Guestbook

What a great location high up in a forested area in High Bickington. We stayed for a week from 20th August and had a great time, thanks Andy and Jo for the use of this fabulous property. The site is well tended and quiet, there`s a swimming pool which our girls made use of. The lodge itself has a well kitted out kitchen/diner and bedrooms downstairs, both with en suites which is a perfect extra. The lounge upstairs is well furnished and has a TV/DVD,and a door leading onto a balcony which looks out onto tremendous views.
We travelled around during our stay, to Bude, Clovelly (Tip: park at the end of Wrinkleberry Lane and walk down the path which brings you out at a craft centre/donkey sanctuary leading down into Clovelly which avoids you the entrance fee and parking charges which you would otherwise incur) , Westward Ho! (twice), Appledore and even Exeter (Ikea! and links to JK Rowling and Harry Potter in the city centre) on our rainy day, the weather the rest of the time was great). Shopping wise there`s a petrol station with a shop (open until 11pm every night) on the A377 less than 10 minutes away towards Barnstable or carry on to a large Tesco just entering Barnstable itself (another 10 minutes onwards). Thanks also for the wine and snacks on our arrival which were a nice touch! We`ll definitely consider a revisit in the future and very happy to recommend!

— The Proudmans, Bromsgrove, 03 Sep 2022
Just returned from our second stay at the lodge. Accommodation is clean, spacious and very well equipped. Views from the balcony are amazing - its lovely to sit out in the evening and wait for sunset. The site itself was quiet & peaceful and a good base for attractions/beaches on the North Coast. Booking made with ease & Great communication with the owners. We hope to return again.

— Janes Family (2022), 31 Jul 2022
We stayed at the lovely Dunster Lodge mid May and we found it the most tranquil place with stunning views. The lodge is well equipped and it felt like home.
We found the tourist leaflets very helpful and managed to fit in so many great places to visit.
We loved Quince honey farm where we learned all about bees and saw inside a hive and had very interesting talks and tours.
Dartington Crystal was another must see, also Docton Mill Gardens and tearooms.
Barnstaple was a short distance away and their Pannier Market is worth a visit.
Bideford, Appledore, Instow, Westward Ho, and Ilfracombe were all lovely places to visit.
So, many thanks to Andy and Jo who contacted us prior to our visit, the day we arrived and on departure to make sure all was well. We would love to come back sometime in the future, Lynda and Mike Smith

— Lynda and Mike Smith, 01 Jun 2022
We stayed at the lodge during the first week of April 2022. We appreciated very much the quality of the accommodation and the peace and quiet of the location. The lodge is very well equipped and no needs have been overlooked. The location placed us well to visit the north coast and other attractions in the countryside, and there is so much to see and do within easy travelling distance from the lodge.
Many thanks to Andy and Jo for their management of the lodge and the booking system and for communicating with us at the beginning and end of the holiday to ensure our comfort and wellbeing.

— Ron and Sue Pearce, 09 Apr 2022
I stayed at Dunster Lodge (Sherlocks Home) in March alongside my partner and our 1 year old. It is a clean, cosy and extremely well equipped retreat after long days of exploring North Devon. The Lodge feels very private and the surroundings are beautiful.

The Lodge has all the comforts and mod cons of home and is furnished to a high standard. It was a safe environment for our one year old with stair gates and toys to keep him entertained.

Andy and Joanne were very communicative, accommodating and are excellent hosts.

I would highly recommend staying at Dunster Lodge/Sherlocks home and once again would like to express my gratitude to Andy and Joanne for the use of their holiday home.

For those who are going to stay I would highly recommend reading the guest book when you arrive as there are great bits of information about local services and days out.

Thanks again!
Fred, Iona and Archie Woollaston

— Fred Woollaston, 29 Mar 2022
We stayed at Dunster Lodge during February half term. Andy made the booking process really straightforward and was kind enough to call just as we arrived at the lodge to make sure we could access the lodge and find the keys! The facilities were absolutely first class with everything you could possible need being available with very clear instructions.

