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The Old Church House, Newton Abbot

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The Old Church House is a Grade II*-listed property in Devon, perfect for groups seeking a historic retreat. This remarkable building sleeps up to 24 guests and offers off-road parking for two cars. The property stands out with its original period features and spacious layout ideal for large gatherings.

Located in the South Devon countryside, this area provides easy access to both moorland and coast. The surrounding landscape offers peaceful rural views and traditional Devon scenery.

Accommodation comprises eleven bedrooms across multiple floors. The property features generous reception rooms for group socialising. Eleven bathrooms ensure convenience for larger parties.

About The Old Church House

The Old Church House is a Grade II*-listed property in Devon, perfect for groups seeking a historic retreat. This remarkable building sleeps up to 24 guests and offers off-road parking for two cars. The property stands out with its original period features and spacious layout ideal for large gatherings.

Located in the South Devon countryside, this area provides easy access to both moorland and coast. The surrounding landscape offers peaceful rural views and traditional Devon scenery.

Accommodation comprises eleven bedrooms across multiple floors. The property features generous reception rooms for group socialising. Eleven bathrooms ensure convenience for larger parties. Original architectural details throughout create an atmospheric setting for your stay.

Battle Abbey (15 miles, 25 minutes) offers medieval history. Bodiam Castle sits 18 miles away (30 minutes). Hastings seafront is 12 miles distant (20 minutes). Rye's historic streets are 14 miles away (25 minutes).

The Old Church House combines historical significance with practical group accommodation. Best suited for families or friends wanting a characterful base for exploring Devon's attractions and countryside.

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At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

The Old Church House Video Tour

The Old Church House video tour

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Local Insights: The Old Church House

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Newton Abbot, Devon

Weather & Local Conditions

17°C

Overcast

Updated: 19 Jul 2026, 3:08am

🌡️
17.20°C
Temperature
💨
3 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
86%
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 July 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 Old Church House 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

56m

(184 feet above sea level)

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

🏔️
56m
Elevation
📍
Newton Abbot
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 Newton Abbot 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: 50.4888199° N | Longitude: 3.666015° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Newton Abbot (Monday, 20 July 2026):

4:23am

Sunrise

7:18pm

Golden Hour

8:18pm

Sunset

🌅
4:23am
Sunrise
🌇
8:18pm
Sunset
📸
7:18pm
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 (7:18pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

July Daylight

This month in Newton Abbot, you have approximately 15.93 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 The Old Church House.

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: 19 Jul 2026 | Location: 50.4888199, -3.6660150

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at The Old Church House

Historic Architecture

The Grade II*-listed building features original period details and architectural elements that create an atmospheric setting for group gatherings and special occasions.

Spacious Group Layout

Six bedrooms and multiple reception rooms provide ample space for 12 guests to spread out comfortably whilst still enjoying communal areas together.

Rural Devon Location

Peaceful countryside setting offers tranquil surroundings whilst maintaining convenient access to both Dartmoor and the South Devon coast for day trips.

Convenient Parking

Off-road parking for two vehicles makes arrival and departure straightforward for groups travelling together or meeting from different locations across the country.

Period Character

Original features throughout the property create a memorable backdrop for group holidays, offering something different from standard modern accommodation options.

Excellent Group Capacity

Sleeping 12 guests across six bedrooms makes this property ideal for extended family gatherings, friend reunions or milestone celebration weekends together.

Getting To The Old Church House

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach The Old Church House by car, follow the A38 into Devon and take the appropriate exit for the TQ12 area. The property is easily accessible via local roads and you'll have convenient off-road parking for two cars upon arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Newton Abbot, just a short taxi ride away from the accommodation. From there, it's a straightforward journey to your Devon countryside retreat.

