A Romantic Sanctuary in Rural Devon
As the soft, milky evening light of a Devon autumn washed over the whitewashed walls, we arrived at Rose Cottage and paused, utterly captivated by the historic charm of the thatched property. Stepping through the ancient stone wall and along the short path, we entered what felt like a scene lifted directly from the pages of Romantic poetry.
Immersed in Romance and History
The moment we crossed the threshold, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of timeless romance. Subdued lighting highlighted ancient, stripped beams while the scent of freshly baked bread filled the air, accompanied by the gentle strains of calming music. A substantial inglenook fireplace stood opposite a dining table set for two, complete with a vase of fresh flowers and a homemade lemon drizzle cake.
On a inviting leather settee, mother and baby teddy bears appeared to be enjoying an old storybook about High Bickington – the classic English ridgetop village recorded in the Domesday Book that would be our home for three days. For my partner, photographer Sue Mountjoy, and myself, this marked the beginning of a discovery of the rolling local countryside, the welcoming village community, and nearly deserted sandy beaches.
Most importantly, this became a journey into the unfettered romanticism of Rose Cottage itself, where memories from its 1700s origins blend seamlessly with 21st-century comforts and technology.
Thoughtful Touches for Couples
While many historic British holiday homes offer luxury and relaxation, Rose Cottage distinguishes itself with its unwavering romantic theme. From the red rose petals scattered across the white cotton duvet beside the Champagne ice bucket in the master bedroom to the freestanding copper bath-for-two in the adjoining room – complete with a 'LOVE' sign on the wall – the property creates an intoxicating, sensual atmosphere that would warm even the coolest heart.
Outside, the very private rear yard features a hot tub maintained at the perfect temperature throughout our stay, ideal for evening dips with a chilled white wine from the wall rack or cocktails mixed from the honesty bar in the sitting room.
Within a short drive or pleasant walk, guests can book private evenings at the BBQ House on the Millbrook Estate, owned by Bob and Kate Boothby, or reserve the estate's sauna for exclusive use – both prepared in advance for immediate enjoyment. The property even offers a dedicated Rose Cottage app with comprehensive information about the cottage and surrounding area.
Exploring Devon's Natural Beauty
We embraced the bracing Devon air with walks along the estate's extensive woodland trails and visits to the village heart. The community shop, established about a decade ago in the old chapel and run by enthusiastic volunteers, welcomed us like old friends, serving hot Devon pasties and afternoon tea on Ming Rose Coalport China – which Sue recognised as identical to her maternal grandmother's Sunday tea set.
Venturing a few miles west, we discovered the golden-hued North Devon coastline in autumn, where summer crowds had vanished, leaving near-empty beaches at Instow and Saunton Sands. We wandered arm-in-arm among grounded yachts and local dog walkers, enjoying shoulder-season sunshine.
Though we missed the Glamorous Oyster seafood shack due to its closing day, Instow offered plenty of quality dining alternatives. We particularly enjoyed the Boathouse's crab and prawn linguine dishes complemented by superb balcony views.
Binoculars in hand, we explored the Tarka Trail at Fremington Quay, where we spotted Common Buzzards soaring majestically against a cloudless blue sky. A pit stop at the popular café in the former railway station provided warming cauliflower cheese soup and delicious grilled goat's cheese, walnut, and chilli baguettes, enjoyed on the balcony overlooking what was once a busy coal and clay shipping port, now transformed into a delightful nature reserve.
Evenings of Secluded Comfort
Though we could have visited more distant parks, resorts, or well-reviewed local gastropubs, Rose Cottage consistently called us back to evenings of secluded comfort. We cherished the flickering firelight, soft music from the Sonos system, and the particular pleasure of creating homemade banquets in the well-equipped kitchen.
After Italian and Spanish-inspired suppers, we settled in – with television and smartphones switched off – among soft lights, music, and even the snuggled teddy bears, enjoying reading sessions. I particularly treasured Sue's gift: a well-thumbed 1993 copy of The Oxford Book of English Love Poems. Cupid's presence felt undeniable, inspiring me to compose a verse honouring our secluded sanctuary.
A Fond Farewell
On our final morning, we wandered through the village once more, chatting with locals taking excited children to the thriving primary school and admiring the majestic Saxon St Mary's Church, whose list of rectors dates back to Master Selo in 1202.
At the community shop, we bid farewell after purchasing crafts and a jumper for a grandchild, lovingly knitted for charity by an elderly local woman. 'We never know what colours they are going to be until they turn up,' one volunteer explained with a smile.
Minutes later, looking back at Rose Cottage's welcoming archway, charming windows, and immaculate white walls, we both agreed this could well be one of Britain's most romantic cottages.
FACTFILE: A week's stay at Rose Cottage for up to four people starts from £1,274, while a three-night stay begins at £644. For more information and bookings, visit www.rosecottagedevon.co.uk or call 01769 629069.
