Farmhouse in peaceful rural Devon (with heated outdoor pool May-Oct)
Hartwell is a former farmhouse which was built in the 19th century close to the village of Sydenham Damerel, just 12 minutes from the historic town of Tavistock. Tucked away in the heart of the Tamar Valley, this attractive part of the Devon countryside is officially an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.’
We have a 10m outdoor heated pool available for the exclusive use of guests staying between May and October.
The house has modern facilities (including fast wifi, Bluetooth speakers and blu-ray player) but retains its traditional feel, including Inglenook fireplace, original slate flagstones and old wooden floors. There's a large well equipped kitchen containing a Rayburn, and two living rooms each with a cosy wood burner. Furniture is mostly antique or older style, in keeping with the overall feel of the house.
Comfortably sleeping 10 people, the bedrooms are as follows: Bedroom 1 - (Double) Kingsize four-poster bed Bedroom 2 - (Double) Kingsize traditional metal bed Bedroom 3 - (Twin/Double) 2 single beds (which can be made into a super-king double if requested) Bedroom 4 - (Twin) 2 single beds Bedroom 5 - (Double) Kingsize double bed We also have a travel cot if needed.
The large attractive garden is great to explore or to play badminton or perhaps a communal game of cricket, football or rounders. Or you could just relax in the hammock next to the fish pond. And not forgetting the swimming pool!
Surrounded by wildlife, we are regularly visited by owls, woodpeckers, buzzards, pheasants, rabbits and occasionally deer and badgers. We have our own onsite beehives which are in a fenced off area of the garden well away from the house. Neighbouring fields play host to a mixture of horses, sheep and cattle. Footpaths lead in various directions from the house making it easy to explore the local countryside. And there's a 15th Century pub down the hill which used to be frequented by Charles I while on his way to Cotehele to visit his mistress!
Near by, Tavistock is an attractive and historic rural town with a mixture of eclectic local independent shops and eateries as well as a few well known National stores. There is also a cinema/arts centre. Not to mention the wonderful Pannier Market which has been in existence since the 12th century!
A short trip in the car takes you to Dartmoor (Devon) in one direction or Bodmin Moor (Cornwall) in the other, and we're equidistant from the North and South Cornwall/Devon coasts, making Hartwell an ideal base from which to explore the West Country.
See the General Information page for some of the many activities and places to visit in the area. Or look up our site for more information.
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Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: Family gatherings are fine, but no rowdy parties
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Tavistock
Located in Tavistock, this holiday home is in a rural area. Tavistock Golf Club and St. Mellion Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Dartmoor National Park and Tamar Valley. Travelling with kids? Consider Meadowlands Leisure Centre, or check out an event or a game at Home Park. Discover the area's water adventures with fishing and swimming nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with horse riding and cycling.
Does Farmhouse in peaceful rural Devon (with heated outdoor pool May-Oct) have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.
How much does it cost to stay at Farmhouse in peaceful rural Devon (with heated outdoor pool May-Oct)?
As of 14 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Farmhouse in peaceful rural Devon (with heated outdoor pool May-Oct) on 13 November 2026 start from NZ$951, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Farmhouse in peaceful rural Devon (with heated outdoor pool May-Oct) pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much is parking at Farmhouse in peaceful rural Devon (with heated outdoor pool May-Oct)?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Farmhouse in peaceful rural Devon (with heated outdoor pool May-Oct)?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Farmhouse in peaceful rural Devon (with heated outdoor pool May-Oct)?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Farmhouse in peaceful rural Devon (with heated outdoor pool May-Oct) located?
This family-friendly Tavistock holiday home is located in a rural location, 2 mi (3.2 km) from Tamar Valley, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Meadowlands Leisure Centre and Country Cheeses. Tavistock Pannier Market and Kit Hill Country Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Hartwell is a real gem of a proerty set in the most beautiful grounds. The best equipped kitchen i have ever seen.
Lots of space for everyone to relax.
The pool and pool area are wonderful and the hi-light of the kids holiday.
Lots of inside and outside games and so much space to play them.
Walks if different lengths from the property.
Really cannot fault it. Wonderful
Andrea A.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 July 2023
Sounds like you had a great week. So glad you enjoyed the house. Hope to see you again soon!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Mary H.
30 July 2015
An idyllic country cottage with stunning gardens
Hartwell really is idyllic, it is beautifully and stylishly decorated and furnished. We were a family party aged from 5 to 80 - plus two dogs - and everyone loved the house, not to mention the fabulous swimming pool and exquisite gardens.
The house is extremely well equipped too with lovely touches such as the really thick, fluffy bath towels, additional pool towels and so on. We also really appreciated the lovely welcome box of groceries including posh biscuits, tea and jam!
The pool and games room and TV kept the children amused and there is a huge bookcase of books to pore over...There are lots of interesting places to visit nearby as well and we had a fantastic dinner one evening at the very friendly and welcoming local pub.
