Sleeps 8 | 3 bedrooms + sofa bed | Converted mill | Wood burner | Enclosed courtyard | Beaches nearby
Overview of The Old Mill
The Old Mill is a beautifully converted former mill in East Portlemouth, a peaceful South Devon village overlooking the Salcombe and Kingsbridge Estuary. Sleeping eight guests across three bedrooms and an additional double sofa bed, this distinctive holiday cottage combines traditional character, generous living accommodation and a lovely rural setting close to sandy beaches.
The property is tucked away near East Portlemouth's historic Norman church, surrounded by the attractive countryside of the South Hams. Its location offers easy access to the estuary beaches, while the nearby passenger ferry provides a convenient connection to the shops, restaurants and waterfront attractions of Salcombe.
Inside, The Old Mill has a spacious and welcoming atmosphere. The building's conversion has created an individual layout with rooms arranged at different levels, giving the accommodation a distinctive character.
The large entrance hall leads to the kitchen and dining area, where a table seating eight provides a comfortable setting for family meals. The kitchen has an oven and hob, dishwasher, microwave and generous refrigeration, making it practical for preparing meals throughout a week's holiday.
A few steps lead up from the entrance hall to the impressive lounge. Furnished with three large sofas and two additional chairs, this is a particularly attractive room for families and friends spending time together.
The wood-burning stove provides a cosy focal point during cooler evenings, while the wide-screen television and DVD player offer entertainment after days spent exploring the coast.
From the lounge, guests can enjoy countryside views stretching towards Dartmoor, providing a lovely contrast to the beaches and estuary scenery nearby.
The sleeping accommodation is arranged on a lower level, reached by a few steps from the main entrance hall. There is a double bedroom with its own en-suite shower room and two twin bedrooms, each containing full-size single beds.
A separate family bathroom provides further bathing facilities, with both a bath and powerful shower.
The lounge also contains a double sofa bed, allowing the property to accommodate eight guests. Groups should consider this arrangement when allocating sleeping space, as two guests will be sleeping within the main reception room.
Outside, The Old Mill has a secluded, fully enclosed courtyard with a garden table, chairs and barbecue. It provides a pleasant place to enjoy meals outdoors, relax in the sunshine or unwind after walking the coast path.
The surrounding area is one of South Devon's most attractive coastal destinations. East Portlemouth's sandy beaches are approximately half a mile away, with the walk downhill providing wonderful views across the estuary towards Salcombe.
Mill Bay is particularly popular with families, offering beautiful sand, sheltered waters and access to the South West Coast Path.
A passenger ferry connects East Portlemouth with Salcombe, allowing guests to explore the town's independent shops, cafés, restaurants and waterfront without driving around the estuary.
The nearby coastline offers excellent walking towards Gara Rock, East Prawle and Prawle Point, while the surrounding waters are popular for sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding.
For families and friends looking for a large holiday cottage near Salcombe with comfortable accommodation, countryside views and easy access to beautiful beaches, The Old Mill is an appealing choice.
The Old Mill at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | East Portlemouth, South Devon |
| Accommodation | Converted traditional mill |
| Sleeps | 8 |
| Bedrooms | 3 |
| Additional Sleeping | Double sofa bed in lounge |
| Bathrooms | 2 |
| Additional WC | Separate cloakroom |
| Bedroom Arrangement | 1 double and 2 twins |
| Main Living Area | Spacious separate lounge |
| Lounge Seating | 3 large sofas and 2 additional chairs |
| Fireplace | Wood-burning stove |
| Entertainment | 42-inch television and DVD player |
| Kitchen | Oven, hob, dishwasher and microwave |
| Dining | Table seating 8 |
| Outside Space | Fully enclosed courtyard |
| Outdoor Dining | Table, chairs and barbecue |
| Views | Countryside towards Dartmoor |
| Heating | Gas central heating |
| Dogs | Welcome |
| Parking | 2 cars |
| EV Charging | Available at additional cost |
| WiFi | Included |
| Nearest Beaches | Approximately half a mile |
| Nearest Shop and Pub | East Prawle, approximately 3 miles |
| Salcombe | Accessible by passenger ferry |
| Nearby Attractions | Mill Bay, Gara Rock, East Prawle and Prawle Point |
Who is The Old Mill Best For?
