Business Details
20 Years
experience
Stay at Wheatland Farm Eco Lodges in Devon
Wheatland Farm Eco Lodges is a conservation-focused business dedicated to providing sustainable holiday experiences in Devon. Founded in 2006, we manage 21 acres of land as a nature reserve, ensuring wildlife preservation remains central to our operations. Our eco lodges and cottage are designed to minimize environmental impact, powered by renewable energy from on-site wind turbines and solar panels. We have twice won Visit Englands top award for sustainable tourism, reflecting our commitment to innovative green practices.Our team, led by Ian and Maggie, combines decades of expertise in sustainable tourism and ecology to create a unique holiday environment where guests actively contribute to conservation efforts. Every stay helps maintain this tranquil haven, blending comfort with environmental responsibility.
Services
Eco Lodges
Family-Friendly Stays
Dog-Friendly Accommodation
Sustainable Tourism
Wildlife Observation
Outdoor Activities
Hot Tub Rentals
Bike Hire
Fishing
Nature Walks
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- Award-winning sustainable tourism since 2006
- Ultra-low carbon eco lodges powered by renewable energy
- Family-friendly facilities with bikes, boats, and outdoor games
- Dogs welcome with tailored local walking guides
- Direct contribution to wildlife conservation through guest stays
Associations and certifications
- Visit England
- Devon Wildlife Trust
What people say
Peaceful surroundings
Family-friendly amenities
Eco-conscious design
Wildlife observation
Renewable energy features
Services
Balebarn Lodge
Balebarn Lodge is our flagship eco-friendly accommodation, designed with sustainability at its core. Built from straw bales and reclaimed materials, it offers ultra-low carbon stays for up to 8 guests. The lodge features a hot tub, accessible wetroom, and panoramic views of the wildlife pond. Guests benefit from renewable energy-powered amenities, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint while enjoying modern comforts.
Beech Lodge
Beech Lodge provides comfortable accommodation for 6 guests, ideal for families or groups. It includes a hot tub, open-plan living areas, and south-facing decks overlooking meadows. The lodges design promotes accessibility with level access and modern facilities, blending convenience with eco-conscious practices. Perfect for holidays combining relaxation and nature exploration in Devon.
Honeysuckle Lodge
Honeysuckle Lodge offers intimate stays for up to 4 guests, featuring an optional outdoor bathtub and eco-friendly shower. The lodges layout includes a double and bunk room, making it suitable for couples or small families. Located near meadows, it provides easy access to wildlife observation and outdoor activities, emphasizing connection with nature.
Otter Cottage
Otter Cottage combines traditional charm with modern eco-friendly upgrades, including a wood burner and scenic garden views. It sleeps 4 guests across a double and twin bedroom, with a modern shower room. The cottages rustic style appeals to those seeking a conventional yet sustainable holiday experience in a wildlife-rich setting.
Nature Conservation
Wheatland Farm actively manages 21 acres as a nature reserve, focusing on rewilding and biodiversity. Guests contribute directly to conservation through their stays, supporting initiatives like habitat restoration and species protection. Activities include guided nature walks and educational opportunities, allowing visitors to engage with our long-term ecological projects while enjoying Devons natural landscapes.
People
Ian Ripper
Owner & Sustainable Tourism Specialist
Ian has over 25 years of sustainable tourism experience globally. He built Balebarn Lodge and manages the farm's renewable energy strategy, including wind turbines and solar panels. His focus is on eco-construction and responsible land management.
Maggie Watson
Owner & Ecologist
Maggie is an ecologist with a background in marine protected areas and environmental communication. She leads conservation efforts, ensuring the farm's practices align with scientific principles to enhance local wildlife and habitats.
Questions
Are the lodges pet-friendly?
Yes, all lodges allow up to two dogs for a £20 charge in Balebarn Lodge, with guidelines for wildlife protection.
What sustainability initiatives are in place?
We use renewable energy, rewild habitats, and eco-friendly construction materials to minimize environmental impact.
Are the lodges accessible for guests with disabilities?
Balebarn Lodge offers full wheelchair access, with additional equipment available upon request.
What activities are available for children?
Kids enjoy bikes, outdoor games, wildlife ponds, and guided nature walks to explore local flora and fauna.
How does staying here support conservation?
Your stay funds habitat restoration, species protection, and educational programs at the nature reserve.
Reviews (6)
James Spayne
Oct 23, 2021
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Booked these lodges for family to stay at during a wedding; lodges where great with amazing facilities - Ian was an amazing host and everyone had a lovely time, will happily come back :)
Gemma Kirk
Oct 05, 2021
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Brilliant place to stay. Nothing was to much trouble and we felt very welcome. The scones on arrival were delicious. Lots of thought has obviously been put in to make it into a brilliant place. Will definitely return.
Colleen King
Aug 01, 2021
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Wow, what a lovely place to stay, was beautiful and peaceful location. We stayed in Balebarn lodge was very comfortable, the bifold doors really made a difference . We were lucky enough to have a fox visit us right up to the doors watched a barn owl swooping across the pond and the meadow, lots of different types of birds to keep us entertained .
Owners were very friendly and the home made scones were great.
Owners were very friendly and the home made scones were great.
Tim Harper
May 22, 2021
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Fantastic spot, very friendly hosts and absolutely love the fact that it's low impact on the environment.
Martine O'Brien
Jun 01, 2020
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Stayed for a week in July 2019 and enjoyed a magical time in this well considered, well thought out, well being haven. The gentle guided tour taught us much and we couldn't be more pleased to spend our holiday time in such special surroundings. Definitely a life enhancer. Thank you guys for sustaining life force so creatively and with such x
Marc Benier
Oct 07, 2019
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Stayed here probably five times. The wooden Lodges are comfortable and well equipped. WiFi is not super fast but more than adequate. The views are lovely, beautiful meadows, wild flowers and lots of wildlife. Home made scones and jam on arrival are always welcome. Good base to explore Devon and Dartmoor from.