We had a wonderful holiday and would love to visit again in the future.
Mary H.
Response from VrboOwner on 26 March 2020
Hello Mary.
It sounds as though you had a fantastic week, which I'm delighted to hear. It's always great to hear from people who've really appreciated the house. We really hope you'll be able to come to stay again in the not too distant future.
Angus
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Ben R.
10 September 2015
Wonderful holiday home in superb setting.
What a wonderful holiday home; Hartwell is superbly located in the rural Devonshire countryside in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The location is such that one will not disturbed by anything other than the odd owl at night time and perhaps a passing tractor during the day. The tranquility is excellent and allowed us to enjoy the many things to do in and around the property. The house itself is charmingly decorated and furnished inkeeping with the period of the property. It was spotlessly clean and provided all we could wish for and more - the kitchen was well stocked with every type of pot, pan and utensil allowing us to cook many meals for our large party. There is a well considered library, cupboard full of games, DVD collection, piano and guitars. In the garage you will find a table tennis table, BBQ and just about every kind of garden game you can imagine along with a vast assortment of wellies, body boards and anything else you might need for a day out walking or at the coast.
There are two gardens at Hartwell a smaller back garden that is fenced in and a larger more open front garden where you will find a trampoline, stone circle and football goal and we should also not forget the fabulous heated outdoor pool where we swam every day. The pool area itself is fenced off and has a variety of sun loungers and chairs and a pool house including pool towels, inflatables and table football.
Dealing with Angus the owner was an absolute pleasure and he ensured that we wanted for nothing, I might also add that for those with canine friends he was very accommodating.
We split our time between the house itself and the many local attractions - Tavistock is a lovely market town only 10 minutes drive, the local pub in Horsebridge provides good food and drink - the landlord was amiable and welcoming. Such is the location of Hartwell we were able to enjoy days out as diverse as Lydford Gorge, Padstow on the Northern Cornish coast and the South Devon coast, all les than an hours drive from the house.
Being well travelled, we've come to expect a high standard, needless to say Hartwell did not disappoint but it was the little things that really set it apart; torches, cookbooks, spare toothbrush, welcome basket of eggs, bread, jam and biscuits are just a few of the thoughtful touches that spring to mind. In fact had we known how well provided for we would be we could have saved lots of space on our packing.
I would not hesitate to strongly recommend!
Ben R.
Response from VrboOwner on 26 March 2020
Wow Ben thanks so much for your review. It sounds as though you had a good week and managed to make the most of the house and area. I'm really glad you enjoyed your stay. Thanks also to you for being such an easy and cheerful group of guests to deal with.
The house, pool and gardens were exceptional. Every detail had been thought about and the owner was keen to ensure that we had everything we needed. All furnishings were of a high standard and the property was clean and well-loved. We thoroughly enjoyed exploring this stunning part of the south west and will definitely be back!
Howard Chapman
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2020
Archival
10/10 Excellent
DEBORAH F.
18 October 2016
Beautiful Farmhouse with a fantastic heated outdoor pool.
Arrived at this farmhouse on a lovely Friday afternoon for 3 night stay with my husband, 3 grown up sons and daughter in law. It is the most beautiful, traditional farmhouse, lovingly looked after, with extremely well kept gardens and the amazing pool. My son (aged 22) was straight in there and we all went in every day for hours at a time - even at 10 pm! We spent quality time together - playing board games - there are many in the cupboard in the lounge - you are well catered for here. We also enjoyed having breakfast on the patio and spotting the many different species of bird including a green woodpecker.
We drove to the local pub on Saturday evening - you have to book and had a lovely meal. This pub is just over a mile away but not in my opinion, walkable, the lanes are very narrow and it would not be safe to walk it.
I would highly recommend this farmhouse, the property was lovely and clean and Tracey was on hand if we needed anything. We hope to return one day.
DEBORAH F.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2016
Archival
10/10 Excellent
David A.
16 September 2016
Beautiful house and grounds, perfect if you want to relax away from the crowds
What a wonderful property. The house is lovely - everything you could possibly want is in some drawer or cupboard. There is a wealth of books and games, and lots of outdoor equipment (badminton, croquet, swing ball, table tennis, table football, trampoline, football net, etc, etc). We picked a really hot week, so the pool was perfect - a good size, lots of inflatables and lovely poolside furniture. The gardens were sun traps, but with the stone floors, the house stayed cool and was a welcome relief. Several different places to sit outside. Normally the smaller back garden, with its sunny patio, would have been perfect on its own, but the much much larger front garden, with a huge gently sloping lawn, and a hidden area by the pond with tables, chairs and a hammock, meant that you hardly needed to go anywhere. And this was probably the best thing - it is so hidden, several miles from the nearest town, and tucked down a tiny lane used by only a handful of vehicles each day. There is a nice pub with good food about a mile or two away, and shops about 20 minutes away in Tavistock. And that is it. Lots of great walks, but more importantly lots of opportunity to simply do nothing. Angus, the owner, was so helpful - kept in touch with us leading up to the holiday, and always friendly. I'll keep trying to think of a negative for this property, and will write again when I think of something, but I may be a while.....