The Old Mill is particularly appealing to families looking for spacious accommodation close to the sandy beaches of East Portlemouth.
The large lounge provides a comfortable gathering place, while the kitchen/diner seats everyone around one table. The enclosed courtyard is another attractive feature for guests who enjoy relaxing outdoors.
The bedroom arrangement works well for a group of six using the three conventional bedrooms. For a full group of eight, the double sofa bed in the lounge provides the final two sleeping places.
This makes the property especially suitable for families or groups who are comfortable with the main lounge also being used as a sleeping area.
Dog owners will appreciate the enclosed courtyard and access to countryside paths and coastal walking routes.
The property's position is particularly attractive for walkers. Guests can explore the coastline towards Gara Rock and Prawle Point or enjoy shorter walks down to the estuary beaches.
Families who enjoy watersports can spend time kayaking, paddleboarding or sailing around the Salcombe Estuary.
The accommodation includes changes of level, with steps leading to the lounge and bedrooms. Guests with specific mobility requirements should check the access statement before booking.
Why is The Old Mill a Great Large Holiday Home?
- Distinctive converted mill: Traditional character and an individual layout give the property a welcoming atmosphere.
- Excellent coastal location: The sandy beaches of East Portlemouth are approximately half a mile away, with beautiful views across the Salcombe Estuary.
- Spacious lounge: Three large sofas, additional chairs, a wood burner and countryside views create an attractive room for gatherings.
- Flexible accommodation for eight: Three bedrooms sleep six, with a double sofa bed providing two additional places.
- Enclosed courtyard: A secluded outdoor area with furniture and barbecue provides somewhere to relax and eat outside.
- Dog-friendly holidays: Dogs are welcome, with coastal walks and countryside paths within easy reach.
- Passenger ferry to Salcombe: Enjoy the town's restaurants, independent shops and waterfront attractions without needing to drive.
- Private parking and EV charging: Parking for two cars and electric vehicle charging add convenience for family holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people does The Old Mill sleep?
The Old Mill sleeps eight guests. The three bedrooms accommodate six people, with one double bedroom and two twins. A double sofa bed in the lounge provides sleeping accommodation for two additional guests.
How far is The Old Mill from the beach?
The sandy beaches along the East Portlemouth side of the Salcombe Estuary are approximately half a mile away. The walk is downhill towards the water, with an uphill return journey.
Does The Old Mill have an enclosed garden?
Yes. The property has a secluded, fully enclosed courtyard with outdoor furniture and a barbecue.
Is The Old Mill dog-friendly?
Yes. Dogs are welcome at The Old Mill. An additional charge of £30 per pet per week applies.
Does The Old Mill have EV charging?
Yes. Electric vehicle charging is available at £50 per car per week. Guests should arrange charging requirements when booking.
Can you walk from The Old Mill to Salcombe?
The property is on the opposite side of the estuary from Salcombe. Guests can walk downhill to the East Portlemouth passenger ferry and cross the water to reach the town. Ferry operations depend on seasonal schedules and weather conditions.
Bedrooms & Bathrooms at The Old Mill
The Old Mill sleeps eight guests across three conventional bedrooms and a double sofa bed in the lounge.
The bedrooms are arranged on a lower level of the property, reached by a few steps from the main entrance hall.
The sleeping accommodation includes a principal double bedroom with an en-suite shower room and two twin bedrooms, each containing two full-size 3ft single beds.
The double sofa bed in the lounge provides accommodation for the seventh and eighth guests.
There are two bathrooms, including the principal bedroom's en-suite and a separate family bathroom, together with a cloakroom.
Group Accommodation Layout
| Bedroom | Sleeping Arrangement | Bathroom |
|---|---|---|
| Bedroom 1 | 5ft double bed | Private en-suite shower room |
| Bedroom 2 | Two 3ft single beds | Shared family bathroom |
| Bedroom 3 | Two 3ft single beds | Shared family bathroom |
| Lounge | Double sofa bed sleeping 2 | Shared family bathroom |
Bedroom 1: Principal Double Bedroom with En-Suite
The principal bedroom is reached by a few steps down from the entrance hall.
