Business Details
22 Years
experience
Luxury Holiday Cottages in Dulverton, Devon
Anstey Mills Cottages was founded on a deep appreciation for East Liscombe Farm, a historic Exmoor property transformed into luxury self-catering accommodations. With over two decades of experience in hospitality, our family has meticulously restored traditional Devon farm buildings while preserving their authentic charm. Our expertise lies in creating immersive countryside retreats that combine modern comforts with rural tranquillity. As a trusted provider in North Devon tourism, we maintain Visit England's 4-star Gold accreditation through consistent quality standards.Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through personalized service, extensive local knowledge, and ongoing investment in property maintenance. We prioritise transparency in bookings, offering direct reservations without additional fees while maintaining rigorous safety and cleanliness protocols.
Services
Holiday Cottages
Dog-Friendly Stays
Stargazing Experiences
Family Accommodation
Romantic Retreats
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- Family-run business with 20+ years' experience in rural hospitality
- Dogs welcome with dedicated exercise areas and pet-friendly amenities
- Official Dark Skies Reserve location with stargazing equipment provided
- Owners possess extensive local knowledge of Exmoor's walking routes and attractions
- Direct bookings available with no additional service charges
Associations and certifications
- Visit England
What people say
Peaceful location
Well-equipped kitchens
Breathtaking scenery
Pet-friendly policies
Immaculate cleanliness
Services
Luxury Holiday Cottages
Our premium self-catering cottages offer spacious accommodation in North Devon's countryside. The 175m Anstey Mills Cottage sleeps eight with three bedrooms and bathrooms, while the 65m Thatched Cottage provides romantic retreats for couples. Both properties feature modern kitchens, Smart TVs, and private gardens with countryside views. Guests benefit from complimentary stargazing equipment and pet-friendly facilities.
Dog-Friendly Accommodation
We provide fully equipped pet-friendly cottages with semi-enclosed gardens and dedicated exercise areas. Local knowledge includes dog-friendly pubs, walking routes, and nearby veterinary services. Pet amenities include cleaning supplies, feeding bowls, and waste disposal facilities. No additional charges apply for well-behaved dogs.
Stargazing Experiences
Located in Europe's first Dark Skies Reserve, our cottages offer exceptional night-sky viewing. We provide binoculars, star charts, and local event information. Guests receive guidance on nearby observation points and seasonal stargazing festivals. Properties feature unobstructed views with minimal light pollution for optimal astronomical experiences.
People
Doris Braukmann-Pugsley
Owner
German-born Doris has managed East Liscombe Farm since the 1980s. With 40+ years' experience in rural hospitality, she maintains the property's heritage while ensuring modern comforts. Speaks fluent German and English, offering personalized guest support.
Max
Co-Manager
Doris's son Max assists with property maintenance and guest relations. A passionate runner, he provides local activity recommendations and ensures the cottages meet evolving guest expectations through regular improvements.
Leo
Community Liaison
Doris's son Leo manages local partnerships and community engagement. Involved with Exmoor's tennis clubs and radio stations, he connects guests with regional events and ensures seamless communication through multiple languages.
Questions
Can I book both cottages together?
Yes, combining both properties accommodates up to 11 guests with shared garden spaces and interconnected facilities.
Are pets allowed in the cottages?
Dogs are welcome with no additional charges, including access to dedicated exercise areas and pet amenities.
What stargazing facilities are available?
We provide binoculars, star charts, and Dark Skies event information. Properties feature unobstructed night-sky views.
How do I reach the property by car?
From M5 exit 27, follow A361 to Knowstone then B3227. Turn right at Oldways End and follow signs to Tarr Steps.
Are there nearby dining options?
Dulverton offers multiple pubs, cafes, and restaurants within 5-10 minutes' drive from the cottages.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Andrew Ward
Sep 03, 2021
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I am sure it would have been lovely, however, the owner had double booked the property and cancelled our booking at short notice. Although we had booked 2 months ago, we were only notified of the problem 3 days before we were due to arrive. This was during the school summer holidays, so as you might imagine it was impossible to find anything remotely similar in the same area. We ended up in a second rate B&B in a different location and our summer holiday was effectively ruined. The owner admitted her mistake (from using multiple booking sites) and our money has been confirmed as repayable, but
Tanya Milner
Dec 15, 2020
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A beautiful peaceful place in North Devon - We stayed in the thatched cottage. Plenty of space for us and our dog. The terrace overlooking the private garden was perfect for afternoon tea. Plenty of walks and cycling from the cottage and interesting places to visit in the area. The cottage was well equipped. It felt very clean and safe which helped reassure us as this was the first time away from home staying overnight following COVID restrictions. We would highly recommending staying here
Joseph Williams
Nov 09, 2020
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I have been back to Anstey many times since I was a child (I am now 20) and I have just returned home from another amazing week with my family. Doris who runs the cottages is so lovely, she feels like a family friend now. She puts in so much effort into the cottage and well-being of the guests and is very easy to contact, especially as she only lives a couple of doors down, you wont need to worry about a thing. The cottage since I first went has been modernised a great deal with new WiFi and TV; It is still a very comfortable, cosy and warm place, perfect for relaxing in, tucked away in a peaceful
Annalise Cowley
Aug 17, 2019
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If you want to experience the tranquility and charm of the West Country magic, then you simply have to stay here. We first discovered Doris's little slice of paradise when we came to stay in April 2019. We've been back multiple times since and relax as soon as we pull up outside the cottage door. Dulverton is on your doorstep, footpaths abound and the views from East Anstey Common - a short walk away - are absolutely stunning. We love it - our two dogs love it - we know you will too!
