Sleeps 8 | 4 bedrooms | 4 en-suites | 2 separate cottages | Private gardens | Fire pit

Overview of Great Palstone & Swallows Rest

Great Palstone & Swallows Rest are two beautifully converted holiday properties situated within private grounds in South Brent, a thriving Devon village on the southern edge of Dartmoor National Park. Together, they sleep eight guests across four en-suite bedrooms, providing an appealing arrangement for families and friends who want to spend time together while retaining some independence.

The accommodation combines the rustic character of traditional agricultural buildings with contemporary interiors and carefully designed living spaces. Exposed wooden beams, vaulted ceilings and attractive stone exteriors reflect the buildings' heritage, while modern kitchens, comfortable furniture and underfloor heating provide everything needed for a relaxing countryside holiday.

Great Palstone is the larger of the two properties, sleeping six across three bedrooms. Its impressive first-floor living area has vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and a wood-burning stove, creating a warm and welcoming setting for family gatherings.

The open-plan arrangement combines a lounge, kitchen and dining area, with a table seating all eight guests. This allows everyone staying in both properties to gather for meals, games and evenings together.

Three en-suite bedrooms provide comfortable sleeping accommodation within Great Palstone. Two are on the ground floor, while a third occupies the first floor alongside the main living space. The flexible beds allow different rooms to be prepared as continental king-size doubles or twins, making the arrangement particularly useful for mixed groups.

Swallows Rest is a separate one-bedroom cottage sleeping two. Its ground floor has its own open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, while the upstairs bedroom enjoys views towards the gardens through a glazed Juliet balcony.

Having a second cottage is an excellent feature for multi-generational holidays. Grandparents, another couple or friends can enjoy their own kitchen, living room and en-suite bedroom while remaining close to the rest of the group.

Outside, Great Palstone has a furnished courtyard and a separate lawned garden exclusively for its guests. The garden has a fire pit, deckchairs and hammock swing chair, creating an inviting place to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Swallows Rest also has its own small furnished courtyard, providing an attractive outdoor seating area for two.

The cottages are set within the owners' private grounds, with beautifully maintained gardens and surrounding countryside adding to the rural atmosphere.

South Brent village is approximately ten minutes away on foot, with a choice of pubs, cafés, shops and places to eat. The surrounding Dartmoor countryside provides excellent opportunities for walking and outdoor adventures, while Totnes, Buckfastleigh and the South Devon coast are within easy reach, find more cottages for large family holidays near Totnes here.

For groups looking for large holiday accommodation near Dartmoor, Great Palstone & Swallows Rest offer something particularly appealing: two independent cottages, four en-suite bedrooms and an excellent combination of countryside tranquillity and village convenience.

Great Palstone & Swallows Rest at a Glance

Who are Great Palstone & Swallows Rest Best For?

These cottages are particularly well suited to multi-generational families who want to share a holiday while enjoying some privacy.

Great Palstone accommodates six guests, making it ideal for parents, children and other family members. Swallows Rest provides a completely separate one-bedroom cottage where grandparents or another couple can relax independently.

The combination is also attractive for four couples sharing. Every bedroom has an en-suite bathroom, while three of the rooms offer flexible double or twin configurations.

Groups of friends will appreciate having two living areas and two kitchens, particularly when different members of the party prefer separate routines.

The main dining table in Great Palstone seats eight, allowing everyone to gather for meals together.

Families who enjoy the outdoors will find plenty to explore nearby, from woodland walks and riverside paths to the open moorland of Dartmoor National Park.

The properties have stairs connecting different levels, and the allocated parking is approximately 50 metres away. Guests with specific access requirements should review the available access statement before booking.

Why are Great Palstone & Swallows Rest Great Large Holiday Accommodation?

• Two cottages for one group: Enjoy separate accommodation sleeping six and two, with private kitchens and living areas for added independence.
• Four en-suite bedrooms: Every bedroom has its own bathroom facilities, providing comfort and privacy for families and couples.
• Flexible sleeping arrangements: Three bedrooms can be configured as continental king-size doubles or twins.
• Beautiful barn-conversion interiors: Vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and contemporary furnishings create attractive countryside accommodation.
• Spacious group dining: Great Palstone has a dining table seating eight, allowing everyone to enjoy meals together.
• Private garden with fire pit: Relax on the lawn, enjoy the hammock swing chair or gather around the fire pit.
• South Brent village nearby: Pubs, cafés, independent shops and everyday amenities are approximately ten minutes away on foot.
• Excellent Dartmoor location: Explore granite tors, riverside walks and outdoor activities, with South Devon beaches also within reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people do Great Palstone & Swallows Rest sleep?

