Ref: 4356 / Tiverton
Swallow's Nest
If you want different. If you want quirky. If you want an experience that you will remember forever, come and stay here. How about this for a holiday experience combination like no other - wild swimming in the deepest of pools in the River Exe and on-hand tastings at Hatherland Mill Farm's micro-brewery!
Swallows Nest, perfectly befitting its name, nestles at the heart of the farmstead which is home to rare breed cattle, sheep and goats, incredible wildlife and a free-spirited ethic that is infectious. This imaginatively created retreat for two has a cobbled floor, wood-burning stove and TV in the living area, a bespoke fitted kitchen-area which includes a dishwasher and has a breakfast-bar too. There is a small dining-table and a well-sized shower-room on the ground floor. Ladder stairs lead to a mezzanine bedroom - protected by a carved wooden panel, reclaimed long ago from a local church, with a super-king (6') bed and free-standing roll-top bath!
Spot the medieval patterns engraved into the cob walls, carved to welcome in good fortune and fend off witchcraft. The more you look the more you see here - the extra width stable door to let the breeze flow though and to keep your dog safe. The industrial scale bi-fold doors open onto a private courtyard with not only a wood-fired pizza oven but a Kamado barbecue and ceramic smoker too. From the courtyard your own gate leads to the meadow that borders the river.
This traditional smallholding has earned conservation awards from Natural England and offers a wonderful opportunity to feel part of a sustainable and environmentally friendly way of living. The owners - who live in an historic thatched farmhouse on the other side of the farmyard, with a little holiday cottage attached to it that also welcomes guests to this unique environment - are happy to advise where the best riverside spots are for the chance to see an otter or a kingfisher. They are living the dream and hope to offer some of that back to their guests.
The nearby market town of Tiverton with its 12th Century castle is well worth a visit, as are the gothic mansion of Knightshayes Court and its beautiful formal gardens and the small town of Bampton, renowned for its prize-winning flower-lined streets and historic buildings. Exploring Exmoor National Park, with its unique landscape of moorland, woodland, valleys and farmland, is a must - the delightful village of Dulverton is home to one of the park's visitor centres and is a good place to start. For something totally different, why not take a trip on a horse-drawn narrowboat along the Grand Western Canal? It's now a nature reserve and home to numerous wildlife, from swans and otters to dragonflies and kingfishers.
Features
- Dogs welcome
- Arrive/Depart Friday
- Short breaks available
- Wood-burner/Open fire
- Private parking for 1 car
- WiFi
- No smoking
- Pub 3 miles
- Courtyard furniture, ceramic smoker (Kamado BBQ) and wood-fired pizza oven and barbecue
- Full LPG CH
- Logs for wood-burner
- Unique Hideaways
- Eco Cottage
- Working farm
- Private parking
- Open fire/wood-burner
- Linen and towels included
Availability, reservations and pricing: £360 to £600 per week
Located 3 miles N of Tiverton
Customer reviews
Good or bad, we publish all the reviews left by the guests who have stayed at this property.
Mrs Marshall
Simply perfect. We had such a magical time in Swallows Nest. The grounds are truly amazing, the river is less than a 30 second walk. We sat there watching the wildlife, kingfishers and even a Firecrest!! We also spent time swimming most days. The farm is lovely, the sheep and cows are very cute and friendly. It was simply magical. The bath was fabulous, and the property feels very private. It was honestly such a wonderful place to stay. Sadly we had to leave early due to an emergency, really do want to go back again. Don’t hesitate and simply book up Swallows nest it’s such a magical place.
Mr. Franklin
Love classic cottages. Excellent website and always has great properties and usually better value than AirBnB.
Ms Dodd
Charming cozy place to stay on farm with dogs, sheep and cows. Lovely hosts. Upstairs bedroom is a real hideaway. Thanks.
Mrs Krzyzanowska
The accommodation is beautiful, spotlessly clean, warm and comfortable. Absolutely everything is provided. Walks around are plentiful and so nice to visit the cattle in the barn. Particularly happy that we could take our two collies. There over Christmas and arrived to find our lovely hosts had left mince pies in the fridge and a real and decorated Christmas tree in the lounge along with a Christmas wreath on the door. Wonderful.
Mr Munro
We absolutely loved our stay. Firstly the owners were all super helpful, kind and most importantly warm and welcoming. The House was beautiful and homely. The little details made it special. Best bath and the most comfortable bed. We most certainly will be back!
Miss Warner
Lovely place and area, owners Richard and Alison were very lovely and helpful would come again Summer time x
Miss Harvey
Swallows Nest is an absolute Gem of a find! The Nest and the location had everything we needed for a quite, chilled, countryside stay away from the bustle if the world! Having Sheep, Cows and a river in our back garden was just sooo refreshing. We got to meet Lily (The Dog) her son Drake and the cats Peppa and Midnight, who were so friendly and came to say hello! We will be going back in February :)
Mrs Hobbs
Shallows Nest was one of the best holiday accommodations that we had stayed in, we loved the decor, the location on the working farm and absolutely loved waking to the sound and sight of the sheep and lambs in the field. The owners were friendly and gave us lots of information about what to see in the area and places to visit. The cream tea on arrival was a welcome surprise after a 4 hour drive too.Even though it was small it was very well equipped and the bed was huge and so comfy, the bath in the bedroom was perfect for a relaxing bath with candles lit and my kindle after a day walking. We will miss our lamb friends and will most certainly be back.
