Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining area
About this property
Grade II listed comfy barn conversion close to Taunton - Dogs welcome!
The Apple Press - Sweethay is a grade II listed 18th century barn conversion offering spacious, cosy and comfortable self - catering accommodation. Situated just three miles from the county town of Taunton in Somerset, Sweethay is a small farming hamlet in a secluded setting.
The space:
Entrance: On entering the property through the wide wooden door, the spacious hallway has place to hang coats and leave any muddy shoes. The original slate flooring is perfectly appropriate to deal with muddy paws and wellies. You are welcome to play our Dale Forty piano. Whether you want to learn a new skill or just tinkle on the keys youre very welcome. It is very old so please handle with care but don't expect it to sound perfect.
Kitchen: The Apple Press has a generously sized well equipped kitchen with plenty of crockery, cutlery, cooking utensils, work surfaces and cupboard space. The dining area has seating for six around a farmhouse table - ideal for family meals and evening board games of which we have a selection.
Sitting room: The sizable vaulted sitting room has comfy sofas and armchairs with a log burner - perfect for unwinding in the evenings after a day of exploration and adventure.
Ground floor bedroom: Adjacent to the sitting room is a light and spacious ground floor bedroom with a wall of windows looking into the guests own private courtyard with a door to the outside. Both courtyards are accessible from this room. The bedroom has a zip - and - link king sized bed which can be separated to form two singles. There is an en-suite shower and WC.
Upstairs: Mezzanine landing. A reading corner with comfy arm chair. There are story books and novels for children of all ages along with reference/factual books. A great place to sit and read a paper with a cup of coffee before heading out for the day.
The twin room: has two full sized beds with bedside tables, wardrobe and chest of drawers. Part of a scissor truss runs through this room.
Double bedroom: The 1st floor double has a King sized bed, wardrobe, chest of drawers and plenty of space for a travel cot.
The 1st floor bathroom has a full size bath with shower attachment, WC and sink and ladder towel heater.
Downstairs, the original slate floor in the hallway and small bootroom is practical and appropriate for muddy, sandy dogs and footwear
Outside: there are two connecting courtyards for our guests own use. The smaller secluded courtyard is where The Little Apple, our cosy courtyard room, tucked neatly into the corner, offers a peaceful hideaway in every season. Inside, you’ll find a comfy sofa with an electric stove heater to add a warm, comforting glow on cooler days. The room is seasonally decorated throughout the year, giving it a fresh and welcoming feel whenever you visit. Glazed double doors open out to the courtyard, while two walls of long windows flood the space with natural light so you can enjoy the outside while sitting in. In winter, the low afternoon sun pours gently through the glass, creating a soft, golden warmth. In summer, The Little Apple becomes a bright and cheerful sun trap—perfect for relaxing with a book, enjoying a quiet chat, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of the courtyard. A masonry barbeque, firepit and gentle water feature with layered planting complete the space. A perfect place to unwind and enjoy a relaxing drink. It is a perfect spot to take time out to plan the next day's excursion. The larger courtyard features a table tennis table, a swingseat/ bed and a wooden dining table with seating for six. It's a real suntrap - perfect for a freindly game of table tennis or for gathering around the table to eat, chat and enjoy the sunshine. Little chance of burning as on request a sun sail can provide shade for those relaxing at the table.
Guest access: Guests have full exclusive use of the Apple Press and its amenities during their stay. There are two parking spaces to the front of the property. At the rear of The Apple Press are two fully enclosed courtyards. The larger has an outdoor table tennis table, swingseat/bed and large outdoor table with seating for six. Linking to this is a more secluded courtyard with casual seating, a masonary barbecue, a seasonally decorated courtyard room with comfortable seating and fire pit. This courtyard benefits from the afternoon and evening summer sun.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights
Please follow as best you can the recycling instructions
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 10
Note from host: Only small gatherings for a birthday or wedding.
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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.
