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The Anchorage Instow, Instow

Visitor Rating
Rating
★★★★★★
Exceptional
Devon » Instow
14
2
7
8

The Anchorage Instow offers a superb coastal retreat in North Devon, perfect for larger groups wanting a seaside escape. This impressive property sits in the beautiful village of Instow, overlooking the Taw and Torridge estuary. The private hot tub provides the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the coast.

Instow is a peaceful coastal village with sandy beaches and stunning water views. The area offers direct beach access and waterside walks along the estuary.

The property sleeps up to 14 guests across seven well-appointed bedrooms. Eight bathrooms serve the group comfortably. The open-plan living area creates an excellent social space where everyone can gather.

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About The Anchorage Instow

The Anchorage Instow offers a superb coastal retreat in North Devon, perfect for larger groups wanting a seaside escape. This impressive property sits in the beautiful village of Instow, overlooking the Taw and Torridge estuary. The private hot tub provides the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the coast.

Instow is a peaceful coastal village with sandy beaches and stunning water views. The area offers direct beach access and waterside walks along the estuary.

The property sleeps up to 14 guests across seven well-appointed bedrooms. Eight bathrooms serve the group comfortably. The open-plan living area creates an excellent social space where everyone can gather. Modern kitchen facilities make catering for larger groups straightforward.

Tapeley Park Gardens (2 miles, 5 minutes) offers beautiful grounds to explore. RHS Garden Rosemoor (11 miles, 20 minutes) showcases horticultural excellence. Braunton Burrows (5 miles, 10 minutes) provides vast sand dunes for adventure. Barnstaple town centre (4 miles, 10 minutes) delivers shops and eateries.

The Anchorage Instow combines beachside location with group-friendly facilities. This property suits families and friends wanting coastal access with home comforts.

Check Prices & Availability »
At HolidayCottages.co.uk

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Local Insights: The Anchorage 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

The Anchorage 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

7m

(23 feet above sea level)

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

🏔️
7m
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: 51.0508000° N | Longitude: 4.1802° 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 The Anchorage 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: 51.0508000, -4.1802000

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at The Anchorage Instow

Beachside Location

Direct access to Instow's sandy beach makes this perfect for groups who love coastal walks and seaside activities throughout their stay.

Private Hot Tub

The outdoor hot tub seats the whole group and offers estuary views, ideal for evening relaxation after busy days exploring Devon.

Spacious Group Accommodation

Five bedrooms and three bathrooms mean larger families and friend groups have plenty of space without feeling cramped or rushed.

Open Plan Living

The generous social areas keep everyone together, with a modern kitchen flowing into dining and lounge spaces for group meals.

Estuary Views

Stunning views across the Taw and Torridge estuary provide a peaceful backdrop and beautiful scenery from the property throughout the day.

Village Amenities

Instow village offers local pubs, cafes and shops within walking distance, so groups can easily grab supplies or enjoy meals out.

Getting To The Anchorage Instow

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach The Anchorage Instow by car, take the A39 towards Bideford and follow signs to Instow village. The property is easily accessible with convenient off-road parking for multiple vehicles upon arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Barnstaple, just 4 miles away with regular taxi services. From there, it's a short journey through North Devon countryside to your coastal base.

Off-road parking for multiple cars
Barnstaple station (4 miles)
Easily accessible from the A39

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Tapeley Park Gardens
Distance: 2 miles
EX39 4NT
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Distance: 11 miles
EX38 8PH
Braunton Burrows
Distance: 5 miles
EX33 1LB
South West Coast Path
Distance: 0.5 miles
EX39 4HY
Tarka Trail
Distance: 1 mile
EX39 4QS
Instow Beach Walk
Distance: 0.3 miles
EX39 4LB
Barnstaple Town Centre
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 1EU
Tesco Superstore Barnstaple
Distance: 4.5 miles
EX31 2BH
Instow Village Stores
Distance: 0.4 miles
EX39 4HY
Barnstaple Bus Station
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 1LE
Instow Ferry Terminal
Distance: 0.5 miles
EX39 4LR
Barnstaple Railway Station
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 2AU
Tapeley Park Gardens
Distance: 2 miles
EX39 4NT
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Distance: 11 miles
EX38 8PH
Braunton Burrows
Distance: 5 miles
EX33 1LB
South West Coast Path
Distance: 0.5 miles
EX39 4HY
Tarka Trail
Distance: 1 mile
EX39 4QS
Instow Beach Walk
Distance: 0.3 miles
EX39 4LB
Barnstaple Town Centre
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 1EU
Tesco Superstore Barnstaple
Distance: 4.5 miles
EX31 2BH
Instow Village Stores
Distance: 0.4 miles
EX39 4HY
Barnstaple Bus Station
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 1LE
Instow Ferry Terminal
Distance: 0.5 miles
EX39 4LR
Barnstaple Railway Station
Distance: 4 miles
EX31 2AU

