We booked a week at this 1 bed property advertised on Holiday rentals as we fell in love with the garden and also liked the fact that it was within walking distance of shops,pubs & restaurants.Had been wanting to visit this area for ages and kept fingers crossed the weather would be kind to us, which it was!!!
On arrival we were not disappointed. The garden was absolutely lovely with a stream at the bottom. Our accommodation adjoined the main property which the owners Paul & Lesley lived in along with their adorable cat, Brian. The lounge /kitchen diner was very well equipped and we particularly liked the circular conservatory with a brilliant swivelling armchair that overlooked the beautiful garden.
Everywhere was very clean, tidy and well organised. The bedroom,which also overlooked the garden, was particularly spacious with a large wardrobe and plenty of drawers & storage. Good quality bedding & decor etc.
Due to steps leading to the property & garden I don’t think it would be suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.
We paid £360 for a week rental (end of May) and booked via Choice Cottages. This total included a cancellation plan fee of £9,£25 booking fee & £15 for internet usage. The only downside was that towels were not included, we had presumed that they were. However we were able to pay an additional £10 for a set of hand & bath towels. Thought the £15 internet charge for a week was excessive especially as we did experience a few problems although these were eventually sorted out .
There was a varied selection of restaurants within walking distance as well as a couple of good pubs. We enjoyed good food at a few local places such as the Aggi & The Williams Arms (both pubs). However two venues, 'Raggamuffins Bistro' & 'Squires' (award winning fish ‘n chips) were so good for both food & service, ee returned for a second visit.
Also nearby (within walking distance) were the local 'Tarka trail' cycling routes – we had a great time and cycled 12 miles each way to Instow stopping for an ice cream en route! We also enjoyed some great walks some by a river where we were lucky enough to see a pair of proud swans & their cygnets (see photo).
A week was not long enough to see everything in the area, it really is a great place with lots to do and see. We visited Croyde,Instow ,Bideford & Appledore to name but a few places! As National Trust members we travelled to nearby Barnstaple to visit Arlington Court which was fantastic, great house & gardens plus an amazing museum full of old carriages – a definite must see if you are ever in this area (will submit separate review). Braunton itself is a lovely place if you didn’t want to venture too far.
We would not hesitate to book this property again. The hosts Paul & Lesley were friendly and helpful but were also discreet. If you are looking for a property that ticks all the boxes then book Braunton Stepps!
