We’re sat here today looking out of the window and yep, it’s definitely a bit wet out there. Fair to say that the weather has turned! Which means it’s time for us to start preparing for cosy winter cottage holidays here at Stonehayes Farm; gathering kindling and logs for the wood-burners, making sure the heating is working properly and that everything is tickety-boo so that our guests can enjoy the most perfect winter breaks.
These are strange times we’re living in and the urge to treat yourselves is strong, but that aside, we think there’s something very special about cosy winter cottage holidays. The idea of sneaking off to a centuries old cottage tucked away in the Devon lanes, hunkering down for a few days with plenty of food in the cupboards, books and games to pass the time, a couple of movies to catch up on... That’s what it’s all about; yes, you might stay in all the time, but it’s somewhere different to stay in, and you know what they say – a change is as good as a rest. Besides, if you’re at home staying in out of the weather you know what will happen? You’ll end up doing those chores! With cosy winter cottage holidays you have permission to totally relax, no chores to do, no urgency, just busy doing nothing.
Our cosy winter cottage holidays suit all kinds of scenarios, that’s one of the best things about our Devon holiday cottages at Stonehayes Farm. If you’re a couple and you like the idea of a romantic break, that’s great, this is perfect. Come and snuggle up in Siskins Nook, light the fire, open a hearty bottle of red and feel the love. If you’ve got a young family come and spend time together without any external pressures – no washing, no pre-school, no lunchboxes, just you and yours and the days laid out before you to take time slowly and savour every moment. Make cookies with the little ones, or a wholesome bowl of soup and a crusty loaf, put on your boots and wrap up for a walk in the fields collecting autumn leaves, go splashing in puddles, cuddle up for a movie night with a big bowl of popcorn to share.
Come with friends and share a few days reconnecting, catching up. Go for walks in the beautiful Blackdown Hills, wind up at a country pub for homemade fare, or head back to your cosy holiday cottage at Stonehayes Farm for a bowl of nourishing stew or a big fat roast dinner with all the trimmings. Bring the dog and go for windswept strolls along the shore – the beaches of the world famous Jurassic Coast are just a short drive away, or head off for a bracing hike on the South West Coast Path. If there’s still work to be done, don’t worry, bring your laptop; we have wifi and you’ll find a quiet corner.
If you’ve got something worth celebrating, well, there’s all the reason you need for cosy winter cottage holidays. If there’s a significant birthday coming up, a notable anniversary or a job promotion, an engagement… whatever the occasion, round up the troops and bring them down to Devon. The beauty of Stonehayes Farm is that we have five gorgeous holiday cottages and depending on availability, you can book as many as you want, so come on, come and celebrate, lets’ see some good cheer beneath these grey skies!
Come in time for bonfire night and get togged up nice and warm to watch one of the displays near here; there’s usually something on just down the road in Honiton, and this year there’s talk of a firework display in Dunkeswell village a short drive up the hill. Book up for a firework night cruise on the River Exe with Stuart Line Cruises or for a superb extravaganza go to the firework display at Exeter Westpoint on the 5th November. On the 6th there are fireworks in Lyme Regis; a light filled spectacle over Lyme Bay followed by a bonfire on the beach - you can imagine the happy atmosphere. Also on the 5th November is the annual Tar Barrels event in Ottery St Mary, where competing teams run through the streets with blazing tar barrels aloft; it’s as crazy as it sounds but it sure draws the crowds and is well worth seeing.
Later on in November and in early December there are more exciting winter events in this neck of the woods, including a Winter Wonderland in Exeter where you can go ice skating, visit Santa’s grotto and enjoy traditional fairground rides. You can ride the Polar Express at Seaton Tramway with hot chocolate on board; ride to the North Pole and meet you-know-who, all happy smiley stuff. The Killerton Christmas Trail is sure to be a treat, with an illuminated trail through the beautiful gardens of NT owned Killerton House, or by daytime, there’s a fun trail at The Donkey Sanctuary near Sidmouth. And then there’s Christmas at Crealy, the chance to see the theme park all lit up with plenty going on to entertain; the festive attractions include a Christmas on Ice Show.
Let’s talk about prices for a minute, because that’s the other thing – a stay at one of our cosy winter holiday cottages won’t cost a fortune, far from it. A 4 night midweek stay at Pippinsands which sleeps 14 and has its own private hot tub will cost you just £23.21 per night each! That’s astonishing! That beautiful big holiday cottage all to yourselves for £23.21 per night each!! That’s got to be too good to miss so take a closer look and snap up a break in November or December.
A 3 night weekend stay at Siskins Nook, which sleeps 4 is only £88 per night for the cottage; 7 nights is even better value at just over £57 per night. All yours, a little world of your own to do what you want when you want; put your feet up, lie in as long as you like in the morning, do everything at your own pace. Between those prices are Pipits Retreat and Wagtail Corner which both sleeps 5, and Dippers Rest which sleeps 6. All are dog friendly and family friendly and waiting just for you to come and enjoy the perfect cosy winter cottage holidays. Book your stay today!