West Pitt Farm

Spring is here at last

Tuesday 12th February 2013

Spring half term has started and the snow drops are out.  We are looking forward to a warmer days and some sunshine too.

See our special offers for March and book online for a weekend break at West Pitt Farm Holiday Cottages in Devon.  Whether it is a cosy cottage for two with a woodburner or a family get-together in one of our larger cottages, there is something for everyone at West Pitt Farm.

Posted in Special Offers by Susanne Westgate.
Tags:

YouTube with Matt

Sunday 27th January 2013

Watch Matt's YouTube of his day's fishing on Mallard Lake at West Pitt Farm with lots of tips on how to fish this carp lake.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cm7KfnJrNAc

Posted in Fishing by Susanne.
Tags: Fishing in Devon

5 Star cottage with wood burner

Saturday 26th January 2013

Make it the perfect romantic weekend away at West Pitt Farm in Devon. The Cider Press is a super 5 Star cottage with a lovely wood burner and stunning views.  We will provide complimentary logs for your stay.  From £275 for a weekend in Feburary.

West Pitt is located just a few minutes' drive from J27 of M5, midway between Taunton and Exeter, easy to get to by road or rail for a weekend in Devon.

Posted in Valentine weekend in Devon by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Weekend break in Devon, Valentines Day, Holiday cottage in Devon for Valentine's weekend, 5 star holiday cottage with woodburner, Holiday cottage with swimming pool

January 2013 last minute holiday cottage offers

Saturday 5th January 2013

Super 5 star cottages available for last minute weekend breaks in January 2013. 

The Cider Press with woodburner sleeps 2-4 £250.  Willow Tree, sleeps 6, £349.  Great location midway between Taunton and Exeter, easy to get to - just a few minutes from J27 of M5 yet in glorious Devon countryside.  Facilities include an indoor heated swimming pool, games room, country path, 60 acres.  Pub restaurant just one mile.  Perfect for walking and cycling holidays. 

Posted in Last Minute Cottages by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Last minute cottages in Devon, Holiday cottage with woodburner, Last minute weekend break, Walking holidays in Devon

Raising money for Charity

Wednesday 2nd January 2013

Macmillan Cancer Support 

A big thank you to everyone who joined us on Saturday 29th December for a charity walk at West Pitt Farm  in Devon.  Despite the mud and rain we were delighted to have 35 adults and children plus 10 dogs on the walk.  We returned to the warm and dry for mulled wine and mince pies; and chew sticks for the dogs.  Everyone was very generous and we raised £265 for Macmillan Charity.  Thank you.

Posted in Macmillan by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: We are Macmillan Cancer Support, Raising money for charity, West Pitt Farm

Last minute offer for February Half Term 2013

Wednesday 2nd January 2013

Happy New Year from all at West Pitt Farm.  If you are looking for a holiday cottage in Devon for February Half Term, we have the perfect cottage for your stay.

We are are offering 10% discount on three of our cottages : The Farmhouse  sleeps 9; Lake View Cottage  sleeps 9 and The Carthouse  sleeps 10 - super 4 and 5 star cottages with woodburner.  Alterntively we have Willow Tree sleeps 6 which has excellent disabled access.  For some of our cottages we are happy for you to take the dog on hoiliday with you too.  With an indoor heated swimming pool, games' room, fishing, children's play area and 60 acres there is something for all the family.  Great location, easy to get to, just a few minutes from J27 of M5.

Posted in February Half Term by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Holiday Cottage in Devon for Half Term, Holiday cottage and take the dog too, Holiday cottage in Devon with fishing, Holiday cottage in Devon with indoor swimming pool

Three super wedding venues nearby to West Pitt Farm

Friday 7th December 2012

Looking for a wedding venue with a difference.  West Pitt Farm has three wedding venues nearby, each one is delightful and offers something special.  For an eco wedding, Coombe Farm Woods  has a woodland glade, gardens and a stunning 16th Century barn.  Huntsham Court  is a grand country house with beautiful gardens and The Corn Barn offers the flexibility to create a bespoke wedding day. 

All three are stunning venues, with helpful and friendly owners who are happy to help create the perfect wedding day.  While Coombe Farm and Hunstham have some guest accommodation, at West Pitt Farm which is conveniently located for each venue, we can provide additional accommodation for guests and family.  For the Corn Barn, West Pitt has a stunning 5 star barn conversion for the bride and groom and delightful holiday cottages for guests, family and friends.

