Barn Owl Cottage

We've just returned from a week at Barn Owl Cottage.

The property itself and the location are absolutely stunning. It's a really peaceful retreat with gorgeous surroundings and in a great location for getting around Somerset and North Devon. Unfortunately, we were very disappointed to find that the garden wasn't fully enclosed. We'd booked this property specifically for the garden, as we have two rescue sighthounds who aren't able to go off-lead in public. The listing stated that the garden is enclosed which is true, however, there are plenty of places dogs can escape from, especially if you have adventurous dogs. The fences/gate are around 3.5-4ft, so can be easily jumped by quite a few breeds of dog. This meant we were only able to exercise our dogs on leads in the garden, which was very disappointing. Our dogs are large, however, we noticed a few gaps in the fencing that smaller dogs would also be able to escape from. We also found a number of pieces of glass in the wooded area of the garden which was very concerning. It's also worth noting that there are lovely pheasants running outside, which can be seen from the garden so exercise caution if your dogs tend to chase things. Personally, we would describe the property as dog tolerant rather than dog friendly, as dogs aren't allowed upstairs or on any of the furniture, nor are they permitted to exercise inside. This isn't an issue for us, but we're used to staying in properties that provide provisions to make this easier. There was no way of blocking off the stairs to stop the dogs going up, without using our own bags and a floor cushion. There was also nothing provided to protect the furniture in case the dogs did jump up, so i would keep this in mind if you're booking with dogs. Overall, the property was clean and well-presented, although all of the crockery and cutlery were dirty on arrival. It's also worth noting that there is a washing machine outside the property, which incurs an additional charge per use. There is also a freezer but again, this is outside of the property. We were pleased to find milk, eggs, jam , a cake and tea + coffee when we arrived, although there was no sugar and the salt was empty. This is slightly petty but worth noting if you're expecting to be able to have a brew on arrival. Just to note, if you are on the taller side, you may find the property quite cramped as the ceilings and front doorframe are very low. Finally, the main concern for us was a cracked electrical socket in the living room, which did not work. My partner is an electrician and noted that this is potentially dangerous, particularly if you have children. We enjoyed our stay and think this would be a great holiday for many people, it just wasn't suitable for our needs in the end and want to make other dog owners aware.

Absolutely beautiful and wonderful cottage with everything you need for a comfortable trip away from home.

The garden is amazing for those travelling with children and dogs, the cottage is spacious and comfortable, clean and nicely decorated throughout. Based in a lovely quiet location with lots to do around Minehead and Exmoor just a short car journey away. Would definitely a stay here!

Barn Owl Cottage is a lovely place to spend a week exploring this beautiful part of Exmoor.

It is very quietly located with two other cottages at the end of the lane. Completely private with a large pretty and well shaded garden. Comfortable beds, all the facilities you need (freezer in a separate outhouse). Immaculately clean on arrival. The owners, who farm the surrounding land, very friendly and helpful.

Our stay was excellent and a real treat.

The accommodation is well equipped and peaceful. Some instructions for the oven would be helpful and it is less suited for those who may struggle with steep inclines and steps. A car is really needed to get the most from the location. Overall, a great find and already recommended to friends.

On arrival everything was exactly as described.

A lovely cottage, private and quiet. Surrouned by a large garden which our two labradors loved. Birds singing during the day and total silence at night. Easy access to Exmoor and the coast. Inside it was immaculate and there was everything that we needed and more. Eggs, milk, cake, tea and coffee waiting for us after our long drive. Definitley recommend this cottage. Steve & Margaret & dogs Finn & Yogi.

Barn Owl cottage is a little gem, being in a totally quiet group of 3 cottages at the end of a farm road.

It's beautiful, quiet, well maintained and the owners are very nice and accommodating.

Absolutely stunning cottage well maintained everything you need in there beautiful gardens and lovely scenery would really recommend going near everything as well stunning

Very Comfortable and clean cottage, with everything you needed, the kitchen had every appliance you would require, although we did find the hotplate quite difficult to operate, also the oven temp markings had started to wear off.

The garden was lovely and well maintained very secluded and peaceful. Although, the out side security light wasn't working which made it quite difficult to maneuver the pathway in the dark. But we would definitely recommend this cottage in the future.

A lovely cottage with a beautiful safe garden for us and the dog.

It is a very comfortable. Our only problem was that the dishwasher did not work.

Exceptionally well kept and clean

Fantastic cottage in a beautiful, peaceful location.

Well equipped, clean and comfortable. Incredible, large, secure garden. The path to the cottage is steep and the driveway is narrow and steep, so not for nervous drivers or those with mobility issues. Easy to park outside the cottage though. Great base for those who want to enjoy stunning Exmoor.

Very relaxing location.

Plenty of lovely places to visit and ideal for anyone taking their pooch on holiday.

Had a lovely stay.

..Enjoyed the peace and quiet and the location was beautiful! Thank you

Are you looking for an ‘Escape to the Country’ that’s quiet and peaceful.

This is the place for you in the heart of the Brendon Hills. A well presented, clean, warm and comfortable cottage. The garden was ideal for the dog and although enclosed was not dog proof. A shame the freezer was situated in a shed away from the cottage. No dishwasher instructions. The welcome pack was very much appreciated with the drinks, milk and eggs. Plenty of places to visit when you are out and about, ie Minehead, Dunster along with its Castle and flour Mill and Watchet.

Lovely property, really enjoyed our stay and would definitely return time and time again.

Only downside is the washing machine and dryer being in the laundry room rather than in the house but the overall experience far out ways this minor inconvenience. Would have given it 4.5 stars if I could select a half :-)

We had a great time in Exmoor.

The cottage was spotless, welcoming and warm. It was well centred for visiting the moor. We were really glad there was a stone floor downstairs as we have two collies. We met Fran during the week who suggested a few more places to see. Simonsbath we had never heard of. It was beautiful. A beautiful cottage in a beautiful area, we will return.

Happy with everything.

Great location and very quiet! No concerns other than it took us a while to work out how to get the dishwasher to start (no instructions) but we worked it out eventually!

Lovely property.

A welcome pack to make a drink would have been lovely after the long journey.

We had a wonderful family holiday at Barn Owl Cottage (2 adults + 2 teenage boys).

The house was just fantastic, great setting & really peaceful. The hosts were lovely & really helpful on local advice & places to go. We can definitely recommend for a family holiday.

Barn Owl cottage was perfect for us.

Spacious rooms, tastefully furnished, very comfortable and fully equipped cottage with a lovely, large enclosed garden, ideal for our 2 dogs. Quiet seclueded location but close to picturesque villages. The information folder including a book of local walks was very useful and the welcome pack was a nice touch. We will definitely book again. Joanne & Steve