Sleeps 8 | 4 bedrooms | Two self-contained apartments | Panoramic sea views | Seafront terrace | Beach on the doorstep
Overview of Reeds
Reeds occupies a beachfront position in Torcross, overlooking Start Bay and the long sweep of Slapton Sands. Its location places guests immediately beside the sea, with wide views along the coastline and the changing tides providing a constant backdrop to the accommodation, see more cottages for group holidays in Slapton here.
What makes Reeds particularly distinctive is its arrangement as two self-contained apartments within the same property. Lower Reeds occupies the ground floor, while Upper Reeds extends across the first and second floors. When booked together, the apartments accommodate eight guests across four bedrooms.
This arrangement is particularly useful for two families sharing or a multi-generational group. Each apartment has its own kitchen, lounge and dining area, allowing guests to enjoy time together while maintaining some independence during their stay.
Lower Reeds provides ground-floor accommodation for two guests in a double bedroom with en-suite bathroom. Its open-plan sitting and dining space looks directly across the sea, creating an inviting setting for breakfast or watching the weather moving across Start Bay.
Upper Reeds accommodates six people across three bedrooms. Its first-floor lounge has comfortable seating, a wood-burning stove and sea views, while the kitchen and dining area provide facilities for preparing meals for the upstairs guests. A double bedroom overlooks Slapton Ley, while the master double and twin occupy the second floor.
Outside, a front and side terrace has two picnic tables overlooking the seafront. This provides a place for members of both apartments to gather outdoors, enjoy refreshments and watch activity along the beach.
Torcross is a particularly convenient location for a coastal holiday. The Start Bay Inn and local cafés are a short, level walk away, while Slapton Ley Nature Reserve lies immediately behind the village. The South West Coast Path provides walking routes towards Beesands, Hallsands and Start Point.
Reeds at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Property type | Two interconnected, self-contained seafront apartments |
| Location | Torcross, Devon |
| Sleeps | 8 |
| Bedrooms | 4: three doubles and one twin |
| Bathrooms | 3, including two en-suites |
| Lower Reeds | Ground-floor apartment sleeping 2 |
| Upper Reeds | First- and second-floor apartment sleeping 6 |
| Living rooms | Two, one in each apartment |
| Kitchens | Two fully equipped kitchens |
| Upper dining | Table seating 6 |
| Lower dining | Table seating 4 |
| Fireplace | Wood burner in Upper Reeds |
| Sea views | From principal living areas |
| Additional outlook | Slapton Ley from the rear upstairs bedroom |
| Outside | Front and side terrace with picnic tables |
| Parking | 3 cars using private and designated public parking |
| Dogs | Up to 3 |
| Beach | On the doorstep |
| Nearby pub | Start Bay Inn, short level walk |
| WiFi | Available |
Who Is Reeds Best For?
Reeds is particularly well suited to two families who want to holiday together while retaining independent accommodation. One household can occupy Upper Reeds, which sleeps six, while another couple or two relatives use Lower Reeds. Having two kitchens and living rooms means guests can choose when to eat or relax together.
For a multi-generational family, grandparents may appreciate Lower Reeds on the ground floor, with its double bedroom, en-suite bathroom and separate living space. Parents and children can occupy the upstairs apartment. This arrangement gives everyone opportunities to spend time together while providing a more private retreat for the older generation.
A large family with teenagers may also enjoy the separation between apartments, particularly where older family members can use the ground-floor accommodation independently. The three bedrooms upstairs give parents several options for allocating the double and twin rooms.
Reeds can accommodate groups of eight adults, although the three double beds mean six guests would need to be comfortable sharing. Its main consideration for group dining is that Upper Reeds has a table seating six and Lower Reeds seats four. The apartments have independent dining arrangements rather than one dining table accommodating all eight guests.
Why Choose Reeds for a Large Family or Group Holiday?
- Two self-contained apartments: Lower Reeds sleeps two on the ground floor, while Upper Reeds sleeps six across the first and second floors, offering independence for different households.
- Outstanding beachfront location: The property stands directly on the Torcross seafront, with extensive views across Start Bay and Slapton Sands.
- Two kitchens and separate living areas: Each apartment has its own kitchen, lounge and dining area, allowing families to organise meals and relaxation independently.
