https://www.ocean-cottages.com Thu, 02 September 2021 12:13:00 Thu, 02 September 2021 12:13:00 https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2021/september/02/escape-to-north-devon-this-autumn/   Whether you are looking to book a family holiday for October Half Term or a last-minute weekend away, North Devon is a fantastic place to visit in Autumn/Winter and an Ocean Cottages property will provide you with the comfort and luxury required for a relaxing time away!   From the numerous dog friendly beaches to the quaint pubs (perfect for a Sunday roast) and even the trendy cafes, there's so much for all the family to do in North Devon during Autumn & Winter. All our luxury holiday cottages provide a fantastic base to go out and explore the stunning surrounding area. We all know how incredible North Devon is in the summer, but few know the delights of an Autumn/Winter break away. The restaurants have more availability, the beaches are quieter, and the surf is spectacular. The villages known for their beauty and rural idyllic appeal live up to that name in the Autumn and winter with the bustle of the crowds gone they once again become quiet and peaceful. In fact, it's likely you will only see the locals or dog walkers going about their day. The host of breath-taking coastal walks that North Devon is known for become all but deserted, unlike the summer months, allowing you to walk for miles enjoying the stunning views without seeing other people! We have many properties still available for October and November dates, start your online search today or contact us to talk to a friendly team member who will be delighted to help you find your perfect holiday home! To give you a little inspiration we have included some of our favourite properties for an Autumn/Winter stay!     4 ORA CLOSE IS A GORGEOUS MODERN CONVERSION WITH WOODBURNER AND OUTSIDE HOT TUB! THE PROPERTY BOASTS SPECTACULAR VIEWS ACROSS CROYDE BAY! 4oraclose/ocean-cottages.com     THE WHITE HOUSE IS A PERIOD PROPERTY SITUATED ON BAGGY POINT! WITH LARGE BEDROOMS, VAULTED CEILINGS AND A COSY FIRE! thewhitehouse/ocean-cottages.com     THE LODGE IS LOCATED AT THE TOP OF WOOLACOMBE, NEW TO THE HOLIDAY MARKET AND BOASTS VIEWS FROM UPSTAIRS AND HAS A HOT TUB!   thelodge/ocean-cottages.com   If you are interested in booking any of our properties please us the link provided below to check availability: www.ocean-cottages.com https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2021/september/02/escape-to-north-devon-this-autumn/ https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2021/september/02/escape-to-north-devon-this-autumn/ Thu, 02 September 2021 12:13:00 https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2021/april/28/best-picks-for-places-to-dine-in-croyde-braunton-woolacombe-from-the-12th-april-2021/   With the lock down ended and self-catered accommodation allowed to open as of the 12th April 2021. This blog will help you to know what dining out options are available with the new restrictions in place. Currently it is only possible for hospitality venues where food and drink are served to offer dining outside. Under the current government COVID-19 road map from the 17th May 2021 dining inside and outside will be possible but only for 6 people or under. Then finally from June 21st 2021 it will be possible to dine both inside and out with no restrictions. Read on to find out our favourite venues in Croyde, Woolacombe and Braunton that are now open, along with how to book them.       THE THATCH & BILLY BUDDS ( www.thethatchcroyde.co.uk ) ( www.billybudds.co.uk ) CROYDE Croydes' IT! pubs, these family and pet friendly pubs cater to all with a great atmosphere, friendly service. Food here is just as varied, offering something for everyone. April 12th The Thatches' new outdoor operation is open Wednesday to Sunday Weather permitting! All these outdoor operations will be on a first come first serve basis, with no table bookings available. The sister pub Billy Budds situated next door will have all its outdoor space open with a full menu available from April 12th. May 17th You can now book tables of six for the restaurant online for dates between May 17th and June 20th. THE WILLIAMS ARMS ( www.williamsarms.co.uk ) BRAUNTON If you are looking for the quintessential Devonshire pub, go no further than the Williams Arms! A centuries old pub, the Williams Arms is long established and trusted by the locals. It has a reputation for being one of the finest in Devon, offering fresh locally sourced ingredients. 28th April They will be operating 7 days a week with outside tables available and even more seating available in their large new marquee area. No booking available so its first come first serve Operating times below: FOOD 12-7pm DRINKS 12-7.30pm The outside area will be operated under the rule of six policy.   