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The Italian Stables

Woodtown, near Bideford, Devon
Sleeps 2
Bedrooms 1
Bathrooms 1
Change Fri
Dogs welcome 1
5 star
Parking on site / nearby
Towels included
Romantic
Luxury
Fishing on site / nearby
Games / Play facilities
Internet access
Open fire / wood burner
Enclosed garden / patio
Downstairs bedroom
Downstairs bathroom
Beach within easy reach
12 more

At a glance

  • The perfect rural bolthole for discerning couples at any time of the year
  • Stylishly decorated with charming flooring, large windows and elegant furnishings
  • Just 5 miles from Instow, with surfing beaches at Saunton and Westward Ho! within 15 miles
Property code: OC-89829

This superb two-person escape sits at the end of a private drive in the grounds of the owner’s home, yet where privacy is assured. Set between Bideford and Barnstaple and surrounded by farmland, you are close to sandy beaches, shops and pubs. This Italian-inspired accommodation is unique with stylish features throughout – you will relish returning after a day’s exploring to unwind in this beautiful base. You are just under 3 miles from the town of Bideford while the surfing beach of Westward Ho! and the sand dunes of Instow are both within 5 miles. The fishing village of Appledore is worth a visit as are attractions including RHS Rosemoor (6.5 miles), Tapeley Park (4 miles) and the village of Clovelly (15.5 miles) with its steep, cobbled streets leading to the pretty harbour.

Stepping into the light and airy stables, find yourself in the entrance hall/dining area, with a pretty mosaic-tiled floor and ample room to hang coats and store boots and shoes. A dining table and chairs offer a pretty outlook onto the rear south-facing garden through the large picture window. Leading on is a fully fitted kitchen with a stylish terracotta tiled floor that provides everything you could need. The lounge is next with a flagstone floor, warming wood burner, Smart TV and comfy sofa. Rear access allows views out to your own private walled garden. At the other end of the cottage is the sleeping accommodation with a charming king-size bed and picture window facing the rear garden. The shower room completes the accommodation and is stylishly tiled.

Heading outside, there’s a lovely walled garden with raised patio area perfect for dining or just soaking up the sun. A gravelled pathway leads you from the accommodation along the lawn and towards the secluded area with a fire pit and outdoor games for your enjoyment. The owner can provide freshly made southern Italian meals by prior arrangement (extra charge).

  • 1 bedroom – king-size
  •  1 shower room with a walk-in shower and a WC
  • Oven, induction hob, fridge and freezer, dishwasher, washer/dryer, microwave and Nespresso pod coffee machine
  • Wood burner – first basket of logs provided
  • Underfloor heating throughout
  • Smart TV in the lounge
  • Enclosed garden with lawn and patio area with garden furniture, fire pit and charcoal BBQ
  • Private parking for 1 car
  • Beach 5 miles, shop and pub 2 miles
  • 2 small dogs or 1 medium dog
  • Arrival: 15:30 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00
  • 1 dog allowed. Additional charges may apply

Jayde Vaggers

This property is personally managed by Jayde.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 47 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 stars4.9
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.8 starsOverall equipment 4.8 starsOverall equipment 4.8 starsOverall equipment 4.8 starsOverall equipment 4.8 stars4.8
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 stars4.9
Overall location
Overall location 4.8 starsOverall location 4.8 starsOverall location 4.8 starsOverall location 4.8 starsOverall location 4.8 stars4.8

Reviewed by Kate 26th May 2026

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

The immaculate property, helpful host and delicious home made scones have been highlighted elsewhere! Amazing eggs, too. I would note the rare privacy afforded and sense of seclusion in the walled garden (also secure for the dog!). We have busy lives and large household at home, so loved being able to retreat with a G&T after the bustle of ApplRead moreedore. Really lovely place. Wonderful for a couple wanting to recharge! Many thanks. Hide

Reviewed by Sandra 16th May 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Property was clean, comfortable and well equipped. Lovely enclosed garden which was perfect for our dog and for us. On arrival we had homemade scones with jam and clotted cream waiting for us, delicious

Reviewed by Leslie 9th May 2026

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Nice accommodation with large secure lawned garden that our dog loved.

