This picture-perfect cottage promises a cosy escape for a couple or young family and their canine. It’s set at the heart of the tiny community of Broadwood Kelly, 2 miles from Winkleigh, between Dartmoor and Exmoor and within reach of Devon’s dog-friendly coast. This 17th-century thatched home has a traditionally welcoming vibe and a choice of lovely walks from the doorstep.
Enjoy an authentic taste of country life with a self-catering stay at this charming rural retreat. Store boots and doggie bags in the porch, then step into an inviting lounge/diner with comfortable seating arranged before an inglenook fireplace. There’s room for Rover to warm his paws by the wood burner while the rest of the party unwinds with a film – use the Smart TV to stream your favourites. Dine at the hand-crafted table in one corner; the adjacent kitchen has all you’ll need to rustle up tasty meals. Close by, a shower room completes the ground floor layout. Once the dog has had his final outing of the day, head up cottage-style stairs to find two bedrooms, watching out for low door frames as you go. A pretty, king-size bedroom with vintage styling leads into a sweet bunk bedroom. Enjoy al fresco food and drinks in the enclosed shingle garden, a perfect spot for your dog to potter. There’s private parking for one car.
Sniff out miles of dog-friendly footpaths from your doorstep. Walk to Winkleigh for a pub and supplies. Explore the moors or take a hike along the Tarka Trail – a largely traffic-free loop centred around the ancient market town of Barnstaple, 21 miles away – join it at Eggesford (5.5 miles). Your pet can run on Instow Beach, and it’s a similar distance (25 miles) to Westward Ho! where dogs are allowed year-round on the northern end of the long, sandy beach, backed by Northam Burrows Country Park.