The location of the lodge was great for us, being no further than half an hours drive to the Northern Coast and about 20 minutes to Barnstaple for shops etc. We will definitely look to go again - ideally in the summer months when its a little warmer. Thanks again Andy.

— Keith and Kelle Trivett, 20 Mar 2022
We stayed at Dunster Lodge during February half term. Andy made the booking process really straightforward and was kind enough to call just as we arrived at the lodge to make sure we could access the lodge and find the keys! The facilities were absolutely first class with everything you could possible need being available with very clear instructions.

The location of the lodge was great for us, being no further than half an hours drive to the Northern Coast and about 20 minutes to Barnstaple for shops etc. We will definitely look to go again - ideally in the summer months when its a little warmer. Thanks again Andy.

— Keith and Kelle Trivett, 20 Mar 2022
A really nice lodge clean and comfortable everything you need is there set in a pleasant area would definitely use again enjoyed our month here

— Pam Stephen , 28 Jan 2022
Stayed here recently and it was beautiful. Location is peaceful and plenty of outdoors to explore. Inside was cosy, spacious and filled with everything we could need. You can tell every detail has been thought about to provide an enjoyable comfortable stay and so I will definitely be coming back again. Thank you!x

— Sarah Lama, 03 Jan 2022
Our second stay at your wonderful lodge. Highly recommended we will be back.
The lodge itself is well designed and appointed, with many amenities such as microwave oven and fridge. We visited during the winter so can vouch for the heating albeit this last time has coincided with an unusually warm December.
The site is well maintained and as stated ideally suited for exploring the North Devon area. The local station Umberleigh has parking and provides a fine (return) hourly service to Exeter should you wish to venture further afield.

We can fully recommend the Bell at Chittlehampton both for quality of food , location and friendly service.

Finally we can fully recommend the lodge as a holiday venue, and hope to return this year 2022.

Happy New Year,

Brian and Karen Hughes

— Brian Hughes, 01 Jan 2022
We arrived at the lodge late evening but as soon as we opened the door to Sherlocks Home we knew we were going to have a wonderful holiday.

When we awoke on Sunday morning we were blown away by the breathtaking views that surrounded us. It was just what we needed to recharge the batteries.

A half term break with four boisterous children it was just the right balance of peace and quiet for the adults and exploration and boundless places to visit for the children. We were so lucky to have great weather too. The lodge was well equipped that on days when we didn’t feel like going out there was so much for everyone to do. The children would love to come back when the pool is open.

The children especially liked standing on the balcony watching the stars.

We had a really wonderful day out at The Big Sheep, Bideford, a really great experience for the children (and adults) to just be kids! Lots to do, rides included in the ticket price and the packed lunches were excellent value. The children want to go back!!’

Thank you Andy & Jo for a truly enjoyable stay at Sherlocks Home we certainly hope to return one day.

Carol, Taryn, Mason, Albie, Josiah and Nuala

— Carol Mc , 11 Nov 2021
Thank you Andy and Jo for letting us stay at your lovely forest lodge. We were fortunate to spend a sunny October week there. It was so well equipped that we immediately felt comfortable and knew that we'd be happy in our home for the week.

It was a delight sitting on the balcony watching the sun rise and then to enjoying the clear dark skies at night.

The good weather allowed us to visit several coastal places including Appledore, Saunton Sands, Woolacoombe and Ilfracombe, all of which were within easy reach. There are plenty of places to explore in the region.

We enjoyed Sunday Lunch at Libbaton Golf Club which is a 5 minute drive away. The food was delicious and the staff were very friendly.

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Dunster Lodge and certainly hope to return one day.

