Catboat Cottage: a stone's throw from the beach. Shops & pubs are 2 minute walk.
Listen to the sound of the waves lapping up the slipway as you drift off to sleep in this delightful cottage. Catboat Cottage is only a few minutes' walk away from various independent shops, restaurants, pubs, craft studios and galleries. Parking is available on the Quay, and at the large public Quay car park, 1 minute away.
🐚 King-size bedroom with ensuite 🐚 King-size four poster bedroom 🐚 Twin bedroom 🐚 Ground floor double bedroom with separate shower room 🐚 Family bathroom with bath 🐚 Comfortable Lounge with hassle free electric fire 🐚 Spacious dining room with seating for 8 🐚 Enclosed south facing garden with outside dining area 🐚 Wi-Fi 🐚 Smart TV/DVD player 🐚 Central heating/Electric stoves/Gas fire 🐚 Dishwasher/Washing machineTumble dryer/Microwave 🐚 Selection of children's books, family games and DVDs 🐚 Travel cot, high chair, changing mat and small cutlery 🐚 Anti-allergy bedding as standard 🐚 Pet free and non-smoking 🐚 A stone's throw from the beach
To the rear of Catboat Cottage are enclosed gardens, which can be used for al fresco dining (the kitchen caters fully for home entertaining) and relaxing in the sun.
PARKING: Due to the age of the cottages in Irsha Street, there is no on-site parking. However, residents can load/unload shopping and passengers outside before parking. Free on-street parking can be found nearby (25 yds away), linked by a small public footpath adjacent to the cottage. 3 Pay & Display car parks - 2 are 160 yards away, the 3rd is 800 yards away. All offer hourly, daily and weekly parking or you can purchase a tourist permit online. (This can be used in other Torridge district car parks). Please contact me for prices. The Quay car park offers parking free of charge 6pm-8am. Blue Badge holder bays are available as well as charging facilities for electric vehicles.
Prices quoted are for 2 night stays and weekly bookings. For short breaks of 3 nights or more please contact us for a quote.
Recently renovated and brimming with character our comfortable and well- equipped cottage invites you to unwind in a home-from-home environment.
Younger guests are always welcome and we offer a travel cot and high-chair at no extra charge. There's also a changing mat, small cutlery, a selection of games and family DVD's.
Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family holiday there's something to suit everyone. From activity centres and family-friendly visitor parks to historic houses and gardens, there's plenty to appeal to all ages, tastes and budgets. A versatile haven, ideal for couples, small groups and extended family.
Depending on your group size and preferences, you can choose to book three or four bedrooms. The latter includes the ground floor double bedroom with separate shower room.
Soak up the sights, sounds, and smells of the sea! Centrally located on Irsha Street(in the conservation area of Appledore) which is famous for its pretty painted houses. Waking up to seagulls yarping overhead, hearing the waves lapping up the nearby slipway and watching the swallows swooping through the narrow streets, all add to the charm of this delightful cottage.
Blending character with comfort, our spacious four-bedroom holiday home serves as a perfect base for creating beautiful memories in Appledore. Much like the village itself, the cosy cottage is full of history whilst offering every modern convenience. Recently renovated and brimming with character our comfortable and well- equipped cottage invites you to unwind in a home-from-home environment.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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Stunning views, enclosed garden & private off road parking
Stunning views, enclosed garden & private off road parking
Pets allowed: dogs less than 25 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
You will need to provide details of the other members of your party and to have read our Booking Terms and Conditions.
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property
Frequently asked questions
Is Catboat Cottage: a stone's throw from the beach. Shops & pubs are 2 minute walk. pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 25 kg per pet.
How much does it cost to stay at Catboat Cottage: a stone's throw from the beach. Shops & pubs are 2 minute walk.?
As of 2 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Catboat Cottage: a stone's throw from the beach. Shops & pubs are 2 minute walk. on 30 May 2026 start from £204, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Catboat Cottage: a stone's throw from the beach. Shops & pubs are 2 minute walk.?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Catboat Cottage: a stone's throw from the beach. Shops & pubs are 2 minute walk.?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Catboat Cottage: a stone's throw from the beach. Shops & pubs are 2 minute walk.?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Catboat Cottage: a stone's throw from the beach. Shops & pubs are 2 minute walk. located?
