The perfect Devon getaway: Huntsham Court

The rolling hills, bountiful fields and brisk fresh air are enough to make anyone want to escape to the country for a break. And there’s truly no better place to do so than in Devon. 

When travelling to the county, Mid-Devon houses only the cleverest of tourists; its slight distance from the coast gives one the opportunity to holiday with the—almost extinct—pleasure of exploring nature with true privacy. Sprawling woodlands and corporeal, flowing rivers teem here, and such sights you’d be a fool to miss. Especially when it’s considered that the magical coastlines are a mere 30-minute drive away.

Before or after visting Huntsham Court, The Ginger Peanut hotel is without a doubt the best place to relax as a couple or alone. In the quaint village of Bampton there’s plenty to explore. 

This boutique hotel is decorated to an immaculate degree, with a vault-style dining room and beautiful marble ensuites decked out in each of the five rooms. To top it off, chef Peter Mundy runs the show, and the food is truly exquisite. Combining the many tastes that Devon cuisine is famous for, portions are plentiful and the flavours indulgent. After a day spent walking along the Exmoor National Park admiring the wild ponies, a brilliantly English country meal will delight you.

Deciding on an evening activity while staying here couldn’t be easier with the nearby Devon Badger Watch to take part in; an unmissable treat for any nature lover.

Travelling in groups is a merry affair, and no place reflects this better than Huntsham Court; the wonderfully imposing stately home built in 1760 is the perfect venue for such an occasion. Available exclusively for private hire and with the capacity to house up to 92 overnight guests it’s the ultimate venue for a large family gathering, friends getting together or a wedding. And you’ll be absolutely spoilt for choice with the huge range of activities available there. (And, before you say “Group holidays are such a pain to plan”, Huntsham Court have plenty of very tempting packages to take the stress away from the proposal. All you have to do is manage that group text thread…)

To expend some youthful energy (from both adults and children alike) in true Devonian spirit, spending time outdoors is a must. Archery at Huntsham Court will unleash the city beast you’ve been harbouring onto a target board holding a pinned balloon—a marvellously satisfying “pop” happening on arrival from a well-shot arrow.

Afterwards, you’ll no doubt be in need of a refreshment. Have Bray Valley Wines, come straight to your door for an entertaining and great quality wine tasting session.

All photos are of Huntsham Court