Groves Fishleigh

53 Customer Reviews

• "Second time of staying & just as good as the first time."

  It's perfect for us & the dog & the cottage had everything you need. Agree with all previous reviews that you have to take everything with you as nothing there but there was loo roll, washing up liquid & hand wash this time which was a help. But if you know things won't be there, just take them with you. Unfortunately, the washing machine wasn't working which the owners informed us of on arrival but offered for us to use their washing machine which was kind. The only very small negative is the outside furniture which is in quite a bad state so could do with replacing. And an outside light could be useful but because of it being a thatched cottage, it may not be permissable. There is a torch under the kitchen sink if you hadn't taken one. All in all, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Zoe & Malcolm (the owners) are lovely & on hand if you need anything. We'll definitely be back as the location is perfect as close to our family. It's peaceful & 30 seconds from the Tarka Trail for dog walking. Just love it!

  Reviewed by Sally-ann4.4★May 2025

• "We so enjoyed our stay at this beautiful spacious cottage."

  The beds were so comfortable, lovely hot shower. Well equipped kitchen. Our little dogs enjoyed the secure front and back garden and amazing walks on the Tarka trail which was adjacent. Malcomb and Zoe our hosts were very friendly and helpful. We hope to return to this peaceful and relaxing cottage and area.

  Reviewed by Susan5.0★Apr 2025

• "We had an awesome week!"

  Such a comfortable 5 star cottage! Thank you so much Malcolm and Zoe for sharing your lovely home with us ! Practically all perfect

  Reviewed by Gwen5.0★Feb 2025

• "We had an excellent stay at this property it is beautiful owners are very ..."

  We had an excellent stay at this property it is beautiful owners are very friendly helpful and polite property had all the amenities we needed and was spotlessly clean on arrival was lovely to have the ducks wandering around outside would definitely recommend this property BEAUTIFUL place

  Reviewed by Patricia5.0★Jan 2025

• "When we arrived at groves fishleigh we had such high hopes."

  Outside was beautifully decorated for Christmas. Considering time of year I was surprised there was no welcome pack we have never stayed anywhere where there wasn't one. No WIFI really that's a standard I would think. The cottage itself was very tired. A new knife block is a must trying to carve our christmas dinner with a blunt knife was not fun. No cleaning products at all yet your expected to leave it as you find it meant we had to buy stuff to clean the hob. Also think a full size freezer us required if you was staying 2wks your limited in the food you can store in the desktop one. Water purity was awful we ended up buying bottle water as.my husband ended up with a bad stomach!! Wouldn't even give the water from tap to my dogs. Bathroom window should really have privacy glass. Heating wasn't great either off all day on all night resulted in us sleeping with windows open.

  Thank you for your comments on our Christmas decorations and we apologise for our belated reply to your further comments , as we are currently going through active cancer treatment. In regards to the welcome pack, we actually used to provide tea/coffee etc but found this was not being used, although we are always happy to provide some goodies! Not a problem! As we always like to be guided by our guests to make their stay a happy one, we do provide a 'welcome pack' for the woodburner, as many find it a 'novelty' that they may not have at home. As it states in our 'welcome book', we always encourage guests to come and see us and let us know if there is anything that we can help with (as you are aware, we are literally on site!) and unfortunately if we are not made aware, we can't put any problems right, that you may encounter. We feel that it might be reasonable to suggest that when booking a holiday, if you have certain requirements such as wifi or a larger freezer, it's probably best to check if the property meets those needs. The cottage is within the vicinity of a 'listed curtilage' which means there are restrictions which must be complied with by the ' listed buildings', therefore 'privacy glass' is not permitted in the bathroom which is why there is a roller blind to use for privacy. Our water supply is regularly maintained by a professional water company and is also tested (under government regulations) by South West Water for analysis and, if satisfactory, a certificate is then issued stating that the water supply is completely safe to drink, including your dogs. This has never been an issue and never will be and we certainly do not tolerate slanderous accusations. We appreciate it that people are on holiday and we do not 'expect' you to spend your time cleaning, as a holiday is precious time spent with loved ones, just to leave it tidy and belongings removed etc which is why we were very upset at the dreadful state of our bedlinen in both main bedrooms, which appeared that a dog had been 'in season'. All we ask for is respect. We have been very upset by your comments and we find it most odd that you stayed until the day before departure day. However, we are very lucky to have met many lovely guests over the years who have very much enjoyed their stay and we look forward to welcoming many more. Property Owner

