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Sandbars Instow, Instow

Visitor Rating
Rating
★★★★★★
Exceptional
Devon » Instow
8
3
4
2

Sandbars Instow is a beautifully presented holiday home in Instow, North Devon. This spacious property sits just a stone's throw from the golden sandy beach. Groups will love the private hot tub in the enclosed garden with an outdoor hot shower. The open-plan layout creates perfect spaces for socialising.

Instow offers a relaxed coastal setting on the Taw Estuary. The village features a selection of pubs, cafes and a 5-star deli. Sandy beaches stretch for miles along this part of the North Devon coast.

The property sleeps 8 guests comfortably with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The open-plan lounge, kitchen and dining area provides excellent social space. There's also a dedicated snug with games for evening entertainment.

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About Sandbars Instow

Sandbars Instow is a beautifully presented holiday home in Instow, North Devon. This spacious property sits just a stone's throw from the golden sandy beach. Groups will love the private hot tub in the enclosed garden with an outdoor hot shower. The open-plan layout creates perfect spaces for socialising.

Instow offers a relaxed coastal setting on the Taw Estuary. The village features a selection of pubs, cafes and a 5-star deli. Sandy beaches stretch for miles along this part of the North Devon coast.

The property sleeps 8 guests comfortably with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The open-plan lounge, kitchen and dining area provides excellent social space. There's also a dedicated snug with games for evening entertainment. Large windows fill the rooms with natural light throughout the day.

Appledore lies 2 miles away (6 minutes). Barnstaple town centre is 6 miles distant (15 minutes). The Tarka Trail passes nearby for walking and cycling. RHS Garden Rosemoor sits 14 miles away (25 minutes).

Sandbars Instow combines beachside location with group-friendly facilities. The hot tub and games room make this ideal for families or friends gathering together.

Check Prices & Availability »
At HolidayCottages.co.uk

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Local Insights: Sandbars Instow

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Instow, Devon

Weather & Local Conditions

19°C

Overcast

Updated: 3 Sep 2026, 3:05am

🌡️
18.50°C
Temperature
💨
16 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
94%
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

Sandbars Instow 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

5m

(16 feet above sea level)

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

🏔️
5m
Elevation
📍
Instow
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 Instow 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: 51.0630670° N | Longitude: 4.173811° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Instow (Thursday, 3 September 2026):

5:31am

Sunrise

6:00pm

Golden Hour

7:00pm

Sunset

🌅
5:31am
Sunrise
🌇
7:00pm
Sunset
📸
6:00pm
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 (6:00pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

September Daylight

This month in Instow, you have approximately 13.48 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 Sandbars Instow.

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: 3 Sep 2026 | Location: 51.0630670, -4.1738110

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at Sandbars Instow

Private Hot Tub

Relax in your own hot tub set in the enclosed garden with an outdoor shower for rinsing off after beach visits.

Steps from Sandy Beach

The golden sandy beach at Instow is just a stone's throw away making beach days effortless for the whole group.

Open-Plan Social Spaces

The open-plan lounge, kitchen and dining area creates perfect spaces for groups to cook, eat and relax together throughout the day.

Dedicated Games Snug

A separate snug room with games provides entertainment space where groups can enjoy evenings without disturbing others who want to relax.

Light and Spacious Layout

Large windows throughout the property fill every room with natural light creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere for your stay.

Village Amenities Nearby

Instow's pubs, cafes and 5-star deli are all within easy walking distance providing excellent dining and shopping without needing the car.

Getting To Sandbars Instow

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Sandbars Instow by car, take the A39 towards Bideford and follow signs for Instow. The property is easily accessible in the village centre, just a stone's throw from the beach with parking available on arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Barnstaple, approximately 6 miles away. From there, it's a short taxi ride or local bus journey to Instow village and your beachside accommodation.

Parking available at property
Barnstaple station (6 miles)
Easily accessible from the A39

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

The Big Sheep
Distance: 4 miles
EX39 5AP
Tapeley Park Gardens
Distance: 2.5 miles
EX39 4NT
Appledore Village
Distance: 2 miles
EX39 1PT
Tarka Trail
Distance: 0.5 miles
EX39 4LB
Instow Beach Walk
Distance: 0.1 miles
EX39 4HY
Northam Burrows Country Park
Distance: 3 miles
EX39 2RW
Instow Village Stores
Distance: 0.2 miles
EX39 4HY
Barnstaple Pannier Market
Distance: 6 miles
EX31 1BW
Bideford High Street
Distance: 4 miles
EX39 2AA
Barnstaple Bus Station
Distance: 6 miles
EX31 1LE
Instow Signal Box Museum
Distance: 0.3 miles
EX39 4LW
Bideford Bridge
Distance: 4 miles
EX39 2QG
The Big Sheep
Distance: 4 miles
EX39 5AP
Tapeley Park Gardens
Distance: 2.5 miles
EX39 4NT
Appledore Village
Distance: 2 miles
EX39 1PT
Tarka Trail
Distance: 0.5 miles
EX39 4LB
Instow Beach Walk
Distance: 0.1 miles
EX39 4HY
Northam Burrows Country Park
Distance: 3 miles
EX39 2RW
Instow Village Stores
Distance: 0.2 miles
EX39 4HY
Barnstaple Pannier Market
Distance: 6 miles
EX31 1BW
Bideford High Street
Distance: 4 miles
EX39 2AA
Barnstaple Bus Station
Distance: 6 miles
EX31 1LE
Instow Signal Box Museum
Distance: 0.3 miles
EX39 4LW
Bideford Bridge
Distance: 4 miles
EX39 2QG

