Shires is only a mile off the A30 and 2 miles from the A303 but when you turn off the main road it’s like a different world; quiet country lanes and staggering views of the East Devon countryside, stretching across the beautiful Yarty Valley, just rolling hills and wide open fields. This is where your holiday begins, where you start to unwind. Down you go, right down to the bottom of the hill where you’ll find Shires tucked away next to a 15th century thatched cottage.
Shires used to be the wagon shed and milking parlour on a busy dairy farm but now it’s been thoughtfully transformed into a swish and contemporary large group holiday house that sleeps 12 people in 6 bedrooms and has room for 2 optional extra guest beds, charged per person. It’s sleek, it’s unique and it’s right up there with hi-tec features like subtle colour changing lighting tubes and wireless connectivity throughout. What sets this house apart is how much consideration has gone into making it access friendly, with removable hoists and a lift, and level ground. Outside there’s a huge garden with plenty of room for the children to run about and there's a play area for them. Rain or shine you can sizzle steaks or toast marshmallows in the BBQ lodge; with that and a games room, movie room and spa hall that has a pool, hot tub and sauna, there’s plenty to keep you all occupied.
If you want to venture out you won’t have to go far to discover some great places. It’s only about 20 minutes to the coast where you can spend the day at Lyme Regis; visit Dinosaurland Fossil Museum and the Marine Aquarium, take a trip round the bay on a rib ride or try catching your supper on a fishing trip. Go fossil hunting at Charmouth, ride along the beautiful Exe estuary on the tram at Seaton. If you need to stock up on provisions the towns of Honiton, Axminster and Taunton are within easy reach, or pootle about the lanes to Millers Farm Shop to fill your basket with local delights.
Take the little ones to see the animals at Ferne Animal Sanctuary or Axe Valley Wildlife Park, enjoy history and gorgeous gardens at Forde Abbey or Killerton House, for fun-filled family time, take a trip to Diggerland Devon, Mansell Raceway or Crealy Adventure Park.
There are excellent country pubs and restaurants within a short drive, like the award winning Cotley Inn at Wambrook and the Candlelight Inn at Bishopswood. If you’re here to celebrate a big birthday or anniversary, have one of our recommended caterers come in to cook up a feast for you (see Extras) because you may not feel the need to go anywhere at all. You’ll probably be more than happy at Shires, or just ambling about the footpaths through the fields. Special days with special people in a very special pace; book your stay at Shires today!