Location — Peaceful Thatched Cottage in the Otter Valley, Devon
Discover Phillishayes Cottage’s tranquil East Devon location
Tucked away along quiet country lanes, the cottage is perfectly placed for peace and seclusion—yet it’s just a mile from the historic village of Upottery, accessed either by a peaceful lane or a scenic footpath crossing the River Otter and winding through open fields. Despite its rural setting, Phillishayes is only a five-minute drive from the A303/A30, the main route linking London to Cornwall, making it easily accessible while still feeling blissfully off the beaten path. Nearby, you’ll find charming local pubs, shops, and walking trails that invite you to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside.
In the Garden
From the garden at Phillishayes, you can enjoy long views across the Blackdown Hills towards the village of Upottery. It’s a peaceful place where you’re likely to spot buzzards circling overhead, swallows darting through the sky, and even roe deer or foxes passing through nearby fields. Rare-breed Hebridean sheep often graze just over the traditional Devon bank. In spring and summer, the garden bursts into life with bees, butterflies, and colourful blooms, while the bird feeders attract blue tits, great tits, long-tailed tits, and goldfinches. Guests are very welcome to help themselves to whatever seasonal fruits are ripe—apples, plums, blackcurrants, grapes, or strawberries—picked straight from the garden.
Within Walking Distance
Phillishayes is surrounded by a network of winding country lanes and footpaths ideal for walking or cycling. A short walk downhill brings you to the River Otter, where you can paddle or even enjoy a bracing cold-water dip. The riverbanks are rich with wild plants like garlic, sorrel, and wild strawberries—and if you're especially lucky, you might catch sight of an otter or one of the wild beavers recently reintroduced to the area. The historic village of Upottery is just a mile away and can be reached by road or via footpaths that cross the river and open fields. At its heart is the Sidmouth Arms, a welcoming pub serving food daily from midday until 9pm (8.30pm on Sundays)—booking is recommended on 01404 861252.
Local Places to Visit
The area around Phillishayes is full of hidden gems to explore by car or bike. Nearby Churchinford has a friendly community-run shop and the cosy York Inn pub. Just off the road to Honiton, the Otter Valley Field Kitchen is a local favourite for breakfasts, wood-fired pizzas, and award-winning ice cream. Honiton itself is worth a visit for antique shops, lively markets, and independent cafés like Toast and The Boston Tea Party, both with outdoor seating. A bit further out, Goren Farm (EX14 9EN) offers a café, cream teas, nature walks, and an adventure trail for kids, open Wednesday to Sunday. Along local lanes, you’ll often find roadside honesty stalls selling fresh eggs, homegrown veggies, honey, or apples—just drop in your coins and enjoy.
Further Afield
From historic houses to wild coastlines, there’s no shortage of day trips nearby. National Trust sites like Montacute House, Knightshayes, Killerton, and Castle Drogo offer stunning architecture and gardens. Garden lovers will also enjoy Forde Abbey, Bicton Park, and Burrow Farm Gardens. For beach days, the Jurassic Coast towns of Sidmouth, Lyme Regis, Seaton, and Branscombe are all within easy reach. From Branscombe, a cliff path leads to the fishing village of Beer, perfect for pub lunches and fresh fish. Charmouth is great for fossil hunting, with a scenic low-tide walk to Lyme Regis. Inland, Dartmoor and Exmoor offer moorland walks and outdoor adventures. For something more active, Haldon Forest Park (EX6 7XR) has trails, cycling, and a treetop ropes course. Watersports can be enjoyed in Exmouth with Edge Watersports, or sailing and kayaking at Lyme Regis. With so much to explore, every day can be a new adventure—just be sure to return in time for a sunset drink in the garden.
