The Watchtower in The Watchtower Ellerslie House Bickington, Barnstaple, EX31 2JF

About The Watchtower

The Watchtower is a Grade II listed building set high on a hill above the River Taw near Barnstaple in Devon. This romantic property sleeps 2 guests and offers 360-degree views across the river with spectacular sunsets. Less than a mile from Barnstaple, it provides waterside views from an elevated position.

The location puts you within easy reach of the long sandy beaches at Westward Ho!, Saunton and Croyde. Bideford sits nearby for Lundy Island day trips. Braunton and Northam Burrows are close enough for evening walks. Local pubs, shops, restaurants, cinema and theatre are all accessible.

The ground floor has an open-plan kitchen/diner with electric oven, microwave and fridge, plus a shower room with WC. Stairs lead to the first floor where you'll find an open-plan lounge with double bed and Smart TV. This layout maximises the river views from the upper level.

The property includes onsite parking and a shared lawn garden with outdoor seating exclusively for Watchtower guests to enjoy those memorable sunsets over the water.

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At HolidayCottages.co.uk

Need To Know

✓Bedrooms: 1
✓Activity: cycling
✓Beach Within 5 Miles
✓Bathrooms: 1
✓Communal Garden
✓Washing machine
✓Fam: High chair
✓Garden enclosed
✓Kitchen
✓Towels included
✓Location: Waterside
✓WiFi
✓Oven
✓Private parking
✓Property type: Castle
✓Property type 2: Detached
✓Pub within 1 mile
✓Shop within 1 mile
✓TV

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What Guests Love

Discover why our guests keep coming back to The Watchtower

Spectacular River Views

360-degree views across the River Taw from an elevated hilltop position with breath-taking sunsets over the water every evening.

Perfect Romantic Retreat

Grade II listed watchtower designed for couples seeking a peaceful escape with intimate open-plan living spaces and waterside setting.

Beach Access

Long sandy beaches at Westward Ho!, Saunton and Croyde within easy reach for surfing and coastal walks throughout your stay.

Peaceful Hilltop Location

Set high above the River Taw in a quiet position yet less than a mile from Barnstaple's shops, restaurants and amenities.

Well-Equipped Kitchen

Open-plan kitchen/diner with electric oven, microwave and fridge provides everything needed for self-catering breaks with river views.

Smart TV Entertainment

First floor lounge features Smart TV for cosy evenings in after exploring Devon's beaches and countryside during the day.

Getting To The Watchtower

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach The Watchtower by car, head to Bickington near Barnstaple in Devon using the postcode EX31 2JF. The property is set high on a hill above the River Taw, less than a mile from Barnstaple town centre with onsite parking available.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Barnstaple, approximately one mile from The Watchtower. From the station, a short taxi ride will take you to this hilltop retreat overlooking the River Taw.

Onsite parking available

Barnstaple station (1 mile)

