We have another Farm Insights post where you can learn more about the individual farms and their owners. Helping you to get a feel for the people and their accommodation. This week we are focusing on Bampfield Farm in Goodleigh.
Located in the charming countryside of North Devon near Barnstaple, this working farm has spectacular views over rolling hills and out to the sea. It is the perfect destination for those looking for a farm holiday in the English countryside. The famous sandy beaches of North Devon are 15-20 minutes’ drive away and there is a selection of beach equipment for you to borrow.
Their Accommodation
The holiday accommodation consist of two-character filled country cottages. The Granary cottage was converted in 1997 (22 years ago), the name speaks for itself as it was the old granary store. This lovely cottage is spacious and furnished to a high standard to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay. This property has four bedrooms, two bathrooms and sleeps 2-8 people. There is central heating throughout the cottage and free logs for the wood burner to keep you warm all year round. Features of this special cottage include a high wooden ceiling with French windows opening onto the courtyard. The kitchen boasts a lovely old pine table which is perfect for those family occasions.
The second, Haven Cottage used to be the milking stalls and dairy. This is where the milk was bottled when Lynda was a child, now it is a lovely place for family holidays. A character cottage with 3 bedrooms, two bathrooms and sleeps 2-6 people. The Haven has an open plan design with an oak fitted kitchen and spacious lounge. The central fireplace and wood-burner is the perfect place to take time to snuggle up with a book, hot chocolate or even a glass of wine. This lovely, cosy cottage has the most spectacular view of rolling hills and beyond to the Atlantic ocean. A stable door opens onto the patio and garden area with views of the fields and animals.
At Bampfield Farm, children and adults help collect eggs for their breakfast, feed and walk the goats or brush the ponies. They also offer pony rides for young children, swings, slides, and a playroom packed with toys and games. Their farm tour includes seeing the milking of our free-range cows and catching a glimpse of all the wildlife around the farm. Guests return time and time again for the tranquil peace and relaxation that is found here on the farm.
The local pub, the New Inn, which is within walking distance serves fabulous food and great beer. Recently, they have been awarded No1 on Trip Advisor in the area.
For more information on Bampfield Farm be sure to take a look at our website.
History on The Owners
Lynda, who owns and runs Bampfield Farm alongside her husband, has a long history with the farm having lived there her whole life. Lynda has also been a farmer her whole life helping on the farm even when she was young. The only time she has moved away from the farm was when she studied at Bicton Agricultural College. However, even then she came home every weekend to help with the milk round and milking.
When we asked Lynda about why she started the holiday cottages she said, ‘Farming income fluctuates so my mum and I set up Bampfield Farm Cottages because as the old saying goes, “don’t put your eggs all in one basket”. I am often heard saying this to the guests as they collect their eggs for breakfast!’
We also asked Lynda what she likes about running holiday cottages and her response was, ‘I enjoy meeting guests and showing them this lovely part of the country. Our animals help children gain confidence and make lifelong memories. Learning where our food comes from is vitally important alongside sourcing local produce. These two subjects are close to my heart as we are very much a working farm. Our farm supplies free-range milk for the Arla Co-operative, and free-range chickens for 2 Sisters Food Group’.
Favourite place or activity
When we asked Lynda what her favourite thing to do in Devon was she said, ‘When I eventually leave the farm, I love walking in Exmoor National Park, around the coastline and along the golden sandy beaches of Puttsborough, Woolacombe and Saunton. Rosemoor Gardens is also a family favourite’.
For more information on Bampfield Farm holiday cottages be sure to check out their page on our website.