Mrs Smyth
We loved our stay here. It was quirky & perfect for us. The cream tea on arrival was amazing - such a lovely touch. The owner made us extremely welcome. We arrived just as they were brewing beer so we were able to watch the process along with a knowledgable description. Thoroughly enjoyed the bottles we were given to try! It was good to hear about the efforts the owners are making towards a sustainable future for the farm re the animals & trees etc. Sadly I didn’t get my planned dip in the river but that can be for the next time. We will definitely be booking this again. Perfect.
Miss Bryan
I could not reccomend staying here enough! Such a beautiful little countryside getaway which is ideal for couples, we had the most wonderful time and appriciated the small and thoughtful touches (the scones, jam and cream went down a treat!). A truly lovely place that exceeded expectations in every way. Will definately try to return here soon.
mr rogers
If you book this cottage you will not be disappointed, we absolutely loved our short stay and will be back in the near future.
Miss Bland
Tucked away just outside Tiverton, Swallows Nest is nestled on the banks of the River Exe in the heart of this wonderful small working farm. With stunning rural views out the window and gorgeous countryside on your doorstep. The National Trust's Knighthayes Court is just a stone's throw away where you can spend hours enjoying picturesque walks. A short drive away is the Grand Western Canal where you can meander aimlessly before finishing the day at the cafe on a barge on the canal itself. Alongside this you are free to roam the acres of farmland taking in the fresh air, listening to nothing but the gentle noise of the river and your friendly neighbours (who are sheep & cows!). Richard & Alison are the perfect hosts, welcoming, friendly and full of amazing recommendations. Happy to spend time chatting away showing you around the land, the animals or their fascinating microbrewery or just leaving you to enjoy your stay uninterrupted. No ask is too much. The property itself is light and airy while retaining its cosy charm. Featuring an original wooden staircase and exposed beams, Swallows Nest has been sympathetically decorated making it the perfect place to curl up with a book in front of the wood fire. The large roll-top bath is an impressive addition to sink into whilst listening to rain patter on the roof and is the best way to unwind after a long day of walking. The kitchen has been attentively designed giving you everything you could need for your stay, with the ultimate addition of a traditional cream team waiting for you upon arrival. Swallows Nest is the perfect bolthole in the quintessential English countryside. I will definitely be returning.
Mr James
Swallow’s Nest is in a lovely quite area with lots of walks, country pubs and nice little towns to visit. It’s a great base to explore Devon, we would look at the weather forecast in the morning and see which coast was going to have the best weather and head that way, we had a great week exploring. The owners are very friendly and will give you advice on places to go and visit depending on your interests. The cream tea in the fridge on arrival was a very nice touch and much appreciated after our drive down.
Ms Teasdale
Had a great stay, the owners are welcoming and friendly. Excellent if you like a bit of wild swimming - easy access to the river! The property had all you need for a stay for a couple or solo traveller. You need to like the farm atmosphere as you’re surrounded by cows & sheep. You can clearly hear traffic on the main road but this didn’t detract from the rural seclusion.
Mrs Tregunna
Great place to go and unwind owner very friendly and helpful .
Mrs Hogg
Cosy, quiet and well placed for exploring Exmoor and Devon. Hosts were extremely approachable and informative. Full access to the river running through their farm. Perfect place for a restful break.
Mrs Fernandes
The hosts were very friendly, with Eunice approaching they made sure that we had supplies in case of emergencies. Very thoughtful couple. Drake and Millie (the dogs) were eager to meet new people. Spectacular views, gorgeous, warming log fire, wonderful bath next to the bed. It was great to know that the farm is self sufficient too. Everything you need to have a relaxing time away.
Mrs Owens
What a lovely spot! If you like quirky and unique - this is the place for you. Great care in fitting out the 'Nest', with lovely attention to detail. Located within a working farm, the surrounds aren't as cared-for as Swallow's Nest and it's courtyard, but only to be expected. Good location for exploring the beautiful Exe Valley and surrounding villages.
Mrs Harding
Great location for exploring Devon. A quirky cottage with nice kitchen area, lovely shower room.Comfortable bed , cosy woodburner
Mrs Winfield
Was looking forward to this holiday as first for long time, very disappointed when we arrived, lacking in cleanliness! Sofa disgusting & yet had removable covers so not excuse there. Bathroom and bedroom was OK Young lad who was looking after farm was very friendly & chatty Could easily have been so much better
Mr Bowdley
Nice place but not clean
Mrs Sparkes
Beautiful, peaceful spot. Hosts were lovely. Very quirky place to stay. Everything you're likely to need, dishwasher included! Milo (springer) loved his holiday ??