  Reviewed by Michelle3.1★Dec 2024

• "Had a lovely stay at the Property."

  It was very nice location, the field next to Property was amazing if you take a dog with you. Property had everything that you would need. Lovely host and very helpful when needed anything. Would definitely go back.

  Reviewed by Jeff3.8★Oct 2024

• "Here are some tips for locating this charming cottage: When you consult the map on Sykes Cottages, which mistakenly estimates it to be before the right-hand bend."

  Be sure not to stop at the first thatched cottage you see and the property you need is actually located at the very end of the road (about 1.5miles in), which, like many lanes in Devon, may appear unclassified. The property’s What3words address is: ///shipyards.nurture.wisdom. As you turn in and drive down the gravel driveway, you’ll find the cottage with a large gate in front of you, surrounded by a few other properties on the land, one of which belongs to the owners. We were warmly welcomed by Malcolm, who we saw each morning as he let the ducks out to protect them from foxes. Malcolm is friendly and a treasure trove of local knowledge. After a while, we were also welcomed by Zoe who popped her head over the fence to greet us. Adjacent to the property is a large field that leads to the Tarka Trail. Most mornings, our dog loved playing in the field until the sheep arrived. Even then, Malcolm generously offered us access to the field that separates our property from theirs, which was incredibly kind, especially on days when our dog needed extra exercise. A note for dog owners: dogs are not allowed upstairs (if your furry friend typically sleeps with you). We also noticed the house rules about not leaving dogs unattended, as there were some noticeable scratches on the doorway, its likely this is to prevent damage from pets that struggle in unfamiliar places or have separation anxiety. The information book provides some options for nearby eateries. We particularly enjoyed The Kings Arms in Winkleigh—just a heads up, though: most local restaurants don’t serve food until 5:30 p.m., and reservations are often necessary. We didn’t explore too many local dining options, as the cottage is conveniently located for trips to North and South Devon and even Cornwall. One unsuspecting highlight was the Puffing Billy Cafe in Torrington, about 30 minutes away, where we indulged in a delightful cream tea too! For the extremely light sleepers in our group, the sound of the buzzing cesspit and the creaky stairs did disrupt their rest, so if you're a light sleeper too you may opt for ear buds. We recommend discussing your return times with the owners too, particularly as the winter months approach, if you'd prefer a hot shower or bath on your return to adjust the times for a warm one. Fortunately, Malcolm was quick to accommodate the changes for us. The cottage is well-equipped with everything you could need for a comfortable stay. Based on previous reviews, we opted to bring a few of our own items, as it noted that some essentials weren't provided. However, there is a Coop in nearby Hatherleigh. The surroundings are stunning, and the night sky is absolutely breathtaking! All in all, thank you for a lovely stay in such a beautiful place—it’s incredibly spacious and perfect for dogs!

  Reviewed by Kaylee5.0★Aug 2024

• "This was a picture perfect cottage, which we thoroughly enjoyed with our 3 dogs!"

  We absolutely loved the location, feeling in the middle of nowhere, and literally on the tarmac

  Reviewed by Katy4.4★Aug 2024

• "We had a fantastic stay at Groves Fishleigh."

  The property was lovely and felt really homely. It is ideally placed to reach both the north and south Devon coasts. The hosts were amazing with nothing being too much trouble. We would recommend this property to anyone wanting a quiet, relaxed, ‘get away from it all’ holiday in Devon!

  Reviewed by Paul5.0★Jul 2024

• "What a wonderful stay in a wonderful location."