The two properties sleep eight guests in total. Great Palstone sleeps six across three bedrooms, while Swallows Rest accommodates two in a separate one-bedroom cottage.

Are the cottages connected internally?

The accommodation consists of two separate neighbouring properties. Each has its own entrance, living accommodation and kitchen, allowing guests to enjoy independence while sharing outdoor areas and gathering together in Great Palstone.

Does every bedroom have an en-suite bathroom?

Yes. All four bedrooms have their own en-suite facilities. Three bedrooms have shower rooms, while the first-floor bedroom in Great Palstone has a bathroom with a bath and shower over.

Can the beds be arranged as twins?

Yes. The Bee Room, Butterfly Room and Swallows Rest bedroom offer flexible double or twin arrangements. The Bird Room in Great Palstone is always prepared as a continental king-size double. Bed configuration requests should be made when booking.

Are Great Palstone & Swallows Rest dog-friendly?

Yes. One well-behaved small or medium-sized dog is welcome. A large dog or two small dogs may be accepted by prior agreement with the owner. Puppies under twelve months are not permitted.

How far are the cottages from South Brent village?

South Brent village is approximately ten minutes' walk away. It has pubs, cafés, a convenience shop, delicatessen, fish and chip shop and other local businesses.

Bedrooms & Bathrooms at Great Palstone & Swallows Rest

Great Palstone & Swallows Rest sleep eight guests across four bedrooms, with three bedrooms in the main barn and one in the adjoining cottage.

All four bedrooms have private en-suite facilities, creating a particularly comfortable arrangement for groups of friends, couples and multi-generational families.

The accommodation includes a combination of continental king-size beds and flexible zip-and-link arrangements.

Several of the single-bed configurations use 2ft 9in beds, slightly narrower than standard 3ft singles.

Group Accommodation Layout

Bedroom 1: The Bird Room, Great Palstone

The Bird Room occupies the first floor of Great Palstone, alongside the main open-plan living accommodation.

Its vaulted ceiling and exposed wooden beams create an attractive sense of space and character.

The bedroom has a 5ft 6in continental king-size bed, which is always prepared as a double.

Its private en-suite bathroom includes a bath with shower over, handheld shower attachment, washbasin and WC.

The combination of its beautiful barn-conversion features and private bathroom makes this an appealing bedroom for a couple.

Bedroom 2: The Bee Room, Great Palstone

The Bee Room is situated on the ground floor and has French windows providing natural light and views towards the surrounding grounds.

A 5ft 6in continental king-size zip-and-link bed can be separated into two 2ft 9in single beds when requested at booking.

This gives guests flexibility when allocating rooms to couples, children or friends.

The private en-suite has a walk-in shower with overhead and handheld attachments, washbasin, WC and heated towel rail.

Bedroom 3: The Butterfly Room, Great Palstone

The Butterfly Room is another ground-floor bedroom and is normally prepared with two 2ft 9in single beds.

These can be joined together to create a 5ft 6in continental king-size double.

This flexible arrangement is particularly useful for families with children or groups of friends who prefer separate sleeping spaces.

The room has its own en-suite with walk-in shower, overhead and handheld shower attachments, washbasin, WC and heated towel rail.

Bedroom 4: Swallows Rest Bedroom

The bedroom in Swallows Rest occupies the first floor of the separate cottage.

It contains a 5ft 9in continental king-size zip-and-link bed that can be prepared as two 2ft 9in singles on request.

French windows overlook the gardens, with a glazed Juliet balcony bringing natural light into the room.

A small table and seating area provide an attractive place to relax or enjoy the views.

The private en-suite shower room has a walk-in shower with overhead and handheld attachments, washbasin, WC and heated towel rail.

How Does the Layout Work for a Group of 8?

The two-property arrangement is particularly appealing for groups who appreciate both togetherness and independence.

For a family of six travelling with grandparents, Great Palstone can accommodate the main family, while the grandparents enjoy their own cottage in Swallows Rest.

For four couples, each pair can occupy an en-suite bedroom. Three bedrooms offer king-size double arrangements, while the fourth can also be prepared as a double.

For a mixed group of couples and friends, three bedrooms offer flexible twin configurations.

The main dining table in Great Palstone seats eight, making it the natural gathering place for shared meals.

Swallows Rest provides a separate lounge and kitchen, giving its occupants somewhere quieter to relax or prepare breakfast.

The two cottages each have their own entrance, and the bedrooms are arranged across different floors.

Bathroom Layout

There are four en-suite bathrooms, together with a separate ground-floor cloakroom in Great Palstone.

The Bird Room has a private bathroom with a bath and shower over.

The Bee Room and Butterfly Room each have a walk-in shower room.

Swallows Rest has a separate first-floor en-suite shower room.

