Classic Exmoor cottage is an October hit!

What a welcome addition to the Helpful Holidays portfolio! This classic cottage is three miles west of Minehead - Exmoor's seaside resort - and set in 150 acres of mixed-leaf woodland. It's easy to understand why the bookings are flowing in. Recently renovated, the cottage is comfortable, light and contemporary with long views from all rooms across the valley to fields and heather moorland. A unique place to stay...enjoy peaceful solitude and cosy hours in front of the open fire, or explore the beautiful moorland and coastline right on your doorstep. Sleeps 5, from £296 per week.

Wonderful countryside views

My first and abiding view, after the long and steep drive down, is the small field ablaze with daffodils, primroses, and even a few primulas. A veritable feast of colour and delight, to city eyes especially, but also for my country ones.

I had arrived at West Huckham Farm – a superbly converted 200 year old barn with Saxon origins deep in the Quarme Valley 3 miles south of Wheddon Cross – a peaceful, restful, spacious house, quiet and secluded but not isolated (two not-too-near neighbours), with its beautiful countryside view, seen from strategically placed seats outside, or from the west facing conservatory. Wonderful sunsets, of course, having enjoyed the sunny mornings through the east facing French windows.

Comfortable beds – double with en suite bathroom upstairs: shower-room down, with another two bedrooms. Squidgy sofas, a highly efficient woodburner, and music equipment sounding magnificent in the large ground floor area - it would be hard to find a happier, more relaxing place to stay.