  This property is located down at the end on a very long single track lane, which has no through road, so it is therefore quite secure and private and lovely and quiet. It was a perfect location to come to with our two puppies and their mum on their first holiday, as we could close the gate and let them run around and play. Lots of lovely fields all around, and there was even a lovely pond at the front of the property with ducks on it........So Idyllic! We had everything that we needed at the property and it had a real home from home feel to it. The owners were local to the property, so they were able to resolve any issues immediately if required and they were soooo helpful, if we needed anything at all. Such lovely people. :) It was an absolute delight to stay here and I would highly recommend it Thank you both. :)

  Reviewed by Nadine5.0★Jul 2024

• "Lovely cottage and very clean."

  Only two small issues. One being the resident ducks which were housed next door to our cottage as our dogs started barking each morning when the ducks were let out. And the other being that the rules state dogs cannot be left alone in the cottage which we didn't realise before we booked. This restricted us quite a bit as the weather was really hot and we didn't want to risk taking the dogs out when the temps were so high. I understand some dogs can be destructive if left but ours are very well behaved and there would have been no issues. Overall we had a nice time at this cottage and would recommend (as long as you either don't have dogs or are happy to have them with you 24/7.)

  Reviewed by Emma4.7★Jun 2024

• "We had a wonderful weeks holiday at Groves Fishleigh!"

  Beautiful location very relaxing

  Reviewed by Angela5.0★Jun 2024

• "We had an absolutely wonderful week at Groves Fishleigh, the cottage is as beautiful as the surrounding countryside and the owners couldn't have been more welcoming."

  The beds are extremely comfortable and the property is spacious but still feels cosy, we couldn't have asked for more. The location was perfect for us and allowed us to easily visit both Dartmoor and Exmoor.

  Reviewed by Katherine5.0★Apr 2024

• "We had a wonderful holiday."

  The cottage was clean and cozy with everything we needed. The location is ideal as a centre for getting out and seeing everything. The garden was dog proof and the house ideal for managing them. Malcom and Zoe were very welcoming and we felt very relaxed and at home - we will hopefully return before too long!

  Reviewed by Karen5.0★Apr 2024

• "Lovely, warm comfortable spacious property."

  The parking area and garden being totally fenced and secure was perfect for the dog and my peace of mind due to the fields next door having lambs. The owners are just lovely, came and welcomed us when we arrived, saw them a couple of times in passing and had some lovely chats with them. So remote and peaceful the only noise was nature, so perfect. I would love to return and wouldn't hesitate to recommend Groves Fishleigh to anyone.

  Reviewed by Nigel5.0★Mar 2024

• "A lovely holiday cottage and very friendly owners"

  Reviewed by Rose4.7★Dec 2023

• "We highly recommend Groves Fishleigh."

  The beautiful cottage is full of character and is in a perfect setting to relax and unwind plus there are endless walks and places to visit.The dogs had a great time and will sleep for a week!! Also Malcolm and Zoe are a lovely couple and without being intrusive were always on hand should you wish to know anything.

  Reviewed by Kevin5.0★Sep 2023

• "A beautiful property in a beautiful area."

  Perfect location for exploring. The owners were so friendly and helpful.

  Reviewed by Jamie5.0★Aug 2023

• "Perfect location for our dogs!"

  Once the gate was closed they were able to run round as much as they wanted to. Make sure you keep driving on the lane because it is a dead end where the cottage is so don't think you've missed it! Agree with other comments in that you have to take all the basics with you as the only thing there was toilet paper & hand-wash. There were a lot of flies in the cottage as it was so warm & the windows were open but I'd taken a citronella candle with me which really helped. Also, lots of cobwebs & spiders but it's in the middle of the country so it's to be expected Only disappointment was that there wasn't a welcome pack there which I've always had at previous cottage bookings. Even something as simple as a couple of teabags & a pint of milk would've been gratefully received. However, it was in a perfect location for Devon.& Cornwall & loads of National Trust properties within an hour's drive & I would definitely stay there again.

