Brightworthy Farm, Withypool
7 reviews
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8
Guests -
5
Bedrooms -
2
Bathrooms -
Pets
welcome
Brightworthy Farm, Withypool (Somerset) is a spacious, dog-friendly Exmoor farmhouse sleeping up to 8 guests in 5 bedrooms. This unique home offers stunning views and superb walks from the door, in this beautiful rural location - an ideal escape for families and groups.
Brightworthy Farm is set amidst rolling moorland with sweeping views over the River Barle valley; it's a truly exceptional Exmoor setting, just two miles from the picturesque and unspoilt village of Withypool. This handsome and secluded farmhouse is reached via a long private driveway, offering complete peace, space and relaxation for guests of all ages. Superb moorland walks begin right from the front door. The detached farmhouse is spacious, light and full of character, while some features are more traditional than contemporary, the charm, generous layout and extraordinary location more than make up for it. The bedrooms have recently been sympathetically refurbished, and the welcoming living spaces - complete with open fires and wood-burning stoves - provide the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring Exmoor Sleeps up to 8 guests in five bedrooms One king-size double bed; two twin bedrooms; two single bedrooms Large, private garden and patio area directly outside Dining room with feature inglenook fireplace with wood-burning stove Sitting room with open fire place Kitchen with Aga, plus adjoined pantry with electric cooker, dishwasher, washing machine, etc Ground floor shower room, plus upstairs bathroom (bath with shower over) Electricity and heating included (heating is a mix of night storage heaters, freestanding electric heaters, Aga in the kitchen, wood-burner and open fire) Wifi is provided, but please note this is a rural location so speeds can be slow, as such not suitable for downloading/streaming Logs provided Towels and bed linen provided High chair and travel cot available Up to two well-behaved dogs welcome for supplement of £30 per dog Strictly no smoking Arrive from 3 pm Depart by 10 am The front door opens into a welcoming entrance hall. From here, the sitting room opens out with a comfortable sofa, three armchairs, and an open fire. The dining room features a characterful inglenook fireplace with a wood-burning stove, a large table with chairs and a bench to seat eight. The kitchen leads into an adjoining pantry with flagstone flooring. A ground-floor shower room includes a shower, hand basin, and toilet. The rear hallway provides coat hanging and boot storage and direct access to the parking area. Upstairs, the spacious master bedroom overlooks the front garden and features a king-size bed. There are also two twin bedrooms, and two single bedrooms. The family bathroom completes the first floor with a heated towel rail, hand basin, toilet and a bath with shower over.
- Kitchen / Kitchenette
- Linen provided,Towels provided
- High chair
- Iron and board
- TV
- Dishwasher,Washing machine,Clothes dryer
- Cooker,Microwave,Toaster,Fridge,Freezer
- Games room
- Fan
- Electric vehicle charge point
- Bath
- Breakfast included
- Wi-Fi available
- Hair dryer
- Central heating
- Kettle
- Log fire
The kitchen includes a traditional Aga, dishwasher, washing machine and sink. In the adjoining pantry there is a free-standing electric double oven with hob, microwave, fridge-freezer, plus an additional fridge as well as storage shelves. There is a good supply of cookware, crockery, glasses, cutlery and utensils. The sitting room has an open fire and TV with DVD player. Wi-Fi is available but please note that due to the rural location, the speeds are slow we suggest is not suitable for downloading/streaming. Electricity and heating costs are included in the price of your accommodation. Brightworthy Farm has a mixture of night storage heaters, freestanding electric heaters, the Aga in the kitchen, plus the open fire and wood-burner; logs are provided. The property becomes warm and cosy through use of the wood-burner and open-fire, but it does require a little attention to keep it that way. Bed linen, duvets, blankets and towels are provided for your convenience, but please bring your own beach towels if you wish to take towels with you outside of the cottage. Cleaning materials such as washing up liquid and dishwasher tablets will be present in the property. One or two toilet rolls will be provided per toilet. Mobile reception is generally fair, but can vary with different providers. Wifi calling is available.
- BBQ
- Parking
- Jacuzzi or hot tub
- Shared garden
- private garden (enclosed)
- Balcony or terrace
- Sea view
- Secure parking
- private garden (not enclosed)
- Detached Property
- Pool (communal)
- Pool (private)
The farmhouse is reached by a mile-long private driveway (shared with the neighbouring farm and two other properties), Brightworthy Farm is at the end of the drive and is surrounded by generous grassy gardens. The sunny front garden is enclosed by traditional Exmoor banks, and you’ll find outdoor tables, chairs ready for relaxed meals in the fresh air. From the gate, marked footpaths lead directly towards Withypool. Guests are welcome to wander the private fields that roll down to the River Barle — a lovely spot for a quiet riverside picnic. Please note that livestock may be grazing in some fields at certain times of year so please be vigilant, especially if you have dogs with you. There is a well-stocked village shop, tea room and pub serving good food in Withypool which is approx 2 miles by car, or 1 mile by foot. There are further amenities in Dulverton which is approx 8 miles away.
