Sleeps 16 | 8 bedrooms | Two interconnected houses | Dining for 16 | Panoramic sea views | Walk to beaches

Overview of Thorpe Arnold

Thorpe Arnold is a large detached holiday house on the Yarmer Estate in Thurlestone, positioned beside the ninth green of Thurlestone Golf Course. Its coastal setting provides far-reaching views across the fairways towards the sea, while the beaches, village pub and local shop are all within walking distance.

The property has an unusual arrangement that makes it particularly useful for extended families. It comprises two interconnected but self-contained houses, Thorpe Arnold Major and Thorpe Arnold Minor, each sleeping eight. Together they provide eight bedrooms, six bathrooms or shower rooms, two kitchens and two separate living areas.

The main dining room in Thorpe Arnold Major is the gathering point for larger parties. An additional table allows all 16 guests to sit down for a meal together, while the separate lounge and kitchen dining spaces in both wings give smaller family groups room to spread out during the day.

The bedrooms are arranged differently in each wing. Major has four first-floor bedrooms, while Minor has bedrooms across three levels, including two on the ground floor. This gives families some flexibility when deciding which household should stay in each part of the property.

Outside, extensive lawns surround the house, with garden furniture and separate patio areas. The grounds provide space for outdoor meals and family activities, with views towards the coastline.

For a large family holiday in South Devon, the combination of interconnected accommodation, communal dining for 16 and easy access to Thurlestone's beaches is a particularly practical arrangement.

Thorpe Arnold at a Glance

Who is Thorpe Arnold Best For?

Thorpe Arnold is particularly well suited to large, multi-generational family gatherings. Grandparents, parents and children can occupy different parts of the house, with the two interconnected wings allowing guests to share meals and activities while retaining separate places to sleep and relax. Minor's two ground-floor bedrooms may be useful for family members who prefer fewer stairs to their sleeping accommodation, although its main living area is upstairs.

For two families of eight, the arrangement is straightforward. Each family can occupy an entire wing, with its own kitchen, lounge, four bedrooms and bathroom facilities. The connecting access means everyone can come together without needing to move between separate buildings.

The property also works for three or four smaller families sharing. Four super-king bedrooms provide sleeping space for up to four couples, while the four twin rooms accommodate another eight guests. Families can decide which children should share rooms and which adults would benefit from quieter sleeping areas.

For groups of adult friends, the four double bedrooms and eight individual single beds provide flexible sleeping options. The two lounge areas allow different activities to take place at the same time, while the dining room in Major provides a communal space for the full party.

Why Choose Thorpe Arnold for a Large Family or Group Holiday?

- Two interconnected houses: Major and Minor each accommodate eight guests, with their own kitchens, lounges and bedrooms. The connecting arrangement is especially useful for several households sharing.

- Dining together for 16: An additional table in Major allows the whole party to sit down together for meals and celebrations.

- Eight bedrooms with flexible arrangements: Four super-king bedrooms and four twins accommodate couples, children and friends requiring separate beds.

- Coastal views and spacious gardens: Living areas and several bedrooms overlook the golf course towards the sea, while extensive lawns provide outdoor space for group activities.

- Golf on the doorstep: The property adjoins Thurlestone Golf Course, making it convenient for guests planning a golfing holiday.

- Beaches and village amenities within walking distance: Cowrie Beach, Thurlestone Sands, the Village Inn and the village shop can all be reached on foot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many people can stay at Thorpe Arnold?

Thorpe Arnold sleeps 16 guests across eight bedrooms. The property comprises two interconnected houses, Thorpe Arnold Major and Minor, each accommodating eight people in four bedrooms.

2. Can all 16 guests eat together?

Yes. The main dining room in Thorpe Arnold Major seats eight, with an additional table available to accommodate all 16 guests together.

3. Are Thorpe Arnold Major and Minor completely separate?

The two wings are self-contained, with separate kitchens, lounges, bedrooms and bathrooms. They are interconnected through the utility areas, allowing guests to move between the accommodation.

