Name: Compton Pool Farm
Type: Self catering cottages (on a farm complex)
Country: UK
Region: Devon
Cost per night: Individually priced cottages up to approx £375, depending on party size
Facilities: Heated indoor pool, sauna, gym equipment, playground, farm animals, football pitch, tennis court, games room, rural setting
TripAdvisor rating: 5
Eco Credentials: The farm makes a concerted effort to lower their carbon rating. This area of Devon is very easy to dine in as a vegetarian or vegan and it’s easy to travel by car or train to this region.
Today’s guest blog is from Rebecca, mum of 2 boys and it showcases Compton Pool Farm in Devon.
“Following the birth of our second son, we decided to take all of our family holidays for one year within the UK – partly for the ease of travel (just car or train) with a baby and 4 year old, but also to ease our collective “eco conscience”.
We chose the south coast of Devon for our New Year break. The area is fantastic for families, with things to do at all times of the year, whatever the weather. Known as the English Riviera, there’s more than a passing resemblance to it’s French namesake. Local attractions include Dartington Hall (gorgeous boutique shopping, a funky artistic vibe, excellent eateries and an arthouse cinema and theatre), the harbourside town of Brixham (perfect for a pirate-mad 4 year old), and the Living Coasts zoo/aquarium attraction.
We stayed in a cosy cottage on the Compton Pool Farm complex. Previously a 12th century farmstead, this small collection of buildings have been turned into luxury self-catering accommodation; and are perfect for families. The real luxury is the safe freedom for children to roam the grounds, but in addition there’s a heated indoor pool and sauna, fitness room, games room and playground apparatus. Each morning the children are invited to feed the farm animals, and our 4 year old was delighted to find an egg to take back for his breakfast.
The cottages themselves are very comfortable. Ours had lovely beds in all rooms, some ensuite (with bath and shower), and a well-appointed kitchen with comfortable sofas, WiFi and smart TVs in loving areas and bedrooms. We were able to borrow various bits of baby equipment which made packing the car much easier. The site itself is tranquil, and beautifully located in a lush green valley. It was perfect to wake to the sound of birdsong in the mornings!
The highlight for us was the local pub, a pleasant ramble away down a country lane. The Bickley Mill Inn is a hidden gem, with friendly staff, a beautiful interior, and food truly worthy of a Michelin star.
Compton Pool Farm‘s owners Gill and Bill have newly acquired the complex, and they tell me they have plans to improve it further; a soft play building, small shop and more animals are on the list.
This destination would be perfect for a collection of extended families or friends wanting to spend a holiday together but with the privacy of their own cottages. We loved it for the wholesome farm vibe and the great location, and are very happy to recommend it to TripAbrood members.”
Rebecca – thank you so much for an extremely informative blog about what sounds like a delightful collection of cottages. We’re putting these on the bucket list for future staycations for sure! You can find more details about Compton Pool Farm here.
Where To Stay With Kids 