Posted in Wedding Venues in Devon by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Weddings in Devon, Wedding Venue in Devon, Eco weddings in Devon, Green wedding venue

The perfect gift for someone who loves fishing

Friday 7th December 2012

A holiday at West Pitt Farm in Devon is not only the perfect gift for anyone who loves fishing but also for all the family.  With three fishing lakes, and a pond for exclusive use they will be spoilt for choice.  This together with our beautiful holiday cottages and excellent facilities including indoor heated swimming pool, games' room, sauna, grass tennis court and children's play area there is something for everyone.  Perfect for couples, families and groups of friends.    Call Susanne 01884 820296 or email susannewestgate@yahoo.com to find out more about a gift for someone who loves fishing.  Fishing at West Pitt Farm.

Posted in Christmas Gifts for Fishermen by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Gifts for fishermen, Christmas gift of a holiday, Perfect gift for a fisherman, Fishing Gifts, Fishing Holiday in Devon, Gifts for Anglers

Holiday Cottage for the New Year in Devon

Wednesday 5th December 2012

See the New Year of 2013 in at West Pitt Farm with a complimentary bottle of Champagne.  The Cider Press is perfect for a couple or a couple and two young children and is available for a short break or a week's stay commencing Friday 28th December 2012.  Tariff from £550.  Call or email Susanne for more information.

Posted in New Year at West Pitt Farm by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Cottage in Devon for New Year

Last Minute and Offers for Half Term

Friday 12th October 2012

19 Oct, short break or week's stay for The Cider Press, sleeps 2-4 and The Carthouse, sleeps 2-10. 

Week of 26 Oct, The Hayloft, sleeps 2 plus space for one foldaway. 

Call Susanne for a quote for your dates and numbers in your group, 01884 282096 or email susannewestgate@yahoo.com

Posted in Autumn Half Term by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Autumn Half Term, Last minute cottages, Cottages in Devon with swimming pool,

Gaia Wind Turbines

Saturday 22nd September 2012

We have installed two Gaia wind turbines, the first two year's ago and the second last year.  Although they are both 11kw turbines, exactly the same and in the same location at West Pitt Farm, their performance differs greatly.  The first is producing 25% more electrictity than the second turbine.  Gaia and the supplier cannot explain why!

Posted in West Pitt Farm and the Environment by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Gaia Wind Turbines, Wind Turbines

The Cider Press

Tuesday 7th August 2012

Latest addition to West Pitt Farm, the Cider Press, was completed in June 2012.  This super newly converted barn sleeps 2-4.  With stunning views across the Culm Valley from large picture windows, excellent facilities including a woodburner, this cottage is perfect for a couple or a familiy with one or two small children.

Posted in News by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Self catering holiday cottage in Devon, Holiday cottages with fishing in Devon, Holiday cottages with swimming pool, Fishing holidays in Devon, Holiday cottages for cyclists

Willow Tree July 6th

Monday 4th June 2012

Willow Tree has just become available for week commencing Friday 6th July 2012 - unfortuantely guests had to cancel. 

This super three bedroom eco lodge, all on one level, has excellent accessilibity.  Week of 6th July is the only week Willow Tree is available now until October 2012.  Book online or call Susanne to book over the 'phone  01884 820296

Posted in Last Minute Cottages by Susanne.
Tags: Willow Tree, Cottage with disabled access, Wheel chair friendly cottage, Eco lodge, Pet friendly cottage, Fishing holiday

Birthday treat for son

Monday 4th June 2012

Stuart and his son had a great day's fishing...

"I just wanted to thank you for an absolutely fantastic day on Sunday 13th May.  We fished from 8am - 8pm and caught somewhere around 100 fish, by far our biggest ever haul!  My son had the time of his life and still can't stop talking about what an incredible day it was, and all on his his birthday. We really couldn't have asked for a better day. We came home sunburnt, knackered and with grins like Chesire cats!  The ponds and surrounding area are absolutely beautiful and you clearly care a great deal about the whole set-up so thank you for all your efforts.  Many thanks again, I'm sure we'll be back soon!"  Stuart Eaglesome

We look forward to seeing you again at the Fishery.

Posted in Fishing by Susanne.
Tags: Fishing at West Pitt Farm, Excellent day's fishing at West Pitt Farm

Wind Power

Saturday 21st April 2012

Two wind turbines provide energy to run our indoor heated swimming pool at West Pitt Farm in the Heart of Devon

Our biggest project to date is the installation of two 11kw Gaia wind turbines on the hilltop about 500 yards from the holiday cottages.  An energy management system monitors the output and uses surplus energy to heat our indoor heated swimming pool water.  When it’s a windy day the swimming pool heats to 90 degrees c and when not so windy the backup system keeps the pool above 84 degrees c.  West Pitt Farm has the first system like this anywhere in the UK.  The turbines save about 35 tons of CO2 emissions per year that is about the same as an average car would emit over 15 years!

