Over Lemon River
Ashburton, Dartmoor, Devon, UK
Dartmoor is Devon’s wild heart; a place where heather cloaks the ground like an over-sized velvet eiderdown and granite tors scramble to meet big open skies. On fine days, ponies wander amidst the mysticism of faeries and phantom hounds but, when the swirling mists arrive (and they will), this luxury self-catering barn is the perfect couple’s hideaway. Strike a match to the wood-fired hot tub and settle in for one seductively slow weekend.
Introduction
Hugging the southeastern border of Dartmoor National Park, Over Lemon River sits within an old working farm three miles from the charming Devon town of Ashburton. Following a life of labour, the bijou stone outhouse has undergone a Cinderella-style transformation into a luxury self-catering barn for two. Where there were mud floors now lies underfloor heating, where there was hay now sits midnight-blue velvet sofas and, in place of the old mill wheel, a wood-fired hot tub for those lustrous starry nights. This is a place where city folk and country lovers can hunker down, warm a bottle of red by the woodburner and watch their worries melt away like lemon drops.
Inside
When the owner converted this old millhouse within the grounds of his family farm, privacy and luxury were to be key components. There was an emphasis on using local architects as well as materials to give the barn a modern, rural edge. Natural rattan furnishings combine with matt black fittings and monochrome tones on the ground floor, which comprises an open-plan living space complete with woodburner nook. Next to the double bedroom, a luxe bathroom suite (with tub for two...) matches the kitchen worktops, both crafted from charcoal-grey microcement. Suspended above, a TV snug hides on the mezzanine floor with glass balustrade, optimising the space in the high apex roof.
Outside
Two fields totaling six acres run adjacent to the barn's neat pebble courtyard, temping slow strolls through the buttercups and brunches by the river. It may be tempting to hole up and never leave, but Dartmoor's wilderness begs for adventure. Whether hill hiking with dogs in tow, or trying your hand at white water kayaking, there is plenty to get hearts pumping. When sleeting rain arrives, wellington-clad visitors can seek shelter in one of the rustic pubs or country house restaurants close by. At twilight however, you won't want to be anywhere but Over Lemon River, where the covered outdoor ruin with hot tub and fire pit affords a sumptuous vantage point for stargazers.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 2 guests
From £1,295 per week, £995 per short break - Bedrooms and bathroomsOn the ground-floor is one bedroom complete with king-size bed, along with one bathroom next door. The bathroom features a freestanding bath with central taps (meaning it´s perfect for two!), plus a separate shower and WC.
- FeaturesAl fresco living space with wood-fired hot tub and fire pit
- PetsTwo dogs are welcome
Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabes-in-arms six months and under are very welcome, a cot and highchair are provided.
- PracticalitiesThe kitchen consists of an electric oven with induction hob, a slimline dishwasher, washing machine, microwave, integrated fridge and freezer, Belfast sink, microwave and compact dining table. There is a designated parking area for one car by the barn, accessed via a private lane. Please note the access track is not suitable for low-slung cars. The owners live on the farm in the neighbouring field with their two children, chickens and horses; they will available should you need them during your stay but otherwise will not disturb you. The stairs leading to the snug are steep. The River Lemon runs below the property and can become deep in winter. There is an outside tap, ideal for muddy dog paws after long walks on Dartmoor. If bringing dogs with you, please be aware the property is surrounded by livestock and animals.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper of local produce, fresh flowers from the garden, Devonshire cream tea, handmade soaps, board games, luxury bed linen and towels...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Ashburton
This vibrant, ancient stannary town on the southern slopes of Dartmoor dates back to Saxon times and is a gleaming gem amidst Devon´s patchwork countryside. Hop on board Ashburton´s antiques trail and fill your suitcase with treasures of your own.
Getting there
- On the Map This rustic-luxe Devon barn conversion in Dartmoor National Park is three miles north of Ashburton on the River Lemon
- By Car Just over three hours from London by car; half an hour south of Exeter
- By Train Newton Abbot train station is approximately 15 minutes away, with regular lines to London and beyond
- By Air Exeter airport is around 30 minutes drive away, where taxis are available for your onward journey
From the owner
“We purchased the farm in 2016 and when we discovered the old mill in the grounds it was completely overgrown with self-seeded ash trees, covered in ivy and with a rotten tin roof. It was very daunting embarking on the project, especially within Dartmoor National Park where planning is never certain!”