BAR ELECTRIC ( www.barelectric.co.uk ) WOOLACOMBE An independent café, bar, and restaurant with beautiful views. A family friendly venue by day and then popular bar by evening 12th April Open for food and drinks outside 7 days a week. Reservations are not possible and all dining is done on a walk in basis only.    THE QUAY CAFÉ (07702289855) BRAUNTON The Quay café is located along the famous South West Coastal Path in Braunton. It's the perfect stop off for families, dog walkers and cyclists. With indoor and outdoor seating as well as cycle racks and free parking. There is a wide selection on offer from lunch time cakes, tea cakes, cream teas, and seasonal specials. Not to mention great coffee and smoothies!  They have their usual opening times and outdoor seating available as well as takeaway options. They have all relevant social distancing measures in place and a strict disinfecting policy. SQUIRES ( www.squiresfishrestaurant.co.uk ) BRAUNTON Brauntons' award-winning fish and chip restaurant, considered by many locals to be the No.1 fish and chips in the North Devon area. With a recent renovation this modern restaurant has catered for many happy families and even the odd celebrity, including Damien Hirst, Rick Stein and even our own Prime Minister. 12 th April It is operating its take-away services only. Ordering available through facebook. OPEN ON: THURSDAYS, SUNDAYS AND MONDAYS.   THE BLUE GROOVE ( www.blue-groove.co.uk ) CROYDE This laid-back cafe/bar/restaurant is in the heart of Croyde. The menu is eclectic and has a great variety of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. A great place to grab a coffee or cocktail it is well worth a visit. 12 th April They are open for dining in the riverside beer garden 9am - late daily and for takeaway 9am-8pm! At present no outside table reservations are available so its first come first serve. Takeaways can be pre-ordered via their new online click and collect service.   If you are thinking of booking a holiday cottage check out our range of luxury coastal holiday properties!   https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2021/april/28/best-picks-for-places-to-dine-in-croyde-braunton-woolacombe-from-the-12th-april-2021/ https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2021/april/28/best-picks-for-places-to-dine-in-croyde-braunton-woolacombe-from-the-12th-april-2021/ Wed, 28 April 2021 15:20:00 36372 https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/december/03/holidaying-in-the-uk-with-government-tier-restrictions/   With the end of 2020 drawing near and the UK lock-down ending many people are excited to look ahead to December and Christmas and the big question on everyones mind is can I go on holiday during the COVID-19 pandemic?   Throughout December the government has set out the rules for the tier restriction system, in force from the 3rd December 2020 with a review date set for the 16th December. At present Devon is in Tier 2 and as such holidays can proceed but with restrictions; these are detailed below, along with the other tier descriptions that may apply to your own area you are travelling from.     Tier 1  - Guests travelling from tier 1 areas can holiday with people from other households (up to a maximum of 6) in other tier 1 areas.  (Devon is currently in tier 2 meaning that only one household/support bubble can stay in a property even if you are travelling from a tier 1 area). Tier 2 - Guests travelling from/to tier 2 areas are not permitted to mix with other households indoors and therefore are only able to travel as one household/support bubble.  Up to 6 people can meet outdoors. Tier 3 - People living in tier 3 areas are not permitted to leave home for the purpose of a holiday.   Here at Ocean Cottages we have been working in the background to ensure that any guests due to visit in December are meeting the requirements to be able to travel. Unfortunately, this has meant for some that they have had to cancel their holidays and receive refunds or for others they have had to change their guest lists, so they are one household to abide by the tier 2 rules. All this activity has been necessary to comply with the government laws and to protect our wonderful North Devon community.     Outside of the above stated rules the government has also announced the 'Christmas Bubble'. The Christmas bubble is only in effect between the dates 23 rd December to 27 th December 2020 and will be in law. Everyone can form their own Christmas bubble; however, the Christmas bubble is different to support bubbles and childcare bubbles and should not be confused.  