Higher Bumsley Barn, Parracombe

Devon. Sleeps up to 3

A characterful barn conversion nestled in the beautiful Heddon Valley, offering magnificent panoramic views over the valley to the lake and wooded hillsides beyond, Higher Bumsley Barn is a truly wonderful location to enjoy a break to Devon. Situated just outside the village of Parracombe in the heart of the Exmoor National Park, the property lies within 50 acres of traditional hill farm, perfect for a family of three or a couples’ escape. Although still a traditional hill farm with an enclosed field system, Higher Bumsley is now an Environmental/Conservation Farm with a small herd of wild Exmoor ponies, Hebridean sheep, chickens, ducks, geese and cats, and has a site for one of Britain’s rarest butterflies, the High Brown Fritillary. Being a County Wildlife Site too means you can be witness to a diversity of plant species and wildlife, even spotting red deer in the fields in very early morning, as well as buzzards and peregrine falcons, making this a sublime spot for nature enthusiasts. The property itself dates from 1862 and has been stylishly converted from a former barn, set just a short distance from the owner's own home, it boasts accommodation all on the first floor. Upon entering this property over the rustic bridge, you are welcomed into a light and spacious open-plan living space with a vaulted ceiling, with a fully-equipped kitchen and dining area for the budding chef to prepare a mouthwatering meal. Afterwards you can sink into the inviting sofa and light the woodburning stove, a real luxury on those cooler evenings, before you enjoy entertainment from the TV, with the last of the evening light coming in from the large glass balcony doors. Throw open the doors and step onto the decked balcony for some alfresco dining on a balmy summer evening or for your morning coffee, soaking up the stunning views over the River Heddon, across wooded hillsides and out to Exmoor. Retire to one of the two attractive bedrooms, with a double and a single, both excellently decorated and with plenty of storage, as well as enjoying more spectacular views from the windows, served by a spacious shower room. Spend time relaxing in the garden too, indulging in an afternoon Devon cream tea, or head down into the village of Parracombe to the local pub for a mid-afternoon treat, with more eateries and restaurants to choose from in the seafront town of Lynton or the village of Combe Martin. An energetic hike or cycle over Exmoor National Park is a perfect way to take in the scenery, revealing outstanding beauty spots and locations for a picturesque picnic, with a public footpath which runs right past the door offering the best place to start. Visit the wonderful Exmoor Zoo for a great day out, especially with a little one, with the zoo home to a wide range of animals, including the only pair of black leopards on exhibit in the UK! Head to the stunning beaches of Combe Martin, Ilfracombe, or Lynmouth, great for surfing and water sports as well as paddling and sunbathing, with many hidden coves and bays scattered along the coast, explore the South West Coast Path to uncover some secret secluded places! Barnstaple also boasts a theatre, cinema, plenty of eateries and nightlife for the young at heart. For a refreshing retreat to North Devon, book Higher Bumsley Barn.