North Devon Holiday Cottages -  Accommodation nr Barnstaple

Animal Ark Cottages are part of the original East Kerscott farm.  Records suggest that there has been a dwelling on this land since 1590.  In fact the current buildings can be dated back to around 1680 with additions/modifications made to the main house around 1830.  We have endeavoured to equip the cottages with everything you need to make your stay memorable and we consistently receive comments from our guests on how well equipped the cottages are, in fact many of our guests re-book for the next year.

Communal Gardens
There is a large three-tiered communal garden, which is available to both cottages.  It is equipped with a large 'party' BBQ, garden furniture, climbing frame/swings.  Volleyball, badminton, and croquet equipment is also available.

Services
The rental charge includes all electricity, heating, bed linen and towels.  Oil-fired central heating (with thermostatic controls on each radiator) is fitted throughout both cottages making them warm and cosy whatever the weather. In addition each has a 'coal effect' LPG feature fire, colour TV, video player, radio/CD/cassette player in the lounge areas.  Both cottages have smoke alarms installed.  There is ample off-road car parking.

The Surroundings
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'.

Orchard Cottage (sleeps up to 6)
Overlooking the duck pond (fenced in), this 17th century stables has been converted to a spacious 3 bedroomed cottage with many of the original features and beams still retained. Ground floor: lounge with coal burning effect LPG fire and double sofa bed.  Large kitchen/diner with electric cooker, fridge/freezer, dishwasher and microwave.  Utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer, iron and ironing board.  Shower room with basin and wc. First floor: three bedrooms (one family room with double and single bed, one with double bed and one with twin beds), bathroom with bath, over bath shower, basin and wc.  Private patio area with garden furniture and BBQ.

Cider Press Cottage (sleeps up to 6)
This character 17th century cider house has been converted to a fully equipped 3 bedroomed cottage, yet retains the original cider press and many exposed beams. Ground floor: Open plan kitchen/lounge/diner complete with coal burning effect LPG fire, electric cooker, fridge/freezer, dishwasher and microwave.  Utility room with sink unit, washing machine, tumble dryer, iron and ironing board.  Bathroom with bath, over bath shower, basin and wc. First floor: Three bedrooms (one family room with double and single beds, one with double bed and one with twin beds).
Private patio area with garden furniture and BBQ.

Some typical comments...
Orchard Cottage:
"Beautiful cottage and surroundings. Ideal place for our cycling and walking..."
"The cottage is super - all the home comforts.  We've really enjoyed our stay."
"Wonderful spot!!! Cosy cottages - great walks."
"Very enjoyable holiday once again."

Cider Press Cottage:
"Great holiday. Beautiful cottage in a wonderful setting. I will return."
"Such a lovely cottage. We hope to return again soon."
"Fantastic!"
"Aside from the low beams this is a fantastic place and we all want to live here permanently!"
"Loved the cottage, love the duck pond - a great place for 'BBQ' and fun!"
"Thanks for two lovely weeks.  Cottage lovely.  Loved the animals!"
"This is the England we love and miss..."

Lynn & Steve Marshall
Animal Ark Cottages

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