Less than a mile from Barnstaple centre

Attractions & More Nearby

Everything you need within easy reach

Lundy Island Ferry

Distance: 4 miles

EX39 2EY

Braunton Burrows

Distance: 5 miles

EX33 1LB

Tapeley Park Gardens

Distance: 3 miles

EX39 4NT

Tarka Trail

Distance: 1 mile

EX31 1EE

Northam Burrows Country Park

Distance: 6 miles

EX39 1NW

River Taw Footpath

Distance: 0.2 miles

EX31 2JF

Barnstaple Town Centre

Distance: 1 mile

EX31 1DA

Barnstaple Pannier Market

Distance: 1 mile

EX31 1BW

Tesco Superstore Barnstaple

Distance: 1.5 miles

EX31 2AS

Barnstaple Bus Station

Distance: 1 mile

EX31 1LE

Barnstaple Railway Station

Distance: 1 mile

EX31 2AU

Bideford Town Centre

Distance: 4 miles

EX39 2AH

Lundy Island Ferry

Distance: 4 miles

EX39 2EY

Braunton Burrows

Distance: 5 miles

EX33 1LB

Tapeley Park Gardens

Distance: 3 miles

EX39 4NT

Tarka Trail

Distance: 1 mile

EX31 1EE

Northam Burrows Country Park

Distance: 6 miles

EX39 1NW

River Taw Footpath

Distance: 0.2 miles

EX31 2JF

Barnstaple Town Centre

Distance: 1 mile

EX31 1DA

Barnstaple Pannier Market

Distance: 1 mile

EX31 1BW

Tesco Superstore Barnstaple

Distance: 1.5 miles

EX31 2AS

Barnstaple Bus Station

Distance: 1 mile

EX31 1LE

Barnstaple Railway Station

Distance: 1 mile

EX31 2AU

Bideford Town Centre

Distance: 4 miles

EX39 2AH

Is The Watchtower Right For You?

Discover why this cottage is ideal for different types of visitors

For Families

The Watchtower is not suitable for children as it sleeps only 2 guests in one double bed with no additional sleeping space. The open-plan layout and elevated hilltop position make this property specifically designed for adult couples rather than families. The steep stairs between floors and lack of enclosed outdoor space also make it unsuitable for young children.

For Couples

The Watchtower is perfect for romantic couples seeking a peaceful escape. The Grade II listed building offers complete privacy for two with 360-degree river views and spectacular sunsets. The open-plan first floor combines lounge and bedroom space for intimate evenings. Watch sunsets from the dedicated outdoor seating or enjoy cosy nights with the Smart TV after exploring nearby beaches.

Pet Friendly

The Watchtower does not accept dogs or any other pets. This policy maintains the property for guests with allergies and those preferring a pet-free environment. If you're travelling with a dog, you'll need to find alternative accommodation in the Barnstaple area that welcomes pets. The property management enforces this rule strictly across all bookings.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Watchtower

The Boathouse Inn

Located 0.8 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX31 2JB

The Royal & Fortescue Hotel

Located 1 mile from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX31 1HG

The Corner House

Located 1.2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: EX31 1BS

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Watchtower

Does this cottage have a hot tub?

No, The Watchtower does not have a hot tub. The property features a shared lawn garden with outdoor seating where you can enjoy the river views and sunsets instead.

Is it pet friendly?

No, dogs are not allowed at The Watchtower. This policy helps maintain the property for guests with allergies or those preferring a pet-free environment.

How many people does The Watchtower sleep?

The Watchtower sleeps 2 guests in one double bed located on the first floor. The open-plan layout makes it ideal for romantic couples seeking a peaceful retreat.

What are the bathroom facilities?

The property has one shower room with WC located on the ground floor. The shower room is easily accessible from the open-plan kitchen/diner area.

Is there parking available?

Yes, onsite parking is provided at The Watchtower. You'll have convenient parking right at the property during your stay.

What kitchen facilities are included?

The ground floor open-plan kitchen/diner includes an electric oven, microwave and fridge. The kitchen is well-equipped for preparing meals during your stay.

What are the sleeping arrangements?

The double bed is located on the first floor in an open-plan arrangement with the lounge area. This layout maximises the spectacular river views from the elevated position.

What outdoor space is available?

Guests have access to a shared lawn garden with dedicated outdoor seating exclusively for Watchtower visitors. The outdoor area is perfect for watching sunsets over the River Taw on warm evenings.

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

The Watchtower Reviews

Kim

Absolutely loved staying at the watch tower. the place was well equipped, comfortable and private. Gorgeous views across the estuary. The outside seating area is sheltered and private and there is easy access to the walk ways. the walk down into Barnstable took about 30 mins and it was also easy to join main roads for visiting the general area. We stayed there end of November - need walking boots and brought our own torch but there was one provided.

Shawn

The Watchtower offers a unique opportunity to stay somewhere really special. It's ideal for a romantic stay with fantastic views in a very quiet location. The hosts were very friendly, warm, welcoming and helpful. The property has a wonderfully laid out first floor bedroom with a tv and seating area. The ground floor kitchen has everything you could need and here is where you'll also find the shower room and toilet. We will definitely be visiting again, hopefully at a dryer time of year:)

Rosalind

It was a lovely cost retreat with everything that was needed. Would love to stay again in the future.

