Elderwood Manor
Umberleigh, Barnstaple, Devon, UK
A pristine country house cake sat amid the rolling patchwork fields of North Devon, Elderwood Manor is idyllically situated to make the most of both coast and country: Exmoor to one side and the sea to the other. Sweeping staircases twin with modern accents inside this luxury self-catering manor, while a hot tub in mature gardens guarantees unending magic under the sparkling night skies.
Introduction
Built in 1837 as part of the Church of England’s estate, and with a history of housing education and music, this large manor house equidistant from Exmoor and the Hartland Heritage Coast is perfectly placed for tasting the best of Devon. After a day of Famous Five-style adventures, retreat to Elderwood Manor’s country kitchen to mix up summer salads, or recline in the hot tub, cloud-watching with a spritz in hand. As night falls, gather outside for a campfire dessert of chocolate and baked bananas on the fire pit. Whether a self-catering holiday with the extended family or luxury weekend of Champagne towers and private chefs, Elderwood is an elegant escape.
Inside
Sympathetic to the house's history through every aspect of the restoration, vaulted ceilings, original 19th century tile floors and enormous windows were carefully considered within its new contemporary guise to offer pure indulgence, while a nature-inspired colour palette invites serenity and peace. A library, snug and cinema room, all wrapped up in rich, gemstone hues and botanical wallpaper encourage escapism without the distraction of the outside world, while a games room (including cocktail fridge) leads out into the garden. Upstairs, seven bedrooms with rural views welcome deep, dream-filled slumber.
Outside
Three and a half acres of grounds await to be discovered and, while the croquet and bowls lawns are perfect for sprawling out on with picnic blankets, it’s the wildflower meadow and whimsical secret garden where the magic really lies. Beyond the boundaries of Elderwood Manor a treasure trove of North Devon riches awaits; in one direction, the wild expanses of Exmoor dip and dive through gorge-like valleys, soaring hills and ancient woodlands filled with legends while in the other, pretty Appledore and seaside haunt Ilfracombe entice sandy toes, soft whip ice cream and fish and chip suppers.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 14 guests
From £3,450 per week, £2,595 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 8 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThere are seven bedrooms on the first floor; two with super king-size beds with en suite bathrooms (one with a separate shower and one with overhead shower), two bedrooms with king-size beds and en suite showers, and three with zip-and-link beds, one of which has an en suite shower room, and two that share the family shower room. There is one further family shower room on the ground floor.
View bedrooms - FeaturesWood-fired hot tub, cinema room, games room with bar, table tennis table, croquet and badminton
- PetsTwo well-behaved medium dogs, or one large well-behaved dog, are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Day: Friday or MondayArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyYes, children are very welcome. Two travel cots and two highchairs are provided.
- PracticalitiesThe driveway is shared by the neighbouring property but the manor has ample parking for up to ten cars, with space for five next to the house and five close by on a more rustic parking area. The main kitchen includes a double Range oven, large fridge and dishwasher. The second kitchen includes an electric oven, microwave, gas hob, double fridge-freezer and dishwasher. There is a separate utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer. Please note, the hot tub is wood-fired and will require filling on arrival with warm water.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper of local produce, 82 inch Smart TV, 50 inch Smart TV, Netflix, JBL wireless speakers, coffee machine, BBQ, Superfast WiFi, luxury bed linen and towels, recipe books...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more little luxuries
- Private cateringDiscover your options for private dining and fully catered breaks.
- Additional extrasA handpicked selection of unique experiences are available at this property.
- RestrictionsFireworks are not permitted in the grounds
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsEV charger locationsCheck mobile signalRecommend to a friend
Prices & Availability
Barnstaple
North Devon´s largest municipality, this market town straddling the River Taw provides a springboard to some of the county´s best attractions with country rambles, cycling routes and surfing beaches galore just a short journey away.
Getting there
- On the Map Elderwood Manor sits just outside the small North Devon village of Umberleigh near Barnstaple, thirty minutes to Exmoor as well as Woolacombe and Ilfracombe on the coast.
- By Car The house is around a four hour drive from central London.
- By Train The nearest train station is Barnstaple, which is around 20 minutes away.
- By Air Exeter Airport is a one hour drive away, and Bristol International Airport is around one hour and 45 minutes away by car.
From the owner
“We fell in love with the property for its presence, tranquil surroundings and views over the moor.”
The house was built in 1837 by the church and, from being a music school to a private home, has a varied and colourful past.
We think the house is located in the perfect North Devon spot, with Exmoor and its pretty coastal villages just a short drive to the east, as well as the sweeping sands of Woolacombe and Ilfracombe to the west.
The height of ceilings and light from the large windows gives a great feeling of space to the house and there are many elements to this house which are listed, the floor tiles and dining room fireplace are two particularly interesting ones.
We have relished the opportunity to breathe some life into this home and create a peaceful place to relax and we hope you enjoy what we love most about the house; the chance to gather with family and friends.
Lawrence & Victoria
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Barnstaple with an insider’s perspective.
To Do
The Hartland Coast
Seemingly at the end of the world, this exposed peninsula is bursting with wind-lashed cliffs, crashing waterfalls and unrivalled surf breaks.
To Eat
The Farmers Arms, Bideford
A Grade-II listed thatched inn dating back to the mid-17th century where Ian Webber, formerly head chef of Michelin-starred Gidleigh Park Hotel, has created a menu focused on the finest locally sourced ingredients.
To See
Lundy Island
Owned by the Landmark Trust, spend a sunny afternoon exploring this tiny island which sits where the wild Atlantic meets the Bristol Channel. Ornithologists will be in their element here - don´t forget the binoculars!
To Do
RHS Rosemoor
Whether seasoned hoticulturalist or fair-weather flower tender, there´s something for everyone here. Stop for a coffee amid the herbs in the potager garden, wander the wildflower meadow or escape the summer heat under sky-high pines.
Guest Testimonials
It was a lovely surprise to arrive with some lights on and a Christmas tree and decorations to invite us into the manor! It was beautifully done and made us feel Christmassy, thank you! A lovely touch and just added to the magic of when we arrived. We were like kids in a candy shop looking in every room. The interior decoration was beautifully done throughout. Plenty of space for everyone and in a great location.
The property was stunning, the interior design resembled something from a high-end boutique hotel. They kept the period features but gave a fresh modern twist with the combination of furniture, fabrics, and decor which were carefully put together.
Loved the location and all that was offered. Elderwood Manor was spacious and a great space for our family to come together. Thank you for a really enjoyable stay, we would love to return next year!
Unique extras
Enhance your stay with a unique experience from one of our preferred suppliers. From professional in-house chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and wine delivered to the door, see what’s on offer for your bespoke escape.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Cool cottages for spring
The Times
March 2023Inside The Fable x The White Company
House & Garden
March 2023The best summer party villas
The Times
February 2023How to maximise travels in 2023
The Telegraph
February 2023The best beach villas
The Times
February 2023What´s in store for 2023 staycations?
The Telegraph
February 2023Idyllic Valentine´s Day cottages
House & Garden
February 2023Reimagine your attic
House Beautiful (USA)
February 2023
Collections > Luxury Christmas Breaks > UK > Devon > Barnstaple > Elderwood Manor
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