  Reviewed by Sally-ann4.7★Jun 2023

• "This was one of the nicest cottages we have stayed in, but read the directions carefully, as we went to the wrong house."

  It is exactly 1.5 miles down a narrow lane, and you have to go to the very end of the lane. don't expect the frills, the cottage is comfortable but basic. No Wi Fi , no dishwasher, if you need a fancy coffee machine take it with you. To nit pick i would have liked bigger bath towel, and an extra tea towel, but we could have asked the on site owners for them. Would we go again ? Certainly, it was ideal for us.

  Reviewed by Valerie4.4★May 2023

• "The cottage is located at the end of a lane and when you turn into the drive your are greeted with this fabulous thatched roof cottage."

  On arrival we were greeted by Malcolm the owner who is very pleasant and welcoming. The inside of the accommodation is equally appealing to the eyes, fabulous downstairs layout very comfortable with the log burner. Upstairs well laid out and the two master bedrooms had excellent storage for two persons. Single room would certainly suit a single occupancy. Kitchen was well equipped. Outside areas were dog friendly and also secure for a young child. The Tarka trail runs alongside the rear of the cottage and it is a great walk across the field through the woods and anther field to the lane and then to the village, took us 40 minutes with the dogs as they love to explore. Cottage is well located to travel to beaches at Bude and further south to Padstow. Road network is good. Overall we had a fabulous week. Good 4 G signal on EE, we ran our firestick on phone hotspot with no issues.

  Reviewed by Stephen5.0★Feb 2023

• "Gorgeous homely cottage."

  Super nice owners that are on hand if needed. The surrounding grounds, cottage and barns also beautiful. Just be aware of track/lane down to cottage in wet weather is slippery and muddy. Also Google with Post code took me to half way down lane. Ignore that just keep going right to the end and new drive being done. I found hot spotting my Internet from ee provider worked very well with my amazon fire stick. I did a little work on laptop too. The fur kids loved running through the field, stream and woods. Watched the world go by with the friendly ducks.(owners put away and let out each day, which my girls took while to except it was OK so no need to Bark!silly monkeys) You are fully enclosed in once gate is shut so very settling as a dog owner. Wood floors so easy with dogs. Lovely bath and powerful shower. I forgot to take salt and pepper and hand soap, but easily pick up down in village shops or Okehampton. Good spot to go to dartmoor and surrounding area. Or pop across the coast. Then come back for hot chocky in front of the lush log burner. Definitely a lovely cottage to stay and relax in :)

  Reviewed by Nadia4.1★Nov 2022

• "Perfect holiday cottage very spacious 3 comfortable bedrooms lovely kitchen quite rural great for dogs use of large field adjacent to cottage the tarker trail runs through grounds only one problem the terrible Wi-Fi."

  !!

  Reviewed by Clive5.0★Oct 2022

• "A beautiful cottage surrounded by amazing countryside."

  The owners couldn't have been more helpful. Would certainly recommended Groves Fishleigh.

  Reviewed by Sandra5.0★Sep 2022

• "We enjoyed a wonderful week at this picturesque cottage and particularly liked the outdoor space where we sat out every evening watching the beautiful sunsets."

  The accommodation was clean, spacious, very comfortable and well equipped with everything you could possibly need. Malcolm and Zoe were friendly and welcoming, we would definitely book again a very enjoyable stay and a good location for visiting the hot spots in North Devon.

  Reviewed by Chris5.0★Aug 2022

• "An idyllic place to stay in a beautiful location."

  We were made to feel very welcome and at home from the moment of arrival. The hosts were extremely approachable and were there to answer any queries. Highly recommend this place to others.

  Reviewed by Claire5.0★Jul 2022

• "Fantastic location hosts really friendly perfect for dogs a really quiet retreat to relax would definitely recommend"

  Reviewed by Ashley5.0★Jul 2022

• "Amazing stay at a fantastic cottage!"

