Cove Valley is a rewilding project in the heart of the Exe Valley, on the edge of Exmoor National Park, designed to bring nature and those who dwell there back to life. We must think big and act wild to restore nature. Our three unique cabins are within the 300-acre reserve, providing a luxurious, ranch-style experience.

Here is everything you need to know about staying at Cove Valley and the surrounding area — and if you'd like a downloadable document, click HERE.

Cove Valley is an area of natural beauty home to diverse wildlife. Whilst staying you can expect to see a variety of animals, including:

Red Deer: One of the largest land mammals in the UK, the red deer is a common sight in the hills and forests of Devon. Guests can see these majestic animals grazing in open fields or woods.
Badgers: These nocturnal creatures are a delight to watch, especially in the evening when they come out to forage for food. You may spot badgers in the woods and fields.
Otters: Often seen in the rivers and streams, where they swim and fish for food. They are active day and night; you may be lucky to spot them playing in the water.

Beavers: A returning keystone species, this nocturnal animal lives in a lodge or burrow on the water's edge. You might spot their handiwork near the ponds where they strip bark for food and fell trees to build dams.
Foxes: Another nocturnal animal, the fox can be spotted in the fields and hedgerows. They are usually most active at dusk and dawn.
Birds: Cove Valley is an excellent place for bird watching, with many species to be seen, such as the buzzard, kestrel, peregrine falcon, goshawk, barn owl, and tawny owl. You can spot smaller birds like the robin, blue tit, and chaffinch.
Butterflies and insects: With various wildflowers and plants, you can expect to see many different species of butterflies and insects, such as the orange tip, small tortoiseshell, and common blue

THE LOCAL AREA

Cove is a small village in Tiverton, Devon, in the South West of England. While it is a small village, there are some lovely local spots.

Our favourites:

The Lost Kitchen, Tiverton — A firm favourite, and by far one of the best places to eat near Cove Valley. Locally sourced, farm-to-table cuisine in an elegant yet rustic setting — a must-visit for foodies.
Bridge House, Bampton — Another of our top picks for eating out nearby. A lovely spot in the village for a proper meal out.
Six On Castle, Bampton — A Georgian guesthouse and artisan coffee shop in Bampton. Serving hot and cold drinks, sweet treats, and a small selection of gifts and home treasures.
Bampton Fresh, Bampton — An independent, family-run grocers supplying homegrown and locally sourced produce. Order online or visit in-store.
Cru and Cork, Bampton — An independent wine merchant founded in 2020.

Swimming Spots

Tarr Steps & the River Barle (25 minutes) One of Exmoor's most beautiful spots. Crystal-clear river pools beneath ancient woodland — combine with a circular walk over the famous clapper bridge.

Spitchwick Common, River Dart (40–45 minutes) One of Devon's classic wild swimming locations. Large granite pools, grassy banks and beautiful Dartmoor scenery. Can get busy on warm weekends.

Wimbleball Lake (30 minutes) Open-water swimming events and designated swimming sessions — great if you'd like calmer, more managed water than a river.

Nice Walking Routes

Tarr Steps Circular (25 minutes) 3–6 mile options through ancient oak woodland, along the river, with wildlife and the historic stone bridge.

Buzzards Woodland Walk (20 minutes) Around 4 miles through beautiful woodland and along the River Dart. Expect hills, wildlife and excellent viewpoints.

Grand Western Canal Country Park (20 minutes) A flat, peaceful towpath, ideal for an easy stroll or cycle. Plenty of birds, narrowboats and picnic spots.

Knightshayes Estate (20 minutes) A National Trust estate with formal gardens, woodland walks and parkland.

Valley of Rocks (45 minutes) Spectacular Exmoor coastal scenery, with wild goats and dramatic sea cliffs.

Also well worth the drive: Watersmeet, one of the most beautiful places on Exmoor, around 45–50 minutes from Cove Valley.

Further afield

If you've had a great time discovering Cove Valley and want to venture out, Devon is a well-known tourist spot in the South West of England, offering a variety of local facilities and attractions. Below are some of the popular places to visit:

FOOD & DRINK:

The Pig at Combe, Honiton (48 minute drive)
The Bull Inn, Totnes (1 hour 7 min drive)
Woods, Dulverton (20 minute drive)

BEACHES: Devon is known for its stunning coastline — our favourites, in both North and South Devon:

Saunton Sands (1 hour 14 minute drive)
Croyde (1 hour 19 minute drive)
Salcombe (1 hour 35 minute drive)

NATIONAL PARKS: Exmoor and Dartmoor National Park are a short drive from Cove Valley, where guests can enjoy hiking, cycling and other outdoor activities in stunning scenery.

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES: Devon has a rich history and culture, and guests can visit various museums and galleries, such as the Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter, the Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, and the Burton Art Gallery and Museum in Bideford.

ATTRACTIONS: Devon has a range of visitor attractions, including the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth, the Wildwood Park in Escot, and the Babbacombe Model Village in Torquay.