Posted in West Pitt Farm and the Environment by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Wind Power, Gaia Wind Turbines, Energy Management System, Holiday cottages with indoor heated swimming pool, Green Tourism

What do to over Half Term

Sunday 15th January 2012

Just had a great day out at Dawlish Warren followed by lunch at Powderham Castle.  Took Holly and Sally, the dogs, for a run alone the beach.  With glorious sunshine today it was a pefect day out.  Dawlish Warren is only about 30 minutes' drive from West Pitt Farm. 

Dawlish Warren prides itself on being one of South Devon's top family beaches. Distinctive sand dunes and an internationally recognised nature reserve add uniqueness to this nine time European Blue Flag award winning beach.  Dogs are welcome at certain times of year.

Lunch at The Orangery Restaurant at Powderham Castle was excellent.  Althought the Castle is closed until April, outside you are welcome to explore extensive grounds full of natural rugged beauty and relax in the peaceful surroundings. The Castle is set in a fabulous Deer Park, on the edge of the Exe estuary, only a stone’s throw from Exeter.  There are amazing far-reaching views and wonderful wildlife on the estate on a deer park safari.

See www.visitdevon.co.uk website for more information about Dawlish, Powderham and other days out.

Posted in February Half Term by Susanne.
Tags: What to in Devon over Half Term, Dawlish Warren, Beach Day, Powderham Castle, February Half Term, Last minute cottages

Last Minute Discount

Sunday 30th October 2011

Couple only staying discount available for one of our larger cottages, The Carthouse, The Farmhouse, Lake View or Willow Tree.  If you are looking for a cottage with a little more space, excellent furnishings and facilities, perhaps with a woodburner, please do consider one of these cottages.  We are offering excellent discounts for a couple only staying for a short break or a week's stay.

Call Susanne for availability and a tariff  Tel 01884 820296

Posted in Autumn Breaks by Susanne.
Tags: Autumn Breaks, Winter Breaks, Last minute offers, Cottage with woodburner

Summer Holidays 2011

Sunday 31st July 2011

Jack Cavell, aged 7, was delighed with his catch at The Farmyard Pond while staying at West Pitt Farm's Holiday Cottages in July 2011.  He couldn't wait to tell all his friends when he returned home after his holiday.  Well done Jack!

Posted in Fishing by Susanne.
Tags: West Pitt Farm Holiday Cottages, Coarse Fishing in Devon, Holiday Cottages in Devon with fishing

Carp on Mallard Lake

Thursday 30th June 2011

"Thank you for a wonderful day's fishing at West Pitt Farm.  I will certainly be coming back.  Had in excess of 300lb of carp from Mallard Lake while fishing near the outlet pipe.  Lost the top of my pole that day too!!"   Keith from Bideford, Devon  June 2011

Posted in Fishing by Susanne.
Tags: Coarse Fishing at West Pitt Farm, Mallard Lake at West Pitt Farm

Excellent fishing at West Pitt Farm

Saturday 7th May 2011

Paul Warren from Wellington has reported his recent catches on Mallard Lake : "Sunday - 125lbs - 80 fish - of which 5 were crucian best 2lb 3oz - best carp 4lb 13oz - I used 14 elastic - size 16 hook.  Monday - 103lbs - 49 fish - 1 crucian 1lb 8oz - best carp 6lb 10oz - I used 18 elastic - size 12 hook.  I think this proves on the pole you catch more with lighter elastic and smaller hooks at this time of the year."

David Bell visiting West Pitt Farm Fishery for the first time last week: "Just a quick note to say thanks.  We have been at your ponds twice this week and were very impresed.  Having fished all over the southwest we have never found a cleaner or well presented fishery.  We have told all our fishing friends and will be back next Wednesday to have another go.  Thank you once again."  David Bell

 

Posted in Fishing by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Coarse Fishing in Devon, Fishery in Devon, West Pitt Farm Fishery

The Carthouse

Saturday 7th May 2011

LAST MINUTE, DISCOUNT FOR A COUPLE ONLY STAYING.  West Pitt Farm's latest addition, The Carthouse, is available from June 2011.  This super newly converted barn can sleep up to 10 in 5 bedrooms.  With excellent attention to detail including beds and pocket sprung mattresses from Hypnos 'The Most Comfortable Beds in the World', high thread count linen and luxurious towels, the Carthouse offers a 5 Star experience.  Spacious living room and dining area leading to a south facing terrace with glorious views across the Culm Valley towards Sidmouth.  Fully equipped kitchen with all you will need for a super self catering holiday in glorious Devon.  LAST MINUTE DISCOUNT AVAILABLE ON THIS COTTAGE.  PRICES FROM £490 FOR A COUPLE ONLY STAYING TO £990 FOR 10 PEOPLE FOR THE MONTHS OF JUNE AND JULY 2011 - SHORT BREAKS AVAILABLE TOO.

Posted in Last Minute Cottages by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Last Minute Cottages, Luxury self catering cottage, Group accommodation, Sleeps 2-10

EASTER SHORT BREAK

Saturday 16th April 2011

LAST MINUTE COTTAGE  Lake View Cottage

Super 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom cottage sleeps 7-9 is available from Monday 25th April.  Tariff from £450 to £650 depending on numbers.  Couple only staying discount available.  CALL Susanne for more information tel 01884 820296 or email susannewestgate@yahoo.com

Posted in Last Minute Cottages by Susanne.
Tags: Last minute cottage, Easter Week, Holiday Cottage with swimming pool

Planning a party or family get together

Sunday 3rd April 2011

Our large cottages at West Pitt Farm are perfect for birthday celebrations, anniversaries and family get togethers. Lake View Cottage has a large hall where up to 18 can be seated for a meal.  Food deliveries from local farm shops and supermartkets can be arranged prior to your arrival.  We have several suggestions for local chefs should you be keen to have a meal prepared and served for your special occasion.  See our "Planning Your Stay" section on the website.

Last weekend a family stayed for a 60th birthday and with ages ranging from a 2 to 92 years there was something for everyone at West Pitt.  The glorious weather helped too to make the weekend a great success.  The grass tennis court became a excellent croquet lawn.

For their special meal, the family arranged for Denis and Patrick, The Two Frenchs Chefs from Wellington, to prepare and serve a super menu tailored to their requirements.  Starter: Creme vichysoisse served with sauteed spinach and truffle oil and chicken and herb ballotine with mango and avocado salsa and tomato.   Main: roast chump of local lamb with creamed potatoes and red wine sauce and a mediterranean vegetable crumble with basil infusion.  Dessert: flambéed banana served with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream and raspberry crème brulee with glazed fresh figs

"Hi Denis, Just a note to say how delicious we all thought our meal was on Saturday evening. You probably know that we enjoyed it, I think, from all the empty plates that came back to the kitchen!   The evening was really successful. Thank you again."  Mary Ferguson

Posted in Catering for an Event by Susanne.
Tags: Group accommodation, Cottages for family get gethers, Cottages for birthdays and anniversaries, Perfect for a 50th birthday

The Carthouse

Monday 10th January 2011

A new barn conversion, The Carthouse, will be available at West Pitt from 27th May 2011. This super newly converted barn will have 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms providing accommodation for 8-10 people. With fabulous views across the Culm Valley, The Carthouse offers excellent facilities and will be a super new additon to West Pitt Farm. For more information contact Susanne on tel 01884 820296 email susannewestgate@yahoo.com

Posted in New for Summer 2011 by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Barn Conversion, Luxury Holiday Cottage, Sleeps 10

Fishing at West Pitt Farm

Thursday 6th January 2011

Lakes are now clear of snow and ice and OPEN AGAIN for fishing.

Posted in Fishing by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Fishing

Holidays for large groups

Monday 22nd November 2010

If you are looking for a special property for a large party, perhaps for a family anniversary, celebration, several families holidaying together or a hen weekend; at West Pitt we have two large cottages which can be combined to sleep up to 18.

Planning dates with family or friends, choosing the right property and facilities, finding a caterer for your stay and activities to suit everyone can be daunting and time consuming. At West Pitt we help with planning and by providing suggestions and information on all aspects of your stay from making sure there is space to gather together around a dining table for a special meal, super market deliveries, private catering, travel and things to do.

Guests recently at West Pitt for an anniversary said "A huge thank you for a fabulous week's holiday. The Farmhouse and Lake View Cottage combined were perfect and created an idyllic environment for us to get together and enjoy each others company. The kids loved the pool, the games' room, the play area and long walks surrounding West Pitt. We enjoyed great days out at Escot and Bicton and would have had more had the kids not loved just simply being at the cottages. We would also like to thank Scott from Scoff Catering and would highly recommend his services. Thank you." Jenny and Roy from Petersfield

Posted in What our guests say by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Group Holidays, Hen Weekends, Large Cottages, Big Cottages

Aiming for self-sufficiency

Saturday 20th November 2010

Looking for a greener holiday in the heart of Devon but expecting quality accommodation and facilities, West Pitt Farm may be the holiday for you. We are producing our own electricity following installation in October 2010 of an 11kw wind turbine set on the hilltop about 500 yards from the cottages. It should provide sufficient power to make our heated swimming pool carbon neutral. Future projects should allow West Pitt to become self-sufficient for all its electricity. Our new cottages are insulated and equipped to Carbon Lite standards, far in advance of current building regulations. Low energy lighting thoughout. Our water comes from our own borehole and wastewater is treated and returned to the ground via soak-aways. Find out more about our cottages and environment on the website pages.

Posted in News by Susanne Westgate.
Tags: Self-sufficent, Wind Turbine, Environment, Green Holiday