Discover large holiday cottages in Chulmleigh, a historic market town surrounded by the rolling hills, wooded valleys and beautiful countryside of rural Devon. Set above the Little Dart Valley, Chulmleigh is a lovely destination for families and groups of friends looking to escape to the countryside, with peaceful walking routes, traditional pubs and picturesque villages to explore.

Find large holiday homes and spacious country houses sleeping eight or more, perfect for family gatherings, celebrations and relaxing holidays together. With Eggesford Forest, the River Taw and attractive Devon countryside close by, Chulmleigh offers an excellent base for exploring the heart of the county, with both Dartmoor and Exmoor within reach for memorable days out.

Choosing a Large Holiday Cottage in Chulmleigh

Chulmleigh is a small, traditional Devon market town with a history stretching back to medieval times. Its narrow streets, historic buildings and welcoming rural atmosphere make it a charming place to stay, while the surrounding countryside offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

For larger families and groups of friends, a holiday cottage in Chulmleigh provides a peaceful setting for spending quality time together. Whether you're planning a week away with several generations of your family, a birthday celebration or a countryside break with friends, having a whole house to yourselves gives everyone room to relax and enjoy their holiday.

When looking for a large holiday home in Chulmleigh, consider the space and facilities that will suit your group. Properties with generous kitchens, large dining areas and comfortable living rooms are particularly appealing when everyone wants to eat and socialise together. Gardens and outdoor seating areas can also be attractive for summer stays, while features such as hot tubs, games rooms and open fires may be worth looking for if they are important to your holiday.

The surrounding countryside is especially suited to those seeking a rural retreat. Farmhouses, converted barns and country houses can make appealing group accommodation, particularly for visitors who prefer a quieter setting with countryside walks and attractive views nearby.

Why Choose Chulmleigh for a Group Holiday?

One of Chulmleigh's greatest attractions is its location in the Devon countryside, away from the busy coastal resorts. The landscape is a patchwork of green fields, wooded hillsides, winding lanes and river valleys, providing a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing break.

The town itself has a strong sense of history, with traditional buildings, independent businesses and the impressive Church of St Mary Magdalene. It's a pleasant place to explore at an unhurried pace, with opportunities to enjoy a pub meal or discover the surrounding footpaths.

For groups who enjoy walking, wildlife and outdoor activities, Chulmleigh is particularly well placed. The nearby Little Dart and Taw valleys provide attractive countryside to explore, while Eggesford Forest offers woodland walks beneath mature trees.

Another advantage is the variety of day trips available. You can explore the market towns of Crediton and South Molton, visit RHS Garden Rosemoor near Great Torrington or venture further to the open landscapes of Dartmoor and Exmoor.

Chulmleigh is an appealing choice for groups who want to enjoy Devon's countryside while having the freedom to explore different parts of the county during their stay.

Things to Do in Chulmleigh and the Surrounding Area

Explore Historic Chulmleigh

Start your holiday by exploring Chulmleigh itself. The town's winding streets, thatched cottages and traditional architecture reflect its long history as a rural market centre.

The Church of St Mary Magdalene is one of its most prominent landmarks, with an imposing tower visible across the surrounding countryside. Elsewhere, historic buildings such as the Old Court House offer a glimpse into Chulmleigh's past.

Take a stroll through the town, discover the local shops and enjoy a meal in one of the traditional pubs. It's a pleasant way to spend a quieter afternoon before returning to your holiday cottage.

Enjoy Woodland Walks at Eggesford Forest

Just a short drive from Chulmleigh, Eggesford Forest is one of the area's best places for walking and enjoying nature.

Managed by Forestry England, the forest comprises several woodland areas, including Hilltown, Heywood and Flashdown. Its tracks pass beneath towering Douglas firs and through mixed woodland, with opportunities to spot woodland birds and other wildlife.

The forest also has an interesting history. At Heywood, the remains of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle provide a fascinating stop on a woodland walk, while Flashdown is associated with some of the earliest planting by the Forestry Commission in 1919.

Eggesford Forest is a lovely choice for a group outing, particularly for families who enjoy picnics, exploring woodland and spending time outdoors. Walking routes vary in length and difficulty, and some trails are not waymarked, so it's worth planning your route before setting off.

Discover the River Taw and Little Dart Valley

Chulmleigh's surrounding river valleys are among the most attractive features of this part of Devon. The Little Dart winds through farmland and wooded countryside before joining the River Taw, creating a varied landscape of hills, meadows and quiet rural lanes.

The area is excellent for countryside walks, with public footpaths and local routes offering views across the valleys. Walkers may encounter buzzards overhead, while the waterways and surrounding woodland provide habitats for kingfishers, otters and other wildlife.

Nearby Chawleigh offers additional walking opportunities, including routes with distant views towards Dartmoor. These are rewarding outings for groups who enjoy discovering quieter parts of Devon on foot.

Take a Scenic Journey on the Tarka Line

The Tarka Line railway runs through the Taw Valley between Exeter and Barnstaple, passing through some beautiful Devon countryside.

Eggesford railway station is close to Chulmleigh and provides an opportunity to enjoy a day out without driving. The journey follows river valleys, farmland and wooded hillsides, with attractive scenery throughout the year.

Groups could take the train towards Exeter for a day exploring the cathedral city, or head towards Barnstaple to discover North Devon's historic market town and nearby attractions.

For railway enthusiasts and visitors who enjoy exploring at a slower pace, the Tarka Line is a particularly memorable way to experience the surrounding countryside.

Visit RHS Garden Rosemoor

RHS Garden Rosemoor, near Great Torrington, is an excellent day trip for families and groups staying in Chulmleigh.

