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The Thatched Cottage, Barnstaple Cross

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Rating
Exceptional
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The Thatched Cottage is a traditional Devon retreat in Witheridge, perfect for groups of up to ten guests. This property features a private hot tub and off-road parking for two cars, making it ideal for group getaways. The cottage sits in the heart of rural Mid Devon.

Witheridge offers peaceful countryside surroundings with rolling hills and farmland. The village provides a quiet base for exploring Devon's attractions. You'll find traditional pubs and local shops within walking distance.

The cottage sleeps ten guests across five bedrooms. The master bedroom includes an en-suite bathroom, whilst a family bathroom serves the remaining bedrooms. The open-plan living area combines kitchen, dining and lounge spaces.

About The Thatched Cottage

The Thatched Cottage is a traditional Devon retreat in Witheridge, perfect for groups of up to ten guests. This property features a private hot tub and off-road parking for two cars, making it ideal for group getaways. The cottage sits in the heart of rural Mid Devon.

Witheridge offers peaceful countryside surroundings with rolling hills and farmland. The village provides a quiet base for exploring Devon's attractions. You'll find traditional pubs and local shops within walking distance.

The cottage sleeps ten guests across five bedrooms. The master bedroom includes an en-suite bathroom, whilst a family bathroom serves the remaining bedrooms. The open-plan living area combines kitchen, dining and lounge spaces. This layout works well for groups wanting to spend time together.

Dartmoor National Park lies 16 miles south (25 minutes). Exeter city centre sits 18 miles away (30 minutes). Exmoor National Park is 20 miles north (35 minutes). Castle Drogo, a National Trust property, is 12 miles away (20 minutes).

The Thatched Cottage combines traditional character with modern facilities. Groups wanting countryside peace with hot tub relaxation will find this property delivers both.

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Need To Know

The Thatched Cottage Video Tour

The Thatched Cottage video tour

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Local Insights: The Thatched Cottage

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Barnstaple Cross, Devon

Weather & Local Conditions

15°C

Overcast

Updated: 30 Jul 2026, 3:12am

🌡️
15.00°C
Temperature
💨
4 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
96%
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 Thatched Cottage 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

134m

(440 feet above sea level)

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

🏔️
134m
Elevation
📍
Barnstaple Cross
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 Barnstaple Cross 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: 50.7990721° N | Longitude: 3.6991916° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Barnstaple Cross (Thursday, 30 July 2026):

4:36am

Sunrise

7:05pm

Golden Hour

8:05pm

Sunset

🌅
4:36am
Sunrise
🌇
8:05pm
Sunset
📸
7:05pm
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 (7:05pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

July Daylight

This month in Barnstaple Cross, you have approximately 15.48 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 Thatched Cottage.

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: 30 Jul 2026 | Location: 50.7990721, -3.6991916

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at The Thatched Cottage

Private Hot Tub

The outdoor hot tub provides the perfect spot for groups to unwind after exploring Devon's countryside and attractions together.

Spacious Living Areas

Open-plan living spaces mean everyone can cook, eat and relax together without feeling cramped during your group holiday.

Peaceful Rural Location

The quiet Witheridge setting offers groups an escape from busy life whilst remaining close to Devon's major attractions.

En-Suite Master Bedroom

The master bedroom's private bathroom adds comfort and convenience for larger groups sharing the three-bedroom cottage.

Convenient Parking

Off-road parking for two vehicles makes arriving and exploring local attractions straightforward for groups travelling by car.

Traditional Character

The thatched roof and period features create an authentic Devon experience that groups remember long after their holiday.

Getting To The Thatched Cottage

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach The Thatched Cottage by car, take the A361 towards Tiverton, then follow signs to Witheridge via the B3137. The cottage is located in the village centre and offers convenient off-road parking for two cars upon arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Tiverton Parkway, approximately 12 miles away. From there, a taxi will take you directly to the cottage in around 20 minutes.