It contains a 5ft double bed and wardrobe, providing comfortable accommodation for a couple.
A panoramic floor-to-ceiling window is one of the room's distinctive features, bringing natural light into the space.
The private en-suite shower room contains a power shower, washbasin and WC.
This bedroom is particularly appealing for parents or a couple sharing the house with family and friends.
Bedroom 2: First Twin Bedroom
The first twin bedroom contains two full-size 3ft single beds.
This arrangement is particularly suitable for children, teenagers or adult friends who prefer separate beds.
The separate family bathroom serves the room.
Its position alongside the other bedrooms makes it convenient for families travelling together.
Bedroom 3: Second Twin Bedroom
The second twin bedroom also contains two full-size 3ft single beds.
Having two twin bedrooms is particularly useful for larger families, especially where several children or teenagers are sharing.
It can also accommodate two adult friends who prefer individual sleeping arrangements.
The family bathroom is available nearby.
Additional Sleeping: Lounge Sofa Bed
The lounge contains a double sofa bed providing sleeping accommodation for two guests.
This is an important part of the property's capacity, allowing The Old Mill to sleep eight despite having only three conventional bedrooms.
The sofa bed shares the main lounge with the other seating and entertainment facilities.
Guests using it should therefore consider the amount of privacy available and how the group intends to use the lounge during mornings and evenings.
The sofa bed is particularly suitable for families or groups who are comfortable with a shared sleeping and living arrangement.
How Does the Layout Work for a Group of 8?
The Old Mill offers a practical arrangement for families and friends who want to spend a holiday close to the Salcombe Estuary.
For a family of eight, parents can occupy the double bedroom, while four children use the two twin bedrooms. The remaining two guests can use the lounge sofa bed.
For two families sharing, one couple can use the principal double bedroom, children can occupy the twin rooms and another couple can sleep on the sofa bed.
The main consideration for a full group is that the lounge serves as both communal accommodation and a sleeping area.
During the day, everyone can gather in the spacious lounge or enjoy meals around the kitchen dining table.
The enclosed courtyard provides another place to spend time together, particularly during warmer weather.
For groups of six or fewer, the three bedrooms allow everyone to sleep in a conventional bedroom.
Guests booking under the smaller-party discount should specify which two bedrooms they would like prepared.
Bathroom Layout
The Old Mill has two bathrooms and an additional cloakroom.
The principal bedroom has a private en-suite shower room with power shower, washbasin and WC.
The separate family bathroom contains a bath, handheld shower attachment, shower cubicle with power shower, washbasin, WC and heated towel rail.
A separate cloakroom is situated near the entrance hall.
This provides guests with two showers, one bath and three toilets.
Facilities & Information at The Old Mill
The Old Mill provides spacious, comfortable accommodation within a distinctive converted building.
The large lounge, kitchen/diner and enclosed courtyard create attractive spaces for family holidays, while the practical facilities make the property suitable for longer stays.
The building's unusual layout reflects its former use as a mill, with changes of level connecting the entrance hall, living room and bedrooms.
Spacious Lounge with Wood-Burning Stove
The lounge is one of The Old Mill's strongest features.
A few steps lead up from the entrance hall to this generous room, where three large sofas and two Poäng-style chairs provide comfortable seating.
One sofa converts into the additional double sleeping accommodation.
A wood-burning stove creates a welcoming focal point, particularly during autumn and winter holidays.
The 42-inch widescreen television and DVD player provide entertainment for relaxed evenings.
The room also enjoys views across the surrounding countryside towards Dartmoor, giving guests a lovely connection to the rural setting.
Kitchen and Dining Area
The kitchen provides a practical space for preparing meals for a group of eight.
Cooking facilities include an oven and hob, microwave and dishwasher.
A larder fridge and under-counter freezer provide food storage, while the washing machine is particularly useful during longer stays.
The dining table seats eight, allowing everyone to gather for breakfasts, evening meals or board games.
The kitchen and dining area form an important social space, particularly when the lounge is being used as sleeping accommodation by two members of the group.
Enclosed Courtyard and Barbecue
The secluded courtyard is another attractive feature of The Old Mill.