- Four bedrooms and three bathrooms: Three double bedrooms, one twin and two en-suites provide practical accommodation for extended families and groups of eight.
- Outdoor terrace overlooking the sea: The front and side terrace has two picnic tables, giving guests a place to gather and enjoy the coastal scenery.
- Coastal walks and village amenities nearby: Slapton Ley Nature Reserve, the South West Coast Path, the Start Bay Inn and local cafés are all within easy reach on foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many people can stay at Reeds?
Reeds sleeps eight guests across four bedrooms. Lower Reeds has one double bedroom and sleeps two, while Upper Reeds has two doubles and a twin, accommodating six. There are three bathrooms in total.
2. Is Reeds suitable for two families sharing?
Yes. Reeds is arranged as two self-contained apartments that can be booked together. Each has its own kitchen, lounge and dining space, making the property particularly useful for two households wanting some independence.
3. Does Reeds have direct sea views?
Yes. Reeds overlooks Start Bay from its beachfront position. The principal living areas enjoy sea views, while the outdoor terrace provides another place to enjoy the coastline.
4. Are there bedrooms on the ground floor?
Yes. Lower Reeds occupies the ground floor and has a double bedroom with an en-suite bathroom. It also contains its own kitchen, lounge and dining area.
5. Are dogs welcome at Reeds?
Yes. Up to three well-behaved dogs are welcome, with a charge of £30 per dog per week. The nearby coast offers opportunities for dog walks, subject to local beach restrictions.
6. Is there parking at Reeds?
Yes. Parking is arranged for three cars. Two spaces are off-road, while a ticket is supplied for a third vehicle in the lay-by car park opposite the property.
Bedrooms & Bathrooms at Reeds
Reeds has four bedrooms across two self-contained apartments. Lower Reeds contains one double bedroom on the ground floor, while Upper Reeds has three bedrooms arranged over the first and second floors.
The property has three bathrooms. The downstairs bedroom has a private en-suite, Upper Reeds has a shared first-floor family bathroom and its second-floor master bedroom has an en-suite shower room.
This separation is one of the property's main advantages for families sharing, particularly where some guests prefer ground-floor accommodation.
Group Accommodation Layout
| Bedroom | Sleeping Arrangement | Bathroom |
|---|---|---|
| Bedroom 1 – Lower Reeds, ground floor | 4ft 6in double bed | Private en-suite bathroom |
| Bedroom 2 – Upper Reeds, first floor | 5ft double bed, balcony overlooking Slapton Ley | Shared first-floor family bathroom |
| Bedroom 3 – Upper Reeds, second floor | 5ft double bed with sea views | Private en-suite shower room |
| Bedroom 4 – Upper Reeds, second floor | Two 3ft single beds | Shared first-floor family bathroom |
Bedroom 1: Lower Reeds Double with En-Suite
The bedroom in Lower Reeds contains a four-foot-six-inch double bed.
Its en-suite bathroom has a bath with shower over, washbasin and WC, providing private facilities for the two guests staying downstairs.
The ground-floor position is particularly useful for a couple or grandparents who prefer to have their sleeping accommodation, kitchen and lounge on the same level.
For multi-generational holidays, this arrangement allows guests to retain their own routine while remaining in the same property as the rest of the family.
Bedroom 2: Upper Reeds First-Floor Double
The first-floor double bedroom in Upper Reeds has a five-foot bed.
It is positioned at the rear of the property and overlooks Slapton Ley, offering views towards the freshwater nature reserve rather than the sea.
A balcony provides another opportunity to appreciate the contrasting landscape behind Torcross.
Guests use the nearby family bathroom, which contains a bath with shower over.
This room is a practical choice for parents or another couple who would appreciate staying on the same floor as the upstairs kitchen and living accommodation.
Bedroom 3: Upper Reeds Master with En-Suite
The master bedroom occupies the second floor of Upper Reeds and has a five-foot double bed.
Its elevated position provides impressive views across Start Bay.
A private en-suite shower room contains a shower, washbasin and WC.
This bedroom is particularly suitable for a couple who would appreciate the sea views and independence of their own bathroom.
For families occupying Upper Reeds, it provides a separate sleeping space away from the main first-floor communal accommodation.
Bedroom 4: Upper Reeds Second-Floor Twin
The fourth bedroom is also situated on the second floor and contains two full-size three-foot single beds.
