Reviews
Take a look at recent reviews for our cottages.
Pilgrim Corner: “…everything you could wish for, and more.”
Jane Hall and family, July 2022
“We’ve all had a lovely time at Pilgrim Corner, especially the two grandsons who thoroughly enjoyed the garden. The rooms were presented to a high standard so thank you to all the people who put the effort in to turn it all around in the time following each let, your work is much appreciated. The weather certainly helped us to enjoy the garden and the beautiful scented roses. Thank you for the cake and jute bag, which will remind us of our time here each time we shop!”
Di, Martin and family, June 2022
“What a fabulous time we all had! So enjoyed the beautiful garden, wonderful hot tub, comfy beds, and the gorgeously decorated Pilgrim Corner cottage. It had everything we wanted and more! We enjoyed our time with our friends and our dogs Brian and Reggie are now firm best friends! We will be back.”
Sarah, Mark and Brian the dog and Colin, Jackie and Reggie the dog, May 2022
“We’ve had a lovely week at Pilgrim Corner. The cottage is very clean, comfortable and well-equipped. The garden is beautiful, and we’ve enjoyed the hot tub. Lucy has been so helpful, even delivering a thinner quilt as we were too warm with a winter one! That said, we’ve been so lucky with the weather for March , and all the spring flowers have been glorious. We’d forgotten how beautiful this area and the coast are. We really enjoyed the steam train, Dunster and the Castle, Lynton and Lynmouth and the cliff railway. There are a few great shops in Lynton. All-in-all a lovely stay and we hope to return again soon.”
The Hague Family, April 2022
“What an amazing house. We came to celebrate Geof’s 80th and my 21st (lol), the attention to detail is brilliant, every little corner has some treasure, all well presented and to a high standard, and the garden is just perfect and relaxing. We lost our 14-year old little dog ‘Alfie’ while on our stay. He lay on the lawn in the sun, the birds singing, so this garden will always hold a special place in our hearts. We will pass on our recommendations to all our friends and family, such a special place. Thank you Lucy and team, all your hard work has paid off.”
Tony, Derek, Gail, Geof, Jill & Jo, March 2022
Sara and Chris, Ollie and Lily, Celia and Josh, February 2022
“Thank you so much for a beautiful cottage, for letting our dogs stay and all the helpful communication! We have had an amazing New Year here despite the challenges and uncertainties with Covid. Thank you for the fizz and mince pies, what a wonderful gift, we loved it!”
Ellen, Jake and co, January 2022
“Wow, what a wonderful house! After having a last-minute cancellation and then booking this cottage, we definitely came out on top. You have really thought of everything to make this a home-from-home. We loved the added bonus of the hot tub and were lucky enough with the weather to enjoy the beautiful back garden too. The location is amazing. Quiet enough if you want to relax yet walking distance to town if you want something to do. We loved every minute, thank you very much.”
Ann Porter and family, November 2021
“What a beautiful house! And in such a lovely, quiet location too…literally everything has been thought of for guests. We would absolutely book again for a family getaway. Thank you Lucy and team!”
The Lawrences, The Theobalds and Winne and Sunny the dogs, October 2021
“Super cottage, a really comfortable place for a relaxing week. We love the hot tub (of course), and the gentle stroll down to Minehead town. We recommend the cottage!! The garden was stunning, a great place to get lost in. The walk to Porlock Weir was hard but worth it and there are so many quaint villages to visit locally. The Old Ship Aground pub was the best place to eat. Thank you, Lucy and team, for a super holiday home.”
The Meadows Family, September 2021
“Pilgrim Corner is the perfect holiday cottage with everything you could possibly need for a wonderful and relaxing holiday. The beds are super comfortable! We particularly enjoyed the hot tub which is big and in such a private spot in the beautiful garden. The coast and Exmoor are stunning and we went for long walks most days and enjoyed the local restaurants and fish and chips! Thank you, we hope to return!”
The Rytwinski family, August 2021
Read more guest reviews for Pilgrim Corner.