The rules of the ' Christmas bubble ' are such: you can form an exclusive 'Christmas bubble' composed of people from no more than three households. you can only be in one Christmas bubble. you cannot change your Christmas bubble. you can travel between tiers and UK nations for the purposes of meeting your Christmas bubble. you can only meet your Christmas bubble in private homes or in your garden, places of worship, or public outdoor spaces. you can continue to meet people outside (not in your garden) who are not in your Christmas bubble according to the rules of the tier you are meeting in. (so for those holidaying in Devon, this is Tier 2) if you form a Christmas bubble, you should not meet socially with friends and family that you do not live with in your home or garden unless they are part of your Christmas bubble. You should only travel to meet those in your Christmas bubble and return home between the 23 and 27 December.   To provide a little context, if you have an existing support bubble; you are counted as one household towards the three-household limit. This means that if you are in a support bubble, you can collectively form a Christmas bubble with two other households. This applies only to support bubbles as set out in law (a support bubble is one household plus a single adult household, with or without children). The 'Christmas bubble' has of course been fantastic news for some of our guests who can now visit as more than one household during the bubble period. We must also mention that we are very grateful to those guests who feel it is safer to remain as one household for both themselves and the community, we look forward to welcoming you all to an Ocean Cottages property, in what will be a very different Christmas for many, we are sure!   If you are looking to holiday in North Devon in 2021, take a look at our website Ocean Cottages.     https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/december/03/holidaying-in-the-uk-with-government-tier-restrictions/ https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/december/03/holidaying-in-the-uk-with-government-tier-restrictions/ Thu, 03 December 2020 15:17:00 36372 https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/october/09/the-first-ocean-cottages-property-to-install-an-electric-charge-point-for-cars/   With everything going on in 2020 it has sometimes become overwhelming to look forward to the future positively. The COVID-19 pandemic is forcing people to assess how they live day to day and make choices for their own safety as well as the safety of their own communities. Our environment has become a key topic of discussion and the public have begun to make positive choices to engage with renewables. Many people have now made the choice to switch to hybrid or electric cars and the need for electric charging points in our properties has become more prevalent. We have seen a rise in demand for this facility and it looks set to increase in the coming years.   Here at Ocean Cottages we try to run our business to be as eco-friendly as possible and we have spent some time encouraging our owners to look to the future and the needs of our future guests. We pride ourselves on keeping ahead of the trend and our knowledge of the holiday market helps us to make innovative decisions that best reflect our guest's desires. We are really pleased to announce the first of our properties to install a charge point for electric cars is  Long Beach House in Woolacombe and will be available for guest use after the 14 th October 2020 (charges apply). With limited electric vehical charging points in North Devon, we are sure that this will be a very popular feature for this property!                                                   Long beach house is a very popular property in Woolacombe, with its own designated off-street parking area and amazing sea views. The owner of the property is environmentally conscious and highly aware of the many people visiting the area in their new hybrid or electric cars. We are delighted to see the owner of Long Beach House set himself apart from others, to provide a service that is in high demand. We are sure many other properties will start to follow suit soon! For anyone interested in booking one of our properties, please click this link to our home page where you can search for your selected dates. If you are looking to book Long Beach House specifically, please click this link   Long Beach House .   https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/october/09/the-first-ocean-cottages-property-to-install-an-electric-charge-point-for-cars/ https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/october/09/the-first-ocean-cottages-property-to-install-an-electric-charge-point-for-cars/ Fri, 09 October 2020 16:54:00 36372 https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/october/09/north-devons-dog-friendly-beaches-you-can-visit-this-autumnwinter/   Autumn has begun and already the weather is changing & trees are turning. North Devon's natural beauty is set alive during Autumn, highlighting its rugged and dramatic coastline. For visitors wishing to explore the area with man's best friend, now is the time as many beaches will now allow dogs through the Autumn and Winter.  