Is The Anchorage Instow Right For Your Group

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

For Families
Instow beach provides safe sandy shores for building sandcastles and paddling in shallow waters. The Tarka Trail offers flat cycling routes suitable for families with younger children. Braunton Burrows presents exciting sand dunes to explore and climb. Rock pooling opportunities appear at low tide along the coast. Local parks and play areas sit within the village for convenient outdoor play.
Groups Will Love...
The private hot tub creates the perfect group gathering spot after days exploring the North Devon coast. It accommodates multiple guests simultaneously with stunning estuary views as your backdrop. Evening soaks become a daily ritual where everyone can relax together and share stories from the day's adventures. The outdoor setting adds to the experience, letting you enjoy fresh coastal air whilst unwinding in warm bubbling water.
Pet Friendly
Dogs are welcome at The Anchorage Instow, making it ideal for groups who want to bring their four-legged companions. Instow beach allows dogs year-round on certain sections, providing excellent walking opportunities. The South West Coast Path and Tarka Trail offer miles of dog-friendly routes through stunning North Devon countryside. Local pubs in the village welcome well-behaved dogs, so your pet can join group outings.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Anchorage Instow

The Boathouse Instow

Located 0.4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX39 4LQ

The Wayfarer Inn

Located 0.3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX39 4HY

The Commodore Hotel Restaurant

Located 0.5 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX39 4LQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Anchorage Instow

How many guests does The Anchorage Instow accommodate?
The property sleeps up to 10 guests across five bedrooms with three bathrooms. This makes it suitable for larger families or groups of friends travelling together.
Is The Anchorage Instow pet friendly?
Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome at this property. Please check specific pet policies and any additional charges when booking your stay.
What facilities does the hot tub have?
The private outdoor hot tub accommodates multiple guests and offers estuary views. It's available throughout your stay for exclusive use by your group.
How far is the beach from the property?
Instow's sandy beach is within walking distance of the accommodation. The village location means you can reach the shore in just a few minutes on foot.
What kitchen facilities are available for groups?
The modern open-plan kitchen includes full cooking facilities and appliances for preparing group meals. There's ample dining space for all 10 guests to eat together comfortably.
Is there parking at The Anchorage Instow?
Off-road parking is provided for multiple vehicles at the property. This makes arrival and daily trips out convenient for larger groups with several cars.
What shops and restaurants are nearby?
Instow village has local shops, pubs and cafes within walking distance. Barnstaple town centre is 4 miles away with supermarkets and a wider range of dining options.
Are there activities suitable for all ages?
The beach, coastal walks, gardens and attractions nearby suit different age groups. Water sports, nature reserves and historic sites provide varied options for mixed-age groups.

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The Anchorage Instow Reviews

Oliver M.
The spot is brilliant, with stunning views over the estuary. It's so handy being near Instow's shops and the Tarka trail for walks, cycles, or runs. Johns Deli is perfect for grabbing a biteand the ferry to Appledore is a lovely touch. The house itself is spacious, ideal for big groups with plenty of rooms and bathrooms. We loved it!
Emily
Great spot, really well set up for big families; we loved our stay!
Oliver
Lovely place, perfect spot, friendly host, we'd definitely return!
Emma Clarke
The Anchorage is a fantastic house with everything you could need in an incredible spot. The bedrooms and bathrooms are comfy, many with stunning sea views. The games room is a blastand the hot tub feels so indulgent! Perfect for a family getaway, we loved it!
James
We organised a 70th birthday for my husband and everyone had a great time. The youngest guests loved the hot tub, especially the teenagers, while us older folks relaxed around the huge table with drinks and a tasty buffet. It was a fantastic long weekend we won't forget. Thanks for helping us make those memories! Sorry about the balloons, we ran out of space in the car.
Emily Carter
The spot is perfect, right by the estuary with lovely walks nearby. Pubs and shops are just a short stroll. Kitchen's well stockedand the cooker works brilliantly. Shame the hot tub wasn't ready until Saturdayand those steep stairs can be tricky. Overall, really great!
Emma
What a fantastic house! It has absolutely everything you could want. The location was perfect for us to explore both the Tarka Trail and the beach. We really hope to come back next year!
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