About the area
Taunton
Located in Taunton, this holiday home is in a rural area. Woodlands Castle and Bishop's Lydeard Station are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Exmoor National Park and West Sedgemoor Nature Reserve. Travelling with kids? Consider AJ'z Activity Centre, or check out an event or a game at County Cricket Ground. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
West Sedgemoor Nature Reserve - 6 min drive - 3.7 km
Blackbrook Leisure & Spa - 7 min drive - 9.7 km
County Cricket Ground - 7 min drive - 4.7 km
Blackdown Hills - 8 min drive - 6.5 km
Woodlands Castle - 8 min drive - 11.0 km
Getting around
Taunton Station - 13 min drive
Exeter (EXT-Exeter Intl.) - 36 min drive
Restaurants
Costa Coffee - 13 min drive
McDonald's - 17 min drive
Costa Coffee - 17 min drive
Whitlocks - 8 min drive
Cosy Club - 6 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Grade II listed comfy barn conversion close to Taunton - Dogs welcome! pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 3 total).
How much does it cost to stay at Grade II listed comfy barn conversion close to Taunton - Dogs welcome!?
As of 6 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Grade II listed comfy barn conversion close to Taunton - Dogs welcome! on 21 Apr 2026 start from £135, 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 Grade II listed comfy barn conversion close to Taunton - Dogs welcome!?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Grade II listed comfy barn conversion close to Taunton - Dogs welcome!?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Grade II listed comfy barn conversion close to Taunton - Dogs welcome!?
Checkout is at 10:30 AM.
Where is Grade II listed comfy barn conversion close to Taunton - Dogs welcome! located?
This family-friendly Taunton holiday home is located in a rural location, within 3 mi (5 km) of West Sedgemoor Nature Reserve, Blackdown Hills and County Cricket Ground. AJ'z Activity Centre and Blackbrook Leisure & Spa are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We loved our stay at The Apple Press. The cottage is really well equipped and was very comfortable for 4 adults. The location was ideal for a family event in the area, close enough to Taunton for shops and restaurants as well as being in lovely countryside. Thanks to Susan for all her help during our stay.We will definitely book again when in the area.
We were a group of 4 ladies looking for a relaxing weekend and this cottage was perfect. The house is stunning and had everything we needed. The hot tub and fire were amazing! Would definitely book again!
What an amazing week we've had. Sarah was so helpful, the property was stunning and going in the hot tub was a lovely way to end the day. Thoroughly recommend The Apple Press
Liz R.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Aug 2022
Thank you for your lovely comments. It was a pleasure to meet you and your family. So pleased you had a good stay.
The house was very spacious and set in a the beautiful rural countryside just a short drive from Taunton. Sarah was a great host, very responsive to our requests.
We were 4 old friends all going through hard times that managed to reunite for a weekend of fun, rest and food - and the Apple Press did not disappoint! The finish on the whole property was stunning - so well equipped and lots of personal touches to make it extra special. The hot tub was lovely. Would definitely recommend!
We had a great time at this lovely cottage. It was spacious and in very good order with a lovely courtyard ( or two ) complete with hot tub!
Great location nestled into a small hamlet surrounded by stunning Somerset countryside.
The owner was very discreet but absolutely brilliant.
We will certainly go back.
My 4 daughters and I had a really enjoyable and relaxing stay in this beautiful property. Our host Sarah couldn’t have been more helpful, from our initial booking until check out time. The Apple press has everything that you could possibly need and much more. I would highly recommend and would definitely visit again.
A lovely warm, clean home, the beds were so comfortable, we had everything we needed in the kitchen. The fire kept the place warm and the hot tub was a treat on xmas day. Thank you Sarah
The Apple Press couldn’t be more perfect as a place to unwind, from the location to the facilities we honestly couldn’t have asked for more.
The kitchen is extremely well equipped and a great space for socialising, eating meals together & playing board games, the space feels so warm and welcoming.
The lounge was great in the evenings or when we needed to hide from the rain, a log burner is always a bonus.
The outside space is great and the hot tub was a great way to warm up after a rain shower walk into the village.
Would highly recommend and will definitely be looking to book again.
