Three properties, all Grade II listed, all dating back to the 1780s – a Georgian Manor, an 18th-century Farmhouse and a converted stable Cottage, each with its own character. These are houses that have been lived in and are loved, and it shows. Think exposed oak beams, stone fireplaces, antique window shutters, original dressers, wide sills with views across the Devon countryside, bread ovens and flower-draped porches. All have been thoughtfully updated to make family life genuinely comfortable, without losing any of the atmosphere that makes Stickwick so special.
Book one for a single family or all three together for a group of up to 24. Where Stickwick works particularly well is for multi-generational groups – big enough for everyone to have their own space, connected enough to come together easily over a long dinner or a lazy morning. The south-facing gardens are made for long summer afternoons, kids running riot while the adults work their way through a cold glass of something. When the children have finally worn themselves out there are big sofas to sink into, movie nights to be had and a dining room that seats 24 when the mahogany table is extended – the kind of table that makes even a Tuesday night pasta feel like an occasion. All properties have washers and dryers, because muddy days are a given here and nobody wants to go home with a bag full of wet socks.
If you are travelling with babies or toddlers, Stickwick has thought of you. Wooden cots, high chairs, stair gates, fire guards, a steriliser, baby monitor, blackout blinds, a 3-wheeler buggy, baby bath, backpack carrier, bouncer chair, bed guards, change mats and toddler crockery are all provided at no extra charge – which means you can pack light and arrive ready to relax rather than spending the first afternoon unpacking half the nursery.
The Manor – sleeps up to 12 plus 3 cots
The grandest of the three, with seven bedrooms and six bathrooms (four ensuite) across three floors. The dining room is dominated by a walk-in inglenook fireplace and an antique mahogany table that seats 12, or 24 when extended, and some bedrooms have slipper baths and deep window seats with garden views. The one to go for if you want space to spread out properly.
The Farmhouse – sleeps up to 7/8 plus 2 cots
Three bedrooms and two bathrooms (one ensuite), with the easy, settled feel of a place that has been doing this for 250 years. Connects to the Manor through double lockable doors, making it ideal for larger groups who want to be together without being on top of each other.
The Cottage – sleeps up to 5 plus cot
Two bedrooms and two bathrooms (one ensuite) in a converted 18th-century stable with its own private entrance and a self-contained feel. Works well for a smaller family, or for grandparents who want to be close but not in the thick of it when the Manor and Farmhouse are booked together.