4. How are the bedrooms arranged for several families?

Each wing has two super-king bedrooms and two twin bedrooms. This provides a practical allocation for two families of eight or several smaller households, with a mixture of double beds and separate single beds.

5. How close is Thorpe Arnold to the beach?

Cowrie Beach is approximately five minutes' walk away, while Thurlestone Sands is around ten minutes on foot. The South West Coast Path also passes through the area.

6. Are dogs allowed at Thorpe Arnold?

Yes. Two well-behaved dogs are welcome, with a charge of £30 per dog per week. Dogs are not permitted on furniture or in bedrooms.

Bedrooms & Bathrooms at Thorpe Arnold

Thorpe Arnold has eight bedrooms divided equally between the two interconnected houses. Each wing contains two super-king-size bedrooms and two twins, giving the combined accommodation four double bedrooms and eight individual single beds.

The bathroom arrangements differ between the wings. Major has three shared bathrooms or shower rooms, while Minor has a family bathroom and two en-suite facilities.

Group Accommodation Layout

Individual Bedroom Descriptions

Thorpe Arnold Major – Bedroom 1: Super-King with Sea Views

The principal bedroom in Major has a six-foot super-king-size bed, built-in wardrobes and a chest of drawers. Its first-floor position provides views across the golf course towards the coastline.

Like the other bedrooms in Major, it has its own washbasin and uses the shared bathroom facilities.

Thorpe Arnold Major – Bedroom 2: Sea-Facing Twin

This bedroom contains two three-foot single beds and a built-in wardrobe.

It faces the sea and is a useful option for siblings, teenagers or adults who prefer separate beds.

Thorpe Arnold Major – Bedroom 3: Second Super-King with Sea Views

The second double bedroom in Major has another six-foot super-king-size bed, built-in wardrobe and coastal views.

The matching bed size is particularly convenient for two couples or two sets of parents sharing this wing.

Thorpe Arnold Major – Bedroom 4: Rear-Facing Twin

Bedroom 4 contains two three-foot single beds and a built-in wardrobe.

Its first-floor position places it near the remaining bedrooms and the shared family bathroom and shower room.

Thorpe Arnold Minor – Bedroom 1: Ground-Floor Super-King

The principal ground-floor bedroom in Minor has a six-foot super-king-size bed, built-in wardrobe and chest of drawers.

It faces the sea and is positioned near the ground-floor family bathroom. Guests do not need to climb stairs to reach this bedroom, although stairs are required to access Minor's main living accommodation.

Thorpe Arnold Minor – Bedroom 2: Ground-Floor Twin

This bedroom has two three-foot single beds and a chest of drawers.

It is also sea-facing and shares the ground-floor family bathroom with Bedroom 1. This arrangement is particularly useful for parents with younger children who prefer bedrooms on the same floor.

Thorpe Arnold Minor – Bedroom 3: First-Floor Twin with En-Suite

Bedroom 3 is situated off Minor's first-floor living area and contains two three-foot single beds, a chest of drawers and hanging space.

It has an en-suite bathroom with a bath, handheld shower, washbasin and WC.

The location may suit older children, teenagers or two adult guests who would appreciate having their own bathroom.

Thorpe Arnold Minor – Bedroom 4: Second-Floor Super-King with En-Suite

The highest bedroom in the house has a six-foot super-king-size bed, built-in wardrobe and chest of drawers.

Its elevated position provides extensive sea views. The room also has its own en-suite shower room with shower cubicle, heated towel rail, washbasin and WC.

This bedroom is particularly suitable for a couple seeking some separation from the busier communal areas.

How Does the Layout Work for a Group of 16?

For two families of eight, the most straightforward arrangement is to allocate one wing to each family. Both households then have two super-king bedrooms, two twin rooms, a kitchen, living space and bathroom facilities. This gives everyone their own domestic space while allowing the families to gather for meals in Major.

