Here at Smythen Farm we may have some of the finest North Devon holiday cottages with indoor pool facilities but should you want to venture out and enjoy what the rest of the region has on offer in the form of picnic spots – look no further, we’ve got a host of the best locations for you to see right here. What better way to enjoy a sunny day, than wake up, enjoy a leisurely swim, then pack up some snacks, sandwiches, cakes and some cool beverages, and head out for a stroll? Here are our top 7 picks for irresistible picnic spots in North Devon: Eggesford Forest A quaint picnic area lies in wait for you at Eggesford Forest. A lovely spot to stop if you’re taking the scenic road coming to us here in North Devon, on the way home, or even just while you’re on holiday. You can eat your lunch amongst the trees, and enjoy their pleasant shade on a hot summer’s day. There are also a range of walks on offer through the forest to keep you occupied for the day should you fancy it. Torrington Commons Originally, the commons was presented to the people of Torrington back in the 12th centu-ry, and has remained unspoilt since that time. Visitors to the Commons can indulge in walks consisting of 20 miles of footpaths, with a selection of wild flower meadows, woodland, or the banks of the River Torridge to lay your blanket down for your picnic. Barricane Beach, Woolacombe Take yourself off the proverbial beaten track of the tourist-hub in Woolacombe, and you’ll be greeted with the beautiful, sheltered cove that is the local’s favourite- Barricane Beach. You can bring your own food and settle down, or even enjoy one of the renowned, and quite simply delicious curries in the equally tasty summer evenings from the café on the beach. Braunton Burrows Largely unused by the masses, who opt for the main sandy hot spots, Braunton Burrows is the ideal place to set up your picnic among the network of sand dunes. And what’s more is that you’re almost certain to find a secret spot there too! Park your vehicle at Sandy Lane, or venture down to Crow Point where you can admire the abundance of local wildlife, spot birds in the estuary and enjoy some unrivalled peace in this picturesque spot. Witslandpound Reservoir This tranquil lake, located near Blackmore Gate, is surrounded by a wealth of conifers, and makes the perfect spots for a peaceful picnic right in the heart of North Devon. Amble around the still lake until you find yourself the spot you desire, sit down and take in the view- snack in hand. Coddon Hill Located on the outskirts of Barnstaple, in a small village called Bishops Tawton, you can park at the bottom near of the hill and take the short walk to the top of Coddon Hill where you’ll be greeted with some of the most awe-inspiring, panoramic views across North Dev-on. This is the place to be if you want to sit in plush green fields and admire the landscapes of Barnstaple and Exmoor. Instow Beach If you use Instagram and you search the hashtag ‘#instow’ you’ll be aware of plethora of some of the most incredible images of sunsets North Devon has available! Get yourselves down for a romantic picnic to enjoy dusk and watch the spectrum of warming colours deco-rating the sky at the mouth of the estuary. commons.wikimedia.org under Creative Commons.
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.