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The Devon Retreat, Kentisbury

Sleeps up to 4
Pets 2
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 2

The Devon Retreat is a self-catering lodge in North Devon, near Barnstaple, sitting within the stunning landscape of the Taw Valley. A private hot tub is included with every stay. This is a well-appointed retreat that works equally well for couples or small families looking for a proper break in one of England's most celebrated counties.

North Devon offers coastline, moorland and countryside within a short drive. Exmoor National Park is on your doorstep. The surf beaches of Croyde and Saunton Sands are close by. This part of Devon is genuinely special wide open spaces and very little crowds outside peak season.

The accommodation sleeps a small group comfortably. Expect a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living space and well-presented bedrooms.

Check Prices & Availability »
At HolidayCottages.co.uk
 

About The Devon Retreat

The Devon Retreat is a self-catering lodge in North Devon, near Barnstaple, sitting within the stunning landscape of the Taw Valley. A private hot tub is included with every stay. This is a well-appointed retreat that works equally well for couples or small families looking for a proper break in one of England's most celebrated counties.

North Devon offers coastline, moorland and countryside within a short drive. Exmoor National Park is on your doorstep. The surf beaches of Croyde and Saunton Sands are close by. This part of Devon is genuinely special wide open spaces and very little crowds outside peak season.

The accommodation sleeps a small group comfortably. Expect a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living space and well-presented bedrooms. Exact lodge layout and sleeping configuration should be confirmed at booking.

Nearby highlights include Croyde Beach (8 miles, 20 mins), Braunton Burrows UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (6 miles, 15 mins), Barnstaple town centre (4 miles, 10 mins) and Exmoor National Park (15 miles, 30 mins).

The Devon Retreat suits couples and families who want coast, moor and countryside. The private hot tub and peaceful setting make this a standout choice in North Devon.

Check Prices & Availability »
At HolidayCottages.co.uk

Need To Know

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Local Insights: The Devon Retreat

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Kentisbury, Devon

Weather & Hot Tub Conditions

14°C

Moderate rain

Updated: 17 Sep 2026, 2:50am

🌡️
13.70°C
Temperature
💨
27 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
97%
Humidity
♨️
Hot Tub Tip: The contrast between cool September air and warm hot tub water creates the perfect relaxation experience. Many guests say cooler evenings make hot tub sessions even more enjoyable.

Best Months for Hot Tub Evenings

  • May - September: Warmest evenings (12-16°C), longest daylight for twilight sessions
  • October - November: Crisp autumn air, stunning starry skies, perfect contrast with hot water
  • December - February: Cold air intensifies the experience, possible snow-dusted surroundings
  • March - April: Spring awakening, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active
🌧️
Rainy Day Tip: Don't let rain stop you! Hot tubbing in light rain is a uniquely peaceful experience. The sound of raindrops while you're warm in the bubbling water is surprisingly relaxing.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

The Devon Retreat is located in one of England's darkest sky areas, making it exceptional for stargazing from the hot tub.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
🌌
Class 4 - Rural/suburban transition
This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From The Hot Tub

The Milky Way is visible overhead, though light domes may be visible on the horizon towards larger towns.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

  • New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
  • Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
  • After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
  • Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up
📱
Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline.

Location & Elevation

203m

(666 feet above sea level)

The Devon Retreat sits in a peaceful Devon setting, perfect for a relaxing hot tub getaway.

🏔️
203m
Elevation
📍
Kentisbury
Nearest Village
🌲
Rural
Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

  • Cooler temperatures: Expect 1-2°C cooler than coastal areas, making hot tub sessions even more refreshing
  • Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
  • Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
  • Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to fell summits
🚗
Driving Note: The roads to Kentisbury are typical Devon lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Coordinates

Latitude: 51.1663350° N | Longitude: 3.960607° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Kentisbury (Thursday, 17 September 2026):

5:52am

Sunrise

5:27pm

Golden Hour

6:27pm

Sunset

🌅
5:52am
Sunrise
🌇
6:27pm
Sunset
📸
5:27pm
Golden Hour

Hot Tub Timing by Season

  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - enjoy the hot tub in daylight or twilight
  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner soak under emerging stars
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - dark hot tub sessions, ideal for stargazing
  • Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day
🌙
Evening Hot Tub Session: For the best experience, start your hot tub session during golden hour (5:27pm). You'll enjoy the warm colours of sunset, then transition into twilight and stars - all without having to get out!

September Daylight

This month in Kentisbury, you have approximately 12.59 hours of daylight. The shortening days create the perfect excuse for earlier hot tub sessions.

Practical Essentials

Everything you need to know before you arrive at The Devon Retreat.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

💡
Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

🚗
Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Devon. Consider stocking up on groceries too, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun

Data updated: 17 Sep 2026 | Location: 51.1663350, -3.9606070

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

Discover why our guests keep coming back to The Devon Retreat

Private hot tub

A private hot tub is included with your stay perfect for unwinding after a day on Exmoor or the North Devon coast.

North Devon coastline nearby

Croyde and Saunton Sands surf beaches are within 20 minutes. Some of the best coastal scenery in England is right on your doorstep.

Exmoor National Park access

Exmoor is around 30 minutes away. Hundreds of miles of walking and riding trails start from the park boundary.

