We have another exciting new Farm Insights post where we get to know Lower Campscott Farm, located on the North Devon coast just outside Ilfracombe and close to Woolacombe’s award-winning beaches.
his beautiful self-catering accommodation site is owned by Kathy and Tony and boasts a selection of 8 holiday cottages and lodges. The site sits within 35 acres of idyllic countryside and has breathtaking views over Lee Bay.
Their Accommodation
Lower Campscott Farm consists of 4 holiday cottages, 4 lodges and a green camping site, so there really is something for everyone. The cottages and lodges range from Pinetree Lidge sleeping 8+ guests to Stable Cottage which sleeps up to 3 guests. Whether you are after a romantic getaway, a family holiday or a group get-together Lower Campscott Farm will be able to accommodate you. As well as being able to stay in the spacious, comfortable holiday cottages, there is also plenty to explore on the farm itself. Tony takes children on a tour of the animals every morning with hands-on feeding, pony walking and egg collecting. When speaking to Kathy she said, ‘There’s never any shortage of willing farmhands and by the end of the week it’s not unusual for the children to be in charge!’ In addition, two or three times a week, weather permitting he takes guests on a vintage tractor and trailer ‘hay bale’ ride around the farm.
If you are feeling more adventurous and want to be even closer to nature then green camping might be just what you are after. Situated at the head of the farm with glorious sea and countryside views, their quiet campsite provides you with the relaxing break you need. There are also hot showers, toilets and washing up facilities in the main farm complex.
For more information about Lower Campscott’s delightful accommodation click here.
History on The Owners
Kathy and Tony are coming up to their 10th anniversary since arriving at Lower Campscott. Since their ownership on the farm began, they have done lots of work, from renovating the lodges and cottages to creating their brand of Farm Holiday Experience. They have been awarded a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for the last seven consecutive years, so they must be doing something right! The farm has also become much more environmentally friendly. They have their own spring water supply and have installed a wood pellet boiler, which is a great way to keep the whole site carbon neutral and most importantly warm all year round. They generate a lot of their own electricity which is topped up with 100% renewable sources. Kathy and Tony also encourage their guest to recycle during their stay and try to have at least one car-free day. With the beach and the village pub in walking distance, the challenge is not as hard as you might think!
Lower Campscott is a working farm as well as a holiday complex. They have a herd of pedigree Dexter cattle, Devon Longwool sheep, Shetland ponies, rare breed pigs, Pygmy goats, hens, wild ducks, rabbits and guinea pigs. All of which the guests will meet during Farmer Tony’s daily rounds. In addition to the working farm, Kathy and Tony created the on-site farm shop, selling local produce as well as their own home-reared meat, which is always popular with guests and, thanks to their alcohol licence they also sell local beers and ciders. The cider comes from Tony’s home town and, while it may be wishful thinking on his part, he maintains that it counts towards your 5 portions of fruit and veg a day!
When we asked Kathy & Tony about why they love running a holiday cottage complex they said, ‘We love welcoming our guests, many of which return year on year. Next year one family will be celebrating their 30th consecutive holiday at Lower Campscott! Whether returning guests or their first visit we always try very hard to make everyone’s stay special. During the holiday season, there’s not much time for relaxing. We probably do spend too much time leaning on the farm gate and staring out to sea, especially if there’s a superb sunset, but that is one of the benefits of living in one of the most beautiful locations in the UK. We try to arrange at least one spectacular sunset a week for our guests!’
Favourite place or activity
When we asked Kathy what her favourite place or activity was she said, ‘We do like to get away when we can, especially for a walk on Exmoor – our favourite location is Heddons Mouth: superb views, a lovely secluded cove and a pub at the end of the walk – what’s not to like?’
If you would like more information on Lower Campscott farm including, availability, offers and more be sure to take a look at their page on our website.
