I’ll never forget the drive down to our holiday spot in North Devon – what should’ve been a straightforward jaunt from the M5 turned into a proper comedy of errors. Satnav had us weaving through narrow lanes that felt more like goat tracks than roads, and just as we neared Bideford, the heavens opened. Rain hammered the windscreen so hard I could barely see, and then – splash! – we hit a massive puddle that soaked the car’s underbelly and had us laughing hysterically as the windscreen wipers battled for their lives. By the time we spotted the turning off the main road, we were damp, dishevelled, and desperately fancying a cuppa. Anticipation bubbled up though; after weeks of grey office days, the promise of a riverside retreat overlooking the Torridge had us buzzing.

Pulling up to this gem – a clever blend of a cosy farmhouse and converted barn turned into one big, welcoming home – my first thought was, “Blimey, we’ve struck gold.” Perched just off the Devonshire coastline in a picture-postcard spot, it commands views straight over the river that had us glued to the windows before we’d even unpacked. The chaos of arrival melted away as we stepped inside; it’s got that perfect homely vibe, all peace and tranquillity, yet you sense the buzz of North Devon’s coastal hotspots right on the doorstep. We dumped the bags, kicked off our soggy shoes, and straight away felt that countryside calm wash over us – birdsong, gentle river lapping, not a hint of traffic noise.

First impressions? Spot on. The place is a walker’s dream, with trails snaking out from the garden that beg to be explored. We ventured out that very afternoon, once the rain eased, following a path along the Torridge that led us to some stunning viewpoints – proper jaw-dropping stuff, with the water sparkling below and cliffs in the distance. It’s so handy for those little gems nearby too; Appledore’s just 8 miles down the road, a charming fishing village packed with quirky shops and cracking seafood spots we couldn’t wait to hit. Westward Ho! is the same distance the other way, with its massive sandy beach calling for a proper stroll and maybe an ice cream or two.

We spent the evening settling in, cracking open a bottle of local cider (North Devon does them proud), and just soaking up the views from the lounge. There was a moment, staring out at the sunset painting the river gold, where I had a proper think – you know, one of those gentle self-reflections? Life’s mad rush had left me knackered, but here, in this unpretentious haven, I realised how much I needed this reset. No signals stressing me out, just family, fresh air, and the odd daft mishap to chuckle over. The next day dawned bright, and we were off down the Tarka Trail, bikes hired from nearby, pedalling past RHS Rosemoor Gardens’ blooms – only a short hop away. Evenings brought lazy suppers with produce from local farm shops, and one night we wandered to The Big Sheep for a bit of family fun, all within easy reach.

That arrival kerfuffle? Best thing that happened – set the tone for a holiday full of real, unpolished joy. If you’re after a slice of North Devon magic without the crowds, this is your spot. We’re already plotting a return.