feel that your stay at Haldon Belvedere Penthouse Apartment casts such a captivating spell, that you’re happy to stay put and soak up its romantic atmosphere all holiday long.

Things to note

A car is recommended for exploring the local area. Pets and children are not permitted to stay, although an infant can be accommodated if guests provide their own cot. Cleaning fee applicable per stay.