Reviewed by Margaret 25th April 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

What a perfect retreat for two. It was idyllic to stay there. So quiet and peaceful yet so convenient to Bideford and the surrounding area of North Devon and into north Cornwall. The Italian Stables were spotless. So tastefully furnished and decorated. Slept like a log in the comfortable bed. The owners so friendly and the meal we ordered there waRead mores delicious. I have no hesitation in recommending this as a special place to stay. Hide

Reviewed by Liz 18th April 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had the most wonderful holiday in Mark and Jess's beautiful Italian Stables. Very cosy and comfortable, a lovely cream tea, eggs and apple juice were waiting for us when we arrived. A lovely sized private garden, very comfortable bed and lovely decor, we also had a delicious Italian meal from the owners that we ordered for my husbands birthdayRead more. We will definitely be rebooking !!!! Hide

Reviewed by Donald 11th April 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Absolutely loved our week in the cottage. So comfortable and everything we needed was there. The garden was fabulous for Brian our pet spaniel and the beaches and other walks were easily driveable. Also had a couple of Italian meals made Jess and they were absolutely delicious. We will definitely return one day

Reviewed by Lorna 4th April 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We loved the Italian Stables which was perfectly set up for our needs as a couple and dog. The owners really have thought of everything. On arrival we enjoyed fresh Devon cream tea and the dog was delighted by the generous garden with tennis balls left for her to play with. The accommodation is well maintained and its very well equipped. PlentyRead more of hot water, lovely log burner for cooler evenings but also sunny patio for the warm weather. They really have thought of everything you could need. We would highly recommend the stables as a base for exploring the gorgeous north Devon coast. Hide

Reviewed by Scott 28th March 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Absolutely lovely cottage and really well laid out. Finished to a high standard. The welcoming touches, such as, a full cream tea, eggs, milk, apple juice and everything for the log burner were really appreciated. The garden is excellent and very secure for dogs. The additional element of homemade Italian food if desired was a real bonus and was dRead moreelicious. Great location. I would recommend going to Croyde Bay (Baggy Point National Trust car park very handy). Excellent coastal walk along cliffs to Woolacombe Beach, and both beaches were lovely. Hide

Reviewed by Philip 7th March 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Very comfortable cottage in a great location for exploring the North Devon coast. Very safe for our dog because of the walled spacious garden. Cream tea was lovely when we arrived and the welcome pack included eggs which were amazing! We ordered an Italian meal, cooked by Jess, for our last evening, which was a great way to end a memorable holiday.Read more Hide

Reviewed by Alison 21st December 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The cottage was a really lovely relaxing place to stay, it was so peaceful. The walled garden was a great space especially when you have a dog, it was very secure. We arrived to a cream tea, and a few provisions in the fridge which was a lovely thought.

Reviewed by Hugo 14th November 2025

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

My husband and I had a 3 night stay with our springer spaniel. The property is so tastefully renovated with . We liked the following touches: milk, eggs, tea, coffee, scones with jam and clotted cream, apple juice and water with tennis balls for our dog which he loved! We ordered Italian food one evening cooked by Jess (bruschetta/penne pasta and tRead moreiramisu), a real treat and delicious! We loved our first stay in North Devon and would highly recommend staying at The Italian Stables! Hide

Reviewed by Sally 31st October 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The cottage was as expected from the details on the website. Lovely welcoming cream tea with coffee or tea and a bottle of apple juice in the fridge. The underfloor heating kept us at just the right temperature. The shower was efficient and easily accessible. The enclosed garden allowed our dog to venture outside safely and the pheasants provided hRead moreer with added amusement, although they always saw her coming. Hide

Reviewed by David 17th October 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Helen 10th October 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had a fabulous week at the Italian Stables cottage. Perfect location to explore the North Devon coast. The cottage had everything we needed and a lovely garden for our dog to run about in. We also had two delicious Italian meals cooked by the owner.

Reviewed by Michelle 3rd October 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Mark and Jess were so accommodating in making a perfect little Getaway. The location was great in a nice rural setting but not too far from shops and pubs. The interior was very homely and cosy. The fresh scones were a lovely welcome surprise on arrival too. We would definately like to return one day

Reviewed by Jan 26th September 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The Italian Stables is highly recommended for a relaxing and comfortable break., with plenty of places to visit locally. The cottage is beautifully decorated and well-appointed. The welcome goodies were lovely and Jesss Italian meals exceptional. Our dog loved the secure garden too.

