Large Period House set in Ancient Woodland in Exmoor National Park near Lynmouth
Oaklands is an impressive, 8-bedroom, traditional stone-built detached house sleeping 14 in comfort, situated between the open moor and the spectacular north Devon coast. Located outside the rural hamlet of Rockford with its well-regarded local inn where meals can be enjoyed. Oaklands has magical views across the East Lyn River, which falls dramatically to the sea at the village resort of Lynmouth just 4 miles away. Set in 2 acres with moorland garden and woods, which make great exploring, and a cascading stream and disused waterwheel from its early Victorian past, Oaklands is surrounded by one of the few remaining areas of ancient oak woodlands in England and has abundant wildlife (designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Site of Special Scientific Interest).
Renovated to modern standards with contemporary furnishings throughout, but keeping its original character, Oaklands has a large living room with aspect over the river and oak-beamed snug with Inglenook fireplace. A large separate dining room with an Arthurian round table seating up to 14 overlooks the front of the property and the very spacious and well equipped modern kitchen also offers a smaller breakfast/dining area. The eight bedrooms, many with river and valley views, and four bathrooms are laid out over two upper floors. There is also a small study / games room which can be used as an area for the younger members of the party. Oaklands is large and roomy for one family, or provides flexible accommodation for family gatherings or groups of friends and is a wonderful rural retreat no matter what the time of the year. Parking for 4 to 5 cars. Secure barn for bike / kayak / surfboard storage. Table football, board games and Wii games console available. Pets are welcome.
Surrounded by the splendour of Exmoor, Oaklands is at the apex of Exmoor’s footpaths, cycle routes and bridle ways, offering truly inspiring walks and rides along the river, over wooded valleys and towards the sea abound. Many famous beauty spots including Watersmeet, Porlock Weir and the twin coastal resort villages of Lynton and Lynmouth with their famous cliff railway, tourist attractions for all ages and dog-friendly beach are all within short scenic drives. Magnificent high cliffs, and hidden sand and shingle coves can be found all along the dramatic Exmoor coast whilst wide sandy surfing beaches at Woolacombe and Croyde are within an hour’s drive. Horse riding stables, mountain biking and road cycling, kayaking and angling on the East Lyn and country sports are all close by. Traditional Exmoor pubs and restaurants with fine dining are within easy reach. Adventure centres, golf, surf schools, Exmoor Zoo, a steam light railway and indoor visitor attractions are further afield. Oaklands and Exmoor offers something for everyone all year round.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Open fires/pits prohibited as National Park
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Pets
Pets allowed: limit 2 total
Two well behaved dogs are welcome.
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Non-smoking inside.
Smoking allowed in garden.
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Cleaning: Guests should leave Oaklands clean and in good order. The property should be swept; crockery, pots and pans, etc. washed; range cooker and barbecue wiped down. Any damage should be reported.
Green: Rubbish and re-cycling must be disposed of as directed in the Oaklands Guest Folder. Radiators in all rooms should be turned off or to freezing point (in winter) to save energy.
Keys: 1 set should be returned to the KeySafe. Spare keys should be left on the Hall Bookcase.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
YOUNG CHILDREN: Your children are your responsibility at all times. Young children should be supervised outside at all times.
PETS should be kept under control, not left alone in the house and kept off furniture and out of bedrooms and not be allowed to foul the garden.
Bacterial sewage treatment package. Guests must not flush wipes, tampons, medicines, anti-bac wash etc. down lavatories and sinks.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 8153852
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.
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, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 14
Note from host: Open fires/pits prohibited as National Park
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
Lynton
Located in Lynton, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. Exmoor Adventures and Porlock Weir Harbour are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Lynton and Lymouth Cliff Railway and Lynton & Barnstaple Railway. Travelling with kids? Consider Greencombe Gardens and Exmoor Owl & Hawk Centre. Kayaking and windsurfing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hunting and cycling nearby.
Lynton and Lymouth Cliff Railway - 15 min drive - 7.5 km
Valley of the Rocks - 21 min drive - 11.9 km
Ilfracombe Harbour - 45 min drive - 42.7 km
Woolacombe Beach - 51 min drive - 48.1 km
Getting around
Minehead Station - 35 min drive
Restaurants
The Crown Hotel - 9 min drive
The Glasshouse - 9 min drive
The Ancient Mariner - 8 min drive
The Barque - 8 min drive
Mad 4 Seafood - 8 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Large Period House set in Ancient Woodland in Exmoor National Park near Lynmouth pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows pets (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Large Period House set in Ancient Woodland in Exmoor National Park near Lynmouth?
