Come Up For Air
21 guests
-
9 bedrooms, 11 beds
6 bathrooms
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From the moment you arrive at this stunning farmhouse bordering Exmoor's beautiful National Park (only a fifteen-minute drive away), you'll feel as if you've been given a comforting and restorative hug. It's a rural retreat surrounded by wildlife – from Exmoor ponies to red deer – there are twenty acres of gardens and fields to explore before even setting off for a stroll through the countryside. Only a thirty-six-minute drive to River Exe and under half an hour to River Barle, try out kayaking immersed in outstanding national beauty. There are also plenty of gastropubs and ever-so-charming teashops dotted around, so you're never far from a soothing scone. When – weary and full of cream, jam and tea – you do eventually return to your stately abode, you'll find a home that conquers indoor and outdoor living in elegant fashion. Put those tired tootsies up and snuggle down for an evening around the warming inglenook fireplaces and wood-burning stoves in one of two cosy living rooms. Come together for a meal in the refined yet rustic dining area, benefitting from exposed beams and a dazzling chandelier, for a special celebration – there's even a grand piano to have a sing-along beside. Last... but certainly not least, you'll find a private outdoor garden and patio area – complete with a hot tub and sauna – that makes for the perfect spot to unwind with a bottle of Prosecco in hand, around good company. Bubble away in the tub, before getting ready for an evening of alfresco dining on your leafy terrace, surrounded by oak trees and the idyllic green backdrop of Exmoor – and if you're looking for a post-meal wander, head down to the lake for a romantic stroll by the water. Oh, and you have shared access to a shared tennis court if you fancy donning your whites come morning.
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What to expect
Highlights
Walk through Exmoor countryside, spotting ponies, red deer and buzzards
Enjoy a glass of Prosecco in the hot tub
Curl up by the inglenook fireplaces and wood burning stoves in one of two cosy living rooms
Dine alfresco long into those balmy summer evenings on your private terrace
Come together in the rustic dining room for a celebration
Don your finest tennis whites for a morning game
Like what you see? Explore more of this home
Home truths
It sleep 21 guest – 19 in beds and two on a comfy sofa bed
Bedroom 3 can be arranged as a king and single bed or three single beds upon request
All other bedrooms – except for bedrooms 1 and 7 – can be a twin or a king/superking
A car is essential here, as you are deep in the countryside
There is free private parking on the driveway
You're 6 miles from the nearest town, although most supermarkets deliver to the house
Guests may access the lake by using a path or dock
Your host can provide a cot and high chair for free
About this stay
Amenities
Tennis court
Outdoor fireplace / firepit
Outdoor kitchen
Outdoor seating
Desk / workplace
Laptop friendly workspace
Sauna
Wi-fi
Bedrooms & bathrooms
9 bedrooms, 11 beds
6 bathrooms
Extras
VIP services
Arrange a chef
Massage
Additional fees
Your host can help arrange massages for an additional fee
Pets are allowed at the home for a fee, however, the host asks that you keep dogs on a lead while on the grounds
Additional fees subject to a 3.5% handling charge.
Extras are subject to availability. Please enquire with your host.
Local guide
About Exmoor
Straddling Devon and Somerset, Exmoor might be one of the UK’s smaller national parks, but you’d never know it when you’re there. Exmoor’s 700 square kilometres take in endless moors clad in a purple sea of soft heather, babbling rivers, and sheer cliffs that drop into the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Exmoor ponies, with their distinctive chestnut-coloured coats, roam among the wild grasses, and wildlife enthusiasts will eagerly...
Explore the area
Local restaurants, cafes, museums, sites and activities, recommended by our community of hosts and travel experts
Experience the Warmth and Charm of The Bridge Inn
This 1800s pub by the river offers cask ales, malt whiskies, delicious food, and speciality pies. With friendly staff, a cosy atmosphere, and a separate vegan menu, it's the perfect place to feel like a local.
