10 of the best cottages in Devon for 2024

There’s nothing like booking a holiday to help beat those January blues, and with over 2,000 holiday cottages throughout Devon, we have something to suit everyone. Whether you’re looking for a stylish apartment in Croyde for a seaside getaway or a rural retreat on Dartmoor, we have a great selection of accommodation for your next holiday in Devon.

Devon is a truly wonderful holiday destination with two spectacular coastlines to choose from as well as two rolling moorlands, what more could you want? In this guide, we’ve highlighted our 10 most-booked holiday cottages across Devon in 2023.

With a number of romantic retreats on our list, as well as dog-friendly cottages and many cottages with hot tubs, you’re sure to find one that catches your eye!

1. Birdsong Barn – Combe Martin | sleeps 2 + 1 dog

Birdsong Barn is our most popular property of 2023, and it’s easy to see why. This cosy barn conversion sits in an elevated position with panoramic countryside views and an abundance of rustic charm. Outside is a lovely patio area with a BBQ and a superb, private hot tub.

Ideally positioned for exploring Exmoor, just 3 miles from the picturesque village of Combe Martin, Birdsong Barn is perfect for discovering the spectacular North Devon countryside, quaint villages and beautiful beaches. 

2. Seaspray – Brixham | sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

Seaspray is a charming, Grade II-listed coastguard cottage, situated in a prime location on the seafront at Berry Head National Nature Reserve, just a short walk from Brixham town centre. You will enjoy waking up to the delightful sea views and watching the boats bobbing in the nearby harbour. 

Brixham is one of the busiest fishing harbours in the UK, with a thriving arts scene, a range of excellent eateries and unique attractions. From Brixham, you can hop on a boat cruise to Torquay, embark on a fishing trip or just spend a few hours browsing the local shops. Discover our full collection of self-catering accommodation near Brixham and find your next memorable break.

3. Weston Farm Barn – Dulverton | sleeps 2 + 2 dogs

Set on a working farm in the beautiful Devonshire countryside near Exmoor, Weston Farm Barn is a luxurious barn conversion. With oodles of style and spacious interiors, you could easily stay indoors, though you'll soon be tempted by the array of wildlife trails and farmland walks right on your doorstep.

Explore Exmoor’s scenic footpaths and cycle trails nearby or spend the day on one of Devon’s idyllic beaches. Take a look at our full range of nearby Exmoor cottages for even more holiday inspiration.

4. The Secret Burrow – Westward Ho! | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs

Stay in this awesome, themed property in the pretty North Devon village of Abbotsham and live out a fantasy adventure. Set over one level, the property has a unique design, with rounded walls, exposed brickwork, and quirky finishing touches throughout. 

It’s the perfect rural retreat for families or friends looking to unwind and explore, with walks from your doorstep and the breathtaking Atlantic coastline close by. Browse our full range of cottages near Westward Ho! for more holiday inspiration.

5. Hygge House – Shaldon | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs

Hygge House is a stylish and contemporary holiday home in the popular seaside village of Shaldon. Its apt name translates from Danish, meaning bliss, cosiness, comfort, and friendship. And this property delivers on all accounts!

Shaldon is a quaint fishing town, opposite Teignmouth at the mouth of the river Teign. Hop on one of the regular ferries and explore further afield or join the South West Coast Path and enjoy some fabulous coastal strolls right from your doorstep. 

6. Con Mar – Shaldon | sleeps 2

Con Mar is a stunning bungalow which boasts incredible waterside views, overlooking the Teign Estuary, and provides a spacious and relaxing romantic retreat. Venture through the historic smugglers' tunnel in Shaldon to reach the magnificent cliff-backed shores of Ness Cove, before unwinding in your tropical garden oasis with a glass of fizz.

For other properties, in case Con Mar is unavailable for your preferred dates, view our full range of Shaldon cottages.

7. The Stick House – Umberleigh | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs

Situated on a working dairy farm, The Stick House is a remarkable property which has been furnished to a high standard throughout with a private hot tub, wood burner and much more. 

Head to the coast to find some of Devon’s most spectacular beaches, stay inland to enjoy pottering around the market town of South Molton or plan a day's hike across Exmoor. Take a look at our full range of nearby Umberleigh cottages for even more holiday inspiration.

8. Cloud 9 – Westward Ho! | sleeps 4

Cloud 9 is an outstanding coastal property and offers a perfect base for exploring the North Devon area, within walking distance of the beach. This property is an exceptional retreat, offering sweeping views across Bideford Bay, the Bristol Channel and out to Lundy. Read our best beaches in North Devon guide for even more 'beach day' inspiration.

Westward Ho! is known for its beautiful beach and unique pebble ridge. The beach has 2 miles of golden sands, ideal for surfing, building sandcastles, exploring rock pools and much more. Browse our full collection of self-catering accommodation in Westward Ho! and find your next memorable break.

9. Barns Farm – Langtree | sleeps 8 + 4 dogs

Located on the edge of Langtree village, in a wonderful rural location, Barns Farm is a superbly renovated farmhouse. The property is ideal for friends and families, with a games barn, a large, enclosed garden, a hot tub and an adjacent field which is great for exercising dogs. 

The Tarka Trail, a popular, traffic-free footpath and cycleway, is only 2 miles away and for a more traditional day at the beach, Westward Ho! is about 11.5 miles away too. Barns Farm is perfect for exploring the very best of Devon’s countryside and coastline. 

10. Lower Cobbaton The Barn – Barnstaple | sleeps 4 + 4 dogs

Lower Cobbaton The Barn is a delightful, thatched cottage, tucked away in the North Devon countryside near Barnstaple. The property is close to Exmoor and is set in an enclosed garden, surrounded by mature trees and flowered borders.

For a friendly village pub and shop, head 2 miles into Chittlehampton, or if you need a better selection, drive the 5 miles into Barnstaple. There are glorious walks to be discovered both in Exmoor National Park, 10 miles from the cottage, as well as the South West Coast Path, accessible from Westward Ho! 20 miles away. 

Discover even more Barnstaple cottages here.

Self-catering cottages in Devon 2024

We hope that this round-up of our most popular cottages in 2023 has inspired you to explore more of Devon in 2024. From romantic retreats for two to our best party houses, there's something for you and your group in our hand-picked portfolio. Click the button below to find even more great self-catering holiday accommodation in Devon.

For more inspiration, read our guide on the top places to stay in Devon too!