For a gathering involving grandparents, parents and grandchildren, the ground-floor bedrooms in Minor may be useful for older relatives or parents with younger children. However, Minor's principal lounge and kitchen are upstairs, so the property is not fully step-free.

Four families comprising eight adults and eight children could allocate the four super-king bedrooms to the adults and the four twin rooms to the children. The exact division between wings can be adjusted according to children's ages and how closely each household wants to sleep together.

Groups of 16 adults can also stay, provided four couples are comfortable sharing super-king beds and the remaining eight guests use twin beds. The twin rooms are not advertised as convertible doubles.

The interconnected arrangement makes it possible to accommodate everyone under one roof while keeping two separate kitchens and lounges available. This is particularly valuable for larger gatherings where different generations have different daily routines.

Bathroom Layout

There are six bathrooms or shower rooms across the property.

Thorpe Arnold Major

• First-floor family bathroom: Bath with shower over, washbasin, heated towel rail and WC.
• First-floor shower room: Shower, washbasin and WC.
• Ground-floor utility/shower room: Walk-in shower, washbasin and WC.

All four bedrooms in Major also have individual washbasins.

Thorpe Arnold Minor

• Ground-floor family bathroom: Bath with handheld shower and shower over, washbasin, heated towel rail and WC.
• First-floor en-suite to Bedroom 3: Bath with handheld shower, washbasin and WC.
• Second-floor en-suite to Bedroom 4: Shower cubicle, heated towel rail, washbasin and WC.

The six bathrooms provide useful facilities for a party of 16, particularly as they are distributed between the wings and across several floors.

Facilities & Information at Thorpe Arnold

Thorpe Arnold's facilities are particularly well suited to larger family gatherings. The two connected wings provide independent kitchens and living rooms, while the main dining room can bring all 16 guests together. Outside, extensive lawns and terraces take advantage of the coastal setting beside Thurlestone Golf Course.

Two Separate Living Rooms

Thorpe Arnold Major has a spacious ground-floor lounge with wooden flooring, sofas, armchairs, window seats and a Smart TV. An open fireplace provides a focal point for evenings indoors, while the windows overlook the surrounding coastline.

The lounge in Thorpe Arnold Minor is on the first floor, with large sofas, armchairs and a television with DVD player. Patio doors open onto a balcony, with steps leading down towards the terrace and gardens.

Having two lounges allows different generations to enjoy separate activities. Children can watch a film in one wing while adults gather in the other, or guests can divide into smaller groups without leaving the property.

Dining for 16 Guests

The main dining room in Major has a table seating eight, with an additional table available to accommodate all 16 guests together.

This arrangement is particularly useful for family celebrations and shared evening meals, allowing the entire party to dine in one room.

Minor has its own dining area seating eight, with banquette seating and chairs. Both wings also have kitchen and dining facilities, giving smaller family groups the option to prepare meals separately.

Two Fully Equipped Kitchens

Each wing has its own kitchen, which is a considerable practical advantage when several families are sharing.

Major has a built-in electric double oven, ceramic hob, microwave, large fridge-freezer and dishwasher. The kitchen also has a dining area with patio doors opening onto the terrace.

Minor has a fitted kitchen with an electric oven, ceramic hob, large fridge-freezer, dishwasher and microwave.

Two kitchens mean separate households can prepare breakfasts, lunches and children's meals independently, while the larger dining room remains available for meals together.

Large Gardens and Outdoor Dining

Extensive lawned gardens surround the house at the front and rear, with garden tables and patio areas.

Guests staying in Major can access the terrace from the dining room and kitchen, with steps descending to the lawn. Minor has access to its own terrace from the first-floor balcony.

The gardens provide outdoor space for family games, picnics and sitting together. Families with young children should take account of the steps between the patios and lawns, as well as the open garden boundaries.

Golf at Thurlestone

Thorpe Arnold stands immediately beside the ninth green of Thurlestone Golf Course, making it particularly convenient for golfing groups.

