Home Devon Ashwater The Vale
Back Overview Features Reviews Days out

The Vale, Ashwater

Visitor Rating
Rating
★★★★★
Devon » Ashwater
8
1
4
3

The Vale is a spacious holiday property in Devon that works brilliantly for larger groups wanting to explore the West Country together. This substantial accommodation sits in rural Devon countryside and offers plenty of space for everyone to spread out whilst still having great communal areas for group gatherings.

The surrounding area gives you proper Devon countryside with rolling hills and traditional farmland. You're well positioned for exploring both Dartmoor National Park and the North Devon coast.

The accommodation provides 4 bedrooms sleeping 8 guests with 3 bathrooms to avoid morning queues. Social spaces include a generous living area and a well-equipped kitchen perfect for group catering.

Read More
Check Prices & Availability »
At Sykes Cottages
Check Prices & Availability »

About The Vale

The Vale is a spacious holiday property in Devon that works brilliantly for larger groups wanting to explore the West Country together. This substantial accommodation sits in rural Devon countryside and offers plenty of space for everyone to spread out whilst still having great communal areas for group gatherings.

The surrounding area gives you proper Devon countryside with rolling hills and traditional farmland. You're well positioned for exploring both Dartmoor National Park and the North Devon coast.

The accommodation provides 4 bedrooms sleeping 8 guests with 3 bathrooms to avoid morning queues. Social spaces include a generous living area and a well-equipped kitchen perfect for group catering. Outside space lets everyone enjoy the Devon air together.

Dartmoor National Park sits 15 miles away (25 minutes) for walking and wildlife. The market town of Okehampton is 8 miles away (15 minutes) with shops and eateries. North Devon's beaches at Westward Ho! are 20 miles away (35 minutes). RHS Garden Rosemoor lies 12 miles away (20 minutes) for garden enthusiasts.

The Vale suits multi-family groups and extended family gatherings who want proper Devon countryside with easy access to moors and coast. Book here for space and location combined.

Check Prices & Availability »
At Sykes Cottages

Need To Know

More Group Cottages You May Like

Tarth Y Mor >
Pet Friendly Near Beach WiFi Garden

Tarth Y Mor

Wales, Gwynedd

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

A delightful detached holiday home a stone's throw from the beach in Criccieth, Gwynedd. Dog-friendly. Close to beach. Barbecue. EV charging point. Off-road parking. Porthmadog 5.4 miles;...

View Cottage
Mor Awel >
Near Beach WiFi Garden Near Pub

Mor Awel

Wales, Anglesey

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms

Spacious, three-storey Victorian townhouse with glorious sea views close to the centre of Beaumaris. High-spec kitchen. Close to shops, tea rooms and pubs. Menai Bridge 4 miles.

View Cottage
Camomile Cottage >
Pet Friendly Near Beach Open Fire Garden

Camomile Cottage

East of England, Suffolk

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Camomile Cottage in Friston, Suffolk, is a modern retreat that sleeps eight guests across four bedrooms. With three bathrooms, a spacious lounge, and a well-equipped kitchen, it’s perfect for...

View Cottage
Four Seasons Ilfracombe >
Pet Friendly Near Beach WiFi Open Fire

Four Seasons Ilfracombe

South West of England, Devon

Sleeps 14 7 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Stay at this gorgeous three-storey property set in the heart of the seaside town of Ilfracombe, ideal for families or friends seeking a relaxing get-together or celebratory gathering. The property...

View Cottage
Talbot Lodge >
Pet Friendly WiFi Garden Fishing

Talbot Lodge

Heart of England, Staffordshire

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

A character lodge set within a courtyard in the village of Ingestre near Great Haywood, Staffordshire. Pet-friendly. Original features. Open-plan. Stafford 6.3 miles; Cannock 10.5 miles.

View Cottage
West View >
Pet Friendly WiFi Open Fire Garden

West View

Wales, Anglesey

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Family holiday home in the middle of Rhosneigr. Great outside area for relaxing or a BBQ. Amenties on the doorstep. Wifi, woodburning stove, TV and DVD player.

View Cottage
Trebartha >
Pet Friendly WiFi Garden Fishing

Trebartha

South West of England, Cornwall

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

A remarkable singles-storey holiday home settled in Daymer Bay, Cornwall. Ground-floor living. Sea views. Off-road parking. Close to amenities. Polzeath 1 mile; Rock 2.3 miles.

View Cottage
Inglebrook Heights >
Pet Friendly Near Beach WiFi Near Pub

Inglebrook Heights

South West of England, Devon

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

A stylish and contemporary property situated on the heights of Westward Ho! overlooking the town’s large sandy beach, shops and restaurants - a blissful spot to watch the evening sunsets...

