The Big Hoot Caravan

• Sleeps: 4
• Bedrooms: 3
• Bathroom: 1
• Minimum stay: 2 nights

Surrounded by big skies, wide open countryside, and sweet-scented wildflower meadows on an ancient Devon farm, a stay at The Big Hoot Caravan feels like stepping gloriously back in time.

The retreat comprises two caravans, which are designed to join together to form a comfortable ‘showman’s living van’. Originally built in the 1970s, the van’s groovy restoration was featured on the popular BBC TV series, My Unique B&B – on which it was described by host Simon Parfett as his “funkiest project yet!”

A vibrant tribute to the Disco Decade, there’s plenty of zingy colour throughout, including a sunny orange kitchen, a lime-green-and-avocado shower room (“these colours actually work!” Simon exclaimed in amazement!) and eye-catching psychedelic wallpaper.

You’ll also find plenty of authentic ‘70s accessories, including a drinks globe and map wallpaper… cleverly ‘aged’ with tea! As you might expect, there are plenty of creatively upcycled elements, too. These include a breakfast-bar-with-a-view transformed from an old wardrobe, intricate glass lighting, and vintage furnishings from the owners’ family, brought imaginatively back to life.

Sleeping up to four time-travelling guests, there’s a double bedroom and two single beds to curl up in, making this an ideal bolthole for a small family – especially since there’s so much private space to run wild and free in outside!

There’s a built-in seat between the caravans’ A-frames, from which you can relax with a good book, or simply gaze across at the orchard and fields, letting your mind wander wherever it likes.

Feel free to explore the farm, too… saying hello to the resident ducks, hens, and friendly goats Kevin and Alfie on your way!  There’s plenty of wildlife to spot, and if you’re lucky, you may also receive a warm welcome from the owners’ super-friendly dogs, Reggie and Pippin.

At a glance

• An original showman’s living van, comprising two 1970s caravans joined together, transformed into a groovy retreat set on a peaceful, wildlife-steeped Devon farm.
• The van’s makeover was captured on the BBC TV show ‘My Unique B&B’, with the host declaring it his “funkiest project yet!”
• Self-contained facilities include a 70s inspired kitchen and bathroom, with vibrant décor and creative upcycling throughout.
• Sleeping up to 4 guests, there’s a double and two single beds to curl up in after a long day exploring the farm!
• There are children’s play areas and friendly goats to meet on the farm, plus a play barn exclusively for guest of the Big Hoot (the only property on the site). Further afield the south coast is 40 minutes’ drive away, and there are plenty of attractions and activities in the local area.

Features

• Dog Friendly
• Family Friendly

More information

You’ll also find slides for the kids, and if the weather takes a turn for the worse, there’s an indoor play barn just for guests of the Big Hoot, complete with a trampoline and ride-on toys.

Prefer exploring further afield? Lace up those walking boots – there are plenty of scenic circular walks on the farm, which join the local footpath network, so just choose your favourite direction!

The sweeping south coast is a mere 40-minute drive away, featuring some of the area’s loveliest beaches, or try heading to Exmoor or Dartmoor for the most picturesque picnic you’ll ever enjoy.

However you choose to spend your time in this beautiful part of the world, your hearts will soar at the prospect of curling up in those comfy beds again, as gentle owl’s hoots ease you into a sound night’s sleep.

Things to note

While one well-behaved dog is welcome to join you, they must be extremely well-behaved as the farm is sometimes home to sheep, and the owners have two friendly dogs themselves – from whom you may receive a welcoming visit!