Chapel Cottage, Welcombe

Chapel Cottage is an welcoming period cottage resting in Welcombe, Devon. Offering close access to the beach, an enclosed garden, and a warming woodburning stove, it serves as an excellent base for families or groups seeking a relaxing retreat in this striking coastal region. Turning into the quiet heart of Welcombe village, you draw up beside Chapel Cottage and take in its characterful stone exterior, the building sitting calmly beside an old chapel that has long shaped this corner of the hamlet. Only a short wander along the lane lies a beautifully preserved thatched pub that has welcomed locals for generations, offering an immediate sense of village life shaped by tradition. Step down the small flight of stone steps to reach the open porch and enter the porch hall where coats and walking boots can be left behind before exploring the rooms within. Move into the sitting room where tiled flooring guides you toward the woodburning stove. Two sofas, a soft rug and a pair of armchairs gather around its warm glow, creating a welcoming setting to unwind after a day on the coast. Switch on the TV and DVD player for an easy evening or simply relax as the firelight flickers across the room and the calm of the hamlet settles in around you. Continue into the big farmhouse style kitchen and dining room where beams stretch overhead and the tiled flooring cools gently beneath your feet. As you walk across the room the gentle warmth from the Rayburn fills the air, offering an inviting backdrop for preparing supper using the electric cooker or microwave. The dining table is the natural spot to pause and plan the next day's adventures or share breakfast before heading out. The adjoining utility room makes it simple to manage sandy clothes or muddy walking gear thanks to the washing machine, tumble dryer and helpful storage. Climb the stairs from the hall, where a stairgate is available if needed, and explore the four tranquil bedrooms. Each one feels light and welcoming, with arched mullioned windows catching the daylight and casting subtle patterns across the walls. Choose between two double rooms or make use of one of the two twin rooms, each offering a restful space to retreat to after a day beside the sea. Refresh in the bathroom with its bath and shower over, or use the additional shower room, both serving the floor with everything you need to begin or end the day feeling ready. Step out to the enclosed rear garden where you can enjoy a morning drink, sit with a book or let the dogs explore safely. From here you can wander to the ancient thatched pub or follow the scenic valley path that eventually leads toward Welcombe Mouth, where cliffs, rock pools and sweeping skies reward those who make the journey. Beyond the village, Hartland Abbey offers a memorable day of history with elegant interiors, woodland paths and gardens shaped by generations. Bude provides a lively coastal outing with a sandy beach, independent shops and an inviting sea pool carved into the rocks for a refreshing swim. Clovelly promises a unique experience as you descend its steep cobbled street toward a picture-perfect harbour framed by sweeping views of the water. Chapel Cottage provides a characterful base from which to explore the dramatic coastline, heritage sites and scenic walks that define this special corner of Devon.