The individual beds make it particularly convenient for siblings, teenagers or two adult friends.
This bedroom shares the first-floor family bathroom, so its occupants need to use the staircase between floors to access bathing and toilet facilities.
Its position near the master bedroom makes it a useful choice for children whose parents are staying in Bedroom 3.
How Does the Layout Work for a Group of 8?
For a multi-generational family comprising six adults and two children, the accommodation works particularly well. Grandparents could occupy Lower Reeds, while two couples use the double bedrooms upstairs and the children share the twin.
The grandparents would have their own kitchen, living space and bathroom, allowing them to enjoy quieter mornings or evenings while remaining close to the wider family.
For two families with four adults and four children, Lower Reeds could accommodate one set of parents, while the second set uses a double bedroom upstairs. Two children could take the twin, with the remaining two sharing the other upstairs double.
This arrangement requires two children to be comfortable sharing a double bed. Families wanting four separate single beds should therefore consider whether the configuration meets their needs.
For a group of three couples and two individuals, each couple can occupy one of the double bedrooms, while the remaining guests use the twin. This is one of the most straightforward allocations for eight adults.
The two apartments also allow families to organise meals independently. Upper Reeds has a dining table seating six and Lower Reeds seats four. Guests wanting everyone to eat together can use the outdoor picnic tables when weather permits, but there is no verified indoor dining table seating eight.
The separation between floors is important when travelling with younger children. Parents should consider whether they are comfortable having family members sleeping across different levels and apartments.
Bathroom Layout
| Bathroom | Facilities | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Reeds en-suite | Bath with shower over, washbasin and WC | Ground floor, attached to Bedroom 1 |
| Upper Reeds family bathroom | Bath with shower over, washbasin and WC | First floor |
| Upper Reeds master en-suite | Shower, washbasin and WC | Second floor, attached to Bedroom 3 |
The ground-floor bathroom serves Lower Reeds, while the two upstairs bathrooms serve the three bedrooms in Upper Reeds.
Guests occupying the second-floor twin use the family bathroom one floor below, while the upstairs master has private facilities.
Facilities & Information at Reeds
Reeds offers an unusual arrangement for a seaside holiday, with two self-contained apartments combined into one booking. Both have their own kitchens and living spaces, making it possible for guests to spend time together while having independent accommodation.
Its beachfront setting is another defining feature, with panoramic views across Start Bay and a terrace overlooking the seafront.
Upper Reeds Lounge with Sea Views and Wood Burner
The first-floor lounge in Upper Reeds has comfortable sofas arranged around a wood-burning stove.
Large windows frame the views across Start Bay, allowing guests to watch the changing weather and sea conditions from inside.
Entertainment includes a television, Blu-ray DVD player, BT YouView box, stereo and iPod/MP3 dock.
The lounge provides a sociable sitting area for the six guests staying in Upper Reeds, with the wood burner adding warmth during cooler months.
Guests need to provide their own logs.
Upper Reeds Kitchen and Dining Area
Upper Reeds has a kitchen equipped with an induction hob, oven and grill.
A microwave, fridge with freezer compartment and dishwasher provide further practical facilities.
A washer-dryer is also installed, allowing guests upstairs to manage their own laundry.
The adjacent dining table seats six, matching the apartment's sleeping capacity.
This arrangement is convenient when a family of six is occupying the upper accommodation and prefers to prepare its own meals.
Lower Reeds Open-Plan Living Space
The ground-floor apartment has a separate lounge furnished with a sofa and armchair.
A television, BT YouView box, Blu-ray DVD player, stereo and iPod/MP3 dock provide entertainment.
An archway connects the lounge with the dining area, where a table seats four guests.
The dining space has panoramic views across the sea, creating a particularly attractive place to enjoy breakfast or a quiet meal.
This independent living accommodation is useful for grandparents, another couple or relatives who prefer having their own sitting room.
Lower Reeds Kitchen
Lower Reeds has its own kitchen, equipped with an induction hob, oven, grill and microwave.
A fridge-freezer and dishwasher are also provided.
These facilities mean guests staying downstairs can cook and eat independently of the family occupying Upper Reeds.
Having two kitchens can be particularly convenient when different households have separate dietary requirements, meal schedules or preferences.
It also provides additional food storage when all eight guests are sharing the property.
