Summary:
Step back in time at Lavender Cottage, a unique home that dates back to the 17th century. Inside, history and character blend harmoniously with contemporary features to ensure a comfortable stay. Stunning, handmade patterned tiles line the living room floor - custom designed with unique medieval references. You will also find an electric fireplace and a smart TV with speedy fibre internet. A huge amount of care has been taken to restore its original features and create a unique holiday cottage!
The Space:
History-lovers will particularly enjoy exploring the exhibits and paintings throughout, especially the expansive clay pipe collection and civil war militaria. At the back of the cottage, you will find a small but perfectly formed kitchen that has been kitted out with ample modern appliances: find a gas stove and oven, kettle, toaster, microwave, dishwasher, fridge and freezer. There's everything you need to cook up hearty meals plus a country table at which to eat it at. A stable door links the kitchen with the good-sized back garden, which is a peaceful place for afternoon reading or lunch in the sun. It is also fully enclosed and safe for four-legged friends!
Two bedrooms upstairs sleep five in total. Both are master bedrooms with characterful stone walls, wooden windows and historic, wonky wooden floorboards. There is also sufficient clothes storage space so you can unpack and make yourself at home. There is an additional small room with a wonderfully crafted cabin-style bed that kids will love - please be aware you must walk through this room to access the double bedroom. The bedrooms all share a family bathroom with a separate shower and bath unit. Its warm and welcoming interiors, fascinating history and convenient location make this the perfect place to relax or as a launchpad for some epic Devon exploration! Free parking is available for one vehicle plus additional free parking in surrounding streets. Dogs are welcome with an additional flat fee of £20/dog (max 2).
Guest Access:
There is parking for one car near to the cottage. See the position of the grey car in attached photos, and replicate exact positioning. Otherwise there is always parking within 100yds, on the main road leading to the Golden Lion pub.
The Neighborhood:
Lavender Cottage is located in the peaceful village of Tipton St John in the glorious countryside of East Devon. There are many beautiful diverse walks, direct from the doorstep, with the meandering river being particularly popular with wildlife photographers, often seeking to spot Beaver, Otter and Kingfisher.
The village itself has a vibrant community feel and you can expect a cheerful 'hello!' from a number of passers-by. The local pub, The Golden Lion, is a lovely place for a pint of ale or home-cooked meals. The food mixes British, Mediterranean and French cooking expertly, utilising seafood landed at nearby Sidmouth.
The East Devon coastline is part of the Jurassic Coast that links Devon with Dorset and provides ample opportunities to discover fossils! The characteristic red cliffs run from Lyme Regis to Exmouth, and boast over 265 million years of history. Along the coast, we would suggest visiting Sidmouth, Budleigh Salterton and Branscombe - all have great beaches, cafes and walking trails. Branscombe Forge is believed to be the oldest thatched working forge in the country, and has a history of blacksmiths that spans over 400 years! The quaint village of Lympstone and historic town of Topsham are also a must, boasting brilliant antique shops, Dutch style late medieval/Tudor houses and popular restaurants and cafes. For excellent fresh produce, head to Greendale Farm Shop and café, which is just a 15 minute drive.
Getting Around:
There is always parking available between the pub and the cottage, for free. The pub has a large car park, which the Landlord might permit you to use, should you make the request. There is however lots of on street free parking available too.
Other Things to Note:
The steep stairs are not suited to the very young or those with mobility limitations. As such, as a safety precaution, we do not allow bookings for those travelling with babies.
Mobile signal is generally poor in rural Devon, however we have high-speed fibre at the cottage.
Dogs welcome with additional fee of £20/dog (max 2). The fenced off back garden should keep all dogs constrained from wandering off.
Interaction with Guests:
We will be available via message, email and phone during your stay. Any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch!