South Molton Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your South Molton Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

South Molton sits in a brilliant spot for exploring both Exmoor and North Devon's coastline. The town itself has a lovely square with independent shops and the Pannier Market (open Thursday and Saturday) where local producers sell everything from cheese to crafts.

Quince Honey Farm (EX36 3RD) is open daily 10am-5pm and ranks as South Molton's top attraction (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor). I'd recommend their bee-keeping experiences where you can wear a full suit and handle a hive. The café serves excellent cream teas too.

Castle Hill Gardens (EX32 0RQ) just 15 minutes away offers beautiful landscaped gardens with stunning views. It scores 4/5 on TripAdvisor and opens Tuesday-Sunday, 11am-4pm between March and October.

For rainy days, head to The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon (EX31 1AS). It's free to enter and tells the story of the area from prehistoric times. TripAdvisor gives it 4.5/5 and we think the interactive displays make it great for kids.

Pet Friendly

South Molton is fantastic for dogs with miles of walks straight from your cottage door. The town sits right on the edge of Exmoor National Park which has over 600 miles of footpaths and bridleways where dogs can run free.

Many local pubs welcome dogs including The Poltimore Inn (EX36 3HQ) which has a large beer garden and serves good food. The George Hotel on the town square allows dogs in the bar area and even offers water bowls and treats.

North Devon's beaches have varying dog restrictions. We recommend Instow beach which allows dogs year-round, or Woolacombe which has designated dog-friendly sections even in summer. Both are about 30 minutes' drive from South Molton.

If you need emergency vet care, South Molton Veterinary Centre (EX36 4AW) is open Monday-Friday 8:30am-6:30pm with 24-hour emergency cover. They're very helpful with visiting pets.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in South Molton

Exmoor Zoo (EX31 4SG) sits just outside South Molton and houses over 175 species including the rare "Exmoor Beast" - their black leopards. Open daily 10am-5pm, it scores an impressive 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. What makes this zoo special is the hands-on experiences - we recommend the "Encounter" sessions where you can feed lemurs or hold snakes. One visitor wrote: "Much better than larger zoos, the keepers are so knowledgeable and take time to talk to everyone."

RHS Garden Rosemoor (EX38 8PH) is a 25-minute drive and absolutely worth it. This 65-acre garden scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor and features stunning themed gardens including the Hot Garden which blazes with color in summer. The winter sculpture exhibition is brilliant too. Open daily 10am-5pm, with last entry at 4pm. A recent visitor commented: "Even in winter there's so much to see - the winter garden was full of scent and the restaurant serves excellent food."

Exmoor National Park covers 267 square miles of moorland, woodland and valleys. The Hunters Inn area (EX31 4PY) offers easy access to beautiful walks including the Valley of Rocks with its wild goats. TripAdvisor rates it 5/5. Don't miss stargazing if staying in your hot tub cottage at night - Exmoor was Europe's first International Dark Sky Reserve. The lack of light pollution means you'll see thousands of stars on clear nights.

Is South Molton good for families with young children?

Yes! Besides Quince Honey Farm which has a play area, try The Big Sheep (EX39 5AP, 30 mins drive) with rides and animal feeding. South Molton Swimming Pool offers family sessions and many cottages provide games and DVDs for evenings after a hot tub dip.

What's the best time to visit South Molton?

Spring and early autumn offer mild weather, fewer crowds and lower prices. Summer brings warmer temperatures ideal for your hot tub, but expect more visitors. Winter can be magical with frosty moorland walks and cosy pubs with roaring fires.

Are there any good restaurants in South Molton?

The Corn Dolly Tea Shop serves excellent lunches and cream teas. For dinner, try The George Hotel for traditional pub food or The Coach House for more upmarket dining. Both source ingredients locally.

Can I get around South Molton without a car?

It's challenging. There's a limited bus service to Barnstaple and Exeter, but to explore properly you'll need a car. Some cottage owners offer bike hire which works well for local exploration.

What should I pack for a South Molton hot tub cottage break?

Walking boots for Exmoor, swimwear for your hot tub obviously and layers as Devon weather can change quickly. Binoculars for wildlife spotting and a torch for dark country lanes if venturing out at night.

Is there good mobile reception and WiFi in South Molton cottages?

Mobile coverage can be patchy, especially in rural locations. Most cottages offer WiFi, but speeds may be slower than you're used to. Check with your cottage owner before booking if this is important.

1. Exmoor National Park Official Website
2. Visit South Molton Tourism Information
3. North Devon Tourism Guide