The 18-hole coastal course has elevated fairways overlooking Thurlestone Sands and the sea. Visiting golfers can enquire about green fees and available tee times, with a recognised handicap required for play.

Tennis courts are also available to hire through Thurlestone Golf Club.

For a group combining golf with a family beach holiday, the location allows guests to enjoy different activities without extensive travelling.

Facilities Table

Category	Facilities
Accommodation	Two interconnected self-contained houses
Living rooms	Two lounges, Smart TV and TV/DVD
Fireplace	Open fire in Major
Group dining	Seating for 16 in Major
Additional dining	Dining areas in both wings
Kitchens	Two fully equipped kitchens
Cooking	Electric ovens, ceramic hobs and microwaves
Refrigeration	Large fridge-freezer in each wing
Dishwashing	Two dishwashers
Bathrooms	Six bathrooms/shower rooms
Bedroom facilities	Washbasins in all Major bedrooms
Laundry	Washing machines and tumble dryers in both wings
Heating	Electric night-storage heating
Internet	WiFi
Outdoor space	Extensive lawns, patios and balcony
Outdoor furniture	Garden tables
Family equipment	Travel cot and highchair
Parking	Driveway parking for approximately six cars
Local activities	Golf, tennis, beaches and coastal walking

Important Information

Information	Details
Maximum occupancy	16 guests
Accommodation arrangement	Two interconnected houses sleeping eight each
Bedrooms	Eight across both wings
Bathrooms	Six bathrooms/shower rooms
Internal access	Connecting access through the utility areas
Dogs	Two well-behaved dogs welcome
Pet charge	£30 per dog per week
Dog restrictions	Not permitted on furniture or in bedrooms
Garden	Open lawned grounds, not described as enclosed
Outdoor steps	Steps between terraces and gardens
Parking	Driveway parking for approximately six cars
EV charging	Not available at the property
Nearest EV charging	Kingsbridge, approximately four miles
Bed linen	Included
Towels	Guests must bring their own; independent towel hire available
Travel cot	Provided
Highchair	Provided
Heating	Night-storage heating included
Electricity	Included
WiFi	Available
Mobile reception	Variable, depending on network
Telephone	No landline
Accessibility	Stairs and changes of level; access statement available
Preferred changeover	Friday
Check-in	From 4pm
Check-out	By 10am

Location & Things to Do Near Thorpe Arnold

Thorpe Arnold occupies a coastal position on the Yarmer Estate in Thurlestone, a South Devon village known for its beaches, golf course and views towards the distinctive Thurlestone Rock. The house overlooks the golf links, while the village centre and several sandy beaches are within walking distance.

Cowrie Beach is approximately five minutes away on foot, with Thurlestone Sands around ten minutes away. The coastline offers family beach days, rock pooling at low tide and access to the South West Coast Path. Thurlestone Rock, a natural stone arch standing offshore, is one of the area's best-known landmarks.

Walkers can follow the coast towards South Milton Sands and Hope Cove, passing open headlands and sheltered beaches. South Milton Ley, a freshwater nature reserve behind the beach, is worth visiting for birdwatching. Hope Cove has two sandy beaches, traditional cottages and places to eat overlooking the water.

In the opposite direction, Bantham Beach is popular with surfers and families, with extensive sand and views towards Burgh Island. Surf lessons and equipment hire are available locally.

Thurlestone village has a shop, Post Office and the Village Inn, approximately 400 metres from the house. Thurlestone Hotel also offers restaurant and bar facilities, while the adjacent golf course and local tennis courts provide activities for guests staying close to home.

Kingsbridge, around four miles away, has supermarkets, independent shops and restaurants, making it convenient for stocking up for a large gathering.

For a day out, Salcombe offers harbour cruises, sailing, paddleboarding and passenger ferries to East Portlemouth. The beaches across the estuary are particularly enjoyable for families, while the town's waterfront restaurants provide options for a group meal.

Nearby Places