Maura, Gill & Bruce

9 October 2021

— Maura, 05 Nov 2021
Lovely, well equipped and spacious accommodation in a tranquil setting. Good local walks and a dark sky at night.
Plenty to do in the surrounding area too.
Good Wi-fi and telephone signal. Owners communication is excellent. 🙂
Wendy and Philip

— Wendy, 24 Oct 2021
Our first stay at the Lodge, it’s a lovely peaceful place.
Dunster Lodge is large size with everything you need. We visited various locations including Ifracombe, Clovelly & Croyde, all beautiful places and restaurants reasonably priced.
Thanks for letting us stay, it was just what we needed 😊

— Ashley , 19 Oct 2021
If you enjoy being woken up by the gulls fighting on the roof, crammed in on a field, revellers wondering back at all hours then Dunster lodge is not for you. You'll probably hate sitting on the balcony with your cup of tea in the morning gazing over the top of the surrounding forest, watching the birds and butterflies go about their day. The comfortable, clean and spacious interior with every thing you possibly need (and more) will be of no interest. This is a wonderful lodge to either stay in all day and just relax or use as a base for exploring Devon and Cornwall as we did. The only complaint....I couldn't stay for two weeks ( or longer). We'll be back as soon as we can. Thanks Sherlock's Home x

— Sam Simmonds , 23 Sep 2021
Just returned from a fantastic week at Andy and Jo's lodge. The lodge is very clean, spacious and has everything you could need whilst stopping there. Bedrooms are a good size both with their own bathroom. Talking of bathrooms, the showers are probably the best we have experienced during our many travels. The water pressure is excellent, it's like having a massage whilst showering! The living room is on the 1st floor with doors that open onto the balcony. There is a wonderful view from the balcony, over the forest and onto rolling hills. We spent at least an hour every morning on the balcony, with large cups of tea watching the sun rising and burning its way through the mist. The site itself was clean & peaceful and is right in the middle of a forest. We travelled out every day by car to beaches at Croyde, Woolacombe and Westward Ho!, Each of these beaches was about 30 minutes drive away but they were well worth it. We also cycled a number of times as we had taken our bikes. Fantastic roads to cycle along, almost traffic free, but beware of those hills! We didn't mind the travelling as that is the pay off for stopping in such a beautiful tranquil environment, far from the madding crowds. The nearest big town is Barnstaple which has all the usual shops and supermarkets. It's about 25 minutes away by car. We thoroughly recommend stopping at the lodge. The booking process and communication from Andy was professional and easy to complete. We shall return in the future!

— Dave King, 13 Sep 2021
Had a lovely two week break at Dunster Lodge. The lodge itself is very clean and spacious with all your home from home essentials. Our daughter (10) enjoyed the pool and loved the fact there were buckets and spades and beach essentials already at the lodge. Our only criticism is that it is a little far from the beaches and a supermarket for our liking. Any communication with Andy was brilliant and they made us feel so very welcome. I can’t recommend Dunster Lodge enough for spectacular views of Devon’s green and pleasant land.

— Samantha Tootill, 12 Sep 2021
Our 1 week stay was very enjoyable, the lodge has everything you could possibly need! We had a great time in the swimming pool which is perfect for the kids, we visited pretty much all the local beaches which are not too far away. Westward Ho!, Woolacombe, Ilfracombe, Woolacombe has a stunning, award winning, Sandy beach. Barnstaple has some great restaurants and is ideal for grabbing some supplies. The local pubs are friendly and offer great food, drinks and service. The lodge is in a very quiet location on a lovely site in the forest, I highly recommend Dunster Lodge and will definitely be returning. Thank you for an awesome week long break!

— Rob Saunders, 08 Aug 2021
We have just returned from a lovely 7 night stay at the lodge - clean, spacious and very well equipped. Wonderful view from the balcony. The site itself was clean & peaceful. We travelled to a couple of nearby beaches (approx 45 min drive), The Big Sheep and Watermouth for family entertainment. Plus a day trip to Lundy Island. Our children tried the outdoor pool - they lasted about 20 minutes due to the typical British weather! Would definitely recommend - Queries, booking, payment and communication with Andy was smooth & simple. We hope to return soon. Thank you letting us stay.

