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Holt Waves, Westward Ho

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Rating
★★★★★★
Exceptional
Devon » Westward Ho
8
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Holt Waves is a spacious holiday home in Westward Ho!, near Bideford in North Devon. This property works brilliantly for larger groups wanting direct beach access and proper coastal living. The house sits right on the seafront with stunning ocean views and immediate access to the two-mile sandy beach.

Westward Ho! offers a proper seaside setting. The village has a long pebble ridge, sandy beach and coastal paths. You're in North Devon's surf territory with shops and eateries within walking distance.

The accommodation sleeps up to 8 guests across four bedrooms. There are two bathrooms throughout the property. The large open-plan living area gives groups proper space to gather. Big windows frame the sea views.

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About Holt Waves

Holt Waves is a spacious holiday home in Westward Ho!, near Bideford in North Devon. This property works brilliantly for larger groups wanting direct beach access and proper coastal living. The house sits right on the seafront with stunning ocean views and immediate access to the two-mile sandy beach.

Westward Ho! offers a proper seaside setting. The village has a long pebble ridge, sandy beach and coastal paths. You're in North Devon's surf territory with shops and eateries within walking distance.

The accommodation sleeps up to 8 guests across four bedrooms. There are two bathrooms throughout the property. The large open-plan living area gives groups proper space to gather. Big windows frame the sea views. The kitchen is fully equipped for group catering.

Bideford town centre sits 3 miles away (8 minutes). The Milky Way Adventure Park is 6 miles away (15 minutes). RHS Garden Rosemoor is 10 miles away (20 minutes). Clovelly village is 11 miles away (25 minutes).

Holt Waves delivers beachfront living for groups who want the sand on their doorstep. Perfect for families or friends wanting proper coastal access.

Check Prices & Availability »
At HolidayCottages.co.uk

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Local Insights: Holt Waves

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Westward Ho, Devon

Weather & Local Conditions

16°C

Overcast

Updated: 28 Aug 2026, 2:59am

🌡️
16.40°C
Temperature
💨
13 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
92%
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 August 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

Holt Waves 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

7m

(23 feet above sea level)

Holt Waves sits in a peaceful Devon setting - space to spread out and the perfect base for a group getaway.

🏔️
7m
Elevation
📍
Westward Ho
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 Westward Ho 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: 51.0433520° N | Longitude: 4.230165° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Westward Ho (Friday, 28 August 2026):

5:22am

Sunrise

6:13pm

Golden Hour

7:13pm

Sunset

🌅
5:22am
Sunrise
🌇
7:13pm
Sunset
📸
6:13pm
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 (6:13pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

August Daylight

This month in Westward Ho, you have approximately 13.85 hours of daylight. The long summer days mean plenty of time for group adventures before a relaxed evening back at the cottage.

Practical Essentials

Everything the group needs to know before you arrive at Holt Waves.

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

🚗
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: 28 Aug 2026 | Location: 51.0433520, -4.2301650

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at Holt Waves

Beachfront Location

Step straight onto the sandy beach from the property. Perfect for groups wanting immediate coastal access without any travel time needed.

Spacious Group Living

The open-plan layout gives everyone room to spread out. Large social spaces mean groups can cook, eat and relax together comfortably.

Panoramic Sea Views

Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the Atlantic Ocean. Watch the waves and surfers whilst enjoying breakfast or evening drinks with your group.

Five Bedroom Layout

Sleeps ten people across five well-appointed bedrooms. Three bathrooms prevent morning queues when larger groups are getting ready for the day.

Surf Beach Access

Westward Ho! is a proper surf beach. Groups can hire boards locally and hit the waves within minutes of leaving the house.

Coastal Path Walks

The South West Coast Path runs past the door. Groups can tackle sections together with spectacular clifftop views across the Bristol Channel.

Getting To Holt Waves

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Holt Waves by car, take the A39 towards Bideford and follow signs to Westward Ho!. The property is located on the seafront with off-road parking available for multiple vehicles upon arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Barnstaple, approximately 10 miles away. From there, local buses run to Westward Ho! or you can take a taxi directly to the property.

Off-road parking for multiple cars
Barnstaple station (10 miles)
Seafront location in Westward Ho!

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

The Milky Way Adventure Park
Distance: 6 miles
EX39 5RY
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Distance: 10 miles
EX38 8PH
Clovelly Village
Distance: 11 miles
EX39 5TQ
South West Coast Path
Distance: 0 miles
EX39 1HG
Northam Burrows Country Park
Distance: 1 mile
EX39 1NZ
Bideford Bay Beach Walk
Distance: 0.5 miles
EX39 1HG
Westward Ho! Village Shops
Distance: 0.2 miles
EX39 1HW
Bideford Town Centre
Distance: 3 miles
EX39 2AW
Asda Bideford
Distance: 3.5 miles
EX39 3QS
Bideford Bus Station
Distance: 3 miles
EX39 2QE
Barnstaple Railway Station
Distance: 10 miles
EX31 2AU
Westward Ho! Surf Hire
Distance: 0.3 miles
EX39 1HW
The Milky Way Adventure Park
Distance: 6 miles
EX39 5RY
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Distance: 10 miles
EX38 8PH
Clovelly Village
Distance: 11 miles
EX39 5TQ
South West Coast Path
Distance: 0 miles
EX39 1HG
Northam Burrows Country Park
Distance: 1 mile
EX39 1NZ
Bideford Bay Beach Walk
Distance: 0.5 miles
EX39 1HG
Westward Ho! Village Shops
Distance: 0.2 miles
EX39 1HW
Bideford Town Centre
Distance: 3 miles
EX39 2AW
Asda Bideford
Distance: 3.5 miles
EX39 3QS
Bideford Bus Station
Distance: 3 miles
EX39 2QE
Barnstaple Railway Station
Distance: 10 miles
EX31 2AU
Westward Ho! Surf Hire
Distance: 0.3 miles
EX39 1HW

