Highbullen Hotel – a countryside Devon gem

City life is fantastic, but sometimes it’s good to get away from the hustle and bustle and just be able to relax, rejuvenate and unwind. And if that is what you’re looking for, I have the ideal place.

Set in 125 acres of North Devonshire countryside is Highbullen Hotel, an idyllic country house and ideal break destination. Nestled in-between Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks and within easy reach of the Devon County Town of Exeter, this is a Hotel that offers the escapism of an isolated retreat without actually being out of the way. 

The room

Highbullen offers a range of luxury accommodations and since its refurbishment in 2013 each and every room is warm, welcoming and inviting whilst still retaining the rustic charm of the building. Whilst I stayed at the Hotel I was in the Lawrence Olivier Suite – named aptly so for the famous actor used to frequent this room during his trips to Devon. Situated on the ground floor and with the tumbling views of the Devonshire countryside rolling out as far as the eye can see it is certainly worth spending a little more to stay here. The finely pruned golf course gives way to a patchwork palette of greens and browns with splashes of bracken and forestry in the distance and when the morning sunrise breaks through the mist it’s clear to see just why this room is so popular.

The room itself is furnished in an 18th-century periodic style, with a hard-wood antique bed being a predominant feature. Earthy tones reflecting the magnificent views are splashed all throughout the room with mahogany furniture and avocado-coloured armchairs. A pair of beautiful antique-style curtains separate the bedroom from the window/living area and add a further injection of grandeur style.
This is an ideal and cosy hub to ebb away your stress, read a book in the armchair and just take in the atmosphere.

The Spa

Whilst staying at Highbullen Hotel, access to their spa and leisure facilities are included and well worth a visit. The spa includes a sauna, pool and hot tub- with the hot tub offering breathtaking views whilst you sit back and relax. Whilst this isn’t somewhere you could spend a whole day, it is an ideal way to unwind after a busy morning exploring the grounds.

Dining

Hughbullen offers two main dining options for your stay and I would recommend you try both. Cellars is a more informal choice in an ambient and cosy room beneath the Hotel. Here you can observe the chic, contemporary decor, revel in the fascinating history the hotel holds and sit back and just take in the atmosphere. Just off of Cellars is the Billiards room – a beautiful and comfortable area to relax and enjoy a drink and game or two. Menu choices vary from pastas and pizzas to grills and fish options and with prices averaging at about £10 a dish it won’t break the bank either. 

Things to do