Set within a beautiful wooded valley, the gardens cover around 65 acres and feature colourful seasonal displays, rose gardens, woodland walks and carefully designed planting areas.

There is something to enjoy throughout the year, from spring flowers and summer roses to autumn colours. The gardens also have places to eat, making it easy to spend several hours exploring.

Rosemoor is particularly suitable for a mixed-age family group, with opportunities for both relaxed strolls and longer walks around the grounds.

Explore the Market Towns of Mid and North Devon

Chulmleigh is well positioned for visiting several traditional Devon towns, each offering something different.

South Molton is known for its historic market heritage and independent shops, while Crediton has an attractive high street, traditional architecture and a long association with Devon's farming communities.

Great Torrington is another worthwhile destination, with its historic centre, surrounding countryside and nearby Tarka Trail. It's also a convenient place to combine sightseeing with a visit to RHS Garden Rosemoor.

These towns provide opportunities to browse local shops, visit cafés, discover regional produce and experience everyday life in rural Devon.

Discover Dartmoor and Exmoor

One of the benefits of staying in Chulmleigh is the opportunity to explore two of Devon's most impressive national parks.

To the south, Dartmoor is famous for its rugged granite tors, open moorland, ancient woodland and picturesque villages. It's a wonderful destination for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts, with routes ranging from gentle riverside strolls to demanding hikes across the moors.

To the north, Exmoor offers rolling heather-covered hills, wooded valleys and dramatic scenery. The national park is home to Exmoor ponies and red deer, and provides excellent opportunities for walking, wildlife watching and photography.

Both national parks make rewarding day trips from Chulmleigh, giving groups the chance to enjoy very different landscapes during the same holiday.

Large Family Holidays and Group Accommodation in Chulmleigh

Chulmleigh is particularly appealing for holidays where the accommodation itself is an important part of the experience. For extended families and groups of friends, a spacious holiday house offers somewhere to come together for meals, games, celebrations and evenings spent relaxing.

Larger country properties can be a good choice for multigenerational holidays, especially when they provide a suitable mix of bedrooms, bathrooms and communal spaces. Families travelling with younger children may appreciate an enclosed garden, while groups with older relatives should check the availability of ground-floor facilities and the accessibility of the property.

For special occasions, a big holiday house near Chulmleigh can provide a lovely countryside setting for a birthday, anniversary or family reunion. If you're organising a gathering, check the property's maximum occupancy and any restrictions on celebrations or additional visitors before booking.

The area is also well suited to holidays with dogs. With woodland walks, country footpaths and plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors, Chulmleigh makes an appealing destination for guests bringing their four-legged companions. Be sure to check individual accommodation policies and follow the Countryside Code, particularly around livestock.

Planning Your Stay in Chulmleigh

Chulmleigh is a year-round destination, with each season offering something different.

Spring brings fresh green countryside, woodland flowers and excellent walking conditions. Summer is ideal for enjoying gardens, picnics and long evenings outdoors, while autumn transforms the surrounding woodlands with beautiful colours.

Winter can be equally appealing for groups looking for a peaceful countryside retreat, particularly when staying in a cosy holiday home with plenty of indoor space for spending time together.

As Chulmleigh is a rural location, having a car is useful for exploring the surrounding area, visiting attractions and reaching some countryside properties. Groups travelling in several vehicles should check parking arrangements before booking, particularly at converted farm buildings and houses approached along narrow country lanes.

It's also worth considering the distance between your accommodation and the town centre. Staying within walking distance of Chulmleigh's amenities offers convenience, while properties in the surrounding countryside may provide greater seclusion and attractive rural surroundings.Frequently Asked Questions About Large Holiday Cottages in Chulmleigh

Can you find large holiday cottages in Chulmleigh for eight or more people?

Chulmleigh and the surrounding Devon countryside are worth considering when looking for larger self-catering properties, including country houses, farmhouses and converted barns. Availability for groups of eight or more depends on the individual property and your chosen dates.

Is Chulmleigh a good place for a large family holiday?

Yes, Chulmleigh is a lovely destination for families who enjoy countryside holidays, walking and exploring rural Devon. Eggesford Forest, the Taw Valley and attractions such as RHS Garden Rosemoor offer opportunities for days out, while a spacious holiday home provides somewhere for everyone to spend time together.

What are the best things to do near Chulmleigh?

Popular activities include walking in Eggesford Forest, exploring the Little Dart and Taw valleys, taking a scenic train journey on the Tarka Line and visiting RHS Garden Rosemoor. Day trips to South Molton, Crediton, Dartmoor and Exmoor offer further variety.

Are there dog-friendly large holiday cottages in Chulmleigh?

Dog-friendly holiday accommodation can be found in the Chulmleigh area, although policies vary between individual properties. The surrounding countryside and Eggesford Forest are especially attractive for visitors planning a walking holiday with their dogs.

Is Chulmleigh close to Dartmoor and Exmoor?

Chulmleigh lies in rural Devon between the two national parks, making both accessible for day trips by car. Dartmoor offers open moorland, granite tors and wooded valleys, while Exmoor is known for its rolling hills, wildlife and extensive walking routes.

Is Chulmleigh suitable for a countryside holiday with friends?

Chulmleigh is a good choice for groups of friends looking for a relaxed rural break. Large holiday houses provide the opportunity to cook, dine and spend time together, while nearby woodland walks, traditional pubs, historic towns and countryside attractions offer plenty to enjoy during the day.

Do you need a car when staying in Chulmleigh?

A car is recommended for most holidays in Chulmleigh, particularly if you plan to explore the countryside and visit nearby attractions. Eggesford has a railway station on the Exeter to Barnstaple Tarka Line, but public transport connections to rural holiday properties can be limited.