Stable Cottage, Lower Hookner Farm

Some places are made for slowing down, and Stable Cottage is one of them.

Set on Lower Hookner Farm, near North Bovey, this converted stone barn sits in a peaceful corner of Dartmoor, away from busy roads and the bustle of everyday life. The cottage is separate from the main farmhouse, giving you your own little space to settle into, with countryside all around and plenty of room in the day for a long walk followed by absolutely nothing at all.

Inside, things are comfortably traditional rather than flashy. The living room has a wood-burning stove, with logs supplied, making it a welcome place to put your feet up after a day outdoors. There’s a proper little kitchen for sorting breakfast before a walk or cooking supper in the evening, and the double bedroom makes this a cosy choice for couples. The bathroom has a bath with a power shower over it.

Outside is where the cottage really comes into its own. A large, south-facing veranda runs along the building, with garden furniture for lingering over a morning coffee or watching the light change across the landscape. The private garden looks towards a pond and the farm paddock, giving the place a lovely rural feel. It’s worth noting that the garden isn’t confirmed as enclosed, so do check with the owners if your dog needs a secure space.

And then there are the walks. You don’t need to bundle everyone into the car before setting off: the farm gates open onto the moor, and the Mariners’ Way footpath runs through the farm itself. There are fields, woodland and streams to discover, too, making this a wonderful part of Devon for dogs who enjoy a proper sniff about and owners who like to get off the beaten track.

Lower Hookner is a working hill farm, so there are cattle, horses, chickens and ducks about. Dogs are welcome, provided they’re well behaved and kept under control around the animals. It’s a real farm setting, with all the character that comes with it.

When you fancy a change of scene, North Bovey is around two miles away, with its thatched pub beside the village green. Moretonhampstead and Chagford are both roughly four miles from the farm and are handy for a wander, a bite to eat or picking up supplies. And if you fancy a day by the sea, both the South Devon beaches and North Devon coast are within roughly an hour’s drive.

A few thoughtful touches make settling in easier. Bed linen is provided, and there’s a small welcome pack with milk, eggs and bread. Towels aren’t supplied, so remember to bring your own.

Stable Cottage won’t suit anyone looking for a flashy, modern escape. Its appeal is simpler than that: a traditional stone cottage, a quiet corner of Dartmoor, walks from the doorstep and a warm fire waiting when you get back. Bring the dog, pack your walking boots and give yourself permission to take things slowly.