Phillishayes is a 400-year-old, Grade II listed thatched cottage, tucked in the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Lovingly cared for by three generations of my family, this south-facing traditional cob-and-flint cottage offers rustic charm, rich character and deep tranquillity.
Ideally located for exploring East Devon, Phillishayes is close to the village of Upottery, the market town of Honiton, and the Jurassic Coast's seaside gems. National Trust estates and moorland walks on Dartmoor and Exmoor are all within easy reach.
One of the joys of Phillishayes is its layout - connected but quirky.
Once two tiny farmworkers’ cottages, Phillishayes was combined into one charming home by my parents in the 1970s. Today, it still retains that unique character, with two distinct yet connected downstairs spaces: a bright, open-plan kitchen and dining area on one side, and a snug, sun-filled sitting room on the other.
Each half of the cottage has its own quirky staircase. One leads to a double bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, while the other takes you to a twin bedroom (with two singles that can be made into a super-king on request). A separate shower room is located downstairs, making the space ideal for families or friends who appreciate comfort and a touch of independence.
The sunny, south-facing garden is a secluded haven
The south-facing garden wraps around the cottage, forming a peaceful sun trap bordered by a traditional Devon bank and open fields. Dotted with benches, a hammock swing, a dining table, and shaded spots under a graceful willow, it’s perfect for relaxing or dining alfresco. In summer, guests can help themselves to seasonal fruit like strawberries and apples.
Wildlife is abundant—from rare-breed Hebridean sheep and soaring red kites to dusk-time bats and the call of owls at night. Herons, foxes, and deer often visit, while the nearby River Otter is home to reintroduced beavers and otters. Parking is available for up to three cars at the garden’s lower end.
