Property Summary
Squirrels Lodge near South Molton is a timber-clad countryside retreat on the peaceful West Down Estate, offering cosy holiday accommodation for up to 4 guests with one bedroom and a sofa bed. Private terrace with hot tub, woodland views, and pet-friendly.
Main Description
Squirrels Lodge is set among mature trees within the peaceful grounds of West Down Estate near South Molton. Surrounded by wildlife and with easy access to Exmoor and the North Devon coast, it’s an ideal base for exploring this beautiful region before returning to a private hot tub under the stars.
Sleeps up to 4 guests (1 bedroom and a sofa bed)
Timber-clad lodge in a peaceful woodland setting
Accommodation is all on one level
Private terrace with hot tub, outdoor seating, and countryside views
Easy access to Exmoor, North Devon beaches, and South Molton
Bed linen and towels provided
Heating and electricity included
Up to two well-behaved dogs welcome for £25 per dog
Strictly no smoking
Arrive from 4 pm
Depart by 10 am
The lodge is approached via a gravel track, with parking available nearby. A few steps lead up to the private terrace, where a bubbling hot tub and outdoor seating offer the perfect spot to relax in peaceful surroundings and listen to birdsong — or perhaps spot one of the deer that pass through the estate.
The entrance opens directly into a light and compact open-plan living space. The kitchen is located on the left and is equipped for self-catering stays. On the right is a corner sofa that can be converted into a bed, and a small dining area with stools sits neatly in the corner. A wood-burning stove provides warmth and cosiness.
A sliding door leads to the bedroom, and the en-suite bathroom includes a walk-in shower, toilet, and basin.
Despite the tucked-away setting, Squirrels Lodge is only five minutes from South Molton, where guests will find a range of shops, pubs, and cafés, and just a short drive to both scenic Exmoor and the wide sandy beaches of the North Devon coast.
Indoor Description
The kitchen at Squirrels Lodge is fitted with an electric oven and hob. A kettle, fridge, and a variety of cookware, utensils, crockery and glasses are provided, offering all the basics needed for a comfortable self-catering stay.
In the living area, a corner sofa provides a cosy seating space and also converts into a sofa bed. A television is available for guest use. The dining area includes a small table and stools.
A sliding door leads to the bedroom, and the en-suite bathroom includes a walk-in shower, toilet and basin.
Electricity and heating costs are included in the price of your accommodation. The lodge is heated throughout. Bed linen and towels are provided. Guests are kindly asked to bring their own beach towels for use on day trips or in the hot tub.
Outdoor Description
Squirrels Lodge is located in a quiet, wooded area of the West Down Estate and is accessed via a gravel drive. A few steps lead up to a private decked terrace with a hot tub and outdoor seating — perfect for enjoying the views and watching wildlife in the surrounding countryside.
There is no enclosed garden, but guests are welcome to explore the wider estate grounds, where deer and birds are often seen. The peaceful setting provides a real sense of seclusion while remaining close to local amenities.
Parking
Parking is available for one car just inside the main gates of the estate and at the foot of the path leading to Squirrels Lodge. The walk from the parking area to the lodge is very short, with a few steps up to the entrance of the Lodge.
Pets Description
Up to two well-behaved dogs welcome for £25 per dog
Please don’t let your dog on the furniture, especially sofas and beds.
Guests are responsible for cleaning up after their pet.
Dogs must not be left alone in the property.
Restricted mobility
This property is accessed via an uneven path and has steps up to the lodge so we recommend it is not suitable for anyone with limited mobility.
Exit in case of emergency
This has not been completed by the owner.
Christmas / New Year
This has not been completed by the owner.
The region
South Molton is a small town sitting just outside the boundary of Exmoor National Park, with good access from the A361 link road. Dating back to Saxon times, this classic British market town is formed around a pretty central square with impressive historic buildings to either side. Originally, it was an important centre of the UK’s wool trade and textile trade, and still has a local market on Thursday and a farmers market on Saturday. Barnstaple, North Devon’s main market town, with its famous Pannier Market and Butchers Row – excellent for both meat and locally caught fish, is within easy reach and offers a range of shopping facilities and other activities.
This area provides a great base for walking, cycling and exploring. There are miles of walking routes and many pretty villages to sightsee throughout North Devon and Exmoor. There are also opportunities to ride, to play golf or to visit a number of outstanding gardens such as those at Marwood, Castle Hill Estate and RHS Rosemoor. The famous Tarr Steps, The Chains - a wonderful place for the experienced walker - the Tarka Trail, the North Devon coastal path. The north coast from Minehead through Porlock and Lynton to Woody Bay and the Valley of the Rocks are some of the most stunning scenery in Britain boasting the highest cliffs. The beaches at Saunton and Croyde are not far away (approx 40-45 mins by car).