A week packed with fun for all the family in delightful Devon
Devon seemed a long way away as we set off from Shropshire along the busy motorways leading south, but once we got to the land of cream teas, cider and thatched cottages our tiredness floated away.
Wooded valleys, castles and local pubs awaited us in the north Devonshire village of Drewsteignton and when we pulled up outside 2 Churchgate Cottages our holiday swung into action.
Small and perfectly formed, the cottage, which dates back to 1610, was the ideal base for our seven-day stay. Luxuriously fitted out, the self-catering cottage had two bedrooms, a living room with a huge fireplace, a neat bathroom and a modern kitchen with every sort of appliance, utensil and item you could need.
Every detail had been attended to, which meant that you could leave your troubles at the door.
For those bringing their furry friends, the owner, Shelley had made sure they were well catered for with water bowls, blankets and even towels.
While we enjoyed typical British summer days, we explored the local area. A yomp over the fields took us to nearby Castle Drogo, the last castle to be built in England, now a National Trust property.
While undergoing major renovations to become watertight for the first time in its 100-year history, the castle and its grounds were just the ticket for myself, husband Jim, teenager Jack and ancient dogs Daisy and Treacle.
Further down the valley was Fingle Bridge, complete with a pub which served a great cream tea and the aptly named Devon Mist cider.
A magnet for visitors from miles around, the bridge spans the River Teign and has been used for centuries by pack horses and farmers.
It attracts trout fishermen from all over the country thanks to its gin clear waters.
The surrounding 825-acre ancient woodland site is home to redstarts and wood warblers along with pied flycatchers, typically found on the western coast.
And after a hard day sightseeing, cream tea-ing and walking, there was only one place to go – and that was The Drewe Arms in the heart of the village.
Standing next to the 15th century church of the Holy Trinity, the pub serves home-cooked food, and a huge number of locally brewed ciders and beers.
The pub, originally called The Druid’s Inn, was managed by Mabel Mudge from 1919 until 1994 when she retired at the age of 99, the oldest pub landlady in the country.
A trip to Exeter was next up. It had been a worry as to whether the city was the place to take the dogs, but it could not have been better.
In the harbour, with its trendy cafes, bars and restaurants, they were made at home and nothing was too much trouble. Every venue had water bowls and shade to keep them happy while we enjoyed freshly cooked food.
The city itself is great, with its mixture of ancient and modern. From the majestic Medieval cathedral to the award-winning Princesshay shopping centre which has attracted brands such as Superdry, Finistere, Hollister, Cath Kidston and MAC and can put a serious dent in your wallet.
The villages and towns of Devon are renowned for their chocolate box looks and Lustleigh and Chagford are no exception.
The first is home to the Primrose Tearooms, a beautiful thatched Arts & Crafts cottage which serves knockout cakes, quiches and salads.
Chagford is an ancient stannary town. Its spectacular setting, beautiful 15th and 16th century buildings, stylish independent shops, arts and crafts, world-class festivals and superb foodie credentials make it an absolute must-see for any visitor to Dartmoor.
For adrenaline junkies, Woody’s Bike Park in Fowey is the place to go. Offering downhill tracks, with jumps and rollers, Woody’s is the first bike park to be built in Cornwall. It is family owned and run by mountain bikers for mountain bikers.
The trip from Drewsteignton to Fowey took a little under 75 minutes and the boys were buzzing when they got home, full of the park’s sweeping berms and bends and tales of the uplift truck.
Devon and Dartmoor has much to offer the holiday-maker. Stunning scenery, gorges and walks, castles and villages make for the perfect break and with its proximity to the coast, it is the ideal place for a few days away with the family.
For more information on cottages available in the south west, contact Sykes Holiday Cottages on 01244 500579 or go to www.sykescottages.co.uk
