Terry Holt

This comfortable, charming and well-presented cottage is a perfect bolthole for couples. The property is conveniently positioned just 10 mins walk to the beach which is accessed via a well-maintained wide and level footpath through the green and peaceful valley which opens up to reveal the beautiful beach. The beach is also home to the welcoming Sea Shanty café with a small shop for essentials. Opposite the property is the Masons Arms, a well-regarded pub serving excellent food and local beers – need to book early! The village of Branscombe is found on the South coast of Devon and is one of the most relaxing and picturesque villages on the Jurassic Coastline. There is a timeless magic about this village and you will find pretty rows of thatched cottages and it is believed to be the longest village in the country where the streets sweep down through the stunning valley to the sea. The beach at Branscombe is part of the famous UNESCO Jurassic Coast, and stretches over a mile with beautiful views of the Jurassic cliffs on either side of the valley, and from here you can explore East via the coast path to the fishing village of Beer or west to Sidmouth, or the Donkey Sanctuary with its excellent cafe.

The village has a number of historic buildings, the Old Bakery and Forge, both National Trust properties. Inside the Old Bakery you will find yourself surrounded by history, while the thatched forge is thought to be the oldest working of its kind in England. Branscombe has walks that cater for all abilities, immediately from the front door with beautiful historical strolls or cliff-top hikes and views out to sea.

Outside

Although there is no outside space, directly across the road is the Masons Arms with its sunny terrace for coffees, drinks, lunch and dinner. And with the beach just 10 mins walk away via a footpath through idyllic countryside, it is not something the owners or previous guests have missed.

For those bringing bicycles, these can be locked up round the back of the cottage (THC takes no responsibility).

The local area

Beach days, coastal walks, fossil foraging, country rambles, cosy pubs and picture-perfect cottages at every corner – holidays in Branscombe are truly unforgettable. Considered one of the most beautiful locations on Britain’s south coast, Branscombe is a picturesque village set on the shores of the Jurassic Coast in East Devon, sandwiched between Seaton and Sidmouth. Tucked into a verdant valley which winds down to the sea, there’s a timeless magic about Branscombe, where old stone cottages, thick thatched roofs and colourful rose-glad cottage gardens line the narrow Devon lanes and photo opportunities lie behind every corner.

Holidays in Branscombe are relaxing and restorative, yet there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Step back in time and visit the National Trust’s Manor Mill and Old Forge – believed to be the oldest working thatched forge – then indulge in lashings of clotted cream and fresh-from-the-oven scones with a Devon cream tea at the Old Bakery cafe. Don walking boots and set off for mesmerising country walks through the undulating hills that encompass the village, or swap country for coast and explore the stunning South West Coast Path which weaves its way along the headlands to Sidmouth to the west, or Beer and Seaton to the east, where you can refuel on fresh crab sandwiches or traditional fish ‘n’ chips. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, no matter where you choose to walk, you’ll be spoiled with views that’ll take your breath away long before you take on any steep hills.

Whether balmy summer or brooding winter, trips to the beach are sure to be a highlight of your stay in Branscombe. Branscombe beach was a long pebble beach until the winter of 2022 when storms rearranged the pebbles, and it is now a beautiful sandy beach flanked by pretty painted beach huts and a beachside cafe, Sea Shanty Cafe, which serves breakfast baps, seafood, sandwiches and scones alongside blue views. From sea swims and beach walks, fossil hunting and fishing, Branscombe beach is a beautiful place to spend time.

After busy days exploring the Jurassic Coast and East Devon countryside, Branscombe’s two village pubs are a welcome sight. The Mason’s Arms is a beautiful dog-friendly pub with a roaring fire, loads of character and really good food – so make sure to book in advance, while the 14th century Fountain Head has plenty of outdoor seating for sunny days, as well as a cosy fire, and serves hearty pub food with local ales and ciders.

For family holidays in Branscombe, you’ll find loads of great attractions nearby, including the Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary with its excellent cafe, Crealy Adventure Park, Seaton Tramway, Seaton Jurassic and Pecorama.

Whether you’re searching for family friendly activities for your annual summer holiday or planning a romantic getaway filled with peaceful walks and country pubs, a holiday in Branscombe ticks all the boxes.

Parking

There is free street parking directly opposite the property, there is also a public car park at the village hall 5 minutes’ walk from the property with an honesty box for contributions, or a public car park at the beach approx.10 min walk away, where charges apply.

Electric Cars – Please note that this property does not have suitable facilities for charging electric vehicles.

Additional information

Included: All bed linen and towels, (please bring your own beach towels), WiFi, electricity, central heating.

Telephone: Mobile signal in the centre of Branscombe is poor. Therefore, a landline has been provided for emergencies and incoming calls only.

Electric Cars – Please note that this property does not have suitable facilities for charging electric vehicles.

Pets: Up to two small well-behaved small dogs or 1 medium well behaved dog welcome in public areas of property only (not bedrooms). Pet Charge: £30.00 per pet per week.

Local facilities: Branscombe Beach is an easy 10 min walk from the property (less than 500m) via an off-road path. The Sea Shanty Beach Cafe and shop is on the beach with inside and outside seating. National Trust run The Old Bakery tea-room in the centre of the village. Dog Friendly Pubs: Masons Arms directly opposite (book well in advance of your visit) and The Fountain Head Pub, is 1 mile away at the west end of the village. Shops are in: Seaton: 5 miles. Beer: 2.2 miles. Sidmouth: 7 miles.

Supermarkets: Seaton Tesco (14 min drive) and Sidmouth Waitrose (15 min drive).

Smoking/Vaping: not permitted inside property.