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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.
Hatswell Meadows
Contact: Wendy Hawkins
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Hatswell Meadows

Hamstone fireplace in lounge

Kitchen with Aga

Brass 4-poster in master suite
Photo captions have been written by the owner or management of Hatswell Meadows and are not verified or endorsed by ASP.