View Cottage
Rynys >
Pet Friendly WiFi Open Fire Garden

Rynys

Wales, Gwynedd

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

A beautifully-presented holiday home resting near Llanrug, Gwynedd. Cinema room. Games room. Trampoline. Woodburning stoves. Balcony. Llanberis 5.1 miles; Caernarfon 5.2 miles; Betws-y-Coed 22.6...

View Cottage
Tonga >
Pet Friendly Near Beach WiFi Open Fire

Tonga

South West of England, Cornwall

Sleeps 8 4 Bedrooms Pet Friendly

Close to the coast path and with breathtaking ocean views, this contemporary four-bedroomed property offers a superior setting for a Cornish escape with family or friends. Two lounge areas mean...

View Cottage

Local Insights: The Vale

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Ashwater, Devon

Weather & Local Conditions

17Β°C

Overcast

Updated: 3 Sep 2026, 3:23am

🌑️
17.40Β°C
Temperature
πŸ’¨
13 km/h
Wind Speed
πŸ’§
98%
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

  • βœ“ May - September: Warmest, longest days - ideal for big group days out, gardens and BBQs
  • βœ“ October - November: Crisp autumn colour, cosy evenings by the fire, quieter attractions
  • βœ“ December - February: Perfect for a snug winter escape - great for Christmas and New Year gatherings
  • βœ“ 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 Vale 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

  • βœ“ New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
  • βœ“ Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
  • βœ“ After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
  • βœ“ Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up
πŸ“±
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

166m

(545 feet above sea level)

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

πŸ”οΈ
166m
Elevation
πŸ“
Ashwater
Nearest Village
🌲
Rural
Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

  • βœ“ Fresher air: Expect it a touch cooler than coastal areas - bracing walks and restful sleep
  • βœ“ Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
  • βœ“ Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
  • βœ“ Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to hilltops and summits
πŸš—
Driving Note: The roads to Ashwater 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: 50.7265693Β° N | Longitude: 4.2791905Β° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

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

5:32am

Sunrise

6:00pm

Golden Hour

7:00pm

Sunset

πŸŒ…
5:32am
Sunrise
πŸŒ‡
7:00pm
Sunset
πŸ“Έ
6:00pm
Golden Hour

Planning Your Days by Season

  • βœ“ Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - long days for group walks, days out and late alfresco dinners
  • βœ“ Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner drink as the stars come out
  • βœ“ Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - cosy early evenings by the fire, ideal for stargazing
  • βœ“ Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day
πŸŒ™
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 Ashwater, you have approximately 13.46 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 Vale.

Mobile Phone Signal

πŸ“±

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

πŸ’‘
Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

πŸš—
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: 50.7265693, -4.2791905

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at The Vale

Spacious Group Accommodation

Multiple bedrooms and bathrooms mean large groups can stay together comfortably without feeling cramped or queuing for facilities throughout the day.

Rural Devon Setting

Peaceful countryside location provides a proper escape from busy life whilst keeping you close enough to major Devon attractions and coastal areas.

Perfect for Multi-Family Breaks

The layout works brilliantly when several families holiday together with enough private space and communal areas for everyone to enjoy.

Dartmoor Access

Just 25 minutes from Dartmoor National Park gives groups easy access to walking trails, tors, wild ponies and stunning moorland landscapes.

Large Kitchen Facilities

Well-equipped kitchen makes group catering straightforward whether you're cooking breakfast for everyone or preparing a celebration meal together.

Coastal and Countryside Balance

Location puts you between Dartmoor's moors and North Devon's beaches so groups can mix countryside walks with seaside days out.

Getting To The Vale

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach The Vale by car, take the A30 towards Okehampton and follow signs for the EX21 area. The property is accessible via country lanes and provides off-road parking for multiple vehicles upon arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Okehampton, approximately 8 miles away. From there, a taxi will bring you through Devon countryside to the property.