Fully enclosed and furnished with a garden table and chairs, it provides somewhere to enjoy outdoor meals and refreshments.
A barbecue is available, making the courtyard particularly appealing during warmer weather.
The sheltered setting creates a pleasant place to relax after days exploring the beaches and coastal paths.
A garden store provides additional practical space for holiday equipment.
Dog-Friendly Coastal Holidays
Dogs are welcome at The Old Mill, making it an attractive choice for families who want to bring their pets.
The surrounding countryside offers numerous walking opportunities, with routes towards Mill Bay, Gara Rock and the South West Coast Path.
The East Portlemouth area has beautiful estuary scenery, while the nearby headlands offer longer and more challenging routes for active walkers.
A pet charge applies, and guests should check the relevant beach access rules when planning days out with dogs.
Parking and Electric Vehicle Charging
The Old Mill has parking for two cars.
Additional unrestricted roadside parking may be available, although spaces cannot be guaranteed.
Electric vehicle charging is also provided, with a charge of £50 per car per week.
These facilities are particularly useful for guests travelling from several households or exploring the South Hams by car.
Practical Facilities
Gas central heating, electricity, bed linen and towels are included.
WiFi is provided, while mobile reception varies between networks.
A travel cot and highchair are available on request, making the property convenient for families travelling with younger children.
The surrounding lanes are often narrow, and the walk back from the beaches involves an uphill climb. Guests should bear this in mind when planning journeys and activities.
Facilities
| Category | Facilities |
|---|---|
| Lounge | Three large sofas and two additional chairs |
| Fireplace | Wood-burning stove |
| Entertainment | 42-inch television and DVD player |
| Additional Sleeping | Double sofa bed in lounge |
| Countryside Views | Views towards Dartmoor |
| Kitchen | Oven and hob |
| Kitchen Appliances | Microwave, dishwasher, larder fridge and freezer |
| Dining | Table seating 8 |
| Laundry | Washing machine |
| Bedrooms | One double and two twins |
| En-Suite | Principal bedroom shower room |
| Family Bathroom | Bath and separate power shower |
| Additional WC | Separate entrance-hall cloakroom |
| Courtyard | Secluded and fully enclosed |
| Outdoor Dining | Table and chairs |
| Barbecue | Provided |
| Garden Storage | Available |
| Heating | Gas central heating |
| Internet | WiFi |
| Family Equipment | Travel cot and highchair on request |
| Parking | Two cars |
| Additional Parking | Roadside spaces where available |
| EV Charging | Available at additional cost |
| Dogs | Welcome |
Important Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Occupancy | 8 guests |
| Property Type | Converted mill |
| Bedrooms | 3 |
| Additional Sleeping | Double sofa bed in lounge |
| Bathrooms | 2 |
| Additional WC | Separate cloakroom |
| Bedroom Arrangement | 1 double and 2 twins |
| Bedroom Level | A few steps below entrance hall |
| Lounge Level | A few steps above entrance hall |
| Accessibility | Changes of level within the property; access statement available |
| Sofa Bed | Part of the main lounge |
| Kitchen Dining | Seating for 8 |
| Courtyard | Fully enclosed |
| Barbecue | Provided |
| Parking | 2 cars |
| Additional Parking | Unrestricted roadside spaces where available |
| EV Charging | £50 per car per week |
| Dogs | Welcome |
| Pet Charge | £30 per pet per week |
| Bed Linen | Included |
| Towels | Included |
| Gas Central Heating | Included |
| Electricity | Included, excluding separately charged EV use |
| WiFi | Included |
| Telephone | Not provided |
| Mobile Reception | Variable |
| Travel Cot | Available on request |
| Highchair | Available on request |
| Smaller-Party Discount | Available for qualifying bookings |
| Smaller-Party Bedrooms | Only 2 bedrooms prepared; preferences requested at booking |
| Nearest Beaches | Approximately half a mile |
| Nearest Shop and Pub | East Prawle, approximately 3 miles |
| Nearest Major Town | Kingsbridge, approximately 10 miles by road |
| Preferred Changeover | Friday |
| Check-in | From 4pm |
| Check-out | By 10am |
Location & Things to Do Near The Old Mill
The Old Mill enjoys a peaceful rural setting in East Portlemouth, a small South Devon village on the eastern shore of the Salcombe and Kingsbridge Estuary. This beautiful area combines sheltered sandy beaches, outstanding coastal walking and opportunities for sailing and watersports, with the shops and restaurants of Salcombe just across the water.