Is Holt Waves Right For Your Group

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

For Families
The beach is right outside for sandcastle building and rock pooling. Westward Ho! has a traditional seaside feel with ice cream shops and amusements. The Milky Way Adventure Park sits 6 miles away with rides and indoor play areas. Older children can try surfing lessons on the beach. Northam Burrows Country Park offers space for games and kite flying.
Groups Will Love...
The open-plan living space at Holt Waves gives groups proper room to gather. Large windows frame uninterrupted ocean views across the beach. The kitchen has enough space for multiple cooks preparing group meals. Dining areas accommodate ten people comfortably. Everyone can relax together whilst watching the surf and coastal activity right outside the windows.
Pet Friendly
Dogs are welcome at Holt Waves with direct beach access from the property. The two-mile sandy beach at Westward Ho! provides excellent walking territory. Northam Burrows Country Park sits one mile away with open spaces for exercise. The South West Coast Path runs past the door for longer walks. Local pubs accept dogs too.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Holt Waves

The Pig on the Hill

Located 0.3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX39 1HW

The Sandpiper Inn

Located 0.4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX39 1HW

The Royal Hotel

Located 3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX39 2EQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Holt Waves

How many people does Holt Waves sleep?
The property sleeps up to 10 guests across five bedrooms. There are three bathrooms throughout the house to accommodate larger groups comfortably.
Is Holt Waves pet friendly?
Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome at this property. The beachfront location and nearby coastal paths make it ideal for groups travelling with pets.
What are the bedroom arrangements?
The house features five bedrooms configured to sleep ten people. Specific bed configurations should be confirmed at booking to ensure they suit your group's requirements.
Is there parking available?
Yes, off-road parking is provided at the property. Space is available for multiple vehicles which works well for larger groups arriving separately.
How far is the beach?
The beach is immediately accessible from the property. You can step straight onto the sand from Holt Waves without crossing any roads.
What facilities are in the kitchen?
The kitchen is fully equipped for group catering with modern appliances. There's ample space for preparing meals for ten people with proper dining areas for group meals.
Are there shops and restaurants nearby?
Westward Ho! village has shops, cafes and pubs within walking distance. Bideford town centre is three miles away with supermarkets and additional dining options available.
What activities are available for groups?
Surfing, swimming and beach activities are right outside the door. The coastal path offers walking routes whilst nearby attractions include adventure parks and historic villages within 30 minutes' drive.

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Holt Waves Reviews

Pete
Holt Waves is a large house in a good location almost directly backing onto Northam Burrows and a short walk to both the sea and the centre of Westward Ho! The house was generally well-equipped and the bedrooms were large with good quality bedding. The wi-fi worked well but the TV seemed to be set-up exclusively for guests to sign on to their preferred apps, such as Netflix & BBC iPlayer, which was a bit odd. The two parking spaces are great as Eastbourne Terrace is a very narrow road but note that only one is accessed via a dropped kerb. This is a comfortable property but don't expect high-end. We also had some housekeeping issues which was disappointing.
Kate
Lovely big house, great location for the beach and coastal walks! Wine on arrival was a nice touch! Also really well equipped, would definitely recommend.
Mark
Good house for a large group in a good location to walk in to westward ho and access surrounding areas by car. The house is well equipped and clean with off road parking for 2 cars.
Angela
Excellent property, really comfortable and decorated. It was very well equipped and it felt like the owners had thought about what guests needed.
Paul
The house is large, clean, well equipped and in an excellent location. The fact that I booked it for next year while I was there says it all.
Stephanie
There were 6 adults and one big dog in our 5 night stay. Two had to work from home during some of the stay and found no problems with the internet and holding TEAM meetings. There are desks in three of the bedrooms. The house was well equipped, very comfortable and spacious. The location was excellent for our walks across the field and to the beach. And also to the town centre. We are hopping to return during the year.
Catherine
Good spacious house, 3 toilets 2 bathrooms. Beds very comfortable. Close to beach and amenities, all in walking distance.
J
A beautiful house in a perfect location. Weâ??ve stayed in Westward Ho! Three times now and will be back for sure.
Brian
Great location and beautiful house, a real pleasure to come back to after a day on the beach. Loved the decor, the subtle coastal theming and the views especially from the bedrooms. I would stay here again.
Patricia
A lovely spacious house not far from the very handy Tesco but still out of town . It is also close to other villages. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and the only problem was dealt with quickly and to our satisfaction.
Mark
This place is fantastic !! Lovely decor and furniture, lots of quality glasses , mugs and pans etc. Really comfy beds and lovely bathrooms including double sinks in each one.
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