Around 12 miles off shore of our beautiful North Devon coast sits Lundy Island – a beautiful island which abounds with wildlife. Many people have attempted to swim, row or kayak to it – but none have been pre-teens. Which is why we were really impressed when we heard how 12-year-old Finn McAuley, from nearby Braunton, is planning on kayaking to the island to raise money for charity. As the owners of Devon holiday homes with a pool we’re used to seeing children in the water – and know how most would never be able to make such an impressive trip at such a tender age. Finn could come across seals, porpoises or even basking sharks on the trip, and will also have to battle strong tidal currents and potentially strong winds. But he’s determined to do it for The Calvert Trust, which helps disabled people take part in outward bound activities, and Make The Move, which runs theatre workshops in Ilfracombe. Rob McIntyre, who runs Sea Kayaking South West, has been helping Finn train and is confident he’ll make the trip. That’s partly because of Finn’s experience – he paddled the length of the Thames last year – and partly because of his determination. He said the trip will take around five hours and that the most challenging thing will be for Finn to cope with the demand of being sat in an adult kayak for that length of time. “It will be challenging for him, and me,” said Rob. “But I’m not worried about him at all.” 29.8.14
Honey Pot is a beautiful, compact cottage ideal for couples. Honey Pot is dog-friendly and fully equipped for a comfortable break in North Devon.
Primrose Lane cottage is a dog-friendly, compact cottage. Boasting a double bedroom, Primrose Lane cottage can sleep up to 3 with a pull out sofa bed ideal for children
Buttercup Cottage is an ideal cottage for families, especially those with fury members as its dog-friendly. Located in the courtyard, Buttercup cottage can sleep 4
Located in the courtyard, Honeysuckle Cottage is dog-friendly and ideal for families of up to 4.
Sea View cottage is a superb, dog-friendly holiday cottage with stunning views across the North Devon coast. Ideal for families of 5. The bedrooms have the amazing view across the Sterridge valley and the Bristol Channel to Wales
Sunalways Cottage is a spacious, family-friendly cottage sleeping 5 with beautiful views of the Sterridge valley. The vaulted ceilings give a large bright spacious living area
Fisherswood Cottage is a large and spacious cottage with beautiful vaulted ceilings. Sleeping up to 5 guests.
Forest View Cottage is a large, spacious cottage ideal for large families. This cottage is dog-friendly and can sleep up to 6 guests.
Meadow Sweet is dog friendly and the largest cottage at Smythen Farm. Book this cottage early as its well sort-after for large families or 2 families sharing. Meadow Sweet boasts stunning views across the Sterridge Valley.