David A.
Response from VrboOwner on 26 March 2020
So glad you enjoyed your stay and that you had such a great week with the weather! Hope to see you again.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Natasha L.
29 June 2016
Far exceeded our expectations!!
All I can say is that we want to return! Every year!
The house and gardens were amazing. The facilities available were outstanding, the pool... What can I say... Words escape me.
We had the most amazing break, BBQ'd, played board games and danced around in fancy dress. Totally secluded grounds, you couldn't keep us out of the pool and I slept in a 4-poster bed (off the bucket list now).
Local pub lunch was delicious and Tavistock market was too much temptation for me.
Plus the little home touches, made it really special... The perfect way to celebrate turning 40 and for us to escape family demands, take a break and treat ourselves. 👍
Natasha L.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Katie B.
11 August 2015
Beautiful house in stunning surroundings
We booked Hartwell for an extended family holiday, to celebrate parents' 60th birthdays. We had had a good impression of the house from the website and information received from the owners prior to arrival, and it didn't disappoint in any way. Everything was provided that you could possibly need for a fantastic holiday, including games equipment, pool towels and detailed information and guidance. We made good use of the beautiful swimming pool, even on cloudy days, and the trampoline and myriad sporting equipment were well utilised too. All family members from age 3 to (almost) 60 loved the house and thoroughly enjoyed the week. Would not hesitate to recommend it to anyone.
Katie B.
Response from VrboOwner on 26 March 2020
I'm so glad you had such a good gathering for your parent's birthdays. And it sounds like you managed to make good use of everything that's available at Hartwell. We hope to see you again another time.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Marian Clarke
27 June 2015
The nearest thing to hiring a villa abroad.
We arrived back last week after spending a wonder week at Hartwell House with our children and grand children.
On arriving at the house we were met with the keys by the lovely lady Tracy who lives opposite, she showed us around and told us everything we needed to know.
The house and grounds were everything portrayed on the website and more, it was beautiful. It was a real 'home from home', equipped with everything a family could need for a comfortable stay. The house is full of personal items which gives it a really homely ambiance. It was spotlessly clean and everything was of a really high quality.
Each couple in our party did a 'come dine with me' evening. The kitchen was extremely well equipped with everything we needed for the wide variety of dishes cooked.
The grounds are also beautiful and very well kept. We had a large dog with us , he had great fun running around off lead everyday.
The pool area was amazing - a real treat. We had great weather, it was really sunny. It was the nearest thing to hiring a villa abroad without leaving the country.
Although the house is quite secluded, its only a 6 mile drive into Tavistock - a beautiful market town well worth a visit.
There is a lovely local pub 'The Royal Inn' 1 mile right turn out of the house. We spent 3 nights in here, each night being made very welcome by the locals and staff. We also had a meal one night which was fabulous and really well priced. We took a walk the first night. It is a bit of a hill on the way back, but we had great fun with the aid of our torches ( a few drinks helped). We then ended up in the pool for a midnight swim - what a night!
We had no negatives to report about our holiday at Hartwell, but the only suggestions we would make to make it even better would be a fridge in the summer house and maybe a bit more freezer space. The communication throughout the booking process and during our stay with the owner, Angus, was also top notch
All in all we had a brilliant time at Hartwell House, it was the perfect location to catch up and chill out with family. Hopefully during this week we have created lots of happy memories our children and grand children will always remember. We would all love to visit again - maybe next year.
Marian Clarke
Response from VrboOwner on 26 March 2020
Thanks for your excellent comments and feedback. You certainly had a fantastic week with the weather and I'm glad you had such a great time! We hope to see you again in the not too distant future.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Chris G.