This means there's no better time to get your wellies on and get out exploring North Devon's best beaches with your pooch.   Saunton Starting off our list is Saunton. This beach is one of few that allows dogs all year round. The long stretch of beautiful golden sand is famous for both its gorgeous beach but also its extensive sand dune system which is registered as a UNESCO Biosphere reserve and a SSSI (site of special scientific interest). This is a beach worth visiting for those looking to explore a unique beach in North Devon with their dog.   Croyde Croyde beach is popular all year with holidaymakers and locals alike looking to surf and enjoy this picturesque Village & Bay. Croyde beach is known for its golden sand, spectacular views of Lundy & amazing surf!  Now is the best time of year to visit as Croyde Beach allows dogs from 1 st October through to 31 st March each year.  Make sure you do not miss out on the opportunity to walk your dog along this beautiful beach, its well worth the visit, especially as it has great access to Baggy Point as well.   Putsborough Just a short trip from Croyde, is Putsborough beach. With great access and a large car park this is the perfect spot to walk your dog this Autumn. The beach itself allows dogs all year round, with the exception being the far left of the beach which does not allow dogs between Easter and October. This means the beach is fully open to dog walkers in the Autumn and for those people looking for a longer walk it is perfect as you can go all the way down to Woolacombe beach.   Woolacombe Woolacombe beach is a very dog friendly area. Allowing dogs year-round on certain stretches of the beach. The prohibition on dogs covers the stretch of beach between the rocks at the north end and the stream from Good Friday or 1st April (whichever is earliest) until 30th September. This means that in the Autumn, dogs and owners can walk freely along its entire length. This beach is also worth visiting as the village caters very well for those looking to stop for a bite to eat and a hot chocolate as well.   Instow Across the estuary and into the Torridge district of North Devon is Instow beach. This beach is popular with dog walkers as the village is extremely pet friendly. In fact, most of the culinary establishments allow dogs to enter and are welcomed. Although the beach is smaller than most mentioned previously, it is worth a visit for the fantastic views of Appledore and the estuary. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round on or off the lead.   Westward Ho! Lastly, we have Westward Ho! Beach, famous for being the only place in the world with an exclamation mark in its name. The village also boasts a long stretch of golden beach and pebble ridge used as sea defence for the wider area. Similarly, to Instow the beach is dog friendly all year with the only restriction being between May 1 st and September 30 th where dogs are only allowed on the northern end of the beach. This means dogs and owners have the entire beach for Autumn and winter. The village itself is also well catered for visitors and dogs, with many establishments being dog friendly. https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/october/09/north-devons-dog-friendly-beaches-you-can-visit-this-autumnwinter/ https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/october/09/north-devons-dog-friendly-beaches-you-can-visit-this-autumnwinter/ Fri, 09 October 2020 11:41:00 36372 https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/october/06/our-favourite-selection-of-properties-for-a-fantastic-winter-holiday/   Yep, it is that time of year again, Autumn has begun!  But rather than the usual slow down we normally see at this time of year, we are seeing a new trend of last-minute winter bookings!  One thing is for sure, winter holidays in 2020/2021 look set to become a real staple for the British staycationers. Many people are choosing to:  1. stay in the UK and 2. select a holiday in Devon or Cornwall. Not only that but bookings are also being made further in advance with the British public wanting to secure dates for their next holiday in their preferred property as many missed out this year due to the rush of people wishing to get away after being in a Lock-down through the spring. The importance of a holiday and escaping to the coast has been highlighted to many families in a world where we are all dealing with the current global pandemic, COVID-19.  