My family of four plus lola our dog had a wonderful 3 day break . On arrival the cottage spotlessly clean and very well equipped with buckets of character . Sarah was very helpful with a few questions we had . The beds were really comfy and the hot tub was the icing on the cake . All in all a perfect break . We will definitely return .
Great place in a very quiet rural location but only 10 mins from Taunton
Property is large and has spacious bedrooms, kitchen and living areas. The two outside areas are perfect for what we wanted - didn’t use the hot tub (although I imagine it’s great) but did play table tennis and used the BBQ. Beds very comfortable for us and although there is one shower in the en suite my 2 prefer baths anyway so we didn’t have any issues with logistics like some have. Sarah the host was lovely and very helpful - only about when we had a question. We’d definitely stay again.
Neal E.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified
8/10 Good
hayley j.
30 Jun 2022
Liked: Check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication
Lovely cottage, but needs some tlc
Nice cottage but could be fantastic with a few updates and tweaks.
Most Doors not fitting well.
Sliding door in small bedroom not fitted correctly so bangs if window open.
Everyone has to use downstairs bathroom to shower.
Shower door has no inside handle.
Kitchen fronts cupboards dirty.
Spiders everywhere with giant cobwebs.
All floors not very clean , dusty and under beds and behind furniture not been cleaned In a while.
Had no communication with host at all during visit despite reading reviews in property how welcoming host is and delighted by assumed homemade cakes, we had tub of mini rolls.
No recycling facilities despite a leaflet on where bags/boxes located etc...
However, despite all the above, cottage bedding and bathrooms were very clean and hot tub was fab .
Great facilities and loads of games and entertainment.
hayley j.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Jul 2022
Dear Hayleigh,
It is unfortunate your 3 nights at The Apple Press fell below your expectations and the property was not as you had expected.
I am sorry you found dust under the beds and behind the furniture. Beds are hoovered under and mopped, the floors are hoovered and mopped and the furniture get the same treatment.
The barn in the description is 18th century, has retained scissor trusses and a vaulted ceiling so consequently there will be spiders but not in the numbers you have intimated.
Kitchen cupboard fronts get sanitised after every visit. They are not dirty. There are a few minor permerment marks due to work top oil dripping on to the fronts which unfortunatley might have been what you took as dirt.
I do not and have never made a homemade cake for my guests. I buy well made cakes from the local bakery which was closed the day you arrived so I bought a tub of Marks and Spencer mini cakes which got eaten.
The doors are solid oak rustic doors. They open and shut so do their job. The sliding door has been looked at and fixed to hopefully stop the banging if its windy when the windows are open. Thank you for that constructive comment I have been able to remedy likewise the handle in the shower.
The recycling boxes were missing the day you arrived as it was bin day. The boxes were returned the next day. Im sorry you didn't see them but if you had messaged me I would have been able to direct you to them.
In my informaton the first floor bathroom is described as a bathroom with bath and WC. It is unfortunate that there is no headroom for a shower in the first floor bathroom but there is a telephone shower mixer tap on the bath.
In my email to you when I send all the information I ask you to contact me on your arrival. I do not like to impinge on my guests holiday time. Since Covid I have not welcomed anyone in person and only if the guests make the first move or there is something wrong with the hot tub do I make contact. As you did not message me I assumed you were happy and there was not a problem.
Thank you for your comments on the cleanliness of the bathrooms and bedding. I'm pleased you enjoyed the hot tub and facilities The Apple Press offered.
We booked the Apple Press for a weekend to celebrate my birthday - the place has such a calm presence and was perfect for a group of 50 year olds to relax and totally switch off. Sarah was so incredibly helpful and real delight - we will definitely be back
4 of us stayed, for a long weekend of relaxing and we certainly did that (with aid of the hot tub).
The house was warm, clean and extremely comfortable.
Everything we needed was there and the cake welcoming us, was just perfect thank you.
Sarah was on hand with anything (if we needed it), but because everything was perfect, we didn't need Sarah's assistance.