This family-friendly Bideford cottage is located by the sea, within a 15-minute walk of West Appledore and Northam Burrows Country Park. Instow Beach and South Gut are also within 2 miles (3 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Holly was very responsive. Fun home for a family vacation. Appledore is a great community.
Ed P.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Jun 2024
Thank you for your lovely review, I’m so please you enjoyed your stay at Catboat Cottage.
Appledore is a wonderful community and I’m so glad you were able to experience that first-hand.
Everything from start to finish was excellent,very good communication from holly the host 😊The property is so lovely and exactly as described,we were a party of 5 adults celebrating my 60th birthday .Lovely little touches just made our stay so enjoyable.The property had plenty of space for us all and a lovely garden to enjoy the sunshine ☀️ Lots of lovely places to eat and drink and not far from Bideford for larger supermarkets.A great place to stay ,
Joanne H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Jul 2023
Thank you for your kind words. We're so pleased you enjoyed your Birthday celebrations! You were a joy to host and we look forward to welcoming you back soon.
Se had a wobderful holiday at this lovely well equipped cottage. We loved that we could even hear the sea in bed when the tide was high. Perfect for a family holiday, all as described! Holly took care of all requests in no time. We hope to vome again!
Robin S.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Jul 2023
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review, we're so pleased you had a lovely holiday.
We thoroughly enjoyed welcoming your family to Appledore and are pleased we were able to help.
We'd love to welcome you back.
We were hoping for a holiday cottage in a location where we didn't have to drive everyday to be somewhere interesting. Appledore is a perfect little village/town for a quiet holiday but it still feels alive with plenty of people around and activities going on. We enjoyed seeing locals going out on rowing practices in the evenings - I would love to be this close to the see to have this as a hobby. There is a very good selection of well rated eateries - we recommend the Flame Factory and both the fish and chip places. The cottage itself was comfortable and homely.
Appledore is a fantastic village we had a wonderful time. The cottage is very central to everything and worked well for us. We had four the bedrooms for the first week and three for the second as two of our group had to go back to work. Holly was very responsive and helpful thank you.
SUSAN FOX
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Jul 2023
Thank you for your great review, we really appreciate guests taking the time to get in touch. We're pleased we were able to offer the flexibility to meet your group's needs and that you had a wonderful time.
We booked Catboat Cottage for a second time and we were not disappointed! The cottage is well presented and brilliantly equipped with everything you need. The location is fantastic, very close to the town centre and car park. Holly is a great host too, who is always quick to respond to any queries and questions. I would thoroughly recommend this cottage to anyone.
Neil M.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Jul 2023
It was great to welcome you back, you're such a joy to host. Thank you for taking the time to leave your kind words, we really appreciate it.
Delightful accommodation with plenty of space to for our three generations and what a location. Had not known about Appledore before we went but its just perfect, would definitely reccomend, from the rockpooling and crabbing opportunities with the kids to wandering down to the Coffee Cabin first thing and simply enjoying the holiday atmosphere and estuary views. We finshed with a meal at the Beaver Inn (book early as its busy)- really nice pub. Oh, and not forgetting the Devonshire ice cream from Hockings - its something else.
ROBERT A.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Aug 2023
Thank you so much for your fabulous review Rob, we take great care to make our cottage welcoming and comfortable for all our guests.
I'm delighted you discovered the magic of Appledore and all it has to offer.
It was a real pleasure to host your family.
A beautiful part of the world that we will be back to, a really spacious cottage close to local restaurants etc...
Tony O.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Jul 2023
We're so pleased you enjoyed your stay at Catboat Cottage and experienced the delights of Appledore. We'd love to welcome you back and offer you our returning guest discount.
We had a great week in Catboat cottage. Then cottage is really comfortable with everything you need. It's in a great location - very near to the centre of Appledore, to the coast path for some great walks and not far to go for a swim at the huge beach at Westward Ho! Appledore is an interesting place - lots of nooks and crannies to explore and some great restaurants - we'd really recommend The Yard. Holly was super helpful and responsive - a great host! We'd love to come back. Thanks Holly!
Charlotte B.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Jul 2023
It's always a pleasure to welcome such thoughtful guests! We're so pleased you enjoyed the cottage and some of the lovely things that Appledore has to offer.