This provides four showering facilities, one bath and five toilets across the accommodation.

Facilities & Information at Great Palstone & Swallows Rest

Great Palstone & Swallows Rest combine traditional barn-conversion character with contemporary kitchens, comfortable living accommodation and attractive outdoor areas.

The two buildings are situated within private grounds and offer a flexible arrangement for families and friends who enjoy sharing a holiday while retaining separate living spaces.

The main barn provides room for everyone to gather, while Swallows Rest functions as an independent cottage for two.

Great Palstone: Open-Plan Living and Dining

The impressive first-floor living accommodation is one of Great Palstone's strongest features.

Vaulted ceilings and exposed beams create an attractive sense of space, while the open-plan design brings the kitchen, dining area and lounge together.

Two comfortable sofas provide seating around a wood-burning stove, with a Smart television offering Freeview entertainment.

The dining table seats eight, allowing everyone from both cottages to gather for breakfast or evening meals.

The contemporary kitchen includes a built-in electric oven, five-zone induction hob, microwave, under-counter fridge and full-size dishwasher.

With its generous dining table, comfortable lounge and modern kitchen, this room is a welcoming setting for the whole group.

Swallows Rest: Independent Kitchen and Living Area

Swallows Rest has its own ground-floor open-plan kitchen, dining and living room.

The compact contemporary kitchen includes a built-in electric oven, four-zone induction hob, microwave, under-counter fridge, slimline dishwasher and washing machine.

A separate small freezer is housed beneath the stairs.

The dining table seats two, while a comfortable sofa and Smart television provide a relaxing living area.

This makes Swallows Rest particularly attractive to grandparents, another couple or friends who would enjoy having their own space during the holiday.

The upstairs bedroom and en-suite complete the independent accommodation.

Private Garden and Fire Pit

Great Palstone has a pretty courtyard outside the entrance, surrounded by attractive planting.

A garden table and chairs provide seating for six, making it a pleasant place for outdoor refreshments.

Approximately 20 yards from the barn, a separate lawned garden is reserved for Great Palstone guests.

This garden has a fire pit, two deckchairs and a hammock swing chair, creating an appealing place to relax in peaceful countryside surroundings.

The lawn is not enclosed, so guests staying with dogs or young children should consider the open garden arrangement.

Swallows Rest has its own small courtyard with a bistro table and chairs seating two.

These different outdoor areas provide opportunities to relax independently or spend time together in the sunshine.

Dog-Friendly Countryside Holidays

The cottages welcome one well-behaved small or medium-sized dog, with arrangements for larger dogs or two small dogs available by prior agreement.

The surrounding countryside is particularly appealing for dog owners, with footpaths and village walks close to the property.

Respectful use of the owners' nearby paddock for walking or exercising a dog may also be available by arrangement.

South Brent's riverside paths and the wider Dartmoor landscape offer further opportunities for exploring with a dog.

Heating and Practical Facilities

Both properties benefit from underfloor heating supplied by a renewable-energy air-source heat pump.

Great Palstone has a wood-burning stove, with a complimentary basket of logs supplied for arrivals between the beginning of October and the end of March.

Washing machines are available in both properties, while a tabletop freezer in Great Palstone and a small freezer in Swallows Rest provide additional food storage.

Bed linen, towels, heating, hot water and electricity are included.

WiFi is available throughout the accommodation.

A highchair and stair gate can be requested when booking.

Parking and Electric Vehicle Charging

Allocated parking is available for up to three cars in a designated area approximately 50 metres from the barn.

A Myenergi Zappi Type 2 tethered electric vehicle charger is available on site.

The charger is shared between the holiday properties and the owners, with electricity charged according to consumption.

The arrangement is particularly useful for families and friends travelling in electric vehicles.

Facilities

Category	Facilities
Accommodation	Two separate converted holiday barns
Great Palstone Lounge	Two sofas, wood-burning stove and Smart TV
Great Palstone Dining	Table seating 8
Great Palstone Kitchen	Built-in electric oven and five-zone induction hob
Great Palstone Appliances	Microwave, under-counter fridge and full-size dishwasher
Swallows Rest Lounge	Sofa and Smart TV
Swallows Rest Dining	Table seating 2
Swallows Rest Kitchen	Electric oven and four-zone induction hob
Swallows Rest Appliances	Microwave, under-counter fridge and slimline dishwasher
Bedrooms	4 continental king-size or flexible twin bedrooms
Bathrooms	4 en-suites
Additional WC	Ground-floor cloakroom in Great Palstone
Laundry	Washing machines in both properties
Freezers	Tabletop freezer in Great Palstone and small freezer in Swallows Rest
Fireplace	Wood-burning stove in Great Palstone
Heating	Underfloor heating powered by air-source heat pump
Great Palstone Courtyard	Furnished seating area for 6
Private Garden	Separate lawned area with fire pit
Garden Furniture	2 deckchairs and hammock swing chair
Swallows Rest Courtyard	Bistro furniture seating 2
Internet	WiFi
Family Equipment	Highchair and stair gate on request
Parking	Allocated parking for 3 cars
EV Charging	Shared Myenergi Zappi Type 2 tethered charger
Pets	One small or medium dog, with other arrangements by agreement

