Kevin and Nicky invite you to enjoy a relaxing break in the tranquil setting of their home, Middletown Farmhouse. A warm welcome awaits you at their beautiful 16th century thatched cottage, a former farmhouse. Situated in the heart of the picturesque mid Devon village of Sampford Courtenay, on the northern fringes of the stunning Dartmoor National Park, just five miles north-east of Okehampton, it is easily accessible by car from the A30 or public transport from the cathedral city of Exeter.
With nearly an acre of garden and woodland, the wildlife flourishes; from swallows nesting in the barn to resident owls in the woods, butterflies and bees on the Buddleia, toads in the pond and our lovely hens supplying fresh eggs for your breakfasts. Beyond our boundaries explore the quiet lanes, with beautiful Devon hedgebanks brimming with wild flowers, butterflies and all manner of wildlife. Pause a while at a field gate and take in the amazing views across open countryside to Dartmoor.
Popular with cyclists (Lands End to John o'Groats cycle route and Devon Coast to Coast), walkers (Devon Heartland Way), and motorcyclists (green laners and tourers), this makes an ideal resting point.
And once you feel revitalised, venture beyond the peacefulness of the village to discover what Devon has to offer...
We relocated to Devon in 2015, ready to embrace a new chapter in our lives. With an appetite for the great outdoors, it was not surprising that we were drawn to Dartmoor, with it's wonderfully wild and exhilarating landscapes.
Stumbling upon Middletown Farmhouse, in the heart of historic Sampford Courtenay (site of the Prayer Book Rebellion-1549), was an exciting discovery. Having been empty for three years and neglected for several years previously, the property was in need of complete renovation, and required a couple of very brave (or mad) people to take on the challenge!
After two extremely busy years of restoration and sympathetic modernisation to the property, we were ready to welcome guests and continue our passion for great hospitality. As with all properties of this age and gardens of this size, it requires constant maintenance, so we will often be seen beavering away at some job or other!
Be prepared to be amazed by the landscape. From narrow, winding country lanes with hedges brimming full of wildlife and wild flowers, to dramatic granite tors dominating moorland landscapes, there is a view to capture everyone's imagination. Be sure to pack sturdy walking shoes/boots, a waterproof coat (just in case!) and a camera to capture all those wonderful memories, as it will be hard to resist exploring this stunning area.
Make time to check out the many artists/artisans who have made Devon their home and display their works in galleries around the county. Visit some of the towns and villages in Devon offering an array of independent retailers, with individual and interesting ideas for you to delight in.
And once you are exhausted and in need of well earned refreshment, you will discover a wealth of quality eating/drinking establishments throughout the county, from cosy tea rooms to traditional village pubs with open log fires, serving the finest homemade fayre, using locally sourced ingredients.