Miss Stagg
We loved our stay at Swallows Nest, we loved the setting, interior and hospitality! Richard & Alison are really friendly and made us feel right at home. We particularly liked seeing the cows outside in the field each day! Their son has a brewery on the farm and was kind enough to give us some free beer and run through the brewing process which we really enjoyed. We’d love to go back and would highly recommend this place.
Mr Pentecost
Host was very friendly and knowledgable of the area. Was very welcoming of us and our dog, had full access to the owners 40 acres of outstanding beauty.
Mrs Parfitt
Would recommend this experience for anyone who likes being in a working farm environment and enjoys the countryside. We will definitely be going back there hopefully in the near future.
Mrs Marriner
Swallow's Nest's situation and the friendly owners made this a holiday to remember for a long time. We absolutely loved it and hope to go back. If you love riverside wildlife and farm animals you just can't go wrong. The steep stairs are not for anyone who is at all infirm.
Ms Hobart
Peaceful location, lovely wild life all around especially the birds nesting in the nesting boxes on the back of the cottage
Mr Snell
Beautiful location and lovely owners
Mr Bradshaw
Very much enjoyed our stay a Swallow's Nest. Richard and Alison were welcoming, helpful and informative. The river side setting was lovely and the Kingfishers nesting in the bank were a bonus.
Mr Meek
Nice area not far to travel out for supplies
Ms Horrill
The hosts were warm and welcoming, the cottage was gorgeous and full of character and the farm and scenery provided for lovely walks and beautiful views. A perfect getaway from the stresses of the day to day!
Ms Dix
As soon as I saw Swallow’s Nest I fell In love with it. And it did not disappoint. It is quirky, comfortable, intimate and in a most beautiful tranquil setting. The kitchen is well equipped with appliances, tableware, cookware and utensils, it has all your need. The bedroom is amazing. I haven’t slept that well and managed to relax like that in a long time. You can tell that a lot of love has gone into the conversion of the accommodation as well as the whole setting. It has everything you would want. The owners are lovely and couldn’t do enough for us. They made us feel welcome, a delicious cream tea was waiting for us and they were so helpful with providing wood for the wood fired pizza oven which was fantastic. And so was the Kamado BBQ. We had the most delicious pizzas and BBQs. It was so interesting to learn about their conservation work, the land and the rare breeds they are looking after. You can tell they really care about the animals and the land. We cannot wait to return as soon as we get chance. I would highly recommend.
Miss Carpenter
We booked for a few days once the UK Gov had given the green light for overnight stays, and it was exactly what we needed after a tough few months of working long hours at home, recovering from illness and having to deal with our wedding being cancelled. The property is beautifully furnished, and so much care has been given to the all of the finer details, including a beautiful outdoor dining area overlooking the Devon countryside and the farm animals. Our hosts were so welcoming and friendly, and we were able to explore their farmland and meet all of their beautiful animals - I’ve genuinely never met such pretty cows! It was so nice to stay self-catering, and find they’d left us the little things such as dishwasher tablets, washing up liquid, hand gel, and hand wash, which is so frequently missing in properties. The cream tea and jug of milk was my favourite surprise though! We loved it, and would love to return again in the future.
Mr Millais
Well equipped barn conversion on a lovely rare breeds farm, a nature lovers paradise, with beautiful views across the farm and up the valley so peaceful . Wonderful hosts that could not do enough for us and made us very welcome , the best place we have ever stayed, we will definitely be back to this little slice of paradise.
Mrs Conlon Ash
We had a lovely stay at Swallows Cottage. It was cosy and clean and we both said how nice it was to return to after a day of exploring. Lots of great finishing touches and the hosts are lovely and friendly.
Mr Cash
What made this stay for us was staying in a unique property, Quirky with a capital Q! But more so staying on a real farm, never for one moment did you not feel like it was a proper working farm. Richard and Alison made us very welcome and Richard gave us the grand tour of the micro brewery and his passion for his rare breed cows. A special holiday which will live long in the memories of a very happy week, down on the farm. Farm with a brewery what’s not too like! Just sorry that bottling is next week!!!
Miss Guthrie
A beautiful location even the wet weather couldn’t spoil! A lovely relaxing break with a very welcome gorgeous bath. The owners have us a good intro on arrival on what to expect and we loved meeting Drake and Lily their dogs! Thank you
Mrs Ramsay
Charming accommodation where we lovely welcome from Richard on our arrival. Thoroughly enjoyed our stay, fully equipped kitchen, everything you need in a peaceful rural location. Would love to return.
Mr Lakin
What an absolutely fabulous bolt-hole for 2 on a fascinating farm in a beautiful valley. From the moment we arrived we were made to feel welcome and we were captivated by the brilliant design of the barn conversion. It was just a wonderful escape from the busyness of life in a relaxing, comfortable, well equipped cottage. Loved swimming in the river, walking round the farm, having a tour of the brewery, cooking al fresco and having a bath in the bedroom. Thank you to our hosts so much for sharing this wonderful corner of the world - your attitude to life, business and the environment is truly inspirational! (Can't tell you if the TV worked on not - we never switched it on!)
Mr Pole
Beautifully renovated place with a quirky feel. Will definitely be returning with the canoe.