Seven miles from sleepy Sidmouth, at the foot of East Hill, are 17 acres of old apple farm. Among tipis, hens, farmhouse, gardens, play areas and a big communal courtyard with picnic tables are six cottages – heaven for kids. It’s pampering too, thanks to owner Jacqueline’s treatments: Indian head massages, Japanese facials, reflexology. Quarenden Cottage, the former apple store, is the largest in the row, beautifully cared for inside and out. You get sweeping oak floors and a huge leather sofa, fashionable florals and a wood-burning stove, atmospheric lighting and courtyard views. Bathrooms have fabulous fittings and delicious local soaps, the open-plan kitchen is a cook’s delight and the bedrooms fit under the eaves. The owners – keen greenies, foodies too – live in the farmhouse and Jacqueline makes marmalade, lemon curd, apple juice and fruit crumbles in season; there’s also meat from the farm next door. Choose from their great list of attractions: the Donkey Sanctuary, Crealy Adventure Park, the Jurassic Coast Hopper, or sign up to an onsite cookery or photography course.
Our family stayed in Medlar Cottage for a long weekend in January 2015 with our two year old daughter and could not fault Mazzard Farm. The grounds are perfect for exploring with little ones and the cottages are well stocked with everything you could need, including the necessary cots, monitors, high chairs and toys which toddlers require! Nearby Ottery St. Mary has plenty of lovely foodie shops, perfect for buying local produce to cook and enjoy back in front of the log burner in our cottage. We are certainly planning to return next year and would highly recommend.