3 double bedrooms and one twin bedroom - 2 bedrooms with en-suite shower rooms and also a family bathroom was perfect for us as a family. The kitchen is large and the dining table seats 6. We were a group of 7 so we just added a chair.
The weather was very warm and this house did struggle to get air flow through it as all of the rooms have only one window. We found we did not use the lounge as it was too warm in the hot weather. Some fans would have have been appreciated by us all.
We needed an accommodation with a garden as we brought paddle boards and bicycles with us. What we didn't realise was that there was no access to the garden other than through the house. Being a cottage it was difficult to get the boards and the bikes into the garden due to small doorways and layout of the ground floor. This was disappointing as we were too worried we would mark or damage the walls or doorways bringing the bikes in and out through the house, so we opted not to use them and left them in the garden all holiday. We did use the paddle boards but chose to deflate them and leave them in the car boot rather than negotiate them into the garden through the house.
The garden is a sun trap and just lovely but beware of the steps of differing heights! We had 2 adults trip up the steps to the garden and headbutt the wall. No alcohol was involved. As my step father is 81, this was a worry for us as he is a bit clumsy at the best of times. However, we used the garden daily for dining and there were no serious accidents. It would have been great to have the use of a BBQ as it was really hot and cooking in the kitchen each night was sweaty work.
The bedrooms are very nice and everyone found the beds comfortable. Although there were 3 bathrooms, we found that only one person could shower at a time as the shower in the other bathrooms would then run cold. However we timed it well each day and all enjoyed a lovely warm shower, with good water pressure if only one shower is running at a time.
The location of the cottage is on the main pedestrian access to two pubs at the end of Irsha Street. The patrons of these two pubs, were pretty noisy as they passed the cottage on their way home and this did keep us awake as we all need the windows open due to the heat. However, we were all adults on holiday so no youngsters to consider who could have been awoken by the passing revellers.
Appledore is very quaint and picturesque and a lovely place for a holiday.
Vanessa H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Jul 2023
Thank you for the five-star review and we hope you made some happy memories during your stay. Our guests’ comfort is important to us, so we’re glad you found the beds restful and made use of the additional fireside dining chairs.
We encourage guests to contact us if they need anything during their stay, our friendly housekeeping and maintenance team are always on hand to help. They would have gladly assisted with the difficulties experienced during the recent heatwave and with the showers. SInce then, both electric showers in the en suites have been checked, along with the one in the family bathroom that runs off the combi boiler and are now all working as normal.
We appreciate all feedback from guests and are currently selecting suitable signage for the steps into the garden. For several reasons, a BBQ isn’t included with the cottage, but guests are very welcome to use disposable ones during their stay.
This year has seen an unprecedented number of Staycationers, so at the end of an evening there can be some noise for a short period of time but The twin bedroom situated at the rear of the cottage overlooking the garden is very tranquil. Appledore is unique; for such a tiny village, it has every convenience within walking distance from the doorstep.
We hope you visit Appledore again, it’s a wonderful village with so much to see and do!
We were looking for a comfortable cottage in a village close to the coast so that we didn't have lots of driving to do once we got there. Success, we had a lovely week! The cottage is clean, comfortable and well equipped plus Holly was really friendly and helpful. Lots to do locally either walking or a short drive.
Visited for half term week and had a wonderful time. The location of the cottage is perfect, just a short walk to the town and amenities. On arrival we found the cottage to be clean, tidy and well presented. It was also very well equipped throughout. My 5-year-old daughter especially liked the children's bedroom which is really well done. Holly is a great host, she phoned me on the day we arrived to let me know we could check in early which was a lovely touch. We are seriously considering booking again next year!
Catboat Cottage was the perfect house for our holiday. A family trip with my husband and 3 young children (ages 8, 6 & 3) and my parents. The house was extremely well equipped and furnished and although a holiday house was very homely.
Nothing was too much trouble for Holly (the owner) she answered all our questions before our stay and quickly arranged for a new outdoor table to be bought and delivered when the one at the house was broken.
Although there is no parking at the house itself, and the nearby roads were very busy given the high season, we felt £16 for a weeks season ticket which was transferrable between local carparks in Westward Ho and Bideford as well as Appledore was extremely reasonable and the two carparks within 200m of the house always had space.
