Alastair Sawday's Special Escapes: Self-catering in the UK

Higher Wiscombe

Higher Wiscombe, Southleigh, Colyton, Devon, England

Lorna and her family are open and sunny, as are their holiday homes. Green oak meets old beams and big windows have panoramic views; you are surrounded by 52 acres of rich farmland and wildlife. Cream painted furniture, crisp white Egyptian linen, bright woollen blankets and huggable stacks of white towels create a contemporary feel, while bathrooms come straight out of a glossy magazine, all roll-top baths and power showers. From champagne buckets to Alistair's photos – of rare orchids or fishing boats at Beer – the attention to detail is superb. The Old Winery is perfect for family get togethers and reunions: twenty can easily be accommodated in the ten bedrooms. There are two kitchens (range cookers, slate floors, granite worktops, white china), a large sitting room with a wood-burner, a large dining room with an oak table that seats 32 comfortably... and you can arrange for a professional to come and cook for the evening. Thatched Barn and Flint Barn are smaller; both have range cookers, blue squashy sofas, books, a cosy wood-burner. Each property has its own private patio area and garden complete with hardwood furniture and barbecues to help enjoy the stunning views; the outdoor heated pool (separate time slots for separate parties) is shared. Tumble down the deep Devon lanes to the sea: beaches and coastal path are but four miles away.

Biodegradable cleaning products, a biological water treatment system and thorough recycling have, among other things, earned Higher Wiscombe the highest possible Gold Award in the Green Tourism Business Scheme.

Next steps

• Send email enquiry »
• Visit website »
• Show me on a map »
• Add this place to your Hotlist »
• Recommend this place to a friend »
• Tell us about your stay »

Details

Higher Wiscombe

Contact: Lorna Handyside

• Tel: 01404 871360
• Fax: 01404 871366
• Sleeps: 6-20 per place (32 in total).
• Rooms: Flint Barn & Thatched Barn sleep 6. Old Winery sleeps 20.
• Price: £300 – £4,995. 6-20 per unit (32 in total).
• Closed: Never.

Checklist

• Dishwasher
• Electricity included
• Washing machine
• Microwave oven
• Central heating
• Mobile reception
• Television
• BBQ
• Beach within 3 miles
• Cooked meals available
• Restaurant nearby
• Short breaks possible
• Extra bed/cot available
• Shop within 3 miles

Points of interest

• The Jurassic Coast, & the SW Coastal Path are four miles away.
• Winners of the 2007/8 Self Catering Holiday of the Year from Enjoy England.
• Winners of 7 Environmental Awards, Green Tourism Business Scheme Gold & DEBI Sustainable Tourism Overall Winners
• Excellent pubs and restaurants including Hugh F-W River Cottage nearby serving local food.
• Top quality catering can be arranged for larger parties
• Our own guide to where to buy all the best in local and organic food.

This information is provided by owners and is not endorsed by ASP. If you have questions about it, please contact the owners.