Reviewed by Nick 19th September 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A brilliant stable conversion with everything one would need included and in an excellent location. Our Golden Retreiver was safe and happy in the large enclosed garden. We had 3 wonderful meals from the hosts and would highly recommend this property

Reviewed by Tina 5th September 2025

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Very nice accommodation with a fully enclosed garden which was great for our dog to explore in. Within easy reach of North Devons beaches our nearest being Instow which is a must for dog walkers. The fresh scones, eggs & local juice was a nice welcome on arrival. Mark & Jess are very informative hosts. Thanks for a relaxing week away.

Reviewed by Patricia 15th August 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Excellent property, one of the best we have ever stopped in. The outside space was amazing, our little dog Mabel loved being out in the enclosed garden. The owners had thought of everything you could possibly need away from home. The owners also offer an option or ordering Italian food, which we would highly recommend, we would have liked to have tRead moreried some of the other dishes on offer (oh well, we will just need to return). The property was very clean and in an excellent location. Hide

Reviewed by Lynne 8th August 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

If youre looking for somewhere to completely relax and unwind you wont do better than The Italian Stables. Relaxing in the garden, listening to the birds against a backdrop of relative silence is pure bliss. Our 4 year old Springer Spaniel was in 7th heaven. I celebrated my 70th birthday with a delicious meal prepared by Mark & Jess. They have creaRead moreted a very special place Hide

Reviewed by C 18th July 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The exquisite taste of the decor is a winner. The size of the garden and its complete privacy is exceptional. Where would you find that with a one bed accommodation? The owners are generous to a fault, and leave apple cider, milk, and eggs. They baked scones and had them waiting for us with jam and clotted cream! They also do wonderful Italian mealRead mores. Extremely reasonable. We will be back! Hide

Reviewed by Kevin 11th July 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Fantastic property great location and added bonus of having meals prepared is superb with a great menu. Would de6recimme d and plan to come back. Thank you

Reviewed by Paul 4th July 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Excellent and comfortable property. Garden and privacy was brilliant. Owners very pleasant and available if needed but did not encroach.

Reviewed by Claire 27th June 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The Italian Stables was a beautiful place to stay for our holiday. It was very relaxing and the garden was perfect for our cockapoo willow. I always worry about the garden being fully enclosed and believe me this is, there is a huge lawn with a high stone wall all the way around, so no where to escape, perfect! very tranquil. Mark and Jess the owneRead morers were lovely and we really appreciated the gifts when we got there.. also there carbanara is amazing! thanks again Claire, dave and willow Hide

Reviewed by Anthony 16th June 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Superb secret cottage hidden away in a glorious haven of peace and quiet. all facilities and sea within a few minute drive away. ideal base to explore the coast and other hide away places. the Italian flavour of the building and decor gives an impression of being in the Mediterranean yet warm and cosy in the evening. We will be back.

Reviewed by Ian 6th June 2025

Guest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 stars

Food waste had been left under the sink,we did not use the oven as it was dirty.The microwave was dirty inside.The metal garden furniture was in state of disrepair Generally in need of some redecoration and cleaning

Reviewed by Charlotte 30th May 2025

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Overall a great place to stay, spacious & comfortable, beautiful peaceful garden. Within a short drive of some great places to visit.

Reviewed by Dale 2nd May 2025

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

We loved our week at The Stables, hugely relaxing just what we needed. The single storey renovated building sits across the courtyard to the owners family converted large coach-house and you can park outside the building. Jess and Mark were perfect hosts, there if you need them but you have your privacy. Jess Italian meals are fabulous. Loved the lRead morearge walled mature garden. Location great for Instow and Appledore. Nearby narrow lanes a bit hairy and no dog walks near but otherwise perfect. Hide

Reviewed by Simon 18th April 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Wonderful cottage and hosts. Delightfully peaceful location in a property of very high standard. The food that you can order from them was also delicious and made our evenings very comfortable.

Reviewed by Pauline 11th April 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Superb accommodation in a lovely rural setting. Large beautiful garden with lots of space to sit and relax. Hosts were fantastic and enjoyed a freshly cooked Italian dinner on our first night. There is a farm shop within walking distance that sells a good range of meats and fruit and veg. Instow and Bideford are close by and some great beaches for Read moredog walking. Overall we had a relaxing 5 day break and would return. Hide

Reviewed by Bryn 4th April 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Fantastic property, well appointed and very comfortable, large walled garden was great for the dog to run around in and was very secure. The owners Mark and Jess, offer an Italian meal menu that you can order - really worth doing as the meals are first class. The location is great - Instow is 10 minutes drive well worth an evening trip to watch theRead more sun going down over Appledore and estuary - the whole region is dotted with great walks, beaches, pubs and cafes. Would book this property again Hide

Reviewed by Joyce 28th March 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A wonderful stay in beautiful surroundings. The devon cream tea, with homemade scones and fresh eggs were a lovely touch. Amazing private garden area to relax in. Would recommend.