Ground-Floor Laundry Facilities
A lobby accessed from the parking area contains a washing machine and tumble dryer for Lower Reeds.
Upper Reeds has its own washer-dryer within the kitchen.
This gives both apartments independent laundry facilities, especially useful for families spending time at the beach.
Guests can wash clothing and towels during their stay without needing to share one laundry appliance between the two households.
Seafront Terrace with Picnic Tables
The property has a terrace extending across the front and side of the building.
Two picnic tables provide outdoor seating overlooking the sea.
This is a particularly appealing place to enjoy refreshments while watching the waves, fishing boats and changing light across Start Bay.
The terrace also provides a convenient communal meeting place for guests occupying the two apartments.
Unlike the separate indoor dining areas, the outdoor space offers an opportunity for members of both households to spend time together in the sea air.
Beachfront Position at Torcross
Reeds is situated directly on the Torcross seafront, with Slapton Sands immediately outside.
The proximity of the beach makes it convenient for guests to enjoy short walks, relax beside the water or visit the village's cafés throughout the day.
The shingle shoreline stretches north along Start Bay, while the freshwater Slapton Ley lies just behind the village.
The beach has a steeply shelving profile and conditions can change quickly, so families should take appropriate care near the water, particularly when swimming.
Parking for Three Cars
The parking arrangements accommodate three vehicles.
Two cars can park off-road, while a ticket is provided for a third car in the lay-by car park opposite the property.
This is useful for extended families arriving separately, particularly in a village where beachfront parking can become busy during popular holiday periods.
Guests should follow the allocated parking arrangements when arriving.
Dog-Friendly Coastal Holidays
Reeds welcomes up to three well-behaved dogs.
This makes it particularly appealing for larger families travelling with more than one pet.
The coastal setting provides opportunities for walks along the shoreline and nearby sections of the South West Coast Path.
Guests should check any seasonal beach restrictions and keep dogs under appropriate control around other beach users and wildlife habitats.
Family Facilities and Practical Information
Central heating is provided, making the accommodation suitable for winter breaks as well as summer holidays.
WiFi is available in the property.
Bed linen, towels, a travel cot and a highchair are included, with guests bringing their own beach towels.
The location is convenient for everyday amenities, with the Start Bay Inn and cafés within a short, level walk. Stokeley Farm Shop is approximately one mile away.
Facilities Table
| Category | Facilities |
|---|---|
| Property arrangement | Two self-contained apartments booked together |
| Upper Reeds lounge | Sofas, sea views and wood burner |
| Lower Reeds lounge | Sofa and armchair |
| Television | TV and BT YouView in both apartments |
| Entertainment | Blu-ray DVD players, stereos and iPod/MP3 docks |
| Upper Reeds kitchen | Induction hob, oven and grill |
| Lower Reeds kitchen | Induction hob, oven and grill |
| Kitchen appliances | Microwave and dishwasher in each apartment |
| Upper refrigeration | Fridge with freezer compartment |
| Lower refrigeration | Fridge-freezer |
| Upper dining | Table seating six |
| Lower dining | Table seating four |
| Bathrooms | Three, including two en-suites |
| Upper laundry | Washer-dryer |
| Lower laundry | Washing machine and tumble dryer |
| Heating | Central heating |
| Fireplace | Wood burner in Upper Reeds |
| Internet | WiFi |
| Outdoor space | Front and side seafront terrace |
| Outdoor seating | Two picnic tables |
| Sea views | Panoramic Start Bay outlook |
| Parking | Two off-road spaces and ticket for third car |
| Family equipment | Travel cot and highchair |
Important Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum occupancy | 8 guests |
| Bedrooms | 4 |
| Bed configuration | Three doubles and one twin |
| Bathrooms | 3 |
| Accommodation | Lower Reeds and Upper Reeds |
| Lower Reeds capacity | 2 guests |
| Upper Reeds capacity | 6 guests |
| Lower Reeds location | Ground floor |
| Upper Reeds location | First and second floors |
| Ground-floor bedroom | Double with en-suite bathroom |
| Upper first-floor bedroom | Double with balcony and Slapton Ley views |
| Upper second-floor bedrooms | Double with en-suite and twin |
| Upper dining capacity | 6 |
| Lower dining capacity | 4 |
| Dogs | Up to three well-behaved dogs |
| Pet charge | £30 per dog per week |
| Parking | Three cars |
| Parking arrangement | Two off-road, third with supplied lay-by parking ticket |
| Outdoor space | Seafront terrace with two picnic tables |
| Bed linen | Included |
| Towels | Included |
| Beach towels | Guests bring their own |
| Travel cot | Included |
| Highchair | Included |
| Heating | Central heating |
| Wood burner | Guests provide their own logs |
| WiFi | Available |
| Beach | Immediately outside the property |
| Nearest pub | Start Bay Inn, short level walk |
| Farm shop | Approximately one mile |
| Property code | REEDS |
| Preferred changeover | Friday |
| Check-in | From 4pm |
| Check-out | By 10am |
| Access statement | Available |
Location & Things to Do Near Reeds
Reeds is situated on the seafront at Torcross, a small South Devon village at the southern end of Slapton Sands. The village occupies a remarkable position between Start Bay and Slapton Ley, one of the largest natural freshwater lakes in South West England.