Off-road parking for two cars
Tiverton Parkway station (12 miles)
Easily accessible from the A361 and B3137

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Castle Drogo (National Trust)
Distance: 12 miles
EX6 6PB
Exeter Cathedral & City Centre
Distance: 18 miles
EX1 1HS
Exmoor National Park
Distance: 20 miles
TA24 7JL
Dartmoor National Park
Distance: 16 miles
PL20 6QF
Tarka Trail
Distance: 15 miles
EX31 4EX
Eggesford Forest
Distance: 8 miles
EX18 7QU
Tiverton Town Centre
Distance: 10 miles
EX16 6LW
Crediton High Street
Distance: 9 miles
EX17 3AH
Barnstaple Shopping Centre
Distance: 17 miles
EX31 1EU
Tiverton Parkway Station
Distance: 12 miles
EX16 4RP
Exeter Airport
Distance: 22 miles
EX5 2BD
South Molton Town
Distance: 11 miles
EX36 3AB
Castle Drogo (National Trust)
Distance: 12 miles
EX6 6PB
Exeter Cathedral & City Centre
Distance: 18 miles
EX1 1HS
Exmoor National Park
Distance: 20 miles
TA24 7JL
Dartmoor National Park
Distance: 16 miles
PL20 6QF
Tarka Trail
Distance: 15 miles
EX31 4EX
Eggesford Forest
Distance: 8 miles
EX18 7QU
Tiverton Town Centre
Distance: 10 miles
EX16 6LW
Crediton High Street
Distance: 9 miles
EX17 3AH
Barnstaple Shopping Centre
Distance: 17 miles
EX31 1EU
Tiverton Parkway Station
Distance: 12 miles
EX16 4RP
Exeter Airport
Distance: 22 miles
EX5 2BD
South Molton Town
Distance: 11 miles
EX36 3AB

Is The Thatched Cottage Right For Your Group

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

For Families
The cottage's rural location provides safe outdoor space for children to explore. The hot tub offers supervised fun for older kids. Dartmoor National Park (16 miles) has pony spotting and easy walks. Crealy Theme Park near Exeter (20 miles) provides rides and attractions. The open-plan living area gives parents sightlines whilst children play.
Groups Will Love...
The private outdoor hot tub seats up to six people and provides the star attraction for group gatherings. After days exploring Devon's countryside or visiting nearby attractions, groups can relax together under the stars. The hot tub area offers privacy and the perfect setting for evening conversations. This feature transforms a standard cottage stay into something special.
Pet Friendly
You'll need to confirm the pet policy directly with the property owner before booking with your dog. Many Devon cottages welcome well-behaved pets but have specific rules about numbers and sizes. The rural location and nearby walking routes would suit active dogs. Dartmoor and Exmoor offer excellent off-lead walking opportunities within easy driving distance.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Thatched Cottage

The Mitre Inn, Witheridge

Located 0.2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX17 4RJ

The Lamb Inn, Sandford

Located 7 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX17 4LW

Tiverton Golf Club Restaurant

Located 9 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX16 4NE

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Thatched Cottage

Is The Thatched Cottage pet friendly?
You'll need to check the specific pet policy with the property owner before booking. Some cottages in this area welcome dogs whilst others maintain a no-pets policy.
How many people does the cottage sleep?
The Thatched Cottage accommodates up to six guests across three bedrooms. The master bedroom has an en-suite bathroom and there's a family bathroom for other guests.
Is there parking available at the property?
Yes, the cottage provides off-road parking for two cars. This makes it convenient for groups arriving in separate vehicles or planning day trips around Devon.
What facilities are provided for groups?
The property includes a private hot tub and open-plan living areas perfect for groups. The kitchen-dining-lounge layout means everyone can spend time together comfortably.
How far is the cottage from Dartmoor National Park?
Dartmoor National Park is approximately 16 miles south of the cottage, taking around 25 minutes by car. The park offers excellent walking and outdoor activities for groups.
Are there shops and pubs nearby?
Witheridge village has local shops and traditional pubs within walking distance. For larger supermarkets, you'll need to drive to nearby towns.
What attractions are suitable for groups near the cottage?
Castle Drogo sits 12 miles away, Exeter offers city attractions 18 miles south and Exmoor National Park is 20 miles north. All provide excellent group activities and days out.
Is the cottage suitable for families with children?
The three-bedroom layout and outdoor hot tub work well for families. The rural location provides safe outdoor space whilst remaining close to family-friendly attractions.

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The Thatched Cottage Reviews

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