Check the availability of each of our cottages and book online.
The Oval: “The perfect match of old-world charm with modern convenience…”
Fiona, Richard, Susanna and Jessica, July 2022
“Thanks for the magnificent stay at your characterful cottage in gorgeous Dunster village. We were impressed by your attention to detail and beautiful touches: delicious lemon cake, milk, etc. upon arrival, wood for the stove and so many more. We benefitted from Lucy’s recommendations for restaurants, scenic drives, walks, and the sundeck. We definitely wish to come back as soon as possible and we’ll be recommending The Oval to all our friends. Bravo to all the team.”
Vassilis, Alice, Ariane and Alkis, June 2022
“We have had two wonderful weeks at The Oval. Such a beautiful cottage in a magical village. Wonderful walks from the doorstep, plus the National Trust’s Dunster Castle and Knighthayes Court have been highlights. The cottage itself has beautiful furnishings, super beds and the kitchen is fabulous. In fact, everything for a perfect holiday. Thank you for the lovely cake you left for us – even the radio playing when we arrived – so welcoming. The log fire was so cosy in the evenings. The Oval also proved to be fantastic for my daughter’s wedding preparation – and thanks to Lucy and her team, there was plenty of room outside for the two horses and carriage to pick the bride up from the door! We can also recommend the Tithe Barn for a wedding reception. Annie the recommended dog sitter was amazing, keeping Mikkie occupied all afternoon. The Foresters Arms and Stag pubs are great for eating out, and the Deli in Dunster has amazing goodies. Thank you Lucy, we will be back, in fact, we can’t wait!”
Carolyn, Judith, Bec and Marc and Mikkie the dog, May 2022
“The fact we have been staying at The Oval since 2015 says it all. We absolutely love it and wouldn’t change a thing. Despite being regular visitors, Lucy and the team always go that extra mile to make us feel really welcome. The tea try and selection of goodies are always just lovely! The weather has been very good to us this Easter (as always) which has made Dunster even more beautiful. We love Dunster Castle, the kids had a great time doing the Easter Egg Trail around the grounds. We all enjoyed cream teas in the sunshine at both Cobblestone and Tessa’s as well as picnics on Dunster Beach. The Foresters Arms remains out favourite with good pub grub and a friendly team. Walking the dog (who’s called Dunster!) is an absolute pleasure as there are so many lovely walks on your doorstep. The ‘Little Book of Walks’ written by Lucy and left in the cottage always comes in handy. We already booked for Easter 2023 but hope to squeeze in another visit in between. Many thanks Lucy and your wonderful team!”
Team Foster and Dunster the Dog, April 2022
“What a privilege to have been able to stay in this beautiful and historic house…but it’s not really a ‘house’, it’s a home-from-home. Thank you for all the thought that you have put into it to make it so comfortable and welcoming – everything has been considered. We came mainly to rest, relax and perhaps do a bit of stargazing. We rested, we relaxed, and we even managed to squeeze in an hour of stargazing between the clouds – not bad for February/March! We loved the Tall Trees Trail at Nutcombe Bottom – such a peaceful area and good for a rainy day as the trees provide excellent shelter from the elements. We loved the food at The Luttrell Arms opposite the Yarn Market – a lovely atmosphere and there were lots of dogs to say hello to! Thank you so much for a lovely week away, we have loved being here!
Kirsty and Trevor, March 2022
Jean and Tony Dyer, February 2022
“We were so looking forward to this trip as we had planned to visit for last New Year but it was cancelled due to Covid. Thanks to Lucy who made it really easy to move the booking to this year instead. We have had a great second visit and found the cottage to be as well-equipped and welcoming as before. Highlights have included visiting Dunkery Beacon, the tall trees trail at Nutcombe Bottom and Conygar Tower. The village looked beautiful with its Christmas decorations up and it has been lovely to spend another week in Dunster. Thank you so much to all the team.”
