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

Hatswell Meadows

Hatswell Meadows, Lower Washfield, Tiverton, Devon, England

Ferns spill from hedgerows, ancient trees arch above and, at the end of the narrow lane, is a clearing where lawns sweep up to bluebell woods. Below is the salmon-rich River Exe; Hatswell lies in-between. Bright and new, it has amber-warm stone walls, wood-framed windows, a gravel drive - inside, big rooms and lots of light. Come to relax, walk or fish - the owners have rights on the river and a fishing hut to retreat to if the heavens open (you may spot an egret or kingfisher). There are stacks of books on fishing; curl up on a chunky sofa to browse in front of the log-burner. For rainy days there's karaoke, too, and an Xbox for teenagers. Bring your catch to the Aga - the well-stocked kitchen, with its oak cabinets, big table and Provençal crockery on a dresser, is the hub of the house - then spill into the large hallway for dinner: a table for ten, a floor-to-ceiling window, a marble floor, a piano for tinkling. Up the hand-crafted staircase, past beautiful Lenkiwicz prints, are large bedrooms; choose between a sleigh bed, a French theme or a 'Biba' one (funky purple paper, deep cerise curtains, original posters). Bathrooms are big too. There's space galore (you can hire the house for weddings), and a crafty conversion over the garage with a pool table and giant chess. Exmoor is very close, and you're midway between the north and south Devon coasts.

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

Hatswell Meadows

Contact: Wendy Hawkins

• Tel: 01237 441476
• Fax: 01237 441476
• Sleeps: 10
• Rooms: 4-poster with bath & shower; double with bath/shower; double/twin room; room with 4 singles; bathroom.
• Price: £450 – £2,150. Short breaks available. Supplement of £325 for weddings.
• 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

• Licensed Venue for Weddings and Civil Partnerships
• Exclusive game fishing on River Exe in the private, tranquil waterfront grounds
• Venue for family and private party celebrations and hen nights
• Easy Access to Exmoor and Junction 27 of M5 Motorway
• Midway between North and South Devon coasts
• Upstream from the 'Bridge over Troubled Waters' that inspired Paul Simon to write his famous song

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