Smukt restaureret fiskernes sommerhus i Appledore, North Devon

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.

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.

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!