As of 19 Sept 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Large Period House set in Ancient Woodland in Exmoor National Park near Lynmouth on 2 Oct 2026 start from £1,451, 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 Large Period House set in Ancient Woodland in Exmoor National Park near Lynmouth?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Large Period House set in Ancient Woodland in Exmoor National Park near Lynmouth?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Large Period House set in Ancient Woodland in Exmoor National Park near Lynmouth?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Large Period House set in Ancient Woodland in Exmoor National Park near Lynmouth located?
This family-friendly Lynton holiday home is located by the sea, within 3 mi (5 km) of Watersmeet House and Glen Lyn Gorge. Lynton and Lymouth Cliff Railway and Blacklands Beach are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We had a fantastic stay at Oaklands with extended family for my son’s 21st birthday. It was perfect for our needs. We loved the large round table that seats 14. The access is slightly steep but was managed with some assistance by my 87 year old grandmother. We managed a game of darts one evening in the barn. The grounds and surrounding areas really are stunning. Peter was most helpful and access and instructions were clear. We managed some surfing, paddle boarding and beautiful hikes around Valley of the rocks/Watersmeet during our weekend away. I would definitely book again.
We had a wonderful time in this lush area of Exmoor. The house was perfect for our large group where we had lots of community areas while feeling we all had our personal space and all felt the ease of flow throughout the house. Highlights was the round (elipse) table where we could easily talk to everyone; The well equipped kitchen The comfy snug The huge window in the lounge The luxury bathroom And the constant sound of water from the property's stream and the East Lyn river. We all felt relaxed, pampered and invigorated
Wonderful family holiday at beautiful Oaklands ! The location with the East Lyn river opposite was fantastic. We enjoyed great days out at Woolacombe and Lynmouth/Lynton. Lots of great holiday memories to cherish!
We really enjoyed exploring the area The beaches and scenery were absolutely beautiful.The house is truly away from it all. Not even reception for our mobile phones. We appreciated the landline. At the property it felt like we had stepped back in time.After finding our toddler had a tick bite we were so greatful the property had a tweezers and dettol to remove the tic. It was a new experience for us lime disease and buying tic repellent spray from amazon. We loved the valleys,wildlife and spotted badgers red deer, seals,and so many coloured butterflies. North Devon is a stunning place. We visited the Quince honey farm nearby. It is an excellent day out. We loved the stream near the garden and it's old waterwheel. But we had young children and quickly made sure to lock the gate shut with string we brought with us. As any young child could have stepped through the gate and fallen off the path into the stream or the water wheel below.We loved the sound of the river and the glimpses of the rushing water through the trees in the garden. The actual river was across the Rd. We enjoyed the chairs in the garden for a BBQ but while we were eating we saw a tile fall off the roof and hit the ground we were pleased that no one got hurt. We loved the family round table for meals it was amazing spacious table perfect for our family. Thankfully none of our family had mobility issues as Oaklands has no toilet downstairs. Thank you we had a wonderful stay at Oaklands.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Aug 2026
We are delighted their large boisterous family party had a "wonderful stay" and they "really enjoyed the area". Oaklands is a historic place in the heart of Exmoor on the edge of a pretty hamlet with a pub, close to the coastal resort village of Lynmouth, and equipped with modern conveniences such as outdoor wi-fi in the garden, EV charging point etc.
We are sorry one of the party had a tick bite. Ticks are distributed across all areas of southern England including Exmoor. But this is the first time a guest reported a bite. We do provide guests with the advice from the National Park and a comprehensive first aid kit.
Safety of guests is our top priority and a former National Park ranger had advised us on outdoor safety measured. From the garden, the gate in the wall to the disused waterwheel and stream is secured with a latch and bolt. After entering through the gate the waterwheel itself has fencing but we advise guests that children should not enter unaccompanied. We do also provide a secure fenced off play area for younger children in the main garden. After the concern raised by the guest we will review safety, ensure safety measures are in place and make any updates.
We had the roof maintained in June as usual before the summer letting season but will check the roof.
We had a really good few days here - a spacious well equipped house, in which everything worked, and everyone was comfortable - in spite of the heatwave - in a perfect peaceful spot in the trees. It was lovely to fall asleep listening to the river.
We were a large party coming together to celebrate a family event. The house was a really lovely place to stay. It had everything we needed and helped make out weekend so enjoyable.
The property is very big with.real character. The grounds and surroundings are lovely with a lovely small river in gront of the property which made a lovely soothing sound, so relaxing.The property had everything you could wish for.
A great location and spacious place.
Clean, tidy with everything you need a for an idyllic stay in Devon. Would happily return for another stay. We all loved it.
We loved our stay at Oaklands, check in was very easy, the owners were very helpful, the setting for this house is simply breathtaking, the bedrooms are spacious and the kitchen well equipped. Pony trekking just up the road. Would definitely come again..
Fantastic location, lovely house and refreshingly uncomplicated hosting - thank you very much. Running through ancient woodland and out across the moors in the autumn sunshine was truly special. We would love to return…
A family group stayed for three nights in October and had a lovely time. Plenty of room for us all and bedrooms to choose from.