Is Sandbars Instow Right For Your Group

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

For Families
Children will love the beach location just steps away from Sandbars Instow. The golden sands provide endless entertainment for building sandcastles and paddling. The games snug offers indoor fun on rainy days. The Big Sheep theme park sits 4 miles away with rides and animal encounters. The enclosed garden with hot tub provides safe outdoor space for families.
Groups Will Love...
The private hot tub at Sandbars Instow creates a fantastic focal point for group gatherings. Set in the enclosed garden, it offers relaxation after beach days or coastal walks. The outdoor hot shower lets everyone rinse off before climbing in. Groups can enjoy evening soaks under the stars while socialising together in this peaceful North Devon setting.
Pet Friendly
Pet policies for Sandbars Instow are not specified in the available property information. The enclosed garden would provide secure outdoor space for dogs if they are permitted. Instow beach and the nearby Tarka Trail offer excellent walking routes for active dogs. Contact the property owner directly to confirm whether your pets can join your group holiday.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Sandbars Instow

The Boathouse

Located 0.2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX39 4LN

The Wayfarer

Located 0.1 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX39 4HY

The Commodore Hotel Restaurant

Located 0.3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX39 4LQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Sandbars Instow

Is Sandbars Instow pet friendly?
The property details do not specify pet policies. You should contact the property owner directly to confirm whether pets are welcome at Sandbars Instow.
How many people does Sandbars Instow sleep?
Sandbars Instow is described as spacious and perfect for families or group getaways. The exact sleeping capacity should be confirmed with the property owner for your specific group size requirements.
Does the property have a hot tub?
Yes, Sandbars Instow features a private hot tub located in the enclosed garden. There is also an outdoor hot shower available for rinsing off after using the hot tub or beach.
What sleeping arrangements are available?
The property offers multiple bedrooms suitable for group accommodation. Contact the owner for specific details about bedroom configurations, bed types and the total number of bathrooms available.
Is there parking at the property?
Parking details are not specified in the property information. You should enquire directly about the number of parking spaces and whether parking is on-site or nearby.
What facilities are provided for groups?
The property features an open-plan lounge, kitchen and dining area ideal for socialising. A separate snug with games provides additional entertainment space for groups to enjoy together.
How far is Sandbars Instow from the beach?
The property is located a stone's throw from Instow's golden sandy beach. You can reach the beach within a very short walk making it extremely convenient for beach days.
What shops and restaurants are nearby?
Instow village offers a selection of pubs, cafes and a 5-star deli all within walking distance. These local amenities provide excellent options for dining out and picking up supplies during your stay.

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Sandbars Instow Reviews

Emma Clarke
We had a lovely stay, with some sunny days that made everything even better. The house really is perfect for families-spacious, comfyand well-stocked with everything you might need. The garden was a real highlight, especially since we could dine outside each evening. The electric sun shade was a clever touch, letting us relax in the shade during the hottest hours. Plus, the village is charmingand everything like restaurants, Johns deliand the beaches are all nearby. We'd definitely come back!
Harriet
What a lovely place! The house had everything we needed for a comfy stayand the outdoor space with the hot tub was fantastic. The outdoor hot shower was a lifesaver for washing our dog after the beach. Sarah was super helpful too. We really enjoyed our holiday - would come again!
Emma Carter
The house was fantastic, really well kept and in a top spot. It's cosy, nicely decoratedand had everything we needed. We loved exploring the local area, especially Instow's stunning dog-friendly beach. Coming back to Sandbars was always a treat, especially with the hot tub and pool table. We'd definitely recommend it and can't wait to visit again!
Alexandra
The house is fantastic, fully equipped and perfect for a lovely holiday. Beds and mattresses could be better, but overall, we had a great time!
Jamie
Really impressed with how well the place was finished and equipped.
Sam Carter
We had a really lovely stay! The house is in a prime spot, just a short walk to the beach and right next to the Tarka Trail - perfect for cycling and walking. The place was spotless, with fresh beddingand the hot tub was a real treat. The sitting room was super comfyand the outdoor space was great for relaxing. The only downside was the shop in Instow - only oneand a bit pricey for essentials like toothpaste. Overall, a fantastic week with fantastic weather in mid May '23!
James
We had a lovely stay in North Devon, exploring the charming village of Instow. The beach is fantastic, perfect for year-round visitsand the property itself was modern and well-equipped, making our short break very comfortable. Its location is great, just a walk to local pubs and eateries. It might be a bit pricier than some places of similar size, but overall, we really enjoyed our time there. Definitely recommend!
Charlotte
The place was super comfy, clean, well-stockedand we'd happily come back!
Emily
What a lovely place! The house was spotlessly clean and super comfy. We loved the high-quality furnishings and the quiet location, perfect for exploring North Devon. Can't wait to come back; it's definitely a place we'd recommend to anyone!
Emma
Everything about our stay was top-notch. The location is perfect, super family-friendlyand the furnishings are really nice. We'd definitely stay again, highly recommend to anyone looking for a great place!
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