Guests say
Oak Tree is a charming cottage in Devon, appreciated for its spaciousness, warm atmosphere, and dog-friendly environment. Guests enjoyed the luxurious pool, picturesque views, and the property's peacefulness. While some minor housekeeping and maintenance issues were noted, the positive aspects such as comfortable beds and a well-equipped kitchen were highlighted. The property's location and the welcoming nature of the owners also contributed to a pleasant stay for many.
The cottage received mixed feedback on cleanliness. While some guests found the main rooms clean and the pool very clean, others noted dust and cobwebs in less frequented areas like the conservatory. The minor issues mentioned suggest room for improvement, but overall, the property was maintained to a satisfactory standard.
The location of Oak Tree is highly praised for its tranquility, beautiful countryside views, and proximity to local attractions and beaches. The peaceful environment, despite full bookings, and the convenience of nearby towns and pubs, make it an ideal setting for a relaxing holiday.
Comfort levels at the cottage are generally good, with guests enjoying comfortable beds, especially the four-poster bed, and underfloor heating. However, some guests mentioned sagging sofas and overgrown shrubs blocking light, which detracted from the overall comfort. The positive experiences with the beds and heating suggest a comfortable stay with some areas needing attention.
The facilities, including a large swimming pool and play areas, were well-received. However, several reviews pointed out maintenance issues such as leaks, faulty shower, and the need for updates in the conservatory and garden furniture. While the amenities were appreciated, the maintenance concerns indicate a need for improvements.
There is insufficient information to assess the level of thoughtfulness as there are no mentions of gifts or special touches that would indicate the owners' consideration for guests' experiences. Therefore, this category cannot be scored.
About this property
Oak Tree is one of two comfortable cottages converted from a 17th century farmhouse on Bickleigh Farm, with use of the splendid indoor pool, games room, play area and farm to wander. Head indoors to your sitting room, with its cosy woodburning stove, traditional beams and TV, and on a sunny day go through to your conservatory, where you can sit quietly with a good book. The kitchen is well equipped for preparing family meals to enjoy around the dining table. At bedtime, head upstairs to the two bedrooms, with a romantic four-poster in the double and pretty valley views. Outside you have your own seating area with outdoor furniture and a barbecue for alfresco suppers, as well as all the open space to enjoy beyond. With an optional interconnecting door to East Bickleigh next door and a big dining area in one of the cottages, it is an ideal place for two families to enjoy their own space. Note: This property is on the same farm as The Roundhouse 976196, East Bickleigh 976183, The Hay Barn 976197 and Swallows Reach 976144. It can be booked with East Bickleigh, with which it shares interconnecting doors, together they sleep 12.
Halwell is a small village in wooded farmland equidistant from the busy little town of Kingsbridge and popular Totnes.
Accommodation
Two bedrooms: 1 x king size four poster double with en suite bathroom with bath, WC and basin, 1 x twin.
Shower room with shower, WC, basin.
Sitting room with wood burning stove.
Conservatory.
Kitchen with dining area.
Central heating, underfloor heating with wood burning stove.
Microwave, fridge, freezer, washer-dryer, dishwasher, TV with DVD, WiFi, Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Cot and highchair available on request.
Off road parking for two cars.Shared Children's play area, barbecue, indoor pool.
Three well-behaved dogs welcome.
There is a £20 per pet charge for the second and third pet.
Note: Swimming pool is 39' x 19' x 3' to 4'6" deep, available from 8am to 8pm; occasionally the pool is also used by owners' family and friends.
Nearby points of interest
- Blackpool Sands
- Bantham Beach
- South Sands Beach
- Dartmouth Castle
- Golden Hind
- Burgh Island
- Torquay Museum
- Babbacombe Model Village
- Dartmoor Zoological Park
- House of Marbles
Reviews (26)
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Simon
This was a little gem of a find. I booked this cottage for a week for mum and dad's 52nd wedding anniversary and it didn't disappoint. The cottage is lovely and cosy and the dogs appreciated the underfloor heating! Brian (the owner) made our stay very welcome with a nice chocolate cake on arrival. The facilities were excellent and I found myself using the lovely swimming pool each morning. The cottage is ideally located for local trips to Paignton, Totnes and Dartmouth. There is a nice pub (The Old Inn, Halwell) around a mile or so away. I am told that you can walk there from the cottage but we did not do this. Rockfish was recommended for fish and chips in Dartmouth and there is an Indian restaurant in Kingsbridge (Mahabharat) that we ordered a takeaway from and had delivered to the cottage. All in all a great relaxing week away. The farm has other properties available for larger groups ( The Roundhouse, Swallows Reach and Hay Barn). I wouldn't hesitate to return and hope to visit again in the future. Simon, Vanessa and Paul
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Liz
Lovely and warm in the cold damp weather. Had seen some negative comments from other people but to be honest we didn't have a problem. Felt the comments about overgrown shrubs was a bit harsh, given that it is winter and pruning won't happen until the Spring. Sofas were comfortable and we had no leaks. Felt there were some minor housekeeping issues, such as door knobs falling off, but these were minor issues and will be easily fixed. One thing that would have made the stay even better was a book for cottage renters with details of how things work, wifi password and places to eat and visit locally. Again something that is easily rectified. We would book again.
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Carol
Some of the niggles - the kitchen and lounge were very dark due to the very overgrown shrubs covering the windows. A new sofa is desperately needed, as the springs had gone. The shower kept turning on & off when the toilet was flushed (this was pointed out to the owner, so hopefully this will be rectified ASAP). The location and swimming pool were lovely.