Some families have already holidayed with us several times this year! Our properties in North Devon are all excellently positioned to deliver fantastic winter holidays, with many small and larger properties still available to book throughout December and January. In this blog we will be looking at our 'top pick' properties perfectly set up for those looking to get away in the dramatic and chillier months during Winter. Whether it is Christmas with the family or a romantic cottage perfect for a couple, Ocean-Cottages has everything you will need to make your winter holiday the best staycation.   The Perfect Large properties for Christmas -          We all love and remember those Christmas' with the family together, opening presents, putting mince pies out for Santa and carrots out for the reindeer. Now for many this will not be possible with the introduction of the rule of 6 by the Government. However, why not change it up this year? and have the same experience but on holiday at one of our fabulous larger luxury cottages. The extra space makes social distancing more implementable and allows your immediate family ample room to spread out, before coming together to share the holiday spirit -          Montague FarmHouse  -          Rip curl   The Perfect smaller properties for Christmas -          Thinking about getting away this Christmas? Wanting a more intimate setting for yourself and a few close relatives or friends? Then look no further than with Ocean-Cottages! We have some fantastic smaller properties that would be the ideal winter get away during the colder months. -        Sand Dunes -        Marine View Apartment    Cosy Cottages with fireplaces/wood burners -          There is nothing quite like a roaring fire in the lounge to sit around in the chillier winter months. The focal point of any room, many of our luxury cottages have wood-burners as they are the best way to spend a lazy afternoon curled up on the sofa by the fire with good book. -          Home House -          Chuggs cottage   Cosy Cottages with period charm -          Still looking for that charming period cottage for your winter holiday this year? We have them! Whether it is a small, converted farmhouse or large, thatched cottage. Our cottages in Croyde are the ideal destination for guests looking for a property with more character, charm, and the perfect spot to place the Christmas tree. -          Windsor cottage -          Crydda  cottage        Luxury cottages with spectacular views of the Sea -          Long walks on the beach and over the headlands of the North Devon are the best way to enjoy the fantastic scenery of the area. Particularly in winter the coastline of the south west becomes exceptionally beautiful and dramatic. Many of our luxury cottages are ideally situated to make the most of these spectacular views, even if you don't fancy braving the weather you can still snuggle up and enjoy the view from the comfort of your home from home this winter. -          15 ocean point -          36 chichester Park                 https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/october/06/our-favourite-selection-of-properties-for-a-fantastic-winter-holiday/ https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/october/06/our-favourite-selection-of-properties-for-a-fantastic-winter-holiday/ Tue, 06 October 2020 17:19:00 36372 https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/march/9/top-easter-family-fun-attractions-and-events-in-north-devon/   Have you booked your Easter family holiday yet? Or are you still searching?  Try Ocean Cottages for a spectacular home from home and the perfect base to explore the area. North Devon is famed for its spectacular coast and particularly beaches. However, the area also boasts some unique wildlife and adventure parks, that are perfectly geared up with fun seasonal activities this Easter. Whether you're looking for an exciting Easter egg hunt, spring lambing or an Easter Grotto, we have you covered with our top picks of entertaining things to do with the family this Easter. COMBE MARTIN WILDLIFE & DINOSAUR PARK - Dinosaur Egg Hunt at Easter 30 th March to 13 th April Website: https://cmwdp.co.uk/ A fun day out whatever the time of year, explore the 28-acre park and see the lions, wolves, sea lions, primates, meerkats, penguins and more. Be careful though dinosaurs roam! The impressive life size animatronic dinosaurs are located all around the park, adding an exciting dynamic for the whole family. The park also boasts a sizeable soft play area for the days when then weather is more changeable. Extra to the Parks regular scheduled events, through the Easter holidays the park holds a unique dinosaur Egg hunt with prizes for the children who find them all! THE MILKYWAY - Easter Bunny HQ Grotto 1 st April to 13 th April Website: https://www.themilkyway.co.uk/childrens-events-north-devon/view/easter-bunny-unique-easter-grotto                                       The adventure Park is located between Bucks Cross and Higher Clovelly, accessible