Stuart, Sarah, Sue, Maddie and Ewan, and Bella and Doris the dogs, January 2022
“A wonderful week in a very special place to celebrate our ruby wedding anniversary. Time has flown by. Exploring many local walks with our two dogs Bella and Sam most mornings has been a joy, with fabulous views and landscape. We loved our visits to the Lockes Victorian Tea Rooms for spiced hot apple drinks and hot chocolate. There’s lovely food and atmosphere at Reeves Restaurant – and so welcoming. A cosy fire and sofas at The Foresters Arms. Best of all were the evenings in the cottage by the Christmas tree and log fire, a glass of wine and then comfy beds. A truly memorable week – thanks to Lucy and her team.”
Linda and John, Dave and Linda, December 2021
“This was our first visit to The Oval. It’s clear to see why so many people come back. A gorgeous cottage, spotlessly clean. Absolutely everything you could possibly need, including the most well-equipped kitchen of any holiday cottage. Actually – better than at home! We hope to come again.”
Elaine and Richard, November 2021
“What a fabulous week in an awesome house to celebrate my 60th birthday. Could not fault The Oval as it was equipped with everything we could need, and the bed was so comfy!! Dunster is beautiful and we loved the castle and especially the gardens which are so lovely with gorgeous views – and the watermill too. We enjoyed seeing the ponies up on Exmoor and we went to Lynmouth and Lynton which was well worth the visit. We ate in the Forresters Arms a couple of times, which offers tasty pub grub – loved the swearing parrot! The Stag was very good and recommend the ‘lamb lollipops’. Cobblestones and Lockes Victorian Tea Rooms are also good. The Luttrell Arms has a secret garden, perfect to enjoy a drink. Reeves restaurant on my birthday was five star – you must go! It’s been a wonderful birthday week. Thank you to The Oval team!”
Angela, Lynsey and Ollie the Westie, October 2021
“What a fabulous cottage! From the moment we walked in we felt at home. It was spotless and has everything we needed and more (hot water bottles were a welcomed surprise!). We explored somewhere different every day: Blue Anchor Bay, Lynmouth, Dulverton, Tarr Steps, Stogumber on the steam train (lovely cream tea at the station there), Minehead, Horner Woods and Selworthy. Had a lovely lunch at Born Appetite in Dunster one day and finished the week with a ‘pub grub’ meal at the Forresters Arms. We are so impressed with all the information we received prior to the holiday and then all the information left in the cottage. We loved ‘The Little Book of Walks’ which was so useful, and the yummy chocolate cake! Thank you, Lucy and team.”
Netta, Sue and Lulu, September 2021
“What a wonderful place Dunster is, and The Oval sums it up perfectly – we love the history, and this is living history. The walking has been wonderful. We have visited the Lake District on many occasions and the walking here is on a par – with more variety in terms of woodland, water and open moorland all on the same walks, with views of the sea too. We loved Dunkery Beacon, the highest spot-on Exmoor, the ridge walk across the Quantocks and the truly beautiful Doone Valley. If you want a real challenge, try reading Lorna Doone while you are staying here! For an Indian takeaway, The Alcombe Tandoori is excellent, and Dana’s Fish & Chip Shop in Minehead is also good. We loved the whole experience here – oh and try the cider at Torre Farm!
James, Maryam, Freddie and Walter the dog, August 2021
Read more guest reviews for The Oval Dunster.
Check the availability of each of our cottages and book online.
The Old Sweet Shop: “…the sweetest of Old Sweet Shops!”
Kathy, Judy, Neil, Anne, Chris, Mike and Teresa, July 2022
“Such a pretty cottage in a lovely location, perfect for exploring. We have had brilliant weather throughout and have really enjoyed the hot tub – a real bonus. The Cod Shop is excellent for a takeaway, also the Chinese at the end of the road. For coffee, we recommend The Treat Suite, excellent cake, and amazing chocolate brownies! The Flapjackery is an amazing place with lots of gluten-free chocolate and other treats.”