Explore the timeless beauty of Knightshayes Gardens
Step into a bygone era at Knightshayes Court and immerse yourself in the grandeur of Victorian Gothic architecture. Discover meticulously maintained gardens, knowledgeable staff, and a charming tearoom for a truly enchanting experience.
Dine at Woods Bar & Restaurant
Enjoy delicious food, friendly staff, and a cosy atmosphere with a wood burning fire. The menu changes daily, and the extensive wine list is impressive. Great for walks and shopping nearby.
Enjoy a Delightful Tea Experience at Withypool Tea Room
Indulge in delicious scones, cakes, and a variety of hot beverages at this charming tea room. With friendly staff and a unique atmosphere, it's the perfect stop for a refreshing break during your walk or bike ride.
Enjoy Watersports and Beach Party at Wimbleball Lake
Experience the thrill of paddle boarding and canoeing in the stunning setting of Wimbleball Lake. Set up a beach party near the bridge, swim in the lake, and enjoy the freedom of no life jackets. A perfect spot for outdoor fun!
Dine at Exmoor Forest Inn
Enjoy a relaxed meal in this cosy bar and restaurant, offering exquisite food at reasonable prices. Highly recommended by locals.
Indulge in Delights at Exfordbridge Tea Rooms
A charming bakery and cafe in Exford, serving delicious cream teas, scones, cheeseburgers, English breakfasts, salads, and sandwiches. Run by friendly owners, it's a must-visit gem for food lovers.
Explore Knightshayes Court
Sprawling gothic Victorian mansion with stunning gardens, woodland walks, and impressive interiors. A treasure trove of history and nature awaits at this National Trust gem.
Explore Tarr Steps Nature Reserve
Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Tarr Steps Woodland National Nature Reserve. Enjoy a lovely circular walk along the river, visit the nearby pub and picnic area, and indulge in a cream tea. Get there early to secure parking.
Take in the Stunning Views at Dunkery Beacon
Experience the fantastic views from Dunkery Beacon, but be prepared with warm clothing if you're not visiting in summer. Enjoy a lovely walk and admire the rewarding views along the way.
Admire the Breathtaking Views at Webbers Post
A great viewpoint overlooking Exmoor, Webbers Post offers stunning panoramic views and plenty of walking trails. Don't miss the wheelchair-accessible Jubilee hut for another lovely view spot.
Get around
Airport
Exeter
57 min
Cardiff
2 hr 39 min
Swansea - Experience Wales Fly Swansea
3 hr 19 min
Train station
Kings Nympton
40 min
Bus stop
Old Station
18 min
Local shops & services
Supermarket
21 min
Cafe
21 min
Pharmacy
23 min
Points of interest
Beach
Porlock Beach
1 hr 17 min
Booking policies
House Rules
Children welcome (1-12 years)
Infants welcome (under 12 months)
Pets welcome
No parties or events
No smoking
Good to know
Arrival from 16:00
Departure before 10:00
Wifi
No air con
Cancellation policy
Up until
30
days
Cancel at least 30 days before your check-in date for a full refund.
Up until
7
days
Cancel at least 7 days before your check-in date for a 50% refund.
Not eligible for a refund once your check-in date is under 7 days away.
Host
This home is managed by Heather
This home is managed directly by its owner who will be your point of contact before and during your stay. Jessica, one of three generations of her family to live at Deer's Leap Retreat, loves holding weddings, hosting families enjoying their holidays, and looking after their menagerie and livestock. She also loves horses, ponies, chickens, cows and of course, her beagle Poppy – who welcomes all guests and will often pop over for a cuddle.
This home is nominated for the Plum Guide Award.
- Great hosts, not just great homes – We reject homes managed by hosts who don’t meet our standards of excellence.
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- Every home scrutinised by experts, they have to meet our standards.
- Hosts we knowHigh-quality hosting, with track records of high-quality hosting.
- Impeccably clean, well maintained homes.
- Peace of mind in the rare event your host cancels.
- Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, delivering exceptional service before, during and after your stay.