Off-road parking for two cars
Newton Abbot station (nearby)
Easily accessible from the A38

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Dartmoor National Park
Distance: 8 miles
TQ13 9JQ
Buckfast Abbey
Distance: 6 miles
TQ11 0EE
Paignton Zoo
Distance: 12 miles
TQ4 7EU
Haytor Rocks
Distance: 10 miles
TQ13 9XT
River Dart Country Park
Distance: 9 miles
TQ9 7DQ
Stover Country Park
Distance: 4 miles
TQ12 6QG
Newton Abbot Town Centre
Distance: 3 miles
TQ12 2RX
Tesco Superstore
Distance: 2.5 miles
TQ12 1AL
Morrisons Newton Abbot
Distance: 3 miles
TQ12 4AA
Newton Abbot Railway Station
Distance: 3 miles
TQ12 2EF
Torbay Hospital
Distance: 8 miles
TQ2 7AA
Newton Abbot Racecourse
Distance: 2 miles
TQ12 3AF
Dartmoor National Park
Distance: 8 miles
TQ13 9JQ
Buckfast Abbey
Distance: 6 miles
TQ11 0EE
Paignton Zoo
Distance: 12 miles
TQ4 7EU
Haytor Rocks
Distance: 10 miles
TQ13 9XT
River Dart Country Park
Distance: 9 miles
TQ9 7DQ
Stover Country Park
Distance: 4 miles
TQ12 6QG
Newton Abbot Town Centre
Distance: 3 miles
TQ12 2RX
Tesco Superstore
Distance: 2.5 miles
TQ12 1AL
Morrisons Newton Abbot
Distance: 3 miles
TQ12 4AA
Newton Abbot Railway Station
Distance: 3 miles
TQ12 2EF
Torbay Hospital
Distance: 8 miles
TQ2 7AA
Newton Abbot Racecourse
Distance: 2 miles
TQ12 3AF

Is The Old Church House Right For Your Group

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

For Families
The property's historic nature and period features make it more suitable for older children who can appreciate the building's character. Dartmoor National Park offers excellent outdoor activities including walking trails and wildlife spotting. Paignton Zoo sits 12 miles away with extensive animal exhibits. River Dart Country Park provides adventure activities and water sports for active families.
Groups Will Love...
The Grade II*-listed building provides an exceptional setting for group gatherings with its original architectural features and period details. Multiple reception rooms allow groups to spread out for different activities whilst maintaining communal spaces for meals and socialising. The historic atmosphere creates a memorable backdrop for celebrations, reunions or special occasions. Six bedrooms and multiple bathrooms ensure practical comfort alongside the property's historical significance.
Pet Friendly
The Old Church House does not accept pets due to its Grade II*-listed status and historic interior features. The property's period character and original architectural elements require preservation. Groups travelling with dogs should look for alternative accommodation in the Devon area. Several nearby properties may offer pet-friendly options whilst maintaining similar access to Dartmoor and the South Devon countryside.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Old Church House

The Wild Goose Inn

Located 1.5 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: TQ12 5TN

The Church House Inn

Located 2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: TQ13 7PP

Riverside Restaurant

Located 3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: TQ12 2EJ

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Old Church House

Is The Old Church House pet friendly?
This property does not accept pets. The historic nature of the Grade II*-listed building means animals cannot be accommodated during your stay.
How many guests can stay at The Old Church House?
The property sleeps up to 12 guests across six bedrooms. Multiple bathrooms and generous reception rooms ensure everyone has sufficient space throughout their visit.
What parking is available at the property?
Off-road parking for two cars is provided at The Old Church House. Additional vehicles may need to use nearby public parking options in the local area.
What are the sleeping arrangements?
The property features six bedrooms distributed across multiple floors of the historic building. Specific bed configurations should be confirmed when booking to ensure they meet your group's requirements.
Are there good group spaces for socialising?
Multiple reception rooms provide excellent communal areas for group gatherings and meals. The historic setting creates an atmospheric backdrop for spending time together during your stay.
What attractions are nearby for groups?
Battle Abbey sits 15 miles away whilst Bodiam Castle is 18 miles distant. Hastings seafront and Rye's historic streets are both within 30 minutes' drive for day trips.
Is the property suitable for elderly guests?
The historic building features multiple floors with original staircases. Guests with mobility considerations should enquire about specific room locations and accessibility before booking their stay.
What facilities are included in the property?
The Grade II*-listed building retains original period features throughout its six bedrooms and reception rooms. Full facility details including kitchen equipment should be confirmed during the booking process.

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