We all found it very comfortable and spacious.
The kitchen was very well equipped.
The Rockford Inn really was a 5-minute walk away and there were some lovely walks on the doorstep.
We wouldn't hesitate to stay again.
We had a fantastic weekend at Oaklands. The location is beautiful & the house had everything we needed. There were logs ready by the log burner and the welcome biscuits were, indeed, very welcome!
The house and location was just perfect for a family ranging in age from 5 to 66. Plenty of room for everyone. The house has everything you need. We spent Christmas here and didn’t want for anything . Warm, comfortable and homely.Good communication with host. We will definitely be back.
Large comfortable house in a valley with views over the river at the bottom of the valley. Lots of room for everyone with plenty of bedrooms and bathrooms. The host was extremely helpful in responding quickly to emails and calling us on the day of arrival to check that all was OK. Minor drawback is the steep path to the house (but worth it for the view!). Would definitely recommend if you want a comfortable get away from it all stay.
Good size house for our extended family. Very steep access from parking area (4 cars) to house. Kitchen fully equipped. Good fun with table tennis, darts and table football. Disappointing ‘1.5 acre‘ wild grounds as they were very steep and slippery.Ok for a lads challenge but not much else.Wi-Fi was adequate.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Aug 2026
Thank you for the comments. Oaklands has a lawn garden. Behind the wall with a latched gate is the stream and disused waterwheel and beyond that Gratton Wood (of "Special Scientific Interest"). Outside the grounds, but still on our land, a public footpath leads up the side of the stream through Gratton Wood to the farm behind and the high moor. Oaklands is at an apex of footpaths also with easier walks down to the National Trust Watersmeet, up to the village of Brendon and across Countisbury Hill towards the coast. The National Park also provides accessible paths a short drive away at Heddon Valley and further afield at Dunster Castle. So we believe Exmoor offers something for everyone.
Truly pretty off the beaten track. VERY beautiful location. Perhaps not for folk who were not good walkers. Very steep valley with walk along the little road only for the elderly.
Lovely though. House commodious - lots of hot water
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Aug 2024
We are delighted the guest the found Oaklands commodious and in a very beautiful location - we do agree! Oaklands is in the heart of the Exmoor National Park. But there is lots to do for visitors of all ages on Exmoor and in the surrounding popular tourists areas of Devon.
There are the close-by resort villages of Lynton and Lynmouth, RHS Rosemoor Garden, Dunster Castle, pretty towns like Porlock and dog-friendly and sandy beaches. For walks on flatish ground there is the National Trust Doone Valley walk from Malmesmead, the reasonable path from Lynton to Valley of Rocks and mobility scooter access to the National Trust Heddon's Mouth. These are a short drive from Oaklands.
Very interesting location which took a bit of exploring. We lived the surroundings and the house and fiynd lovely places to go rriymd about. The weather was difficult to gauge as we learnt that it seemed less sunny in the forest than up the hill!
We thought there were 2 en suite badrooms and struggled a bit to dry clothes at first but small snags on a lovely holiday.
We had a delightful week at Oaklands, there's not many places where you can come out of the house and walk in any direction (ok - mostly up) and be in the middle of beautiful countryside without seeing another person on your walk. From the bats in the barn to the 31 different species of birds we heard, the sheep in the garden and the spectacular starry skies Oaklands puts you right in the middle of nature. Even on rainy days there was plenty to do, both in the house and outside. Peter was an excellent host and everything in the house worked without issue - the only thing it would benefit from is a coffee machine. We were sad to leave.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025
About the host
Hosted by Peter Sammonds
We are a professional couple with two grown children. We travel extensively, but our favourite place in the world is Exmoor. We had been visiting for many years before we bought Oaklands and particularly loved the “Doone Valley”, the location of R.D. Blackmore’s Victorian romantic classic Lorna Doone. The Oare Church where Lorna marries is nearby Oaklands!
Why they chose this property
Oaklands is in a spectacular location, set in one of the few remaining areas of ancient woodlands in England, in the heart of Exmoor National Park, with magical views overlooking the East Lyn River. It is fairly isolated, but a 5 minutes walk from a traditional inn. Exmoor is an International Dark Skies Reserve, meaning the nights seem really dark but with amazing views of the night sky stars. Walking, horse riding, bike trails, kayaking and fishing are all on our doorstep. And it is such a friendly and welcoming area.
What makes this property unique
Oaklands is a large spacious period house with its own stream and waterwheel in the grounds, dating from its early Victorian heritage as the house for the wood mill which built Lynmouth. The steep terracing, tumbling stream and the feeling of a house deep in the woods, gives Oaklands its magical feel. But it is renovated with contemporary furnishing and modern electronic entertainment too, making it perfect for large gatherings of family or groups of friends at any time of the year.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests