Birch House Studio
24604.4 miles S of Wellington / Sleeps 3 (no children under 16)
7 Nights from £405
Mrs Ruffle November 2023
Wonderful property. Totally peaceful location. Ideal for walking and exploring the many footpaths and lanes. Not suitable for a large car as manoeuvring in and out of the property was tricky. We would, however, stay here again because it was an outstanding property and we had a memorable holiday. The four nearest pubs provided excellent food and relaxing ambience.
Reply from Classic Cottages
It sounds as if you had a wonderful time exploring. We're so pleased you enjoyed your stay and hope that we can welcome you back soon. Julie, Customer Support
Mrs Butt November 2023
This cottage is a real gem. With most comfortable seating and bed. It has everything you could wish for and is very cosy and warm for an out of season break. The Half moon pub is a very short drive up the road and serves excellent food. There is a handy shop very close at Hemyock. We loved it here and Judy the host is very friendly and helpful. We hope to return again and again!
Mr Dodwell October 2023
The property is satisfactory and as shown in photographs and description. There is a large open plan area (including kitchen) and 2 bedrooms which both lead into the shower room. There is an outside patio/driveway space. Unfortunately, I had a number of problems. The worst was the wi-fi, which varied between non-existent to desperately slow (too slow to support many internet functions). The landline did not work for incoming calls. There is a very poor mobile signal locally, so these are important. The parking is very tight.
As ever, it depends on your priorities. The guest book had lots of favourable comments in it.
Reply from Classic Cottages
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts. Broadband speed and mobile reception can vary at some of our more remote properties. Do please give our helpful sales team a call prior to booking should you need any further details. We hope you enjoyed exploring this beautiful area. Julie, Customer Support
Mr Lewis September 2023
Comfortable little cottage with all you need for an enjoyable stay. Warm and cozy. Lovely, welcoming owner. Under a mile to the local pub, but it is a very steep mile.
Mr Sacre September 2023
Spotlessly clean with comfortable seating & bedding. Everything you need for a comfortable stay, especially if you have mobility issues. Beautiful outlook & area. Hemyock, about 10 mins drive has Post Office & general store, also a Spar which is well stocked. Nice staff at both places. The owner Judy, is very helpful with any queries etc. Eating recommend ‘The Half Moon’ a few minutes drive up the road & ‘The Catherine Wheel’ in Hemyock. Also Blackdown Garden Centre off the A38.
Mrs Parish August 2023
Wonderful high spec studio in a beautiful part of Devon. Highly recommended.
Mr Brughmans July 2023
Everything you could dream of was there !! Very friendly host !! We'll certainly come back in future!!
Reply from Classic Cottages
Thank you for leaving a lovely review - we're so glad that Birch House Studio had everything you could dream of! We can't wait to welcome you back again in future. Meg, Customer Support
Mr Brown May 2023
Friendly hosts Location was perfect for us but wouldn’t suit everyone with narrow lanes
Mr Sacre March 2023
Our second visit to Birch House Studio, as last time we were made very welcome by Judy & Tim. Spotless on arrival. All you could possibly need for a comfortable stay. Equipped well. Bed comfortable & furniture. Always good to have armchairs as well as a settee, especially for people who need extra help getting in & out of chairs. Super pub nearby, The Half Moon, who serve excellent food. Also a couple of shops not too far away. We certainly hope to return. Thank you Judy & Tim.
Reply from Classic Cottages
We're so glad that you found a place that ticks all of your boxes for a great break. When you find somewhere that gives you all you need and great owners too, why wouldn't you want to come back! Thanks for the recommendations of places to visit. We hope you do make a return visit and I'm sure Judy and Tim do too. Donna, Customer Support.
Mr Anstey October 2022
Great accommodation, clean , comfortable and located in beautiful countryside. First class
Mr Sacre September 2022
Excellent accommodation, everything you need to make a lovely holiday. Also excellent pub, The Half Moon, nearby & a local shop & post office. In a beautiful area of Somerset/Devon.
Mr Gillard September 2022
Warmest congratulations on your recent accolade from ?Which magazine. Very well deserved !!
Mrs Knapp July 2022
Birch House Studio is the perfect place to get away from it all. Totally peaceful apart from the odd tractor harvesting/bailing. The accommodation is exceptionally clean and comfortable and Judy, the owner next door, friendly and helpful but not intrusively so. Fantastic walking all around. Oh, and a v good local pub. Thoroughly recommended.
Mrs Sime June 2022
This really is a holiday home-from-home. Extremely well equipped and maintained. The owners are next door if needed and are happy to chat and give advice about the local area. However, they are very aware of their guests’ privacy and are not at all intrusive. The Studio is in the middle of nowhere with very narrow country lanes, which can be a little tricky for driving. However, the roads are really quiet for walking so we hardly used the car at all.
Mr Gillard October 2021
We have been doing cottage holidays since 1966 so we`ve seen a few. Even allowing for how standards generally have soared over that period, Birch House Studio must come out top of our all time list for overall excellence
Mr Roe October 2021
One of the best holiday lets we have stayed. Quality, comfort, design first class.
Mr Laves September 2021
One of the best cottages we have stayed in
Mr Starr June 2021
Extremely comfortable and well equipped property in a quiet country location. Many local walks available in unspoilt countryside. Plenty of local information available. We were blessed with glorious weather during our stay and able to make full use of the patio area for breakfast and evening meals. Friendly and welcoming owners but not intrusive. Having never visited Blackdown Hills we were pleasantly surprised and would certainly consider revisiting.
Mr Fisher May 2021
We had a great stay. The property was comfortable, well equipped and very clean. The owners were friendly and helpful. Plenty of local information supplied including a variety of local walks Well situated for exploring most parts of Devon and Somerset and there's plenty to see and do in this part of the world. Recommended and would say again
Mr Genower May 2021
Warm welcome but non intrusive hosts. The resident cock pheasant needs a name!
Mr Renwick April 2021
Our stay at Birch House studio was just fabulous. The cottage had everything you could require for a luxurious and peaceful stay in the Blackdown hills. The owners, Judy & Tim were just lovely people and most helpful with local information. We enjoyed the many walks on the doorstep and to be perfectly honest didn't really want to leave !
Mrs Blaney September 2020
A very comfortable base from which to explore in all directions, even not using footpaths. With my mobility scooter in the car there was plenty to see and do. The weather helped, but Covid closures didn't ! A gem of a location.
Mrs Clifton August 2020
A lovely, comfortable, clean and very well-equipped cottage in an extremely attractive and private situation.
Plenty of easily-accessible places of interest to visit. A warm and comfortable base (with sun-trap courtyard) if relaxation preferred!
Ms Easton July 2020
We were naturally apprehensive about booking a holiday this summer, however, our hosts had thought of everything and we were 100% reassured from the moment we arrived. The property was spotless and beautifully arranged - every item in the kitchen was gleaming as if brand new, bathrooms were immaculate with lovely fluffy white towels and the bedding and beds were extremely comfortable and beautifully laundered and presented. Even the patio and garden furniture were all fresh and clean and ready for us to enjoy. We enjoy cooking on our holidays and found absolutely nothing lacking here. There are plenty of pans, baking trays, mixing bowls and serving dishes and the appliances are all excellent. The kitchen is very well designed and a pleasure to use. The location is incredibly quiet, the garden beautifully kept - we enjoyed watching the pheasants, squirrels and a wonderful range of birds every morning. There are three charming outdoor seating sets to suit any time of day or meal with a nice big umbrella if you are seeking some shade. The studio offered a great base from which to visit the beautiful south coast ( Beer, Branscombe, Sidmouth and Llyme Regis in particular) as well as Minehead and Kilve to the North and the magnificent Exmoor as well as a day in Exeter. Our hosts were absolutely charming and showed great concern for our enjoyment of the property and the area, whilst still respecting our privacy.
Mrs Setters March 2020
Judy and Tim were very welcoming hosts and we had a wonderful short break. The studio was very warm and cosy with all home comforts. The location is excellent for visiting many attractions in Devon.
Mr Hurst August 2019
We had a really lovely relaxing holiday at Birch House Studio. After the usual tiring journey to the south west in August we received the most cheerful, friendly, bright welcome from the exceptional owners. From the moment we entered the cottage any anxieties that we may have felt disappeared as the tour of the property revealed cleanliness, comfort and a lovely view from the patio doors onto an attractive garden with lots of birds in the trees. It was great to see the visiting pheasant and woodpecker whilst having breakfast. The cottage is very well equipped from the kitchen to the bedrooms and bathroom with good quality furnishings.
Birch House is well placed for visiting many areas. We had a steam train trip to Minehead on the north coast and another day we visited Lyme Regis in east Dorset. Both enjoyable places to visit. We also took advantage to visit historic properties. We particularly enjoyed Forde Abbey.
The week passed all too quickly and we would be very happy to recommend Birch House Studio and will be very pleased to visit again.
Thank you for a great week's holiday.
Reply from Classic Cottages
Thanks so much for taking the time to review Birch House Studio - it's lovely to hear that you had such a wonderful time overall. The long journey down to Cornwall is so worth it and the addition of a home from home like Birch House Studio is just the cherry on the cake! It's fantastic that you managed lots of exploring and we look forward to welcoming you back again soon to continue your adventures! Bryony, Customer Support
Mrs Rowe June 2019
It was such a lovely bright and clean also very well equipped, especially the kitchen. Unfortunately we had to cut our holiday short as l was not very well. It was touch and go whether we would be able to make the holiday as l hadn't been very well up until the week of our stay in the studio,but l wasn't prepared to not come. I did get to see my niece and nephew, children of my late sister, who l lost at the young age of 61, 9 years ago . That was the incentive l had to get there as they live in Taunton and we live in Bognor Regis. We unfortunately had to leave on the Tuesday due to my health. The last thing l would like to say is about the lovely view over the garden.
Reply from Classic Cottages
We're so sorry to hear that you had to had to return home earlier than planned due to ill health but pleased that you were able to visit some very important family members. We'd love to welcome you back and hope that you feel better very soon. Tressa, Customer Support
Reverend James May 2019
A spacious but comfortable property set amongst this fantastic part of the countryside. Great for solitude and access to Devon and Somerset. Everything in the property you would need for long or short stays. I particularly noticed the comfort of the chairs and bed-sometimes a problem with being tall/back problems and having to resort to the floor to sleep when such comforts are lacking. Not so here and a comprehensive amount of information about the property and local area.
Mrs Brett April 2019
Our 4th visit to Birch House Studio and as always an exceptional property to stay at. It is very homely and everything you could want for supplied. The owners are so friendly and welcoming and we always feel very much at home here. It is the ideal base for visiting Somerset and Devon with not much distance to travel for the sea, Exmoor, Dartmoor and many National Trust properties. We are now trying to fit in another visit hopefully late Autumn - springtime is a stunning time to visit this area as the scenery is spectacular and so colourful.
Mrs Lucas March 2019
We would like to visit again when the weather would allow us to explore the area better
Reply from Classic Cottages
It's great to see that the studio was a cosy haven from the weather, but please do come back and visit again in the sunshine. Tanya, Customer Support
Mrs Brett December 2018
This is an excellent property - well equipped and very cosy and warm. It's very peaceful and ideal for a relaxing holiday whether you just want to chill out or go to various places - Sea, moorland or National Trust properties etc.
Mr Simmons September 2018
It was a very comfortable, well equipped cottage and the owners were really friendly and helpful
Mrs Doyle August 2018
Excellently provisioned cottage. Very welcoming on-site owner.
Mrs Gilham July 2018
All the extra little touches made our holiday and stay in the cottage very comfortable.
Mr Field May 2018
A very nice & comfortable cottage, very quiet at night & first thing in the mornings all you can hear are the birds singing, just lovely. Owners are very helpful & are there if you want them.
Mrs Morton April 2018
This is a beautiful cottage set in lovely gardens and the hosts are so helpful.We would recommend this if you want a quite retreat or it's so accessible to three counties.Its spotless with everything you could possibly need for the perfect holiday.
Mrs Marek April 2018
First class immaculate and fitted out to a very high standard so comfortable. We would rate this as our best one yet. No hesitation at all in recommending the studio to friends and family. Every thing you could wish for and then more.
Mrs Westoby February 2018
Delightful property in a lovely location, extremely comfortable and well equipped.
Mrs Watson August 2017
An excellent property, really clean and comfortable. Quiet and relaxing, owner could not of been more helpful, even providing folder of walks around the property, which was most useful.
Mr Hartog May 2017
I think I have said everything about the studio. Thanks to Judy we a great time, perfect house and like to come back again !!!
Evelyne and Ton from Odijk in Holland.
Mrs Moran April 2017
Birch House Studio is the perfect place to have a peaceful, relaxing holiday. It has everything you need to make your stay wonderful. The studio is a very well equipped, clean and cosy place to stay. Lots of places to go and see. Can highly recommend the Half Moon Public House very friendly, tasty home cooked food.
Mrs Brett December 2016
We enjoyed our stay over the Christmas period so much we have already booked this property for another week at the end of April 2017
Mr Rundle September 2016
A beautiful studio with every home comfort provided. We found it immaculate and hope to revisit next year. Judy was an excellent host who really makes sure that every little detail is perfect. I can't speak highly enough about the studio or Judy.
Mrs Klotz August 2016
We didnt know about this grandious region "blackdown hills " - best for walking, don
t even need your car!
Mrs Shiret October 2015
Birch House Studio was an exceptionally well equipped and comfortable base for our time in the Black down Hills. Judy was a charming and thoughtful host. We had lovely flowers, strawberries and cream and biscuits to welcome us on arrival. I would love to return.
Mrs Diack September 2015
This is an ideal 'away from it all' retreat in beautiful countryside.
Mrs Peoples September 2015
An outstanding cottage which exceeded expectations. Judy was warm, welcoming and friendly and we cannot speak highly enough of her. It is faultless as far as we are concerned.
Mrs Simmons June 2015
The property was so peacful and quiet, and although next door to the owners we felt on our own which is what we wanted. The interior was beautiful, open and airy. The kitchen is the best equipped l have ever known. The welcome tea and bisquits, and first breakfast was a bonus. They also advised us to go to Branscombe Bay which was absolutely beautiful. Also we were advised to go to the pub for fish and chips in newspaper. As we used to love them out of newspaper we went along, and they were delicious. If we ever go back to that part of the world l will stay there again.
Miss Nicholls June 2015
Birch House Studio is a real 'gem'. Set in an idyllic location it is equipped to the highest standards and provides all you could possibly need for a peaceful and relaxing holiday.
Mrs Baldwin April 2015
We had a lovely time at Birch House Studio. Perfect location and accomodation- the weather was fabulous too. We'll definitely be back to visit.
Mrs Nelson-Tomsen September 2014
Lovely little property in a beautiful spot. Extremely well equipped and spotlessly clean.
Mrs Diack September 2014
This was just perfect accommodation for a peaceful rest. Everything provided for our comfort and a very warm welcome (including breakfast provisions) provided by the owners.
Mrs Gottwald August 2014
lovely place to stay - a home from home. lovely rural surroundings with very friendly warm and kind folk. quiet and peaceful but only short distances to the sea. great place for nature and walk lovers!
Mr Wolf July 2014
The description applies 100%. Very calm and relaxing location in the heard of rural southern England with many places close to explore and to enjoy. Property well kept and clean with change of towels and bedsheets in between the 14 days of our stay.
Mr Albrow July 2014
We have been staying at cottages in the West Country for ten year's. We have always been pleased with the accommodation, but this GEM is on another level.
Mr Lambert June 2014
beautifully kept cottage 10/10
Mr Harvey May 2014
This cottage is immaculate with all the equipment and facilities to make for a comfortable holiday. As it is all on one floor with a wet floor shower it is especially convenient for elderly people or for those with disabilities.
Mr Tighe-Neal December 2013
Excellent accommodation - Great Weekend - Only negative side is it is surrounded by narrow 2 way roads - which aren't suitable for 2 cars to pass each other simultaneously.
Mrs Krise September 2013
Perfectly sized accommodation for 2 or 3 people - tardis like in proportions - you keep finding more rooms! Equipped and furnished to an extremely high standard, perfect peace and quiet, and "landlords" who give you a warm welcome, provide you with your first morning's breakfast, and give you the highlights on any local activities you may want to attend.
Ms Kirby July 2013
The pictures on the website are a true representation of the Studio; what they don't show however, is the high level of cleaniness, the clever design of the property and the extensive information provided by the lovely owners, about the local area. It was an extremely peaceful and private place, and most comfortable, and if one is happy to stay-put in the local area, then it would be perfect. However, my son and I made the mistake of using it as a touring base - because, driving in the immediate vicinity is somewhat awkward given the long, narrow lanes; next time (and I would go there again), I'd just make better use of the extremely well-mapped and detailed walks provided by the owners, and take a good book with me to stop me venturing too far. Oh, and I expect that it has its own favourable micro-climate: everytime we ventured afar and caught the heavy rain, we would return to find that the day had been very fine indeed!
Mrs McGregor May 2013
We have no hesitation in recommending Birch House Studio. We had a great holiday and the owners Judy and John went out of their way to be helpful and friendly as possible. The facilities at the Studio are superb and far exceeded expectations.
Good or bad, we publish all the reviews left by the guests who have stayed in this cottage, with the few exceptions stated in our Review Guidelines.