via the Atlantic Highway. With lots to do, it's a great day out for the whole family with fantastic indoor and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for fun on the rollercoasters, in the maze, playing mini golf or visiting the North Devon bird of prey centre. This Easter holiday the park will be adding the opportunity for children aged 1-12 yrs old to visit Easter Bunny HQ, the location of the Park Easter bunny and his chocolate Eggs. Children receive their own free Easter Egg and a chance to meet the Easter Bunny in person. ARLINGTON COURT - SPRING LAMB TALKS 4 th April to 13 th April 3pm Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/arlington-court-and-the-national-trust-carriage-museum/features/family-fun-this-easter-at-arlington-court A beautiful Regency house on a family estate, built 1823. Arlington Court also has a National Trust Carriage Museum on the estate and spectacular formal gardens to explore on the finer spring days. For those families looking to get the kids outdoors this Easter then make sure you take part in the nature trail across Arlington Court where children find clues enabling them to claim a Cadbury's Chocolate prize. If you would like a more local experience, make sure you meet the new flock of spring lambs and enjoy a talk by one of the estates' local farmers. THE BIG SHEEP- Easter Eggstravaganza Festival 30 th March to 13 th April   Website: https://thebigsheep.co.uk/events/easter-eggstravaganza/               The big sheep has a great selection of activities for families, from rollercoasters to indoor playgrounds. One of our favourites has to be the daily live shows, with the sheep racing being a standout! The Easter Eggstravaganza Festival is an annual event at the Big Sheep, where thousands of chocolate Easter Eggs get hidden across the park for children to find as they explore the attractions. The Easter bunny even makes an appearance at intervals throughout the day, so make sure you get a photo!   CLOVELLY - Find the Easter Chicks 30 th march to 13 th April  Website: https://www.clovelly.co.uk/events/easter-find-the-easter-chicks-2/                    This picturesque coastal village nestles perfectly into the dramatic cliffs near Hartland. Historical cottages line the quaint cobbled streets down to the harbour below. During Easter children receive a village map on entry to Clovelly, this map marks the location of the Easter chicks perched up and down the cobbled High Street. Find at least 10 chicks on the route and they can return the map to the Visitor Centre reception to win an Easter egg.  If they spot all 15 chicks, they win a bigger prize! WOOLACOMBE - Cadbury Easter Trail 10 th April to 13 th April, (10:30am - 3pm)        Website: https://www.woolacombetourism.co.uk/events/event/cadbury-easter-trail-woolacombe/             If you want to experience one of North Devon's best beaches, then look no further than Woolacombe. Its golden sands are the perfect spot for families to truly experience the areas' outstanding natural beauty. Combine this with the Cadbury Easter Trail and you have a fantastic day out for everyone! The adventure trail weaves through Woolacombe Warren and children use trail maps (available from Woolacombe TIC, £2.50) to search for clues. Find all the clues and win the Cadbury chocolate prize. Book your perfect Easter break property with Ocean Cottages https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/march/9/top-easter-family-fun-attractions-and-events-in-north-devon/ https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/march/9/top-easter-family-fun-attractions-and-events-in-north-devon/ Mon, 09 March 2020 11:29:00 36372 https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/march/5/stunning-cosy-cottages-you-will-want-to-stay-in-this-winterspring/   After so many recent storms and the seemingly never ending winter, many people are seeking a cosy cottage to cuddle up in by the sea for a last minute break in March. Whether you're wanting a nice open fire to keep you warm, a Hot Tub to soak in or a cottage near the beach to experience the dramatic views. This month were looking at a selection of Ocean Cottages properties located in coastal North Devon particularly Woolacombe, Croyde and Putsborough, that offer it all for those seeking a retreat. WOOLACOMBE This expanse of golden sand and dunes is the ideal beach for families, couples and pet owners. Not only is it recognised as one of the most stunning stretches of beach the region has to offer but it has also been named in the top 20 beaches in the world!  