Important Information

Information	Details
Maximum Occupancy	8 guests
Number of Properties	2
Great Palstone Capacity	6
Swallows Rest Capacity	2
Bedrooms	4
En-Suite Bathrooms	4
Additional WC	1
Great Palstone Bedroom Layout	2 ground-floor bedrooms and 1 first-floor bedroom
Swallows Rest Bedroom	First floor
Main Group Dining	Great Palstone, seating 8
Independent Facilities	Swallows Rest has its own kitchen, dining and lounge
Flexible Beds	Bee Room, Butterfly Room and Swallows Rest bedroom
Bed Arrangement Requests	Required at booking
Single Bed Width	2ft 9in when separated
Parking	Up to 3 cars, approximately 50 metres from barn
Accessibility	Not suitable for wheelchair users; guests with walking difficulties should review the access statement
Garden	Separate lawned area for Great Palstone, not enclosed
Fire Pit	Available in Great Palstone garden
Paddock Access	May be possible by arrangement with the owners
EV Charger	Shared Type 2 tethered Myenergi Zappi
EV Charging Price	50p per kWh, payable to owners
Dogs	1 small or medium dog welcome
Other Dog Arrangements	Large dog or 2 small dogs by prior agreement
Puppy Restriction	Dogs must be at least 12 months old
Dog Charge	£30 per dog per week
Bed Linen	Included
Towels	Included, excluding beach and dog towels
Electricity	Included, excluding separately charged EV use
Heating	Underfloor heating included
Logs	Complimentary basket from early October to late March
WiFi	Included
Telephone	No landline
Mobile Reception	Generally fair, depending on network
Highchair	On request
Stair Gate	On request
Village Amenities	Approximately 10 minutes' walk
Preferred Changeover	Friday
Check-in	From 4pm
Check-out	By 10am

Location & Things to Do Near Great Palstone & Swallows Rest

Great Palstone & Swallows Rest are situated in South Brent, a welcoming Devon village on the southern edge of Dartmoor National Park. This attractive location offers an excellent combination of countryside walking, riverside scenery, traditional village life and convenient access to both Dartmoor and the South Devon coast.

South Brent village is approximately ten minutes' walk from the cottages. It has a good selection of independent shops and everyday amenities, including a convenience store, delicatessen, cafés, pubs and a traditional fish and chip shop. The village also has a craft shop and a lively community atmosphere.

The surrounding countryside is particularly appealing for walkers. Paths follow the River Avon and Glazebrook, with routes connecting village nature reserves, woodland and more demanding trails towards Dartmoor. The Avon Dam Reservoir is a rewarding destination for a longer walk, surrounded by beautiful moorland and views across the South Devon landscape.

Dartmoor National Park offers a remarkable variety of scenery, from open heathland and granite tors to sheltered wooded valleys and fast-flowing rivers. Visitors can explore the landscape on foot, by bicycle or on horseback, while more adventurous groups can arrange guided activities such as climbing, kayaking and caving.

Buckfastleigh is a short drive away and is home to the South Devon Railway, where heritage steam trains travel through the beautiful River Dart valley towards Totnes. Nearby Buckfast Abbey has attractive gardens, impressive architecture and places to enjoy refreshments.

Ashburton is another worthwhile outing, with independent shops, antique dealers, cafés and restaurants in its historic town centre. Its position close to Dartmoor makes it a popular starting point for exploring the surrounding countryside.

Totnes, approximately seven miles away, is known for its independent shops, colourful high street, weekly market and lively food scene. Totnes Castle and the River Dart provide further opportunities for exploring.

For families wanting a day at the coast, Wonwell Beach is approximately twelve miles from the cottages. Set beside the River Erme, it offers beautiful sand and estuary scenery, particularly at low tide. Bigbury-on-Sea and Burgh Island are also within driving distance, providing sandy beaches, coastal walks and the famous sea tractor.

Plymouth and Exeter offer further attractions, museums, theatres and restaurants, making them useful options for a longer day out.

With the beautiful landscapes of Dartmoor, attractive Devon towns and wonderful South Devon beaches nearby, Great Palstone & Swallows Rest offer an excellent base for a large group holiday.

Nearby Places