Shillings Cottage, Hemyock, Devon

Shillings has exclusive use by arrangement of a large outdoor pool. This has just had a new liner fitted. The surrounding terrace, with a table and reclining chairs is a sun trap. The cottage lies inside gardens, orchards and meadows, with footpaths close by. Upstairs, french windows open onto a balcony with a table and chairs for al fresco dining under a walnut tree. Steps from the balcony lead to lawns with teak loungers and comfy cushions. At night, you can gaze at the stars from your pillow. The cottage is in the Blackdown Hills, which lie between the North and South coasts, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is the only rentable property on the premises and is a field away from a quiet Devon lane. The kitchen is fully equipped and the bathroom, although tiny, is enough for a holiday stay and has a power shower. The bed is a continental king size. There is a cafetière and microwave. Wi Fi is available everywhere, even next to the pool! Surrounding the cottage there are several areas of garden, a fruit orchard, grazing fields and a big pond where swallows dip and dragonflies fly.. The village lies within half a mile and has a Post Office and general store, a pub and Doctors surgery. Diana and Jim enjoy meeting people but our priority is to give our guests as much privacy as they would like. The views are stunning and it is very peaceful. At night there is little light pollution and the velux window allows clear views of the stars from your pillow. Badgers may be seen after dusk and deer at dawn. There are many species of birds and insects. Several good local village pubs are within walking distance. The nearby village (1/2 a mile) has a pub, a Post Office, shops and a Doctors surgery. We can give you maps and/or directions for walks. There is a bus service to local towns from the village. Tiverton Parkway Train Station is 6 miles. The parking is secure and off the road. We allow one small dog, depending on age and breed, for which payment can be made on arrival. Please note that your dog must be closely supervised, on a lead, particularly around the pool, as they can cause damage if they fall in. There is a 4 acre stock proof field next the cottage where they can run freely. We have found that dogs left on their own in the cottage can be noisy and destructive. So we ask guests to please take your dog with you. The pubs in the area are happy to have dogs.