Dog Friendly
The rural heart of Devon
Just two and a half miles in from the rugged North Devon coast along narrow country lanes and in the rural heart of the North Devon Biosphere Reserve, Kerswell Farm, nestled on a south-facing hillside, is approached down a long gravel drive with far-reaching vistas across to Dartmoor. Please be aware, both of our luxurious cottages are for adults only.
Dark skies and outstanding views of the Milky Way makes star-gazing snuggled under cosy blankets a favourite pastime. No longer a working farm, but surrounded by agricultural land and grazing animals, the listed 17th century Kerswell Farm is now managed for wildlife and conservation, as is the adjoining 35 acres. The silence and deep peace is something that all who come here comment upon. Visitors have full access to the 28 acres of species-rich culm grassland, meadows, woodland, lakes and pastures. The special habitat provided by the culm grassland supports many rare species of flowers and has been designated as a County Wildlife Site – we manage it in partnership with Devon Wildlife Trust.
Tranquillity at Kerswell Farm
Streams are everywhere, and the unique habitats created by the geology of the area make it diverse and fascinating throughout the year. Wellies are often needed when exploring the land however! The colourful spectacle of the wildflowers and grasses in the Spring and early Summer are unforgettable, and the beautiful old trees in the Devon hedgebanks, festooned with lichens, ferns and fungi are testament to the fresh, clean air.
The tranquil environment around our four small lakes makes them a perfect spot to relax with a paintbrush, binoculars, camera, a drink and a book or to take a deep breath and just be. Swooping dragonflies and damselflies over the waterlilies entertain and enchant. Kingfishers are often seen fishing in the lakes.
Immerse yourself in nature
A wide range of birds visit the farm and the resident barn owls are often in evidence. We have been making a list of the different birds seen, and it has now reached an extraordinary 70! Two barn owl boxes are high up in one of our barns, and a brood was successfully raised again last year. You are welcome to sit quietly and watch the parents swooping silently in and out of the barn.
The nectar-rich flowers give rise to a wide range of insect life which in turn feeds many birds and small mammals. Deer are also regularly seen and otters visit the lakes in the Spring.