The village also has lots do with great pubs, cafes and bars to grabs drinks and food. This spot has long been held as mecca for surfers and for those brave enough to take a winter dip in the sea, it really doesn't disappoint. Looking for a property with a view /woolacombe-holiday-cottages/7-ocean-point/ /woolacombe-holiday-cottages/2-gull-rock/ Looking for a property with a Hot Tub /woolacombe-holiday-cottages/skylark/ /woolacombe-holiday-cottages/high-tides/ Looking for a property with charm or a fireplace /woolacombe-holiday-cottages/marine-view-apartment/ CROYDE Quaint and trendy, Croyde has fast become a hot spot for both visitors and locals looking to enjoy the surf, picturesque views and thatched period properties. In the winter the village is perfect for those wanting a quiet break away from the hustle and bustle. Come Easter the village livens up with people flocking to spend time on the beach or experience the cool pubs. Exceptionally popular with families, Croyde has established itself as one of the best spots to visit in North Devon. Looking for a property with a view /croyde-holiday-cottages/6-out-of-the-blue/ /croyde-holiday-cottages/the-white-house/ /croyde-holiday-cottages/luckenborough/ Looking for a property with a Hot Tub /croyde-holiday-cottages/rip-curl/ Looking for a property with charm or a fireplace /croyde-holiday-cottages/home-house/ /croyde-holiday-cottages/chuggs-cottage/ /croyde-holiday-cottages/montague-farmhouse/ GEORGEHAM Set back from Croyde and slightly further inland, Georgeham has the characteristic Devonshire cottages, a historic church and two great pubs. A five-minute drive from Croyde it's the perfect retreat for those looking for a quieter holiday. Cottages here are perfectly nestled into the valley hills and offer the charm many are looking for this winter and spring. Lovely countryside walks can be enjoyed from Georgeham as well access to the South West Coast Path from Putsborough. Looking for a property with a view /georgeham-holiday-cottages/the-long-house/ /georgeham-holiday-cottages/windsor-cottage/ Looking for a property with charm or a fireplace /georgeham-holiday-cottages/hill-side-view/   Make the most of winter prices and last minute discounts, book your March stay now   https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/march/5/stunning-cosy-cottages-you-will-want-to-stay-in-this-winterspring/ https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/march/5/stunning-cosy-cottages-you-will-want-to-stay-in-this-winterspring/ Thu, 05 March 2020 10:43:00 36372 https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/february/19/top-4-dog-friendly-coastal-walks-in-north-devon/   North Devon boasts some of the most naturally beautiful stretches of coastline in England.  The BBC Two series 'Coastal Path' is currently featuring presenter Paul Rose walking the entire South West Coast Path and the first episode featured some of our favourite spots in North Devon!  If you missed it, catch up here   https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07qb61p Whether you are looking for a golden beach, majestic woodland or rugged cliff top. This stunning area has it all and therefore it's no surprise that it attracts many visitors searching for the perfect dog walking routes. In particular this time of year hosts some of the wildest weather for the region and if you're looking to experience a dramatic winter walk with your dog we've got you covered with a list of walks we consider to be the best along the South West Coast. WOOLACOMBE TO PUTSBOROUGH BEACH WALK        For those looking to sample one of the most stunning stretches of beach the region has to offer, look no further. This breath-taking walk is ideal for everyone, as it's flat. If the sun is shining you are on to a winner, the dogs will love the two-mile expanse of beach that stretches from Putsborough to Woolacombe. MORTEHOE TO BULL POINT LIGHTHOUSE                                                                           For those looking for a more secluded walk, this one is for you! It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle during the winter months. Wrap up warm and enjoy the breath-taking scenery, from distant jagged headlands to exposed clifftop heathland. This walk loops along the south west coast path to Bull Point Lighthouse and then back inland towards Mortehoe. Dogs will love the windy path, just watch out for the odd sheep! VALLEY OF THE ROCKS WOOLAND WALK                                                                        One of the more famous areas of the British coast, the valley of the rocks is well known for its spectacular rugged visage and stacked stone towers. Dramatic cliffs and tree-clad headlands mark this area as one of the most unique on this list. Start off at the Valley of the Rocks car park and head around the cliffs for a short walk. However, for those wanting a longer route, our vote would be for the woodland walk that weaves along the coast path down to Woody bay before looping back up to Lynton. CROYDE BEACH TO BAGGY POINT WALK                                                           