  Both Nelson and Drake our Golden Retrievers loved it as well! Malcolm and Zoe were great hosts!

  Reviewed by David4.7★Jun 2022

• "The property was great - well priced and clean."

  The owners were fab - not intrusive at all which meant a lot to us!!! Hoping to book again for next year - probably a fortnight!!!

  Reviewed by Barbara4.4★Jun 2022

• "We absolutely loved our week at Groves Fishleigh."

  Fabulous idyllic setting, comfortable spacious accommodation and lovely owners in Malcolm & Zoe. We will definitely return. Highly recommended

  Reviewed by Kevin5.0★May 2022

• "Lovely comfortable cottage in an idyllic setting surrounded by glorious countryside."

  Very welcoming and friendly owners. Was a fabulous getaway. Would recommend.

  Reviewed by Peter4.7★Apr 2022

• "We had a fabulous time."

  The property is beautiful and surrounded by farm fields with access straight onto part of Tarka Trail. Dartmoor National Park is a short drive away. The owners are lovely and very friendly. A truly lovely holiday evening though it was February and weather was not great. 10 out of 10 from us.

  Reviewed by Tracy5.0★Feb 2022

• "We had a fantastic week staying in the cottage."

  The owners Malcolm and Zoe were lovely and so helpful! The fridge gases went whilst we were staying and there was a new fridge ready to be fitted at 8.30am in the morning having told them about it at 6.30pm the night before! The cottage is beautiful and the surroundings lovely. Our dogs loved the freedom of being able to wander in and out by themselves. The only thing we would say is we didn’t find the directions easy ~ it really it right at the end of the road as far as you can go! Thank you for a wonderful week!

  Reviewed by Justine4.4★Aug 2021

• "Perfect cottage in a tucked away location."

  Lots of great walks for the dogs. Hosts are lovely and helpful. We had a really lovely break and would recommend it to anyone.

  Reviewed by Kelly5.0★Jun 2021

• "Absolutely lovely cottage in a tranquil setting."

  The only negative being no wifi

  Reviewed by Angie3.4★Oct 2020

• "The cottage is just as pretty as it looks on the photos on the outside and it is in a beautiful location with lots of walks nearby."

  However the things that let it down which may sound trivial but are really needed (especially as its in Devon and the weather is never guaranteed) there is nowhere to dry your clothes or towels only a clothes airer which doesn't do much. There is no mobile phone reception and no wifi at all which sounds lovely but very frustrating if you are looking for somewhere to visit or to see what time opening hours places are...you can't check until you are at least halfway down the lane (approx 3/4 mile from the house). The cottage feels abit unloved as there are also some repairs that need to be done..shower screen seal broken, toilet seat needs replacing, paint peeling and for the price we paid this was a let down. If these few things were sorted then we would recommend this place again and again as it is beautiful.

  Reviewed by Louise1.9★Aug 2020

• "Fantastic cottage, beautiful setting very peaceful and relaxing."

  Owner greeted us when we turned up which was lovely. Would recommend booking this property 100%, you won't be disappointed.

  Reviewed by Sharon5.0★Jul 2020

• "See our review on TripAdvisor https://www."

  Tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g1096210-d6450224-r736464371-GROVES_FISHLEIGH_detached_thatched_barn_convsersion_woodburner_walking-Hatherle.html?m=55593

  Reviewed by Lynn5.0★Dec 2019

• "The cottage was delightful, it was lovely to escape from the real world and just enjoy the peace and tranquillity."

  Malcolm and Zoe were a great couple, couldn't do enough for us.

  Reviewed by D J5.0★Nov 2019

• "Lovely rural setting."

  Friendly approachable hosts. Fenced area at front of property with 5bar gate to allow dogs off lead. Sheep, ducks and wildlife to observe and part of Tarka Trail to explore. Lovely open plan living space. Well equipped kitchen. Nearby `Well Made` Cafe for delicious lunches with horticulture gardens and livestock to visit. War Horse Museum close by within working farm with tractor trailer ride, watch milking, feed calves. Forestry Commission reserve near Folly Gate for dog walking and nearby Nature Reserve. A lovely peaceful holiday.

  Reviewed by Jeanette5.0★Jun 2019

• "2nd year at this place and loved both occasions it’s a hidden gem in Devon ..."

  2nd year at this place and loved both occasions it’s a hidden gem in Devon Will be there next year as well loved every minute

  Reviewed by Paul5.0★May 2019

• "What a wonderful place this is."

  quiet and comfortable. a place to relax and watch the wildlife. The owners malc and zoe were there with advice on where to go and checked that everything was alright for us. we will be recommended the Grove to everyone we know.

  Reviewed by Nikki5.0★Apr 2019

• "We were made very welcome by Malcolm and Zoey."

  A little gem in Devon.

  Reviewed by Jane5.0★Oct 2018

• "This cottage is terrible value for money: absolute minimum of everything from a half roll of loo roll no extra binliners, no coffee pot, not a tin of salt or tea bag upon arrival."

  NO WIFI. NO CELL SERVICE. The "patio" is a picnic table in the car park. "Cider House Rules" posted all over do not lend an air of welcome. And the only time we saw the owners was 5 minutes when we arrived. The only real positive were very comfortable beds.

  Reviewed by Richard2.2★Jul 2018

• "Beautiful location in very peaceful spot but with many top quality attractions and walks in easy reach."

  With the weather as it was Devon and Cornwall can better any overseas holiday, with Bude and Woolacombe beaches fighting for top spot with the children. For the others Rosemoor and Arlington Court topped their list.

  Reviewed by Robin3.8★Jun 2018

• "This cottage is set 1."

  5miles from Hatherleigh in a absolutely beautiful setting. If you are after a tranquil and rural setting then this is the one for you. The Granary is beautiful. Everything you would need for a family get away! Don't let the lack of wifi put you off! The countryside is calling you to explore! The cottage is beautiful, the kitchen has everything you would need (no dishwasher). The shower in the bathroom is excellent - you feel like you have had full body massage! The log burner is a real asset. Upstairs the bedrooms have everything, comfy beds, wardrobes and TV's. Malcolm and Zoe are brilliant hosts and are always on hand if you need anything. We will definitely be back!!

  Reviewed by Mary5.0★Feb 2018

• "Lovely spacious cottage in rural location."

  However, if you have small dogs the garden is not secure as they can get through the bar gate. Hopefully the owner will put some stock fencing onto it on the lower half to prevent this. Also, no welcome pack, not one single teabag or milk etc.for arrival so be aware and stock up before arrival.

  Reviewed by Lynn4.2★Feb 2018

• "My kind of holiday."

  Relaxing quiet. Lovey owners; helpful and kind. Cottage was super. Remote (which for me was perfect) but you do need to think of everything you might need for this type of holiday in terms of consumables. All in all a super time and will definitely be going back. Grateful thanks to Malcolm and Zoe (owners)

  Reviewed by Verna5.0★Dec 2017

• "Lovely cottage near a small friendly village with two great pubs."

  Great for exploring Devon/Cornwall or just for relaxing.

  Reviewed by John5.0★Sep 2017

• "Over all the cottage was very comfortable."

  The only criticism would be that there is no area to relax out side, if a small rear garden would or could be created it would enhance the property and increase the appeal.

  Reviewed by Joe4.8★Jul 2017

• "Lovely cottage beautiful location but a little remote."

  Malcolm and Zoe very friendly.

  Reviewed by Yvonne4.2★Apr 2017

• "Very nice extremely nice hosts, lovely location we totally relaxed."

  We thought at first not having wifi would be a problem but no without it meant we could totally shut off from business.

  Reviewed by Alister5.0★Nov 2016

• "Fantastic holiday, fantastic cottage and location in a tranquil setting met all expectations and lovely welcomeing hosts."

  Reviewed by Yvonne4.8★Sep 2016

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