AREA GUIDE

COVE VALLEY, DEVON

Cove Valley is a rewilding project in the heart of the Exe Valley, on the edge of Exmoor National Park, designed to bring nature and those who dwell there back to life. We must think big and act wild to restore nature. Our three unique cabins are within the 300-acre reserve, providing a luxurious, ranch-style experience.

Here is everything you need to know about staying at Cove Valley and the surrounding area.

What to see at Cove Valley:

Cove Valley is an area of natural beauty home to diverse wildlife. Whilst staying you can expect to see a variety of animals, including:

  • Red Deer: One of the largest land mammals in the UK, the red deer is a common sight in the hills and forests of Devon. Guests can see these majestic animals grazing in open fields or woods.

  • Badgers: These nocturnal creatures are a delight to watch, especially in the evening when they come out to forage for food. You may spot badgers in the woods and fields. 

  • Otters: Often seen in the rivers and streams, where they swim and fish for food. They are active day and night; you may be lucky to spot them playing in the water.

  • Beavers: A returning keystone species, this nocturnal animal lives in a lodge or burrow on the water's edge. You might spot their handiwork near the ponds where they strip bark for food and fell trees to build dams.

  • Foxes: Another nocturnal animal, the fox, can be spotted in the fields and hedgerows. They are usually most active at dusk and dawn.

  • Birds: Cove Valley is an excellent place for bird watching, with many species to be seen, such as the buzzard, kestrel, peregrine falcon, goshawk, barn owl, and tawny owl. You can spot smaller birds like the robin, blue tit, and chaffinch.

  • Butterflies and insects: With various wildflowers and plants, you can expect to see many different species of butterflies and insects, such as the orange tip, small tortoiseshell, and common blue.

THE LOCAL AREA

Cove Village

Cove is a small village in Tiverton, Devon, in the South West of England. While it is a small village, there are some lovely local spots.

Our favourites:

  • The Lost Kitchen, Tiverton - The Lost Kitchen offers a unique dining experience focusing on locally sourced ingredients and farm-to-table cuisine. The restaurant's elegant yet rustic ambience and the passion and expertise of its chef make it a must-visit for foodies and those looking for a unique dining experience in the area.

  • Six On Castle, Bampton - A Georgian guesthouse & artisan coffee shop in Bampton. Serving hot and cold drinks, sweet treats, and a small selection of gifts and home treasures.

  • Bampton Delicatessen, Bampton - offering a range of high-quality, speciality foods, such as meats, cheeses, bread, and other artisanal products.

  • Bampton Fresh, Bampton - an independent, family-run Grocers shop supplying homegrown and locally sourced produce. You can place online orders or visit them in-store.

Further afield

If you've had a great time discovering Cove Valley and want to venture out, Devon is a well-known tourist spot in the South West of England. It offers a variety of local facilities and attractions for tourists. Below are some of the popular places to visit:

FOOD & DRINK:

  • The Pig at Combe, Honiton (48 minute drive)

  • The Bull Inn, Totnes (1 hour 7 min drive)

  • Woods, Dulverton (20 minute drive)

BEACHES:

Devon is known for its stunning coastline, and you can enjoy visiting nearby beaches in both North & South Devon. Our favourites are:

  • Saunton Sands (1 hour 14 minute drive)

  • Croyde (1 hour 19 minute drive)

  • Salcombe (1 hour 35 minute drive)

NATIONAL PARKS: 

Exmoor and Dartmoor National Park are a short drive from Cove Valley, where guests can enjoy hiking, cycling and other outdoor activities in stunning scenery. 

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES:

Devon has a rich history and culture, and guests can visit various museums and galleries, such as the Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter, the Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, and the Burton Art Gallery and Museum in Bideford.

ATTRACTIONS: 

Devon has a range of visitor attractions, including the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth, the Wildwood Park in Escot, and the Babbacombe Model Village in Torquay.

Dartmoor

Dartmoor

Exmoor Ponies

Saunton Sands

If you have booked a stay at one of our cabins, we look forward to welcoming you. If you are considering a visit, we hope our area guide has convinced you. You can book your stay here.