Six of the most luxurious places to stay in Devon
Our trusty team of inspectors have unearthed a few seriously luxurious homes in delightful Devon, so you can put your feet up and your worries down in style. Filled with indulgent temptations, this hand-picked collection of places to stay range from the quietly sleek — expect interiors to make you swoon, treats on arrival, glittering pools, kitchens and bedrooms you’ll find hard to leave behind — to the former home of Hank Marvin, replete with signature red Fender Stratocaster artwork. Explore Devon, return to luxury.
Willows Rest, Totnes
You couldn’t fail to feel happy in this eco-friendly barn conversion in the glorious South Hams. It’s a peach of a place to stay, with an indoor pool, firepit, hot tub, animals to pet, fairy dell with hammocks and disco balls, veg patch and smooth lawn. Larger groups can also take the cottage next door, a sweet hideaway for those wishing to flee the general throng.
The five bedrooms in the barn are downstairs, some can be twins and all are a good size. Upstairs is an enormous, beamed living room with a long table for games and eating. At one end a sleek kitchen with plenty of kit and a wine fridge, at the other – soft sofas, good books and a wood-burner. Another sitting room has a strapping TV for escapees.
“Willows Rise is simply perfect! Three generations recently stayed here. The open-plan area upstairs is stunning. The snug is a bonus. We couldn’t fault it.” – Guest, Ruth
Hank’s Annexe – Higher Wiscombe
In the 70s, the farm belonged to Hank Marvin and there are nods to his signature red Fender Stratocaster in the artwork. Beautifully restored and sleek, there’s an attractive blend of materials with oak beams, weathered bricks and local flint. Relax in the high-ceilinged, light and airy living space with a flame electric fire, board games and large screen for TV or films.
Cook on the Neff oven and hob and, if you must work, find the perfect alcove with a walnut desk. Through an open archway is a solid steel four-poster beneath a splendid vaulted ceiling and a William Holland bateau bath – for more modest souls there’s a separate wet room. Soak up outstanding views over the East Devon AONB, fire up the Weber gas barbecue in your enclosed garden, float in the heated pool in which you can book a 2 hour private slot.
“A beautiful place to stay. Very relaxing, superb views, incredibly dog friendly.” – Guest, Annette
Stay at Hank’s Annexe – Higher Wiscombe >
Loyton Lodge, Tiverton
The feel is completely indulgent: spoiling bedrooms, superb breakfasts (dinner if you want), roaring fires, billiards and much more at this country house retreat on the fringe of Exmoor National Park. Come to explore almost 300 acres of rolling hills and ancient woodland, with wild flowers, pristine rivers, strutting pheasants and the odd red deer commuting across the fields. It’s a great base for a special occasion – take the whole house and bring the family for a party you won’t forget.
Inside mixes contemporary interiors with an old-school feel, bedrooms have warm colours and smart fabrics and breakfast is a treat. It’s a short drive to The Swan in Bampton; Dulverton is a little further for a smart restaurant, The Woods. Head north to quaint Minehead or south to boaty Salcombe.
“What a gem, an absolutely charming place. Such a relaxing place in an idyllic position. Isobel is lovely and nothing is too much.” – Guest, Julie
The Hayloft, Ashburton
This beautifully renovated 17th-century hayloft is a cosy bolthole for two, filled with locally made ceramics and original art. The kitchen has all the things you don’t want to buy for a short visit – herbs, spices, tea, coffee, jam – plus a welcome basket with local eggs, milk and bread. The snug is on the mezzanine level: read in front of the log-burner, play a board game and help yourself to some local gin from the honesty bar then take a long soak in the rolltop.
There’s plenty to do in the area – hiking on Dartmoor, pony trekking, canoeing, fishing. Or you can stroll into Ashburton for restaurants and shops or drive to Buckfast Abbey in seven minutes.
“The perfect spot for a romantic few nights in a brilliant location just a short stroll out for dinner in the evenings and a short drive onto the moor for bracing walks.” – Inspector Catherine
The Turtley Corn Mill, Avonwick
You’re looked after very well here at this refreshed ivy-covered old mill. Bedrooms in the main house have Vispring mattresses, Nespresso machines and views over the garden; the lodges are slightly bigger and have armchairs looking over the lake and quacking ducks. You can have continental breakfast brought to you or stroll to the main building for a feast: traditional porridge, granola with Greek yogurt, Cumberland sausages, posh baked beans or crushed avocado, buttermilk pancakes and veggie alternatives.
Posh pub grub suppers are excellent too. Wander around acres of manicured grounds or head to Dartmoor for rugged scenery, waterfalls, ponies and hiking. Trendy Totnes is 20 minutes in the car for shops, restaurants, good delis and pubs. Beaches are near.
“We had a wonderful sundowner in the garden, surrounded by the peacocks and their friends. A restful night’s sleep followed in a very comfy bed, followed by an absolutely delicious breakfast.” – Guest, Ellen
Stay at The Turtley Corn Mill >
The Horn of Plenty, Tavistock
Evenings at this pretty 1860s house are for fine dining; the team of talented chefs trained under the Roux brothers, so expect French-influenced gourmet dishes on menus that change every two months. Breakfast is served in the restaurant – continental, full English with local produce as often as possible and Prosecco if you want to add a sparkle to your morning. Lunch is served every day too. Comfortable, trad bedrooms are either in the main house or in two other buildings.
A sense of peace and quiet pervades with excellent unobtrusive service and a terrace with marvellous views across the Tamar Valley. Wander the walled garden or explore further into the wooded valley. Return for a sumptuous afternoon tea on the view-filled terrace, in the drawing room with its big bay window or the cosy, fire-warmed library upstairs.
“Come to this beautiful corner Devon to enjoy wonderful views across the Tamar Valley, leisurely afternoon teas and ever-changing seasonal menus.” – Inspector, Claire