Electric vehicle charge point
Pets welcome
2 x Dog(s), £30 per stay
Cat(s)
Horses
It may be possible to accommodate up to 4 horses, by arrangement for DIY livery. The charge will depend on if you wish to use the stables and/or just the turnout. Please contact us for more information about the facilities.
Restricted mobility
Wheelchair users
Smoke detector,Carbon-monoxide detector,Fire extinguisher
- 3 months
- 42 days
- 30 days
- 14 days
- 7 days
- 48 hours
100% refund if the reservation is cancelled at least 30 days before the arrival date. We recommend adding cancellation cover during check-out to give you added protection for cancelling in the red zone above.
The region
+ MoreWithypool is a small moorland village in the heart of Exmoor National Park, set in a beautiful valley where the River Barle flows beneath a handsome six-arched medieval bridge.
The village has been a popular destination for countryside lovers for well over a century. T...he author R.D. Blackmore, who wrote Lorna Doone, stayed here, as did General Eisenhower, who used the area for D-Day training in the 1940s. At the centre of village life is The Royal Oak Inn, a welcoming 18th-century pub serving real ales, local ciders, and hearty food. The village also has a charming tea room and a small shop and post office selling everyday essentials, local honey, handmade soaps, and art.
Withypool sits at a natural crossroads in central Exmoor, making it an excellent base for exploring the moor in all directions. The River Barle is one of the finest rivers on Exmoor, and the walks along its banks -- south to the ancient Tarr Steps or north to the medieval Landacre Bridge -- are among the most beautiful in the National Park.
The nearest small town is Dulverton (approximately 7 miles), known as the southern gateway to Exmoor, where you will find a mini-supermarket, butcher, post office, chemist, cash machine, and a good selection of independent shops and restaurants. Minehead (approximately 12 miles) has larger supermarkets, petrol stations, and high street facilities.
In Withypool
The Royal Oak Inn -- A much-loved 18th-century Exmoor inn at the heart of the village, open from midday every day with food served all day until 8pm. The menu features hearty dishes made with local ingredients, and the bar serves Exmoor ales including their own Withy Wanger Ale, plus local ciders and an extensive gin and malt collection. Two bars with woodburners, beamed ceilings, and a beautifully decorated dining room seating up to 36. Dogs and children are welcome throughout. Sunday roasts are popular -- booking is recommended.
Withypool Tea Rooms -- A delightful tea room in the centre of the village, opposite the old village shop. Open daily from 9am to 4pm during the season (spring through to late autumn). Home-cooked light meals, homemade cakes, and traditional cream teas. A favourite stop for walkers tackling the Tarr Steps route or the Two Moors Way. Arrive before 11.30am on Sundays to be sure of a table.
Withypool Village Shop -- Right opposite the tea room, this charming shop and post office has a hand-painted turquoise sign and a red telephone box outside. Pick up everyday essentials, local Exmoor honey, handmade soaps, and gifts.
Nearby
Tarr Farm Inn -- A beautiful 17th-century inn right beside the famous Tarr Steps on the River Barle, approximately 15 minutes by car. Award-winning food using Exmoor lamb, Devon Red Ruby beef, Cornish seafood, and local game. Cream teas served throughout the day. Outdoor tables overlook the river. Booking recommended, especially at weekends.
The Crown Hotel, Exford -- A 17th-century family-run coaching inn in the village of Exford, approximately 4 miles away. A cosy country bar serving real ales and hearty home-cooked food, plus an award-winning restaurant for something special. Roaring log fires in winter and outside dining in summer. Dog-friendly throughout.
In Dulverton (approximately 7 miles)
Dulverton offers a wider choice of dining. Woods Bar and Restaurant is a much-loved establishment named the Good Pub Guide's National Wine Bar of the Year. The Bridge Inn is a popular country pub beside the medieval bridge over the River Barle, serving great ales and modern British food. There are also tea rooms, a Thai restaurant, and a fish and chip shop.
Tarr Steps -- One of Exmoor's most famous landmarks, an ancient clapper bridge spanning the River Barle approximately 5 miles south of Withypool. The bridge is 180 feet long with 17 massive stone slabs, some weighing over two tonnes. A Grade I listed building and Scheduled Ancient Monument, surrounded by a National Nature Reserve of ancient oak woodland rich in wildlife including red deer, otters, and dormice. A spectacular walk along the River Barle from Withypool, or a short drive with a car park nearby.
Withypool Stone Circle -- A Bronze Age stone circle on the southwestern slope of Withypool Hill, approximately 1,250 feet above sea level. Originally comprising around 100 stones in a ring 36 metres across, around 27 stones survive today. One of only two prehistoric stone circles on Exmoor, and a Scheduled Ancient Monument since 1925. A rewarding walk from the village with fine moorland views.