— Janes Family, 31 Jul 2021
What a really fantastic stay we have had, as a four for the first 7 days, then as a two for the last 7 days. Andy & Jo could not have been easier to deal with prior to the holiday, and questions asked during our stay were also replied to, which really helped. So the lodge, we had the double bedroom, which I must say had the most comfortable mattress (like being at home) the facilities were excellent, everything we needed for the stay was in a drawer or cupboard, again like being at home. Problems were few and not a worry, the rubbish was at the end of the drive only a problem if you walked, we are lazy so took it in the car on our way out for the day….. that was in reality our only problem. Getting to the site was easy given the directions from Andy but the in car satnav got us to the location about 400 yards from the entrance, the mobile phone satnav got us to the door. Satnav also found us around North Devons narrow roads. Locations near to the lodge are about 20 minutes away in all directions, I know Andy was concerned about local roadworks however this did not impact at all on any of our visits out, a quirky fo North Devon is that every intended location has 2 or 3 ways of getting there. Drivers have to be careful, if you imagines a tractor behind every high edged blind corner, you will not speed and have plenty of time to stop or pull in to avoid problems. The lodge is an upside down house so the view from the top floor (lounge) is stunning. During our visit we had the temperature in the thirties, so it was uncomfortable however with the drapes closed this enabled us to fend off a lot of the early day direct sun. We visited the Portsmouth arms (nearest pub) a good 15 minutes in the car, we would not consider walking it as the return walk would be up hill all the way. The food was tasty with good proportions and the cloudy scrumpy very tasty, Steve the host was very amenable to banter and Karen pleasant to talk to and a good cook. So all in all a score of ten out of ten. It would be churlish to suggest improvements but also unfair to ask that aircon be available, we didn’t expect it and if the lodge was ours we wouldn’t provide it, but that was the only thing missing from this home from home holiday. Thanks Andy & Jo. Superb

— Phil Tootill, 23 Jul 2021
Had a very relaxing stay at Dunster Lodge and just as we were told everything you need is there.

There are loads of local beaches to visit.

Well worth a visit.

Jan & Keith

— Jan Thompson, 14 Jul 2021
A fantastic stay had by us, my Mom and our daughter at the end of May at Andy and Jo’s lodge. To start with the lodge is situated in such a peaceful location with miles of beautiful views and the lodge itself is spacious and so well equipped. The surrounding areas are all so scenic, with lots of lovely beaches and little towns only a short drive away. I would recommend the dino park for kids-a great day out! And also Dunster and Dunster castle a bit further out. Instow and Appledore also worth a visit as is The Bell pub in Umberleigh which serves great food and drinks and is very welcoming! A lovely place to stay if you want to escape it all and relax. We will definately be back!

— Kelly & Martin Beebee, 28 Jun 2021
Lovely, comfortable lodge with plenty of space.
There's lots to do in the surrounding area, especially if you don't mind travelling a bit further on some days. For kids the Wildlife & Dinosaur Park is great & there are other themed parks around.
The coast is rugged in places but we loved it & there are some really pretty villages & seaside towns as well as the more commercialised ones like Westward Ho.
RHS Rosemoor & Arlington Court are among the places to go if you like gardens & woodland walks etc.
The Owners have been really helpful, especially as we've been struggling with the covid restrictions & our plans were changed a number of times.
If you're interested in this area then Dunster Lodge is a great place to base yourself.

— Heather & Robert Molloy, 28 Jun 2021
Just returned from a wonderful week at the Lodge, the accommodation is perfect in every sense, the location is stunning with fantastic views from the balcony, the perfect place to sit and relax and listen to the birds singing! The kitchen is well equipped, the beds are extremely comfortable and the showers in both rooms powerful. Ideal location to tour Devon and Cornwall, highly recommend eating at the Portsmouth Arms Hotel, good food and Steve the gaffer is a real character! Huge thank you to Andy and Jo who made the booking process quick and efficient. If you are looking for somewhere to just chill out or have a base for days out then I cannot recommend the Lodge highly enough.

