Self Catering Holiday Cottages in North Devon Countryside

One look at the location map will confirm that the cottages make an ideal base to explore the scenic beauty of North Devon.  In fact North Devon is one of only three areas in the UK still classed as 'tranquil'.

Animal Ark Cottages are set in 4 acres of peaceful, rural countryside only 5 miles from the busy market town of Barnstaple.  It is only one mile to the nearest village, Swimbridge, which has a public house (The Jack Russell), post office and church.

Swimbridge was the home of the Reverend John (Jack) Russell and is famous for introducing the Jack Russell terrier.  The Reverend John Russell is buried in the village graveyard.  Dog lovers from all over the world come to Swimbridge to visit the birthplace of this famous breed of dog.

Three miles away the larger village of Landkey boasts two pubs (The Castle and The Ring O'Bells), a small shop and a post office.  Leaving the site and progressing back towards South Molton the picturesque thatched pub The Stag's Head is 2 miles away and the market town of South Molton is 7 miles away. More importantly it is often easier to get to the coastline and Woolacombe, Ilfracombe, Combe Martin and Lynton and Lynmouth this way in the summer months when Barnstaple can be very busy with traffic.

We have National Trust properties like Arlington Court within easy reach and the beautiful gardens at Marwood and the RHS Rosemoor gardens at Torrington.  The nearest beach is approximately 10 miles away and Exmoor National Park is readily accessible.  There is also horse riding, fishing and golf nearby.

Barnstaple is worth visiting for the traditional Pannier and craft markets, Butcher's Row and extensive shopping area as well as the numerous places of historical interest.  In recent years the town has won prestigious Britain in Bloom, as well as European and world floral competitions and the breathtaking floral creations should not be missed!  Barnstaple is also the centre of the Tarka Trail which links the coast and countryside in more than 180 miles of footpaths, cycle ways and railway line.

Children and adults alike can enjoy the attractions of The Big Sheep, Milky Way, Killarney Springs and Watermouth Castle, Exmoor Zoo to name just a few.

In fact North Devon has something for everyone!

Alternatively Animal Ark Cottages is a great place to 'get away from it all'! Just sit and relax by the duck pond or help feed the animals.  Some have been featured in TV's popular Pet Rescuers programme on Channel 4.

Lynn & Steve Marshall
Animal Ark Cottages

East Kerscott, Swimbridge,
Barnstaple, North Devon, EX32 0QA