Quincecote

Tucked away on a smallholding up a bumpy country lane in North Devon is where you’ll find Quincecote. It’s worth seeking out. This shepherd’s hut, sleeping two is a lovely self-contained bolthole with far-reaching views of countryside and sea. It’s within walking distance of a village shop, a choice of pubs and, if you can manage two scenic miles, the coast. Lots of those who stay here can – and walk a lot further than that as this is a great stop-off for people tackling the South West Coast Path. For those folk, Quincecote’s hosts provide pick ups and drop offs from the nearby Hartland Quay. Long-distance walkers will be tempted by that offer together with the thought of a solid roof over a comfy made-up bed, a kitchenette, hot shower and loo. But, on top of all the basics being covered, this is a simply lovely place to stay: sustainable and super stylish too.

Positioned not far from your host’s house, next to the solar panels that power it, Quincecote is a traditional looking cabin clad in curvy tin. There’s a raised deck that helps you make the most of the view and a fire pit to help you make the most of your evenings under Devon’s dark skies. Inside, the cabin is light and airy with timber-clad walls, painted in ice-cream colours. But it’s also cosy thanks to good insulation and a log burning stove. A clever design makes the most of the space so your double bed can fold up during the day to reveal a dining table with bench seating.

The kitchen here is well-equipped enough for you to cook but, unless you want to, don’t. Hartland village, a mile walk through woods and fields away, has four pubs for you to choose from for your dinner. There’s also a very good restaurant a five-minute drive away. For days out, apart from all the lovely walks and nearby beaches, there’s Hartland Abbey and gardens, just over a mile away, and Clovelly village is a 15-minute drive. Beyond that, the North Devon coast stretches in one direction, North Cornwall in the other.