The Edwards party, June 2022
“Thank you so much, we have had a wonderful week which was enjoyed by all. Your cottage is fabulous, so very cosy and well-equipped. The surrounding countryside is stunning. We had lovely days out to Lynmouth and Dunster. Thank you again.”
The Claytons and Monty the dog, May 2022
“What a fabulous cottage, clean, fresh and gorgeous. Feel thoroughly spoilt. So quiet and calm, we could stay forever! A beautiful area, we felt very at home. The hot tub was amazing. The beds were uber-comfy. Lovel locals, great food, plenty of laughs and booze here too! We’ve relaxed and each put on about 300lbs…but we’ve happy and feel rejuvenated. The weather gods were also on our side. Dunster Castle and gardens is well worth a visit, gorgeous scenic walks in Porlock…amazing cake too. This was a perfect week away with the family.”
Jo, Gav, Ollie, Dan, Sarah, Steve and Tom, April 2022
“Thank you for a lovely time at your cosy cottage! It was well-worth the two-year wait. We loved the cake and appreciate the fact that there was milk in the house upon arrival. The kitchen is the best-equipped we have ever seen on holiday and we enjoyed eating and cooking here a lot! The hot tub was amazing as was the lovely book with great walking suggestions – we used that quite a lot! What a great first stay in beautiful Exmoor…the entire family had a great and relaxing holiday.”
Kinga and family, March 2022
“Everyone had a great half-term break at The Old Sweet Shop. This is a really well-equipped and cared for cottage and we settled in really quickly. There were plenty of dog walks and other things to do, despite the stormy weather. We recommend Alcombe Fish Bar for anyone who likes fish and chips! We hope to be back one day.”
The Stacey and May families, February 2022
The Paige family, January 2022
“We had a lovely time just before Christmas. The cottage was amazing and in a fantastic place to walk in and around Minehead. The Old Sweet Shop is a fantastic cottage, immaculately clean, we loved the roaring fire in the evening and the odd dip in the hot tub! Thank you very much.”
John, Rebecca, Amelia and Toby, December 2021
“We have had an absolutely amazing time! The cottage was so immaculately clean and absolutely gorgeous! Communication was amazing from Lucy and the team from start to finish. Thank you for the treats! We have also stayed in Pilgrim before and had a fab time there too. We will definitely be back. Thank you so much. PS> Book the private chef experience, it was delicious!”
Beccy, Chrissie, Hannah, Nicola, Kelly and Rachel, November 2021
“Afternoon tea on arrival was a wonderful surprise, beautiful cottage and everything thought of. We loved the fire and spending many nights chatting and playing game with the good friends we came on holiday with, and even celebrating two birthdays. All was just perfect – thank you!”
Six Go Mad in Somerset, October 2021
“A beautifully appointed cottage, super beds, and well-equipped. We celebrated our youngest daughter’s engagement (a surprise to her!) and were lucky enough to have beautiful weather. The backdrop of the cottage and garden made for a great photo opportunity with wonderful memories. The Little Book of Walks was used, and we have enjoyed the surrounding area. No rain was a real bonus, so our grandson enjoyed Minehead Beach for an afternoon and the hot tub was a hit for everyone.”
The Hasler and Carslake families, September 2021
“We are just leaving from the most perfect week staying at The Old Sweet Shop! We wanted to thank Lucy and her team for making our stay so easy and effortless. We were wowed from the moment we walked in on our first day, such a beautiful cottage and so clean and well-kept. The hot tub in the garden was amazing and got a lot of use! Another high was the private chef Lucy recommended to come in and cook for us! Ben and Izzy were so lovely and the food was incredible! The location is fantastic, we drove out everyday to lots of nearby beautiful walks with the dog, and even drive to Woolacombe Beach in Devon one day. We will definitely book again and would definitely recommend to friends. Thank you guys, I hope to see you again soon!”
Clare and family, August 2021
Read more guest reviews for The Old Sweet Shop.