This walk is perfect for winter and a great way to sample the stunning panoramic views of the North Devon coastline. Starting from the golden, sandy beach (which does allow dogs from the 1 st October to 1 st May) take one of the two routes upwards to baggy point. This walk is ideal for the family, offering a choice of an easier path, perfect for those looking for a gentle stroll or alternatively the steeper path for those looking for more of a hike. For those feeling energentic, you can continue onto Putsborough and Woolacombe! If you are thinking of visiting our beautiful part of the world for a walking holiday or just a relaxing break, take advantage of our 'no booking fee' offer - use code SPRING2020 by 29th Feb to get £45 off any holiday dates in March! Start your search online now https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/february/19/top-4-dog-friendly-coastal-walks-in-north-devon/ https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/february/19/top-4-dog-friendly-coastal-walks-in-north-devon/ Wed, 19 February 2020 11:17:00 36372 https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/february/14/top-family-friendly-places-to-eat-in-coastal-north-devon-this-february-half-term/   The first school holiday of 2020 is fast approaching, and many of us will be looking to make the most of the time by eating out with our families. North Devon boasts many fine restaurants and pubs, but which really are the best? We've got you covered with a comprehensive list of our favourite hidden and not so hidden places to grab a family meal in Croyde, Woolacombe and Braunton.  THE RED BARN (www.redbarnwoolacombe.co.uk) Woolacombe Established in 1965, the Red Barn has a long history of being a home from home for many of Woolacombe's surfers. It's just a stone's throw from the beach so if you're visiting the area ensure you drop in after that cold winter walk on the beach to get warm with a beer and great food. It caters to all offering breakfast, lunchtime and evening menus. THE THATCH ( www.thethatchcroyde.co.uk ) Croyde Croydes' IT! pub, open breakfast, lunch and dinner all year round. This family and pet friendly pub cater to all, under its name sake thatched roof. Locals and visitors alike love the warm and cosy atmosphere whether eating Mexican nachos or toasted paninis. Traditional pub grub is served daytime and dinner, giving you that hearty winter meal we know you're craving this February half term. BILLY BUDDS ( www.billybudds.co.uk ) Croyde Our second entry for Croyde, Billy Budds has it all; great atmosphere, friendly service and walled adventure play garden for the kids. Food here is just as varied, offering something for everyone and if you don't fancy eating in, pizza, burgers and chips are available to takeaway. WILLIAMS ARMS ( www.williamsarms.co.uk ) Braunton If you're looking for a carvery, go no further than the Williams Arms! It has a reputation for being one of the finest in Devon, offering fresh local ingredients served both lunchtime and evenings. A large restaurant and bar area can cater for small and large groups, perfect for all the family! A centuries old pub, the Williams Arms is long established and trusted by the locals. As a consequence, it books up quickly so ring ahead to guarantee your table. THE QUAY CAFÉ (07702289855) Braunton One of the newest entries to this list, the Quay café is located along the famous South West Coastal Path in Braunton. It's the perfect stop off for families, dog walkers and cyclists. With indoor and outdoor seating as well as cycle racks and free parking. There's a wide selection on offer from lunch time cakes, tea cakes, cream teas and seasonal specials. Not too mention great coffee and smoothies!  There is also a separate dedicated café for families with younger children as there is a great indoor soft play area to keep the children entertained! SQUIRES ( www.squiresfishrestaurant.co.uk ) Braunton Brauntons' award winning fish and chip restaurant, considered by many locals to be the No.1 fish and chips in the North Devon area. With a recent renovation this modern restaurant has catered for many happy families and even the odd celebrity, including Damien Hirst, Rick Stein and even our own Prime Minister. Get here early though as it's busy at the weekends, even in the winter, proof it's a hit with not just visitors but locals too. If you are thinking of returning for an Easter or Summer holiday in North Devon, why not check out our range of luxury coastal holiday properties! https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/february/14/top-family-friendly-places-to-eat-in-coastal-north-devon-this-february-half-term/ https://www.ocean-cottages.com/blog/posts/2020/february/14/top-family-friendly-places-to-eat-in-coastal-north-devon-this-february-half-term/ Fri, 14 February 2020 16:22:00