Stephen

Could not fault The Watchtower. Veiws and location were perfect. Particularly pleased that it's only a 10 minute walk to the Tarka Trail. We had a lovely walk to Instow then a bus back. The weather turned a little chilly while there, but plenty of heating in the Watchtower, so didn't take long to make it warm and cozy. We would love to go back. So much of the area we didn't get to see.

Robert

We spend a week in the Watch Tower. It is very tastefully restored and comfortable for 2 people. The top floors has 8 sides, 4 walls and 4 beautiful windows top to bottom, with wonderful views all around. Downstairs, the design has fully utilised the space with a fully equipped kitchen/dinner (both oven and microwave), and a modern shower and toilet. The location is perfect with Sainsbury and Aldi nearby. We had a great week.

Ian

Lovely, characterful tower, full of light and great views. Compact but a very airy feel. Wonderful to return to after a dayââ?¬â?¢s walking. Would certainly recommend.

Kim

Lovely place to stay in an ideal location overlooking the estuary. The Cedars Inn is just a short walk and does good food. A number of buses at the end of the lane take you to Westward Ho! and Appledore. The windows in the accommodation need attention and once sorted this will be an ideal place to watch visiting birdlife.

Tracey

This is our 2nd visit to the Watchtower and didn't disappoint. Compact but quirky and very quiet. Location is great and Mr Patel gave us recommendations of places to visit and where to eat out. You won't be disappointed.

Craig

Great place to stay and we thoroughly enjoyed our holiday

Andrew

Once again a fantastic stay at The Watchtower, Mr Patel is a fantastic host and on hand if you need any assistance during your visit, he has a wealth of local knowledge and can point you in the direction of some lovely places. The property was, as always, extremely clean and tidy with everything you could want for your holiday, you are perfectly placed for visiting Barnstaple and the coast with Ilfracombe just a short drive away. The Tarka Trail is also on the doorstep.

Anita

Excellent location, beautiful inside and out. Very comfortable, and clean.

Ken

Very, very comfortable property. Amazing views. Amazing location. Excellent walking routes. Bus routes nearby. All-in-all we had a fantastic holiday!

Janice

Amazing property and location. So near the beautiful North Devon coastline and Tarka trail.

Maxine

Overall a sweet and charming place to stay. Within easy walking distance of the Tarka Trail and Barnstaple. Also, loads to do within a short distance by car/bus. The sunsets are spectacular.

Rosalynn

The Watchtower was an amazing quirky and quaint property. Fully equipped with what you need, and if not would quickly be resolved by the Patelââ?¬â?¢s. Close to lots of places to visitââ?¬¦Fremington Quay lovely place to go on a nice day or dry day. The Pelican fish and chip shop was worth a takeaway ( but be prepared to wait as very popular) The Cedarââ?¬â?¢s Inn good for a meal but service a bit slowââ?¬¦but food good. Will be back when the weather better

Andrew

Beautiful location. Such a quaint and quirky property!

Margaret

Lovely secluded place to relax Located well for visiting local beauty spots Well equipped. Warm and cosy.

Andrew

Yet another fantastic stay, this was our 6th visit in recent years, everything you could need for a comfortable stay is provided, Mr Patel is always on hand if you need anything and is full of local knowledge on the best places to visit. Donââ?¬â?¢t worry thereââ?¬â?¢s no DVD player as itââ?¬â?¢s a Smart TV with Netflix etc if it rains, note that you are going to be living next to fields and countryside so keep an eye out for the deer in the garden and donââ?¬â?¢t fret over the cobwebs, weââ?¬â?¢ve already booked for 2025.

Andrea

The Watchtower is quicky small and basic. Mr Patel greeted us on arrival. Milk, tea. coffee and sugar were provided. Location is between Barnstaple and Bideford with good pubs serving good food nearby.