Exmoor Ponies -- Withypool Hill and the surrounding moorland are home to herds of free-roaming Exmoor ponies, Britain's oldest native breed and classed as endangered by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. Walk up from the village to spot them grazing on the open moor. Nearby Winsford Hill is home to the largest free-living herd, and the Exmoor Pony Centre near Dulverton offers the chance to meet ponies up close.
Red Deer Watching -- Exmoor is one of the best places in England to see wild red deer. The woodlands along the River Barle and the open moorland around Withypool offer excellent opportunities, particularly during the autumn rut when the stags can be heard roaring across the valleys.
Fishing -- The River Barle runs right through Withypool and offers excellent fly fishing for wild brown trout and salmon. Day permits are available locally. The river is a favourite among anglers for its beautiful setting and challenging fishing.
Dark Sky Stargazing -- Exmoor was designated Europe's first International Dark Sky Reserve. With almost no light pollution, the skies above Withypool are spectacular on clear nights. Look out for the Milky Way, shooting stars, and even the occasional northern lights.
Horse Riding -- Several riding stables in the area offer moorland treks across Exmoor, suitable for all abilities. An unforgettable way to experience the landscape, with rides crossing open heather moorland and through wooded valleys.
Dunster Castle -- A striking medieval castle set in beautiful subtropical gardens, managed by the National Trust. Approximately 25 minutes by car.
Dulverton -- A charming small town approximately 7 miles south, with over 40 independent shops, a National Park Visitor Centre, galleries, and riverside walks along the Barle.
Walks from the Doorstep
Withypool to Tarr Steps along the River Barle -- One of the finest walks on Exmoor. Follow the River Barle south through beautiful oak woodland to the ancient clapper bridge at Tarr Steps. Approximately 5 miles each way, or take the popular 8-mile circular route returning over Withypool Hill with superb moorland views throughout. Allow 4 to 5 hours for the full circuit. The riverside path passes through a National Nature Reserve -- watch for red deer, dippers, and otters.
Withypool Hill -- Walk up from the village to the open moorland of Withypool Hill, rising to over 1,300 feet. The hill is home to the Withypool Stone Circle, Bronze Age burial mounds known as the Brightworthy Barrows, and free-roaming Exmoor ponies. Panoramic views across central Exmoor. A shorter walk of 3 to 4 miles that can be combined with the Tarr Steps route.
Landacre Bridge -- A gentle walk north along the River Barle from Withypool to Landacre Bridge, a medieval packhorse bridge and Grade II* listed building in a picturesque moorland setting. Approximately 2 miles each way on easy terrain, with perfect picnic spots along the riverbanks.
Winsford Hill and The Punchbowl -- Open moorland walking approximately 4 miles south of Withypool, with panoramic views across Exmoor. The Punchbowl is a dramatic natural amphitheatre on the hillside. Home to the largest free-living herd of Exmoor ponies. The Three Wambarrows -- Bronze Age burial mounds -- crown the hilltop.
The Two Moors Way -- This long-distance trail linking Exmoor to Dartmoor passes through Withypool. Walk a section in either direction for a wonderful day out across the heart of the moor.
Dunkery Beacon -- The highest point on Exmoor at 519 metres, with panoramic views stretching to Dartmoor, the Brecon Beacons, and across the Bristol Channel to Wales. Several walking routes lead to the summit. Approximately 25 minutes by car to the nearest starting point.
Beaches
Porlock Bay -- A sweeping 3-mile pebble beach backed by marshland and salt marsh, wild and beautiful in all seasons. Approximately 13 miles from Withypool (around 30 minutes by car).
Minehead -- The nearest sandy beach, approximately 12 miles away (around 25 minutes by car). A wide expanse of sand at low tide, ideal for families. Also the starting point of the South West Coast Path.
Dunster Beach -- A quieter sand and shingle beach near the historic village of Dunster, approximately 12 miles away.
North Devon beaches -- The golden sand surfing beaches at Woolacombe, Croyde, and Saunton Sands are within reach for a day trip, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car.
Recommended transport links
Airport
ferry port
Train station
Car required
A car is necessary
More tips on how to get there
Full arrival information and directions will be sent after your booking is paid in full. Further information about public transport can be found online at www.traveline.info or by calling 0871 200 2233. The nearest mainline train station is Taunton (approximately 50 miles). Bus services are very limited in this part of Exmoor. A car is essential for reaching Withypool and for getting around during your stay. The nearest airports are Bristol (approximately 90 miles) and Exeter (approximately 50 miles). Both have car hire facilities.
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Best value arrival day
for a 7 night break
Adults
Children
Ages 2-12Infants
Under 28 Guests maximum. Infants don't count toward the number of guests.