We all had a wonderful time exploring the local area (beaches at Westward Ho! Saunton and Woolacombe; the waterfall and quay at Hartland and Lynton and Lynmouth); the children are already asking when we can go back!
Thank you so much Holly for a wonderful holiday!
Very clean property in a great location. Could do with more than one key as there were 8 of us and the keys were a bit of an issue. Also the online listing for this cottage states that one of the facilities is parking. There is no parking at this cottage, though there is a pay and display car park not far away. All in all a good cottage for the four generations of us especially as it had a downstairs bathroom and shower room.
A very nicely renovated cottage which is spacious and exceptionally generously equipped. It has a small and lovely terraced back garden, with roses blooming throughout our stay. The street is really interesting too, with two pubs within 100 yards and slipways to the estuary. We had a very enjoyable stay.
Henry Beeson
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Sue T.
24 Jun 2019
Happy Holiday
Five old friends had a very happy reunion in this spacious cottage with plenty of bathrooms. The cottage is in the centre of old Appledore and is well equipped. The sound of the lapping waves at high tide lulled us to sleep. We had a very enjoyable time exploring RHS Rosemoor gardens, Heartland Abbey and quay and could have easily spent more time here. Perfect.
Sue T.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2019
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Deborah H.
2 Sept 2017
Beautiful, comfortable cottage in a stunning location
Thanks Holly. Sorry we didn't get to meet you and it's all been done in this corporate way via Owners Direct
Deborah H.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Keith S.
21 Jul 2017
Great cottage in a superb location
Great cottage with lots of character and very spacious - much larger than it looks in the photos! Very clean and very well equipped. We would certainly recommend this property!
Keith S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Mrs Margaret Green
20 Apr 2017
Well equipped, very comfortable and clean. Conveniently situated.
Because the Cottage was old and situated in a narrow street, daylight was limited. There are plenty of lights provided also comfortable seating. We used the Three double bedded rooms,all well set up with TV,though the signal is intermittent,as is the Wifi. Toilet facilities mainly upstairs unless you have the extra room downstairs which has an ensuite. The kitchen is well equipped, plenty of crockery and cutlery,and all the equipment was easy to use,cooker,dishwasher and microwave. We didn't use washing machine. The Dining room,is tasteful with good sized table and solid chairs. We found plenty of good walks, up to Bideford across the Burrows to Westward Ho and the Tarka trail reached by Ferry or Bus. Buses for Ilfracombe and links to many other places are available at Bideford? Five minutes to the bus stop meant we parked the car and didn't need to use it till we departed. We were three 'Seniors' so had to watch the steps in the house. Appledore is an interesting old Fishing town. We had a very enjoyable stay, it is our third time here and was declared "The Best Yet"
Mrs Margaret Green
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Hazel C.
21 Dec 2016
Cosy Catboat cottage
We really enjoyed our couple of weeks at Catboat cottage in Appledore, it was the perfect place to unwind. Although out of season, there was plenty to do and explore in and around the surrounding area including coastal walks, shopping, cycling and even braving the water surfing! after a chilly time in the November sea the cottage was a very warm and welcoming cosy retreat to come back to especially snuggling up by the fire in the front sitting room.
The location of the cottage is perfect in Appledore nestled in the colourful and quaint Irsha Street which runs along the estuary. With a short walk you can get to local pubs The Beaver and The Seagate aswell as a couple of fish and chip shops and a small food store.
Overall our stay was brilliant and we hope to return again soon and will definitely recommend to others.
Hazel C.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Penny B.
8 Sept 2016
Catboat Cottage - a hidden Appledore gem
Catboat Cottage is a gem of a house hidden away in Irsha Street, Appledore. It is well appointed and was very clean on our arrival. Tardis-like, it is larger than it would appear from the outside with four bedrooms and two good-sized living rooms- perfect for a family that doesn't want to be on top of one another. Our fortnight stay corresponded with glorious weather which allowed us to have breakfast on the terrace each morning, overlooking the rooftops of Irsha Street, towards the estuary. We gave up dieting and just tucked in each morning!
The location of the cottage is central to Appledore being equi-distant from the quayside and The Beaver pub. Cream teas and good food were never far away. Similarly, Appledore itself is only ten minutes from "The Big Sheep" which is a lovely theme-park for families with younger children. Alternatively, it is only about half an hour from tremendous walks around Hartland Quay on the coastal pathway. Spectacular views abound!