Mark

The watchtower was absolutely amazing. Would definitely recommend a stay there .Saw deer on the grounds which was magical. Views were beautiful and had all you needed and more for a great stay. We honestly didn't want to leave .Brilliant place well done Mr and Mrs Patel for renovating this fantastic watchtower .

Peter

Lovely quiet peaceful and picturesque. Would recommend this property to walkers. Would not recommend to elderly people. Nowhere to relax indoors but has an outside area with seating. The views from this property are amazing. Beautiful on a nice sunny day.

David

An absolute gem conveniently located near Barnstaple. While the watchtower is not "spacious", it provided enough room for us to spend a week which we will never forget. The views from the top window, and especially the sunset are in a class of their own and I have admired them as often as I could. With so much to do and see nearby (and a bit further away), time flew by and we had to take our leave all too soon.

John

'The Watch Tower' is such a unique holiday let, complimented by it's tranquil location. The access to the tower is by way of a single track lane, which we came to appreciate as a lovely way to return to 'our secret away from home' at the end our days out exploring the lovely coastal towns and countryside. The accommodation was perfect for our needs. The owner Mr Patel, the kindest of hosts, brought back to life this once derelict building enabling those who stay there, 'something special'.

Roger

We were given a very warm welcome to The Watchtower, which provided stunning views, gave the pleasure of being able to watch the deer on several evenings and was a very comfortable base for our visits each day to local places of interest.

Tom

very nice plenty of hot water heating if needed very nice surroundings perfect host perfect place for a peaceful getaway the deer were a bonus

Andrew

Paul

The Watchtower was very well equipped with everything you would need for your stay. Fresh milk was waiting for us in the fridge on our arrival, and Mr Patel welcomed us warmly and gave us some history of the Watchtower. He also gave us some guidance on different places to visit and the best local places to eat. We had a very enjoyable stay. One highlight was seeing the resident deer outside our window in the early morning!

Phillip

Very good location the Watchtower was amazing clean and comfortable a good base for exploring the area. We were lucky enough to see some fabulous sunsets as well. Mr Patel was a good host and was very helpful.

Alan

A unique and special property.

Daniel

The watchtower was amazing, it is so quiet and relaxing, the views are amazing and it has everything you need for a relaxing trip away, the owner even left a pint of milk in the fridge so we could have a cup of tea on arrival. I would recommend this property to anyone and we will definitely consider coming back again.

John

Most relaxing holiday Iââ?¬â?¢ve had in years peace and quite used as a base to travel

Judith

A unique property with great views. A comfortable and relaxing stay in this quiet location. The property was well maintained, clean and had all that we needed. The weather was very stormy as we had Storm Innis and Storm Jocelyn during our stay but we were warm and cosy in the Watch Tower. We enjoyed walking and may be back to cycle the Tarka trail and once again enjoy the cafe at Fremington.

Peter

The watchtower is an amazing property for its size. It's view's are delightful and considering the rainy, windy weather we had, we were so cosy. Couldn't find fault with anything. The place is spotless and having the owner on site was very good for local knowledge. There was everything we needed in the watchtower and we hope to return. Thank you Mr Patel for a wonderful relaxing break.

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The Watchtower features in these Collections

Holiday Cottages in Devon With Parking

The Watchtower, Barnstaple

About The Watchtower

Need To Know

More Cottages With Hot Tubs You May Like

What Guests Love

Spectacular River Views

Perfect Romantic Retreat

Beach Access

Peaceful Hilltop Location

Well-Equipped Kitchen

Smart TV Entertainment

Getting To The Watchtower

By Car

By Train

Attractions & More Nearby

Is The Watchtower Right For You?

For Families

For Couples

Pet Friendly

Dining & Cafes

The Boathouse Inn

The Royal & Fortescue Hotel

The Corner House

Frequently Asked Questions

Location Name

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

The Watchtower Reviews

The Watchtower features in these Collections