12 June 2015
Fantastic cottage in idyllic surroundings
After a long, long drive south braving the Friday traffic from Liverpool, and also a few wrong turns along the way (nothing to do with the owner's extensive directions I might add, just our complete lack of navigational skills) we were all a bit exhausted. However once we saw the cottage we soon forgot about any thoughts of tiredness. The cottage is absolutely beautiful - quite stunning in fact! Its set in the middle of nowhere (well for us city folk it is anyway) and has extensive and immaculately maintained gardens. When you climb up the hill in the back garden you are greeted with most incredible views of the rolling Tamar Valley hills. The property has a recently installed modern swimming pool half way up the back garden. The pool area again benefits from the views of the rolling greener than green fields and valleys. We were fortunate with the weather that weekend (plus 20+) but the pool was warm enough even if you were to have the more customary British summer weather. There is also a relatively secluded seated rockery area with a small pond (and a hammock no less) further down the garden. As I said before, all the of the little divided garden areas are wonderfully maintained. The house and area just feels so tranquil - the only sounds that you are likely to hear are from the near by sheep! The house itself is your atypical Devon country cottage. The kitchen is as you would expect of a country cottage: a brilliantly glowing Rayburn (great for cheese on toast or Devon butter); exposed floor boards etc. The owner has supplied and fitted the open plan Kitchen with every item that you could think of and some that you wouldn't (and then even more!). Honestly, apart from food you wouldn't need to bring anything with you at all. Little touches and thoughtfulness from the owner stand out throughout the cottage (he even has family photos adorning the walls). When we arrived on the oak kitchen table there were Devon shortbread biscuits, local tea leafs, bananas laid out in a box - little thoughtful gestures like this do make a difference. As do the extensive array of diverse books which the owner has accumulated, which cover the whole wall in the second main sitting area (the cottage has three rooms/areas downstairs where you can relax). There is also, what looked to an amateur like me, an expensive telescope so that you can stare into the dark Devon night sky. The two bigger living room areas (next door to each other) both have large old fashioned open fires
Chris G.
Response from VrboOwner on 26 March 2020
Thanks for your fantastic review Chris - very much appreciated. We really hope you will come back again and stay for a bit longer next time! OwnersDirect seem to have cut off your review midway so I have taken the liberty of adding an edited version (limited to 2500 characters) in the "added from the owners guestbook" section. I hope you feel I've captured the essence of your longer review, but do let me know if not!
Angus
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Ayse P.
24 May 2015
Wonderful house, beautiful setting
We recently had a family reunion at Hartwell house... We were 9 people, including 3 children under 10. We traveled to Hartwell from the UK, USA and Turkey. It was an amazing experience! The house was impeccably clean and was very tastefully furnished. I cannot think of anything that seemed "cheap" in this house. Several alternative living areas, spacious rooms with great views of the beautiful gardens provides many alternatives to be together, or have privacy if you wished. The kitchen was very well equipped, and I cannot think of anything missing. Beds were comfortable and the house was warm at night, especially if you used the wood burners. There is a very nice pub (Royal Inn at Horsebridge) within walking distance, that presents the chance of admiring the night sky on the way back home. Gardens and the pool really made a difference. Children were the happiest I have seen them in a long while, and had the time of their lives. There is a myriad of outdoor toys as well as a collection of all imaginable board games. All in all, I would recommend this house to everyone; and especially families. The owners are great, and very helpful, and the manager lives next door, and is keen to provide assistance and advice should you need it. We were very sad to leave. If you want to enjoy the countryside, I don't think it gets better than this.
Ayse P.
Response from VrboOwner on 26 March 2020
Thanks Ayse for your very positive feedback. We are so glad you enjoyed your stay. And thanks also for being such wonderful guests!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
4 June 2014
Far exceeded our expectations
We stayed at Hartwell for a long weekend with family and I have to say that it far exceeded our expectations. The house is in a stunning location, with views from the garden across rolling hills. It is located on a small country road, with virtually no traffic, so it's extremely peaceful. The house itself is beautifully furnished, very clean and well-equipped. We loved sitting around the large kitchen table with a cup of coffee or glass of wine and could have happily stayed in that room alone for the duration of our holiday! The gardens are wonderful and have many places to sit with a book or play a game of boules. An excellent place for adults and children and one that we would love to return to!
Response from VrboOwner on 26 March 2020
We're so glad you enjoyed your stay and really hope to see you again in the future.
About the host
Hosted by Angus Deuchar
We're a family of 5. I'm a former photographer, now landlord and my wife is a business coach. The children are all in full time education.
Why they chose this property
We wanted to find somewhere in the countryside to escape the rat race, and had always loved Devon having rented many houses there over the years. We viewed scores of potential properties over several years. The house needed to be close to Dartmoor (but not on it), big enough to rattle around in and include a big garden with secluded spots which we could explore or play in for hours on end. When eventually we found Hartwell we knew straight away that it was the right place!
What makes this property unique
We love the fact that the house has not been overly modernised. Much of the furniture is antique (or older style) plus there's a Rayburn and even an old valve radio. We did try to resist the internet for a while, but eventually succumbed; some things are difficult to live without! That said, it can still easily be switched off and hidden if you want to avoid it...
We feel the house is in the perfect location to stay put or to explore both Devon and Cornwall and all they have to offer. We're nicely secluded, but not cut off; outside the village, but only 12 minute drive into Tavistock if you need to stock up.
Now with the pool adding a new layer of luxury, we cant get enough of the place!
We hope that if you come to stay at Hartwell, you will love it as much as we do.