Overall, our stay was brilliant and we'd warmly recommend this property to others.
Penny B.
About the host
Hosted by Holly
I've been hosting at Catboat Cottage for 19 years and thoroughly enjoy welcoming guests, sharing my knowledge and the magic of Appledore. I've been lucky to welcome book clubs visiting the annual Appledore Book Festival, avid golfers for tournaments at the Royal North Devon Golf Club and everyone else in between!
My love of all things creative is nurtured by the surrounding environment; the sights and smells of the sea, the brightly painted cottages or the lively cultural scene in the village itself. I'm always pleased to help plan your stay or a special occasion to create some special memories. Throughout my time hosting, I appreciate that each holiday is as unique as my guests and leisure time is precious so will try my hardest to accommodate any request.
My experience of travelling with small children in the past felt more like moving house - so often younger guests got overlooked. My aim is to equip the cottage to include younger guests, not only with the equipment they need, but the twin bedroom is decorated for the young at heart. Hopefully parents won't feel like they need another holiday once they've packed and unpacked!
My lovely housekeeper has an eye for detail and makes sure the cottage is just how I would want to find it. A friendly maintenance team are responsive so in the event something doesn't work as it should, they can usually sort it with minimum fuss. There's always someone available during your stay if you need anything.
My family has grown and evolved as have our activities. We've kissed the boats goodnight before bedtime, crab fished and rock pooled, surfed and shopped (girls day out!). Historic sites and gardens are popular too. We've also attended numerous art courses and workshops over the years. During the turmoil of 2020, the cottage had a makeover supporting local businesses wherever possible. From fabrics from Cornwall, to unique artwork, mirrors and wall hangings that make me smile - all crafted by local Appledorians.
Why they chose this property
Nestled in historical Irsha Street where the river Taw and Torridge meet, the beach is easily accessed from the nearby slipway only seconds away.
Appledore's ever-changing tidal estuary means no two days are the same. Coupled with the slower pace of life, this induces a truly relaxing ambience in which to immerse yourself.
So much more than just a traditional bucket and spade destination. The local area is renowned as a haven for creativity. Numerous independent galleries and artisan workshops offer a wonderfully eclectic mix of arts and crafts. Some artists exhibit in shops and markets, others have open studios in their own front room.
Reflecting its artistic qualities, Appledore hosts the annual Appledore Book Festival in September. There's also a choice of antique shops where you can browse furniture and ornaments from a bygone era.
Another lively event is the Appledore-Instow Regatta, when gig boat crews race along The Quay to cheering spectators.
Those wishing to experience the water first hand have a choice of fishing and sightseeing boat trips, including the seasonal ferry over to Instow at high tide.
Younger visitors, or those simply young at heart, will enjoy crabbing from The Quay, investigating the rock pools by the lifeboat station or beachcombing along the estuary shore.
They say the best things come in small packages and Appledore is a perfect example. Whatever your passions, there’s always something to appeal in this delightful coastal village.
Whatever the weather, relax by the fire or in the garden, stroll around the village, or explore the many nearby attractions, knowing that all the comforts of home await you.
What makes this property unique
Catboat Cottage is a stone's throw from the beach so you can hear the waves lapping up the slipway as you drift off to sleep. Take your coffee down onto the beach and watch the ever-changing estuary.
Situated in the heart of the village, local pubs, shops, cafés and restaurants are a 2 minute walk. For such a small village there's so much to see and do without feeling the need to travel around.
We welcome everyone at Catboat Cottage and have a comprehensive accessibility guide so please get in touch if you need any more information. There's a ground floor bedroom with TV and a separate shower room making it ideal for guests with limited mobility or extended family who want to be self-contained. We've completed diversity and inclusion training and aim to make everyone's stay as comfortable as possible, so please get in touch if you need any assistance.
My experience of travelling with small children felt more like moving house than going on holiday! Catboat Cottage is fully equipped for younger guests providing a travel cot, high chair, stair gate and changing mat at no extra charge.
The twin bedroom is decorated for the young at heart. There’s a good supply of bedtime stories, family games and DVDs. Hopefully parents won't feel like they need another holiday once they've packed and unpacked!
Affectionately named 'the Tardis' - it definitely is bigger on the inside!