Okehampton Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Okehampton Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Okehampton sits in a prime spot for exploring both Dartmoor and Devon's attractions. The town itself has Okehampton Castle (EX20 1JA, open 10am-5pm April-October), the ruins of the largest castle in Devon with impressive views across the moors. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor.

The Museum of Dartmoor Life (EX20 1HQ, open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm) gives a fascinating insight into how people lived and worked on the moor over the centuries. With three floors of exhibits, it's well worth the £5 entry fee and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor.

Simmons Park offers lovely riverside walks right in town. I'd recommend grabbing a coffee from one of the local cafes and taking a morning stroll before heading out for bigger adventures. The park has tennis courts and a children's play area too.

Dartmoor National Park surrounds Okehampton, with Belstone Tor and Yes Tor both offering spectacular walks within easy reach. The views from up there are incredible - you can see for miles on a clear day!

Pet Friendly

Okehampton is brilliant for dogs. Most of the walking routes welcome well-behaved pets and many local pubs are dog-friendly. The Kings Arms (EX20 1HB) not only allows dogs in the bar area but often has treats behind the counter.

Simmons Park has dedicated dog waste bins and plenty of space for your four-legged friend to run around. The Granite Way cycle path is also great for dog walking as it's mostly flat and traffic-free.

When visiting Dartmoor with your dog, remember to keep them on leads during bird nesting season (March-July) and around livestock. The national park has specific guidelines worth checking before you arrive.

Betty Cottles Inn (EX20 2NR) is a dog-friendly pub with good food and a large garden. They even provide water bowls without being asked - always a good sign! After a day exploring, your hot tub cottage gives you the freedom to relax while your dog settles in their familiar surroundings.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Okehampton

Okehampton Castle should be top of your list. These medieval ruins have a fascinating history dating back to Norman times. The castle was once the largest in Devon and offers spectacular views across Dartmoor. The audio guide brings the history to life, explaining how it was deliberately slighted after the Civil War. One visitor commented: "We spent hours exploring every nook and cranny - the kids loved running around pretending to be knights!"

Meldon Viaduct and Reservoir (EX20 4LR) offers stunning walks and views. This Victorian railway viaduct stands 150 feet above the valley floor and now forms part of the Granite Way cycle route. The reservoir below is surrounded by woodland walks. The circular route takes about 90 minutes and gives you amazing photo opportunities. A recent visitor noted: "The engineering of the viaduct is impressive and the views across the water are stunning in all weathers."

The Museum of Dartmoor Life tells the story of the people who lived and worked on Dartmoor over 5,000 years. With three floors of exhibits including a Bronze Age hut and Victorian kitchen, it's surprisingly comprehensive for a small town museum. The volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about local history. As one TripAdvisor review states: "We learned more in an hour here than we did from all our guidebooks!"

Is Okehampton good for families with young children?

Yes! Simmons Park has an excellent playground and splash park in summer. The Museum of Dartmoor Life runs family-friendly activities during school holidays. Many cottages with hot tubs also provide games and DVDs for rainy days.

Can I get around Okehampton without a car?

The town centre is walkable but to explore Dartmoor properly, you'll need transport. There's a limited bus service (the 118) that connects to some villages. The train station has services to Exeter. We'd recommend bringing a car to make the most of your stay.

What's the best time of year to visit?

Spring and early autumn offer the perfect balance - fewer crowds but still decent weather for enjoying your hot tub. Summer brings the best weather but busier attractions. Winter can be magical with misty moorland views, especially from a warm hot tub!

Are there good restaurants in Okehampton?

Yes! The White Hart (EX20 1HD) serves excellent locally-sourced food. Ma'ida Indian Restaurant (EX20 1EH) gets rave reviews. For lunch, try Toast Café (EX20 1DL) for homemade soups and sandwiches.

How far is the beach from Okehampton?

The nearest beaches are about 30 miles away. Bude in Cornwall is approximately 35 minutes by car, while Westward Ho! is around 45 minutes. Both offer sandy beaches with good facilities.

Is Dartmoor really as wild and dangerous as people say?

Parts of Dartmoor can be challenging in poor weather, but the areas around Okehampton are well-marked and suitable for average walkers. Always check weather forecasts, take a map and tell someone where you're going. The national park rangers are helpful if you need advice.

1. Dartmoor National Park Official Website
2. Visit Okehampton Tourist Information
3. Okehampton Castle Information