Check the availability of each of our cottages and book online.
Stone Barn: A converted barn oozing character & style
Darren and Rachel, Kate and Brandon, and Nana Pat, July 2022
“Great property in a fantastic location, everything perfect and spotlessly clean. The welcome gifts were very welcome, thank you for being so thoughtful! Would definitely like to return, and will recommend it to friends and family. Thanks for a great holiday!”
Michael and Gillian, June 2022
“We don’t want to leave! We wish we had booked for longer! Stone Barn is magical and has everything anyone could need for a holiday. The décor is lovely and I’ve taken photos for inspiration at home. We visited Lynton and Lynmouth, Minehead and Dunster village which are all lovely. Reeves Restaurant in Dunster is a must! Lovely food! We are already talking about booking again. Thank you for making our stay perfect – especially for the cake (yum yum!).”
Amy and Alex, May 2022
“Thank you for the amazing stay at Stone Barn. It exceeded our expectations, loved the hot tub and fresh hot cross buns! Highly recommend all the walks in the Little Book of Walks and a day at Lynmouth is definitely suggested by us. The barn was beautiful and immaculate. Thank you for making our stay so comfortable and homely.”
Andy, Jackie, Melissa and Jamie, and the dogs, April 2022
“A lovely long weekend spent here. A fab house, very clean and everything we needed. The weather was kind, so we had some lovely walks. Thank you to the team.”
The Flower party, March 2022
“This is our fourth stay at Lucy’s cottages, and we have now sampled all of them! Stone Barn was excellent and just what we needed to escape a bleak January. The hot tub got a lot of use following challenging walks on Exmoor and the surrounding countryside. We are very pleased to have discovered Exmoor Character Cottages!”
John and Carol, February 2022
“Thank you to the team for another fantastic stay at Stone Barn. Just what we needed – a nice relaxing stay with everything right here to celebrate the New Year. This is our second stay at Stone Barn, and it is just as amazing as I remember, so thank you so much!”
Cara, Carl, Jake, Tori and Daisy and Senna the dogs, January 2022
Del, Keel, Brayden, Brooke and Nala the dog, December 2021
“We have had a lovely relaxing week in Stone Barn. Well-equipped, great décor and very clean. A real home-from-home. A great secure outside space for the dog and the hot tub was just what we needed! Great location, very quiet and the views are amazing. Walking distance to town and the beach, and you get used to the hill back! Thanks to the team. Fantastic.”
Sally, Dan and Nelson the dog, November 2021
“We have had a wonderful week at Stone Barn. The accommodation is just lovely, and we love the attention to detail in all parts of the Barn. It has the best equipped kitchen of any we’ve stayed in. Great décor and very clean. This was a much-needed relaxing break and the hot tub was an added bonus – as was the weather for the time of year. It was super for our dog Jake, very secure and with plenty of room for him. The milk, chilled water and cake was as nice touch too. We enjoyed the views, the beaches and the great food at The Old Ship Aground and the Wheelhouse restaurants in Minehead. Thank you, Lucy and team!”
Jules, Alan and Jake the dog, October 2021
“Wow! What a wonderful holiday and stay at Stone Barn. So peaceful, comfortable, and quiet, everything we needed was here. The hot tub was a bonus and a real treat! As a dog owner the property was brilliant, as well as safe for furry friends! A beautiful standard of property in a great location, we will be back! Thank you”
Ben, Laura, and Willow the dog, September 2021
“Thank you, Lucy, Steve and your team for all your help and effort to ensure we were able to have a wonderful break in your lovely cottage. We arrived a little late due to my injury and you were so kind and accommodating. Nothing was too much trouble! The boys loved relaxing in the hot tub and Arwen and I enjoyed the lovely views. We will be back, hopefully when I can walk around a bit more and we can climb the hills!”
Catherine, Richard, Aidan, Nathan and Arwen, August 2021
Read more guest reviews for Stone Barn.
Check the availability of each of our cottages and book online.