Having been born in Devon, I have been lucky enough to call Little Sigford Farm my home for my entire life.
After moving away for university and work, I decided to move back in 2008 and convert an old barn to live in. Married in 2012 and now with two small children, we love Devon life and wish to remain here for many years to come.
Having purchased the buildings and extra land in late 2016 shortly after my father passed away, we thought the old mill buildings would be perfect to convert, as he had always dreamed of owning the extra land. On instructing a local conservation architect we gave them our brief for the build, which was to capture the industrial history as well as its agricultural uses in the past, but also inject it with a modern touch.
After a few tense months and some heart-stopping moments when we thought we might not get planning permission, it was approved. We found a fantastic local builder who grasped what we wanted from the build instantly and has added his skill and keen eye throughout the project. The house has formed part of what will be a year never to forget.
The Prior Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Ashburton with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
Bovey Castle
Home to two restaurants of two very different personalities, Bovey Castle serves up classic British cuisine in a stunning setting. Settle down with a hot chocolate or flute of Champagne and enjoy vast views of the Devon countryside by one of the roaring fires. Unashamedly indulgent.
To See
Wistman´s Wood, Dartmoor
A fascinating place steeped in myth and legend, the twisted branches of the stunted oak trees (barely over five metres tall) entwined together over a mossy floor are a sight to behold. The wood has remained unspoilt for hundreds of years, accessible via an easy waymarked path.
To Do
Dartmoor National Park
As well as its beautiful wilderness, Dartmoor has towns and villages a-plenty to explore. From brooding Princetown and picturesque Widecombe-in-the-Moor to tiny Postbridge and genteel Chagford, this slice of Devon is renowned for its plethora of tearooms and antiques shops.
To Do
Wild Swimming
Join the latest craze in outdoor pursuits with a spot of wild swimming; there are many excellent locations to choose from on Dartmoor. If you´d rather enjoy the water without getting wet, walk or picnic alongside the River Lemon that runs adjacent to the farm.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
A really perfect stay. The house was beautiful, super private and had absolutely everything you could need/want. That coupled with the amazing weather we had made it our favourite weekend break yet.
We can’t fault Unique Homestays and the fabulous stay we experienced at Over Lemon River, a true country escape and a home away from home. We felt immediately relaxed and comfortable the moment we stepped through the door and enjoyed every moment of being there. We wanted a country escape from our busy London lives and Over Lemon River ticked all the boxes for us. The hot tub was a big booking factor to relax and unwind in!
The rebuilding of the Old Mill was inspired and exceptional. Architecturally it is a gem. The facilities and furnishings are ideal and we could not have had a better place to stay and unwind. The icing on the cake was arriving to find the hot tub all fired up so we could immediately relax after our long journey!
Everything was fantastic, the location was great and the weather the perfect. We could not have wished for a better holiday. We have already recommended the property to all of our friends.
Over Lemon River is an absolutely beautiful, cosy cottage in a wonderful location and we would highly recommend it. The owner was wonderful and helped us get a fire going when we city-folk couldn´t manage it! The location is so peaceful and all of the facilities are fantastic; the bath is wonderful, the bed very comfy and the whole place has been carefully designed for comfort and luxury.
Over Lemon River is charming, extremely comfortable, very well appointed and attention to detail is high. It´s located in a very peaceful, rural location and this can be enjoyed within the relaxing hot tub which is a lovely feature. The owners are very welcoming and helpful too!
Located in the centre of Dartmoor national park, the facilities such as hot tub, bathtub and fire pit were perfect for our romantic honeymoon! It was all fabulous, and the hosts, Peter and Kay were very welcoming and helpful. Beautiful cottage with great facilities.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Over Lemon River and Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
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The UK´s best converted barns
Condé Nast Traveller
December 2022Over Lemon River
Self Build & Design
December 2020Snow white
Country Homes & Interiors
December 2024The UK´s cosiest boltholes for Christmas
The Times
December 2024Natural beauty
25 Beautiful Homes
December 202425 of the best autumn getaways
The Times
November 2024Good manors
Condé Nast Traveller
November 2024Ways to improve your life—from our experts
The Times
October 2024
Luxury Self-Catering Cottages > UK > Devon > Ashburton > Over Lemon River
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