The beach lies immediately outside the property, with the long shingle shoreline stretching north towards Strete Gate. Families can enjoy beach walks, watch fishing boats and explore the village's cafés and pubs. The Start Bay Inn is a short, level walk away and is well known for its seafood and fish and chips.
Behind Torcross, Slapton Ley Nature Reserve is an important habitat for birds and other wildlife. Its reedbeds, freshwater lake and surrounding woodland provide a contrasting landscape to the open coastline. The reserve offers opportunities for birdwatching and nature walks throughout the year.
Torcross also has an important Second World War history. The Exercise Tiger Memorial commemorates American servicemen who lost their lives during preparations for the D-Day landings. The memorial and nearby Sherman tank provide an insight into the area's role in wartime training.
The South West Coast Path runs through Torcross, with an attractive route south towards Beesands. This fishing village has a shingle beach, traditional cottages and places to eat, including Britannia at the Beach and The Cricket Inn.
Further along the coastline, Hallsands is known for the remains of its historic fishing village, devastated by storms in 1917. Beyond Hallsands, walkers can explore the dramatic headland around Start Point Lighthouse.
For a different beach experience, Blackpool Sands lies to the north towards Dartmouth, while quieter coves such as Lannacombe and Mattiscombe can be explored further south.
Dartmouth and Kingsbridge are within easy driving distance for shopping, restaurants and boat trips. Families can also visit East Portlemouth and take the passenger ferry across the estuary to Salcombe.
Reeds is particularly well located for guests who want to combine coastal walking, wildlife watching and village dining with the pleasure of staying directly beside the sea.
Nearby Places
| Place | Approximate Distance / Access | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Torcross Beach | On the doorstep | Seafront walks, shingle beach and Start Bay views |
| Start Bay Inn | Short level walk | Seafood, traditional pub and refreshments |
| Slapton Ley Nature Reserve | Immediately behind Torcross | Freshwater habitats and birdwatching |
| Exercise Tiger Memorial | Within Torcross | Second World War history |
| Torcross Sherman Tank | Within Torcross | Historic memorial connected with D-Day preparations |
| Stokeley Farm Shop | Approximately 1 mile | Local food, shopping and refreshments |
| Slapton Village | Short drive | Historic village and traditional pubs |
| South West Coast Path | Accessible from Torcross | Coastal walks towards Beesands and Hallsands |
| Beesands | Coastal walk or short drive | Fishing village, beach and seafood |
| Britannia at the Beach | Beesands | Seafood and beachside dining |
| The Cricket Inn | Beesands | Traditional pub and restaurant |
| Hallsands | Further along the coast | Historic ruined fishing village |
| Start Point Lighthouse | Coastal walk or drive to walking route | Lighthouse and dramatic headland |
| Lannacombe Beach | Short drive and walk | Secluded sandy cove |
| Mattiscombe Sands | Coastal walk from Start Point area | Sandy beach and coastal scenery |
| Blackpool Sands | Drive towards Dartmouth | Sheltered beach backed by wooded hills |
| Dartmouth | Short drive | Historic harbour, shops and boat trips |
| Kingsbridge | Short drive | Supermarkets, independent shops and restaurants |
| East Portlemouth | Drive and passenger ferry connection | Sandy beaches and access to Salcombe |
| Salcombe | Day trip | Sailing, harbour, restaurants and coastal activities |
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