Valleyside Escapes

• Sleeps: 6 per lodge
• Bedrooms: 3 per lodge
• Bathrooms: 1 per lodge
• Minimum stay: 2-3 nights

Valleyside Escapes is exactly that: an escape from everyday life, set in the historic Devon village of Bickleigh for mesmerising Exe Valley views as far as the eye can see.

The proud recipients of 10 awards (and counting!) – including Gold Awards from Devon Tourism and South West Tourism Excellence – owners Emma and Matt have created a luxurious haven for families to relax, unwind, and savour life in the Great Outdoors.

Not only will you have a choice of three fully-equipped safari tents, named Oak, Maple and Birch, you’ll also have access to an exclusive seven-acre meadow right next to the River Exe… complete with a mini football pitch, riverside picnic benches and a firepit. There’s also plenty of scope for wildlife-watching and wild swimming alike.

Meanwhile, the on-site play area will keep the kids busy for hours, with a swing, slide, tree stumps and tyres, and even a bespoke mud kitchen! There’s skittles and a boules court for more refined play, too.

As if all that wasn’t enough, the Mediterranean-style courtyard bar is a perfect Friday evening hangout space (excluding wedding weekends): family and dog-friendly, and equipped with colouring and games to keep everyone busy. An actual games room is stocked with everything from darts and table football to pool and retro Nintendo, and there’s even an honesty shop for snacks and essentials (you’ll find a friendly farm shop and café in just seven minutes’ drive, too).

What can you expect from your sumptuous safari tent? Hot running water, electricity and Wi-Fi are all gainfully on hand, and there’s comfy sleeping space for up to six guests – in one kingsize bedroom, and one twin plus a kingsize cabin bed for children or adults.

Private facilities include a bathroom at the rear of each tent, with a shower, toilet and sink. Luxury skincare products and towels are provided too, so you can pack perfectly light. You’ll also have a kitchen and dining area at the front, with a small fridge and gas hob… though you may prefer lighting the al fresco firepit and indulging in one of Emma and Matt’s legendary, family-sized paella kits, instead!

At a glance

• A multi-award-winning Devon glamping site with luxury safari tents, panoramic Exe Valley views and plentiful on-site facilities, secluded in the historic village of Bickleigh.
• Three safari tents each sleep up to six guests, with private kitchens and bathrooms.
• Spend lazy afternoons or go wild swimming in the private, seven-acre riverside meadow, complete with picnic benches and a firepit.
• There is a dedicated children’s play area, outdoor and indoor games, an honesty shop and a courtyard bar on site.
• There is a farm shop and café within seven minutes’ drive of the site, and plenty of family-friendly activities within short walking distance – as well as places to stop for a picnic along the Exe Valley Way!
• The north and south Devon coasts are accessible within an hour’s drive.
• Explore Exmoor National Park to the north or Dartmoor National Park to the south

Features

• Dog Friendly
• Family Friendly
• Large Groups

Accommodation Options

More information

If the weather takes a turn for the worse, your tent features a cosy lounge area with a wood-burning stove – an ideal snuggle-space. When the sun is shining, open up the tent to welcome the outside in, or laze on your veranda with a chilled glass of wine and those awe-inspiring valley views for company.

In the mood to explore further afield? There’s plenty to see and do within just a short walk. Pack a picnic and take a refreshing stroll along the Exe Valley Way, or head to the famous Bickleigh Mill and bistro for shopping and a slap-up Devon cream tea. The Devon Railway Centre is perfect for a family day out, with unlimited rides on two different railways, an Edwardian model village, and a play shed for the little ones.

Just jump in the car to access a wealth of local places of interest, including the historic market town of Tiverton, adventure parks including Diggerland, National Trust properties, and even the north and south Devon coasts within an hour’s drive.

Things to note

The courtyard bar is open on Friday evenings only (though drinks may still be purchased to enjoy in your safari tent throughout your stay), subject to weekend weddings being held on site at the dedicated Valleyside Barn. Please note that the path to the glamping field is steep at the top, so is not recommended for guests with limited mobility. Well-behaved dogs (one large or two small in each tent) are welcome to stay at an additional charge per dog – bowls and treats provided! A travel cot, high chair and bathroom step can be provided on request, along with pre-school toys. Fun, family-friendly competitions are regularly held on site – please check the property website for details.

Current Offers

10% Off Mid-Week Breaks in May & June - Use code SPRING10 on booking page