Thank you for letting us stay, in your lovely home.
The break was needed, more than you realise.
We were a party of 4 friends and stayed for a long weekend last week. When we arrived we were delighted with The Apple Press, so pretty and in a lovely location. Everything about the property is beautiful, lovely kitchen, charming interior, such comfortable beds and so spacious. There is nothing you could think of which could be added, Sarah, the owner, has thought of everything. Sarah is a lovely lady, who lives across the courtyard and made sure everything was perfect at all times. We made full use of the lovely hot tub every day. I would recommend this property to anyone wishing to explore this beautiful part of Somerset. Fabulous, thank you Sarah.
Julie H.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Oct 2021
Julie thank you so much for staying and for your lovely comments.
It was a real pleasure to have you and your friends to stay and you’d be welcome back any time.
The cottage is much bigger than expected. It was bright, clean and comfortable. Sarah was a lovely host and was easily contactable if needed. We went as a family of 5 adults and had all that we needed. A home from home and would definitely return.
We had a very wonderful and relaxing stay at the apple press, everything was just perfect, we visited some lovely places and was always relaxing to come back to the hot tub to end the day, highly recommend, Thankyou
Laura F.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug 2021
Thank you for your lovely comments and thank you for staying. I’m so pleased you had a relaxing time and enjoyed the hot tub.
All the best,
Sarah.
About the host
Hosted by Sarah Jeans
Hi I'm Sarah. I converted The Apple Press along with my late husband in 2011. In 2012 we received our first guests. I have three children, three cats and three dogs. I live in the farmhouse adjacent to The Apple Press so am on hand to welcome you and give any advice or help you might need. Although I am nearby I do not interfere unless asked. I love doing what I am doing and my aim is for you to have an enjoyable and comfortable stay.
Why they chose this property
The advantage of The Apple Press is that it is ideally located to explore and experience the attractions of Somerset but also further afield without being limited to just one type of holiday. If walking in the hills and nature is your passion, the beauty of the Blackdown and Quantock Hills (with it's ponies) are both areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and are well worth exploring. Exmoor with its rugged coastline and hidden combes are not to be missed, nor are the Somerset levels and moors which contain 32 sites of special scientific interest. It is rich with wildlife and has the largest lowland population of breeding wading birds. Taunton not more than 4 miles distant offers plenty of shops from coffee and tea houses to independent and high street stores. The newly refurbished and modernised Museum of Somerset situated in what was once Taunton Castle houses some interesting artifacts from shrunken heads to Roman coins. Taunton is the home of Somerset County Cricket and there is an extensive programme during season from the fast paced 20/20 evening matches to the longer test matches. Vivary Park close to the centre of the town has a popular high ropes centre and an 18 hole parkland golf course which welcomes non- members on a pay and play basis. They provide the clubs etc.. if needed. (Booking required). A 20 minute drive takes you to The West Somerset Steam Railway at Bishops Lydeard. It is a 22 mile heritage railway line from Bishops Lydeard to the popular coastal town of Minehead. There are stops along the way including Dunster a medieval village with a castle belonging to the National Trust and Watchet a pretty coastal town with a marina. If the weather is going to be exceptionally good and you fancy a day at the beach, it's easy to take a day trip to Somerset's north coast or to the coasts of Cornwall or Devon. If you don't want to limit yourself to one type of holiday, The Apple press is the perfect accommodation in the perfect location.
What makes this property unique
The Apple Press has retained its character by retaining its original features. It's vaulted sitting room with wood burner makes for cosy Christmases and extra comfort on chilly evenings. Originally retained scissor trusses are exposed throughout the upstairs, and the original slate floor in the hallway and small boot/cloakroom is practical and appropriate for muddy or sandy footwear, clothing, children and dogs. The kitchen is spacious with plenty of work space and is very well equipped with more than sufficient crockery, cutlery, cooking utensils and equipment. In the summer the courtyard benefits from the afternoon and evening sun. Perfect for barbeques and winding down after a day of exploring and adventure.