Over Lemon River

Introduction

Hugging the southeastern border of Dartmoor National Park, Over Lemon River sits within an old working farm three miles from the charming Devon town of Ashburton. Following a life of labour, the bijou stone outhouse has undergone a Cinderella-style transformation into a luxury self-catering barn for two. Where there were mud floors now lies underfloor heating, where there was hay now sits midnight-blue velvet sofas and, in place of the old mill wheel, a wood-fired hot tub for those lustrous starry nights. This is a place where city folk and country lovers can hunker down, warm a bottle of red by the woodburner and watch their worries melt away like lemon drops.

Inside

When the owner converted this old millhouse within the grounds of his family farm, privacy and luxury were to be key components. There was an emphasis on using local architects as well as materials to give the barn a modern, rural edge. Natural rattan furnishings combine with matt black fittings and monochrome tones on the ground floor, which comprises an open-plan living space complete with woodburner nook. Next to the double bedroom, a luxe bathroom suite (with tub for two...) matches the kitchen worktops, both crafted from charcoal-grey microcement. Suspended above, a TV snug hides on the mezzanine floor with glass balustrade, optimising the space in the high apex roof.

Outside

Two fields totaling six acres run adjacent to the barn's neat pebble courtyard, temping slow strolls through the buttercups and brunches by the river. It may be tempting to hole up and never leave, but Dartmoor's wilderness begs for adventure. Whether hill hiking with dogs in tow, or trying your hand at white water kayaking, there is plenty to get hearts pumping. When sleeting rain arrives, wellington-clad visitors can seek shelter in one of the rustic pubs or country house restaurants close by. At twilight however, you won't want to be anywhere but Over Lemon River, where the covered outdoor ruin with hot tub and fire pit affords a sumptuous vantage point for stargazers.

• PricingFrom £1,195 per week, £950 per short break
• FeaturesAl fresco living space with wood-fired hot tub and fire pit
• PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
  Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof
• FamilyBabes-in-arms six months and under are welcome
• PracticalitiesThe kitchen consists of an electric oven with induction hob, a slimline dishwasher, washing machine, microwave, integrated fridge and freezer, Belfast sink, microwave and compact dining table. There is a designated parking area for one car by the barn, accessed via a private lane. Please note the access track is not suitable for low-slung cars. The stairs leading to the snug are steep. The River Lemon runs below the property and can become deep in winter. There is an outside tap, ideal for muddy dog paws after long walks on Dartmoor. If bringing dogs with you, please be aware there will occasionally be livestock in a neighbouring field
• Private cateringWhether you're looking for a fully catered stay or a one-off meal for a special occasion, discover your bespoke catering options
  
  Explore private dining

Ashburton

This vibrant, ancient stannary town on the southern slopes of Dartmoor dates back to Saxon times and is a gleaming gem amidst Devon´s patchwork countryside. Hop on board Ashburton´s antiques trail and fill your suitcase with treasures of your own.

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Getting there

• On the map This rustic-luxe Devon barn conversion in Dartmoor National Park is three miles north of Ashburton on the River Lemon
• By car Just over three hours from London by car; half an hour south of Exeter
• By train Newton Abbot train station is approximately 15 minutes away, with regular lines to London and beyond
• By air Exeter airport is around 30 minutes drive away, where taxis are available for your onward journey