The East Portlemouth beaches are approximately half a mile downhill from the property. Mill Bay is particularly popular with families, offering golden sand, sheltered estuary waters and attractive views towards Salcombe. Nearby beaches such as Fisherman's Cove and Sunny Cove provide further opportunities for swimming, paddling and relaxing beside the water.
The passenger ferry is a highlight of staying in East Portlemouth. Running between the village landing and Salcombe, it provides an enjoyable journey across the estuary, allowing visitors to explore the town's independent shops, cafés, seafood restaurants and waterfront without needing to drive around the creek.
Salcombe is also a major centre for sailing and watersports. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular around the estuary, with equipment hire and tuition available locally. The sheltered waterways towards Kingsbridge offer attractive scenery and opportunities to explore the coastline from the water.
Walking enthusiasts have excellent routes close to The Old Mill. The South West Coast Path can be reached around Mill Bay and Gara Rock, where the coastline opens out towards the English Channel. Gara Rock is particularly memorable for its dramatic clifftop scenery and views back towards the estuary.
Continuing east leads towards East Prawle and Prawle Point, Devon's southernmost headland. The area is renowned for its rugged coastline, wildlife and birdwatching, while the Pigs Nose Inn in East Prawle is a characterful destination for refreshments after a walk.
Further along the coast, Lannacombe offers a beautiful secluded beach, while Start Point has a historic lighthouse and impressive sea views. Torcross and Slapton Sands provide another worthwhile day out, with the freshwater nature reserve at Slapton Ley adding opportunities for wildlife watching.
Beesands is an attractive coastal village with a shingle beach and places to enjoy locally caught seafood. The surrounding countryside has quiet lanes and traditional Devon villages, creating opportunities for scenic drives and leisurely exploration.
With beautiful beaches, ferry trips, watersports and spectacular coastal walks close by, The Old Mill provides a wonderful base for a large group holiday near Salcombe.
Nearby Places
| Place | Approximate Distance | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| East Portlemouth Village | On the doorstep | Historic church, countryside scenery and access towards the estuary |
| East Portlemouth Beaches | Approximately 0.5 mile | Sandy beaches, swimming and family activities |
| Mill Bay | Approximately 1 mile | Sheltered sandy beach, rock pooling and estuary views |
| Fisherman's Cove | Short walk from East Portlemouth ferry | Sandy shoreline and views across to Salcombe |
| Sunny Cove | Coastal walk from East Portlemouth | Quiet sandy cove and sheltered swimming |
| East Portlemouth Ferry | Approximately 0.5 mile | Passenger ferry across the estuary to Salcombe |
| Village Farm | Less than 1 mile | Farm shop, café, local produce and crafts |
| The Old Stable Café | East Portlemouth ferry steps | Coffee, cakes and estuary views |
| Gara Rock | Less than 1 mile via coastal routes | Clifftop scenery, coastal walking and restaurant |
| South West Coast Path | Accessible locally | Spectacular walking towards Gara Rock and Prawle Point |
| East Prawle | Approximately 3 miles | Traditional village, shop and historic pub |
| Pigs Nose Inn | East Prawle | Characterful pub and live music |
| Prawle Point | Short drive or longer coastal walk | Devon's southernmost headland and birdwatching |
| Salcombe | Passenger ferry from East Portlemouth | Harbour, shops, restaurants and watersports |
| Lannacombe Beach | Short drive | Secluded sandy beach and coastal scenery |
| Start Point Lighthouse | Short drive | Historic lighthouse and dramatic coastal views |
| Beesands | Short drive | Shingle beach, seafood restaurants and coastal walks |
| Torcross | Short drive | Beach, cafés and Slapton Ley nature reserve |
| Slapton Sands | Short drive | Extensive shingle beach and wartime history |
| Kingsbridge | Approximately 10 miles by road | Independent shops, restaurants and estuary scenery |
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