Reviewed by Helen 21st March 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We stayed at the Italian Stables for a week in March. It is a lovely property with a beautiful enclosed garden which was very safe for our dog. The garden is a bit of a suntrap even in March. The bed was comfortable and there is a logburner for cooler evenings. Just up the road (2 mins walk) is a lovely farm shop selling meat, vegetables etc. Also Read moreyou can order Italian food freshly prepared by the owners. It's only a short drive from local attractions including Instow and Appledore. Hide

Reviewed by Catia 14th March 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had an absolutely wonderful stay at the Italian Stables. The cottage was charming, cozy, and beautifully decorated, offering the perfect blend of comfort and rustic charm. Surrounded by breathtaking countryside, it was the ideal peaceful retreat. We particularly enjoyed the attention to detail in the cottage, from the well-equipped kitchen to thRead moree inviting living spaces. We can't recommend this place enough for anyone looking to escape and unwind in nature. Well definitely be back! Hide

Reviewed by John 7th March 2025

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

We stayed at the Italian Stable for a week in March. The location is rural, so very quiet with a good sized secure garden ideal for exercising the dog. We ordered home cooked Italian dishes on three occasions, prepared by Jess to restaurant standard, & delicious. The cottage is very well presented and equipped to a high standard. Mark & Jess were pRead moreerfect hosts. We really enjoyed the beach at Instow & exploring the coastal area. All in all we had a really enjoyable stay & may well return. Hide

Reviewed by Stewart 10th February 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Michelle 27th December 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Very relaxing holiday excellent owners and I would recommend eating from their menu food was amazing

Reviewed by Karen 3rd November 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Beautiful accommodation, well equipped and very comfortable. Our dogs loved the private garden. We especially loved the log burner, comfortable bed and freshly cooked food , prepared by Jess, we had 2 meals and they were delicious. Thoroughly recommended

Reviewed by Jennie 27th October 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

The Italian Stables is a fabulous holiday retreat and the garden was just what a doggie needs and would be wonderful even without one. The Italian food, cooked and delivered by our hosts, was absolutely delicious and a joy to sample. It is well situated, as long as you have a vehicle, but easily accessible to many places of interest to visit and beRead moreaches to walk. We are, and would, highly recommend it. Thank you to Jess and Mark. Hide

Reviewed by Tracey 28th September 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Absolutely gorgeous owners very friendly food can be cooked for you by the owners which was great value and delicious. Fantastic area for the dog

Reviewed by Suzanne 20th September 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Beautiful cottage in a relaxing setting .Mark and Jess great hosts .

Reviewed by Sheila 13th September 2024

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

Reviewed by Michael 23rd August 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Hosts very hospitable, arrived late and the delicious supper very welcome. Accommodation very comfortable, well equipped and garden very inviting for us and dog. The location of property situated in quiet lane surrounded by farmland and gave easy access to local resorts. Lovely holiday, would return.

Reviewed by William 16th August 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Great accommodation bed very comfortable location ideal for visiting Bude.clovely instow.Mark and Jess were brilliant cooked 4 great meals which saved us wasting valuable holiday time looking for somewhere to eat.highly recomended

Reviewed by Caroline 26th July 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Really nice cottage, very clean with everything you need to enjoy your holiday. The fresh scones are a lovely welcome. Nicely placed for visiting local beaches and the Tarka trail. Owners are friendly but discrete and the food offered was delicious.

Reviewed by Aad 19th July 2024

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Reviewed by Russell 14th June 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Great location, compact and comfortable. Easy drive to Instow beach (for unrestricted dog walking), Appledore and Bideford. We loved the spacious walled garden and was a great place to relax.

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Location

Map
Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.
Original Cottages is a trading name of The Travel Chapter Limited | The Travel Chapter Limited is registered in England and Wales. | Registered office Travel Chapter House, Gammaton Road, Bideford, EX39 4DF. Company No. 02431506 | VAT reg: 143053210.