— John Mitchell, 14 Jun 2021
We had a wonderful week at Dunster Lodge. Really spacious, well equipped and comfortable holiday home. We were two adults and three children aged 3-12 and had all the room we needed.
The area was very peaceful but within reach of all the beaches we love. We drove out to Saunton Sands, Croyde, the Hartland peninsula, Lynton and Lynmouth and Exmoor Zoo during our stay. We also had a lovely meal at the Portsmouth Arms in Umberleigh. Really down to earth with good pub grub and a train line that runs right past the beer garden, which my son loved!
All in all a great week. Andy and Joanne’s hospitality was second to none and we certainly hope to return.

— Laura, 10 Jun 2021
Wow.... 5th time here and we love it!
So close to everywhere. Upstairs is such a great family space and great bedrooms and shower rooms.

We had a fab time again and will be back...x

— Jen, 10 Nov 2020
Had a nice week at the lodge. A great location to get around and see what Devon has to offer. The horrible weather kept us indoors on occasions but that gave us some quality time together. The views and walking are excellent. Just what we needed after three holidays abroad cancelled due to Covid-19 and lockdown. Thanks Andy. Alan & Sal. 06 10 2020

— Alan Betts, 06 Oct 2020
Great place to stay in a beautiful location - this was our 3rd visit to this lodge and we loved every minute. The lodge is lovely, clean and modern set in the beautiful Devon countryside. There are fantastic walks close to the lodge in the Taw Valley and only 30-40 mins drive from the lovely beaches in North Devon such as Croyde, Saunton and Woolacombe. We also drove to Bude, Cornwall which has a great beach. There are pubs not too far from the lodge including the Portsmouth Arms and we had a lovely meal at the Grove Inn, Kings Nympton which was only 15 mins away. There is so much to do in North Devon and this is a perfect location to visit it all, alternatively, if you are just looking for a relaxing break in the countryside then it's an ideal place - the views from the balcony of the Taw Valley are amazing.

Would highly recommend and wouldn't hesitate returning again.

— Lee Craig, 05 Oct 2020
Had the most wonderful experience staying here, can’t wait to go again and couldn’t recommend enough. Beautiful home that had everything I could possibly need, and it was great fun sitting on the balcony each morning with such a lovely view. Such a variety of beaches and places to go, but even just staying in at the lodge was amazing. Such a big space and lots of entertainment and walks nearby.
Thank you so much for such a welcoming stay!

— Ben Cotterill, 23 Sep 2020
We arrived at the property to find it very clean and tidy. Delighted to say that the villa is extremely well fitted out with everything required.
Views to die for and fabulous weather just sealed it for us.
From this location we travelled around Cornwall and Devon.
Local pubs, The Bell and the Exeter arms both delivered in quantity and quality.
Thank you
Andy and jo
We will definitely come back.

— Tony Harding, 20 Sep 2020
If you're looking for a perfect lodge with the most stunning views, and a clean and well looked after property, you’ve found it! The lodge is like home from home. Comfy beds, tv, fridge, freezer. Microwave. Washing machine. It’s ideal for 4 people. Scenery, perfect patio views and plenty of places to visit. Very clean and well kept. We spent two weeks from 22 August and toured all the area. Visited Dartmoor, Exmoor, Westward Ho!, Clovelly, Staunton, Appledore, Croyde, Barnstaple, Bude, to name just a few. Perfect place in a perfect setting with stunning views. What more do you need!

— Valerie Houlton, 08 Sep 2020
Just returned from a lovely weeks holiday at Dunster Lodge, The lodge was very well equipped with everything we needed. The views from the balcony are wonderful, and it is such a peaceful setting. Our granddaughter was in the pool every day and loved the whole experience. We went to the local, The Portsmouth Arms for Sunday lunch, and again on Wednesday for a birthday meal, we would definitely recommend this place, Steve and his staff are superb and the food on both occasions was excellent. We also went to Coombe Martin, to the Dinosaur Park, which again was very good, with full attention paid to Covid restrictions, the grandchildren loved the day, Another excellent find was Roc Park in Barnstable, here you will find all the playground equipment needed for a fun day, The overall holiday was a Huge success, and once again thank to Andy for allowing us to stay at your beautiful lodge. Which we would definitely recommend, Many thanks Alan, Patsy and family.