Off-road parking for multiple cars
Okehampton station (8 miles)
Accessible from the A30

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Dartmoor National Park
Distance: 15 miles
PL20 6QF
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Distance: 12 miles
EX38 8PH
The Big Sheep
Distance: 18 miles
EX39 5AP
Meldon Reservoir
Distance: 6 miles
EX20 4LU
Lydford Gorge
Distance: 10 miles
EX20 4BH
Okehampton Castle
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1JB
Okehampton Town Centre
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1AB
Waitrose Okehampton
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1EW
Morrisons Okehampton
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1DW
Okehampton Station
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1EJ
Local Bus Services
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1AB
Taxi Ranks Okehampton
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1AB
Dartmoor National Park
Distance: 15 miles
PL20 6QF
RHS Garden Rosemoor
Distance: 12 miles
EX38 8PH
The Big Sheep
Distance: 18 miles
EX39 5AP
Meldon Reservoir
Distance: 6 miles
EX20 4LU
Lydford Gorge
Distance: 10 miles
EX20 4BH
Okehampton Castle
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1JB
Okehampton Town Centre
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1AB
Waitrose Okehampton
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1EW
Morrisons Okehampton
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1DW
Okehampton Station
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1EJ
Local Bus Services
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1AB
Taxi Ranks Okehampton
Distance: 8 miles
EX20 1AB

Is The Vale Right For Your Group

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

For Families
The Vale works well for families with children who enjoy countryside exploration. Dartmoor National Park provides endless walking opportunities where kids can spot wild ponies and climb tors. The Big Sheep attraction offers activities and animal encounters 18 miles away. Beaches at Westward Ho! provide sandcastle building and rock pooling. The spacious property gives children room to play safely whilst parents relax.
Groups Will Love...
The multiple bedroom layout at The Vale makes it perfect for large group gatherings. Several bathrooms mean no morning queues when everyone needs to get ready. The generous living spaces let the whole group gather for meals and evenings together. The kitchen provides enough space and equipment for group catering. Outside areas give everyone room to enjoy Devon's fresh air simultaneously without feeling crowded.
Pet Friendly
Pet policies at The Vale should be confirmed when booking as arrangements may vary. The rural Devon location would suit dogs well with countryside walks directly accessible. Dartmoor National Park welcomes dogs on leads in most areas. Local footpaths provide excellent walking routes. If dogs are permitted, the spacious grounds give them room to explore safely whilst staying close to the property.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Vale

The White Hart Hotel

Located 8 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX20 1HD

The Fountain Inn

Located 7 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX20 3HQ

Bearslake Inn

Located 5 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX20 4HQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Vale

How many people does The Vale sleep?
The Vale accommodates larger groups with multiple bedrooms designed for extended families or several families holidaying together. The property includes several bathrooms to ensure everyone has adequate facilities.
Is The Vale pet friendly?
Pet policies vary so you'll need to check current arrangements when booking. Contact the property directly to confirm whether your dog can join your group holiday.
What cooking facilities are available?
The kitchen comes fully equipped for group catering with everything needed to prepare meals for your whole party. You'll find ample workspace and appliances suitable for cooking breakfast through to evening meals.
Is there parking for multiple cars?
Yes, the property provides off-road parking suitable for multiple vehicles which is essential when several families arrive separately. This makes arrival and departure much easier for larger groups.
What's nearby for group activities?
Dartmoor National Park offers walking and outdoor activities 25 minutes away whilst North Devon beaches provide coastal days out. Okehampton town centre sits 15 minutes away with shops, pubs and restaurants.
Can we visit both moors and coast?
Absolutely, the location positions you perfectly between Dartmoor and North Devon's coastline. You can easily plan days exploring moorland tors and beach visits during the same holiday.
Are there local shops for supplies?
Okehampton lies 8 miles away with supermarkets and shops for stocking up on supplies. Several village shops sit closer for essentials and fresh bread.
What's the best time to visit?
Spring through autumn offers the best weather for exploring Dartmoor and the coast. Summer provides warmest temperatures whilst spring and autumn bring fewer crowds and beautiful countryside colours.

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

Appledore
15 cottages
Axminster
5 cottages
Barnstaple
4 cottages
Bideford
36 cottages
Braunton
4 cottages
Brixham
15 cottages
Bude
21 cottages
Chagford
3 cottages
Chulmleigh
4 cottages
Clovelly
4 cottages
Combe Martin
6 cottages
Cornworthy
3 cottages
Croyde
9 cottages
Dartmouth
33 cottages
Dawlish
3 cottages
Exeter
4 cottages
Halwell
3 cottages
Hartland
6 cottages
Holsworthy
5 cottages
Honiton
5 cottages

The Vale Reviews

Leave a Review
Been to The Vale? Please leave a review and share your holiday experiences.
Name
Month of stay
Year of stay
Review
Popular Group Cottages
Latest Blog Posts
Useful pages
Follow Us
Subscribe
Join our newsletter and get fantastic deals on UK hot tub cottages you won't find anywhere else. We respect your privacy and adhere to strict no-spam policies.
Copyright © 2026 - Large Holiday Cottages