Braunton April Cottage

We got in late and found a lovely warm house, with scones, jam and Vin blanc waiting in the kitchen. There was fresh milk in the fridge too, along with clotted cream. I was won over straight away. It has a real home-from-home feel, with basics like tea, fresh coffee, oils, herbs and spices already in the cupboards. There’s loads to make a group comfortable. Every bedroom has an ensuite, and the huge ensuite off the master bedroom has a roll-top bath people might end up drawing straws for. The three floors also give everyone a bit of privacy. Kids have a games and utility room, and there’s a third-floor lounge with bean bags, a TV and a sofa for those in-between ages who don’t want to play but aren’t quite adults either. The outside space is enclosed and L-shaped, with a pergola, benches and a BBQ for eating outdoors. There’s private parking right outside. Inside, the kitchen is exceptionally well equipped, with plenty of crockery, glasses and pans, plus a Smeg double hob and oven. The downstairs living room has a dining table for ten. There are lots of thoughtful extras too, like wooden coat hangers, books, DVDs, TVs, a radio and wifi. The main lounge has a log burner, with wood ready beside it. The area works well for beaches, seaside and fishing villages, surfing, walking, horse riding and cycling. We liked the local bistro, the Stoned pizza place, fresh fish and chip shops, cafes and little shops. There are pubs with live music and events as well. We’d recommend staying here without hesitation. The guest book suggests other visitors feel the same. Thanks for a brilliant week, we’ll be back.