— Alan Thornhill, 19 Aug 2020
Another lovely week in Devon, blessed with fab weather. The Lodge is amazing, really well equipped, clean, tidy and comfortable, a home from home - we always feel relaxed as soon as we arrive. Absolutely stunning views from the Lodge across forest and fields and beautiful skies - there were buzzards flying over us whilst we were in the swimming pool. We did lots of walks including one to High Bickington - the community shop there is wonderful with lots of local crafts and produce to buy and you can enjoy a cup of tea and cake too! Next time we visit we intend to have a meal at the Old George Inn. We also did a walk up through the woods and eventually descending down to the Portsmouth Arms Pub - really friendly landlord and staff, a nice meal and great company. Other trips out included Barnstaple, bought nice steaks from the butcher. Westward Ho!, lovely carrot cake at The Pier House seafront restaurant and a new favourite for us was the village of Appledore, absolutely beautiful seaside cottages, pubs and shops including John's deli and a visit to Hockings icecream van is recommended! Sad to leave on Saturday but we stopped off to visit Rosemoor RHS Garden on the way home, we especially liked the fruit and vegetable garden - stunning! There ends a fantastic weeks holiday in North Devon!

— The Light Family, 11 Aug 2020
Lovely quiet retreat perched on hill overlooking forest and fields. The Lodge is perfectly equipped and had everything our family needed. The kids particularly enjoyed using the heated pool after a long day at the beach. Nicely located to give access to some of Devons most beautiful beaches. We have had a great holiday which was just what was needed after long period of lockdown. Thanks Andy

— Jason Grove, 30 Jul 2020
Lovely quiet retreat perched on hill overlooking forest and fields. The Lodge is perfectly equipped and had everything our family needed. The kids particularly enjoyed using the heated pool after a long day at the beach. Nicely located to give access to some of Devons most beautiful beaches. We have had a great holiday which was just what was needed after long period of lockdown. Thanks Andy

— Jason Grove, 30 Jul 2020
Enjoyed another beautiful July week at the Lodge, the whole place and surrounding area is beautiful and peaceful.

— Daniel Gibbin, 28 Jul 2020

Guestbook

— The Proudmans, Bromsgrove, 03 Sep 2022

— Janes Family (2022), 31 Jul 2022

— Lynda and Mike Smith, 01 Jun 2022

— Ron and Sue Pearce, 09 Apr 2022

— Fred Woollaston, 29 Mar 2022

— Keith and Kelle Trivett, 20 Mar 2022

— Keith and Kelle Trivett, 20 Mar 2022

— Pam Stephen , 28 Jan 2022

— Sarah Lama, 03 Jan 2022

— Brian Hughes, 01 Jan 2022

— Carol Mc , 11 Nov 2021

— Maura, 05 Nov 2021

— Wendy, 24 Oct 2021

— Ashley , 19 Oct 2021

— Sam Simmonds , 23 Sep 2021

— Dave King, 13 Sep 2021

— Samantha Tootill, 12 Sep 2021

— Rob Saunders, 08 Aug 2021

— Janes Family, 31 Jul 2021

— Phil Tootill, 23 Jul 2021

— Jan Thompson, 14 Jul 2021

— Kelly & Martin Beebee, 28 Jun 2021

— Heather & Robert Molloy, 28 Jun 2021

— John Mitchell, 14 Jun 2021

— Laura, 10 Jun 2021

— Jen, 10 Nov 2020

— Alan Betts, 06 Oct 2020

— Lee Craig, 05 Oct 2020

— Ben Cotterill, 23 Sep 2020

— Tony Harding, 20 Sep 2020

— Valerie Houlton, 08 Sep 2020

— Alan Thornhill, 19 Aug 2020

— The Light Family, 11 Aug 2020

— Jason Grove, 30 Jul 2020

— Jason Grove, 30 Jul 2020

— Daniel Gibbin, 28 Jul 2020