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Defoe’s View, Honiton

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Rating
Exceptional
8
4
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Welcome to Defoe’s View, a stunning eco friendly retreat nestled in the heart of the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Overlooking the breathtaking Otter Valley, this beautifully crafted home offers the perfect blend of rural tranquillity and modern luxury, an idyllic escape for families and friends seeking unforgettable moments in nature.

About Defoe’s View

Welcome to Defoe’s View, a stunning eco friendly retreat nestled in the heart of the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Overlooking the breathtaking Otter Valley, this beautifully crafted home offers the perfect blend of rural tranquillity and modern luxury, an idyllic escape for families and friends seeking unforgettable moments in nature. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be enchanted by the peaceful surroundings, rolling fields, and the panoramic views that inspired Daniel Defoe to declare this “the most beautiful landscape in the world.” Whether you're planning outdoor adventures or simply craving a serene space to unwind, Defoe’s View is your gateway to relaxation and reconnection.Step into the light filled hallway and feel the warmth of a home designed with comfort and sustainability in mind. Powered by renewable energy and heated via a ground source heat pump, Defoe’s View is proudly carbon neutral, a haven that’s kind to the planet and cozy all year round. Descend into the heart of the home, a stylish open plan living area designed for togetherness. The chic navy kitchen is more than just a place to cook; it’s a hub for conversation, laughter, and shared culinary adventures. Whether you're preparing a feast or sipping coffee while someone else takes the lead, the space invites everyone to gather and connect. The large dining table sets the scene for lively meals and storytelling, while the plush lounge area is perfect for unwinding together with a glass of wine and reflections on the day’s discoveries. As evening falls, step out onto the enclosed patio, a sociable spot to watch the sun set, chat under the stars, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature with good company all around. With four luxurious super king bedrooms, Defoe’s View is designed to suit couples, families, and groups of friends alike. The property is arranged across split levels, offering both privacy and a sense of space. On the ground floor, you'll find a peaceful super-king bedroom ideal for those who prefer easy access. The mid level, where you enter the property, features another bedroom and stylish bathroom. Upstairs, two spacious ensuite bedrooms await, each with its own character: one opens onto a corner balcony with far reaching views across the valley, while the other overlooks the pond, offering a tranquil setting to start or end the day. Three of the bedrooms offer flexible sleeping arrangements, with beds that can be made up as super kings or twins, if specified ahead of your stay, allowing the layout to be tailored to your group’s needs. Whether you're travelling with children, friends, or extended family, everyone can enjoy a restful night in comfort. Step outside and stroll across the lawn to take in uninterrupted views of the Devon countryside. Wander into the adjoining meadow, where a mowed path leads to a peaceful field pond alive with dragonflies and wildlife. It’s a place to sit, reflect, and truly connect with nature. Honiton, just a short walk from Defoe’s View, adds charm and convenience to your stay. Known for its lace-making heritage, this lively market town offers a mix of independent shops, antique stores, and welcoming cafés along its Georgian high street with supermarkets, bakeries, and other essentials close at hand, it’s easy to pick up everything you need for your stay. The surrounding area offers a delightful mix of coast, countryside, and characterful towns just waiting to be explored. Begin your day with a scenic drive through the rolling Devon hills to the elegant Regency town of Sidmouth. Stroll along its sweeping esplanade, breathe in the salty sea air, and admire the timeless architecture that lines the seafront. Just a short hop from here, you’ll find the Donkey Sanctuary, a heartwarming haven where rescued donkeys roam freely in lush paddocks, a gentle and joyful experience for all ages. Further along the coast, the charming town of Lyme Regis beckons with its fossil rich beaches and the iconic Cobb, a curved harbour wall immortalised in literature and film. Wander its winding streets, browse independent shops, and enjoy fresh seafood with views of the Jurassic Coast stretching into the distance. And then there’s Beer, a picture-perfect fishing village nestled between dramatic cliffs. Watch the boats bob in the bay, explore the shingle beach, or simply sit with an ice cream and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. From elegant interiors to sweeping valley views, every detail at Defoe’s View is designed to create a holiday to remember. Note: This property can be booked with ref. 1046010 and together can sleep a total of 16 guests
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Need To Know

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Local Insights: Defoe’s View

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Honiton, Devon

Weather & Local Conditions

14°C

Overcast

Updated: 11 Sep 2026, 3:14am

🌡️
14.40°C
Temperature
💨
5 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
97%
Humidity
🧳
Packing Tip: UK weather can turn quickly, so pack layers whatever the forecast. A waterproof and sturdy shoes mean the whole group can head out whatever September throws at you.

What to Expect Through the Year

  • May - September: Warmest, longest days - ideal for big group days out, gardens and BBQs
  • October - November: Crisp autumn colour, cosy evenings by the fire, quieter attractions
  • December - February: Perfect for a snug winter escape - great for Christmas and New Year gatherings
  • March - April: Spring blooms, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active
🌧️
Rainy Day Tip: A large cottage comes into its own on wet days - board games, a long lunch and a film with the whole group beat a cramped hotel any day. Check the tabs here for nearby pubs and attractions with indoor options.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Defoe’s View sits in a location with genuinely dark skies - a real treat for a group, and something you rarely get at home in town.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
🌌
Class 4 - Rural/suburban transition
This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From the Cottage

The Milky Way is visible overhead, though light domes may be visible on the horizon towards larger towns.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

  • New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
  • Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
  • After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
  • Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up
📱
Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline - a fun activity to share with the whole group.

Location & Elevation

167m

(548 feet above sea level)

Defoe’s View sits in a peaceful Devon setting - space to spread out and the perfect base for a group getaway.

🏔️
167m
Elevation
📍
Honiton
Nearest Village
🌲
Rural
Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

  • Fresher air: Expect it a touch cooler than coastal areas - bracing walks and restful sleep
  • Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
  • Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
  • Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to hilltops and summits
🚗
Driving Note: The roads to Honiton are typical Devon lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. If the group is arriving in several cars, share the postcode and a meeting point in advance.

Coordinates

Latitude: 50.7976511° N | Longitude: 3.1723241° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Honiton (Saturday, 12 September 2026):

5:40am

Sunrise

5:38pm

Golden Hour

6:38pm

Sunset

🌅
5:40am
Sunrise
🌇
6:38pm
Sunset
📸
5:38pm
Golden Hour

Planning Your Days by Season

  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - long days for group walks, days out and late alfresco dinners
  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner drink as the stars come out
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - cosy early evenings by the fire, ideal for stargazing
  • Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day
🌙
Golden Hour: For the best light, plan your group photo or evening walk around golden hour (5:38pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

September Daylight

This month in Honiton, you have approximately 12.96 hours of daylight. The shortening days create the perfect excuse for earlier, cosier evenings in.

Practical Essentials

Everything the group needs to know before you arrive at Defoe’s View.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

💡
Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

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Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Devon. With a larger group it's worth doing one big supermarket shop on the way, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun

Data updated: 11 Sep 2026 | Location: 50.7976511, -3.1723241

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at Defoe’s View

Getting To Defoe’s View

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Is Defoe’s View Right For Your Group

Discover why this cottage is the one for your party or family reunion...

For Families
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Pet Friendly

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Defoe’s View

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Defoe’s View

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Defoe’s View Reviews

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