The Old Chapel – A Luxurious Retreat in the Heart of Exmoor National Park
The Old Chapel is a beautifully restored and thoughtfully appointed holiday cottage that welcomes up to six guests and two pets. Nestled in the charming village of Withypool, in the heart of Exmoor National Park, it offers a peaceful and elegant retreat surrounded by rolling moorland and farmland. This idyllic location is perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature and enjoy a relaxing break with family or friends.
Accommodation
From the moment guests arrive, they are greeted with warm, personal touches that create an inviting atmosphere. Sweet and savoury treats await, setting the tone for a memorable stay.
The fully equipped kitchen features everything needed for effortless self-catering, including a dishwasher, range cooker with convection and traditional ovens, fridge/freezer, SMEG appliances, Nespresso coffee machine, Denby crockery, Le Creuset bakeware, and an extensive selection of gourmet cooking tools. There is also ample glassware for any occasion, from celebratory drinks to a relaxed evening tipple. A clothes iron, ironing board, washer, dryer, and drying rack are also provided for added convenience.
For cosy evenings, the open fire and woodburner create the perfect setting to unwind, with a complimentary basket of logs and eco-friendly firestarters supplied. The family room offers a selection of board games and popular books for guests to enjoy.
Tech enthusiasts will appreciate the modern amenities throughout the cottage, including WiFi, three Bose 500 home speakers, a Sonos surround sound system, and a Samsung Smart TV with access to streaming services. USB-C and USB-A charging points are conveniently placed around the house, and four Alexa personal assistants allow guests to enjoy music independently in different rooms.
Sleeping arrangements include two king-size beds and two single beds, with all beds made up before arrival regardless of group size. Each bedroom features a professional hairdryer, electric fan, and ample storage with padded hangers.
Upstairs, there are two bathrooms and a total of three WCs, including a convenient ground-floor toilet. The master bedroom benefits from an en suite shower room, while all bathrooms are stocked with soft towels and include lighted, anti-fog magnifying mirrors for added comfort.
The enclosed courtyard provides a secure space for both families and pets, with outdoor furniture ideal for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Families with young children are well catered for, with a travel cot, high chair, and fireguard provided.
Private parking is available directly opposite the property, with additional free parking available in the village. Cyclists will find a secure timber shed equipped with a bike rack and e-bike charging point.
Exploring Withypool & Exmoor
With Exmoor National Park right on the doorstep, guests can enjoy a wealth of outdoor pursuits, including walking, hiking, fishing, pony trekking, and horse riding. Children will love exploring the natural surroundings, while adults can appreciate the peace and beauty of the moorland landscape.
The coast lies just 16 miles away, and there is direct access to the moor from the village itself. The Royal Oak Inn, a traditional Exmoor pub, is only a two-minute walk from the cottage. Withypool also offers a village shop, post office, and a tearoom open from spring to late autumn, situated next to a pair of rare early 20th-century Shell petrol pumps, believed to be the last of their kind in the UK.
The village is a starting point for several breathtaking walking routes. A gentle four-mile riverside walk leads to the ancient clapper bridge at Tarr Steps, set within a beautiful nature reserve. Another popular trail follows the Two Moors Way to the medieval Landacre Bridge, offering stunning panoramic views of Exmoor and opportunities to spot the iconic Exmoor ponies. The Exe Valley Way also passes through Withypool, with scenic routes leading north to Exford, where walkers can enjoy charming views along the River Exe.
The Old Chapel combines luxury, comfort, and timeless rural charm, providing the perfect base for exploring the beauty of Exmoor while enjoying all the comforts of a home-from-home retreat.