Property Summary
The Tower at Birch Cleave Barns, Simonsbath is a unique converted barn over 3 levels, ideal for a romantic getaway in the heart of the Exmoor National Park. Fully refurbished from top to bottom, it can accommodate up to 2 adults, and the local pub with restaurant is within easy walking distance
Main Description
The Tower at Birch Cleave Barns in Simonsbath is a traditional stone building that has recently been renovated to a high standard, incorporating all modern conveniences to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The owners have worked hard to ensure the charm and character of this quirky property has been retained across all three levels.
Sleeps up to 2 guests
Modern kitchen with breakfast bar on the ground floor
Comfortable sitting room on the first floor
One bedroom with a king sized bed on the top floor
Shower room comprising shower, toilet and hand basin on the ground floor
Outside garden furniture
Wifi, heating and electricity included
Bed linen and towels provided
Sorry, no guests under 18 years of age
Sorry, no dogs.
Strictly non-smoking
Arrive from 4 pm
Depart by 10 am
The Tower accommodation is designed for two with a blend of functionality and comfort, laid out over three levels. Entrance to the property via external steps with metal handrail into the living area. Stairs lead downstairs to the well-equipped kitchen, with breakfast bar and there is an external door here into the garden also. The shower room is also on this level. From the living area, paddle stairs lead up to the top level, where the bedroom is located. Note, the bedroom has low ceilings in places, strategically designed to optimise the space.
The Tower is one of two detached barn conversions in the centre of Simonsbath, set back from the road within a pretty walled garden, each with their own separate outside areas.
Indoor Description
The kitchen is equipped with all new appliances, including a washer and tumble dryer, electric oven and hob, free standing fridge-freezer, kettle, toaster plus crockery, cutlery, glasses and cookware. A Nespresso coffee machine has been added, and a few coffee pods will be left for you. The shower room is also on this ground floor.
The stairs from the kitchen to sitting room which has a plush sofa and smart TV, and wifi is available throughout.
Follow the ingeniously designed paddle stairs to access the rooftop bedroom, which includes integrated cupboard space. Additionally, there are hanging areas along the side of the stairs for clothing and essentials. Note, the bedroom has low ceilings in places, strategically designed to optimise the space.
Electricity and heating costs are included in the price of your accommodation. Central heating is fitted throughout the property.
Bed linen and towels are provided for your convenience. Please bring outdoor/beach towels if you wish to take them with you on day trips.
There can be limited mobile phone signal in parts of Exmoor, due to the rural nature of the area and the beautiful moorlands, hills, valleys and woodlands. Mobile phone signal in Simonsbath can be patchy (depending on your provider) but free wifi is included with the accommodation price, and you can use wifi calling for keeping in touch with home if you need to.
Outdoor Description
Enjoy dinner al fresco on the wooden garden table and chairs, help yourself to the herbs growing in the circular planter when cooking.
There is another holiday cottage nearby (sleeps 4, adult only), the cottages are set in an open-plan area but each one has its own space.
The local pub is just across the road, within easy walking distance for meals out or for a drink at the bar. There is a village store in Exford about four miles away, or a mini-supermarket at Wheddon Cross another 5 miles on from Exford. For your larger supermarkets South Molton which is 11 miles away.
Parking
Off-road parking available beside The Tower.
Pets Description
Sorry, no pets allowed.
Restricted mobility
This has not been completed by the owner.
Exit in case of emergency
There are two doors in the property leading to the outside areas one from the kitchen into the garden on the ground floor and the other from the sitting room which is the front door you enter on arrival.
Christmas / New Year
If booking for Christmas and New year the cottage will have a Christmas tree already decorated.
The region
Simonsbath is a tiny hamlet deep in the heart of Exmoor National Park, where the River Barle meets Ashcombe Water amid wild, open moorland.
Once the centre of the Royal Forest of Exmoor, Simonsbath retains an atmosphere of true remoteness and unspoilt beauty. The hamlet was transformed in the 19th century when the Knight family purchased and began reclaiming the former royal hunting forest, building farmsteads, roads, and plantations across the surrounding moorland. Today, a handful of stone cottages, the renowned Exmoor Forest Inn, and Simonsbath House are all that make up this peaceful settlement.
A Remote Moorland Setting
This is one of the most secluded corners of Exmoor. The surrounding landscape is dominated by rolling open moorland, deep river valleys, and ancient woodland. Red deer roam freely, Exmoor ponies graze the hilltops, and the night skies are among the darkest in England -- perfect for stargazing in the Exmoor International Dark Sky Reserve.
Local Amenities
Simonsbath itself has no shop, so it is worth stocking up before you arrive. The nearest village shops and post offices are in Exford, approximately 5 miles to the south-east, and in Lynton, approximately 10 miles to the north. Dulverton, around 12 miles south, has a wider range of independent shops, a butcher, a chemist, and the Exmoor National Park Visitor Centre. For supermarkets and high street shopping, Minehead is approximately 15 miles away, and South Molton is around 12 miles to the west.