Barnstaple close by

Barnstaple is North Devon's main market town and is just 10 minutes away. Good for shops, restaurants and the famous Pannier Market.

Peaceful rural setting

The lodge sits in a quiet rural location in the Taw Valley. Great if you want space and quiet without being miles from everything.

Self-catering flexibility

A fully equipped kitchen means you can cook in or head out. Total flexibility for your stay with no fixed meal times.

Getting To The Devon Retreat

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach The Devon Retreat by car, take the A361 North Devon Link Road towards Barnstaple and follow signs for the EX31 4NL postcode. Sat nav will take you directly to the property and off-road parking is available on site.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Barnstaple, which sits on the Tarka Line running from Exeter St Davids. From Barnstaple station a short taxi ride will bring you to the lodge.

Off-road parking available on site
Barnstaple station (approx 4 miles)
Accessible via the A361 North Devon Link Road

Attractions & More Nearby

Everything you need within easy reach

Croyde Beach
Distance: 8 miles
EX33 1PN
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Distance: 10 miles
EX38 8PH
Braunton Burrows Biosphere Reserve
Distance: 6 miles
EX33 1HB
Tarka Trail (Barnstaple section)
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 1LE
Exmoor National Park (Simonsbath)
Distance: 15 miles
EX36 3PL
Saunton Sands coastal path
Distance: 8 miles
EX33 1LQ
Barnstaple Pannier Market
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 1RX
Tesco Extra Barnstaple
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 2AS
Bideford town centre
Distance: 10 miles
EX39 2HW
Barnstaple Bus Station
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 1LE
Barnstaple Railway Station (Tarka Line)
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 1LE
Ilfracombe Harbour
Distance: 12 miles
EX34 9EQ
Croyde Beach
Distance: 8 miles
EX33 1PN
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Distance: 10 miles
EX38 8PH
Braunton Burrows Biosphere Reserve
Distance: 6 miles
EX33 1HB
Tarka Trail (Barnstaple section)
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 1LE
Exmoor National Park (Simonsbath)
Distance: 15 miles
EX36 3PL
Saunton Sands coastal path
Distance: 8 miles
EX33 1LQ
Barnstaple Pannier Market
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 1RX
Tesco Extra Barnstaple
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 2AS
Bideford town centre
Distance: 10 miles
EX39 2HW
Barnstaple Bus Station
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 1LE
Barnstaple Railway Station (Tarka Line)
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 1LE
Ilfracombe Harbour
Distance: 12 miles
EX34 9EQ

Is The Devon Retreat Right For You?

Discover why this cottage is ideal for different types of visitors

For Families
North Devon is excellent for families. Croyde and Saunton Sands beaches are within 20 minutes for surfing and rock pooling. Exmoor offers pony trekking and wildlife spotting. The Tarka Trail is a traffic-free cycling route great for children. Barnstaple has a leisure centre and soft play facilities nearby.
For Couples
The private hot tub sets the tone for a romantic break. North Devon's coastline and Exmoor moorland give you proper scenery without the crowds. Barnstaple has good restaurants for evenings out. The peaceful Taw Valley location means genuine quiet no noise, no neighbours on top of you.
Pet Friendly
Pet policy for The Devon Retreat has not been confirmed in available details. Please contact the property directly before booking if you are planning to bring a dog. North Devon is an outstanding area for dog walking with miles of coastal and moorland paths nearby.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Devon Retreat

The Thatch, Croyde

Located 8 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX33 1PN

The Williams Arms, Wrafton

Located 3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX33 2AJ

Lynwood House Restaurant, Barnstaple

Located 4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX31 1LE

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Devon Retreat

Does this cottage have a hot tub?
Yes, The Devon Retreat includes a private hot tub. It is available for your exclusive use throughout your stay.
Is it pet friendly?
We do not currently have confirmed pet policy details for The Devon Retreat. Please contact the property directly before booking if you plan to bring a dog.
Where exactly is The Devon Retreat located?
The Devon Retreat is located near Barnstaple in North Devon with the postcode EX31 4NL. It sits within the Taw Valley area, close to both Exmoor and the North Devon coast.
How far is the nearest beach?
Croyde Beach is approximately 8 miles away, around a 20-minute drive. Saunton Sands is a similar distance and both are among the best beaches in the South West.
Is Exmoor National Park nearby?
Exmoor National Park is roughly 15 miles from the lodge, about a 30-minute drive. The park offers walking, cycling, horse riding and outstanding open moorland scenery.
What is the nearest town for shopping and eating out?
Barnstaple is the nearest town, approximately 4 miles away and around 10 minutes by car. It has a good range of shops, supermarkets, restaurants and the historic Pannier Market.
How do I get to The Devon Retreat by car?
The lodge is accessible via the A361 North Devon Link Road heading towards Barnstaple. The postcode EX31 4NL will take you directly to the property using sat nav.
What is there to do in the local area?
North Devon offers surfing at Croyde, walking on Exmoor, the Tarka Trail cycling route and the coastal path. Barnstaple, Ilfracombe and the RHS Garden Rosemoor are all within easy reach.

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The Devon Retreat Reviews

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Unit 12, Discovery Park, Innovation Way, Sandwich, Kent, CT13 9FE