8 Unusual Places To Stay In Devon For A Memorable Break

Updated June 2026

Looking for unusual places to stay in Devon? The best options include yurts, treehouses, glass-fronted retreats, shepherd’s huts, lakeside lodges and even an Art Deco hotel on its own tidal island.

If you want a Devon break that feels more memorable than a standard hotel room, this guide rounds up 8 stays with something a little different. Some are better for couples, some suit families, and others are ideal if you want countryside peace, sea views, hot tubs, woodland walks or a proper switch-off weekend.

This is a researched shortlist rather than a personal review of every property, so always check the latest prices, facilities, guest rules and availability before booking. Hot tubs, dog-friendly rules, minimum stays and family suitability can all change, especially during school holidays and peak summer dates.

Below, you’ll find a quick guide to help you choose the right unusual Devon stay without scrolling yourself into a small holiday-planning coma.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book through one of my links. This does not affect the price you pay.

1. The Orchard Retreat, Crediton – Best For A Peaceful Mid Devon Escape

Address: East Forde Farm, Cheriton Fitzpaine, Crediton EX17 4BA
Best for: Countryside peace, cosy cottages, eco camping and slower Devon breaks
Good to check for: Cottage availability, camping dates, bell tent upgrades, dog rules and minimum stays

The Orchard Retreat is a lovely choice if you want an unusual place to stay in Devon that feels peaceful, rural and properly away from everyday life.

Set in the Mid Devon countryside, it offers cosy holiday cottages, seasonal eco camping and the option to upgrade camping to a pre-set-up bell tent. It is not wild camping, thank goodness, because my enthusiasm for “rustic” disappears the minute I realise there is no proper bathroom situation.

This kind of stay works well for couples, families or anyone who wants a countryside base rather than a busy coastal hotel. You get the fresh air, the rural setting and the slower pace, but with more comfort than simply turning up with a tent and hoping for the best.

It is especially worth considering if you want to explore Mid Devon, enjoy countryside walks or base yourself somewhere peaceful between moorland, villages and local days out.

Why it stands out:
The Orchard Retreat offers a quieter Devon stay with cottages, small-scale eco camping and rural surroundings, making it a more relaxed alternative to a standard hotel.

Before booking, check:
The exact accommodation type available, whether you are booking a cottage, camping pitch or bell tent option, what facilities are included and whether it suits your group.

Check prices and availability:
Check prices for Orchard Retreat.

2. Dittisham Hideaway, Dartmouth – Best For Treehouses And Quirky Escapes

Address: Dittisham Hideaway, Dittisham, Dartmouth, Devon TQ6 0JB
Best for: Families, couples, dog-friendly breaks and special occasions
Good to check for: Accommodation type, dog rules, sleeping layout and hot tub details

Dittisham Hideaway is one of those places that makes a normal weekend away feel much more exciting. It offers treehouses, shepherd huts and an original American Airstream, all tucked into the South Devon countryside near Dartmouth.

This is a great choice if you want an unusual Devon stay that still feels comfortable and well thought out. The treehouses are especially appealing for families, while the shepherd huts and Airstream are better suited to couples or smaller groups.

The setting gives you woodland peace, but you are also close enough to Dartmouth and the River Dart for days out, waterside walks and food stops. Basically, it has that lovely balance of “we’ve escaped” without being so remote that you start rationing snacks.

Some individual Dittisham Hideaway units may appear separately on Booking.com, so it is worth checking both the official booking page and specific Booking.com listings.

Why it stands out:
You can choose from several quirky accommodation styles, including treehouses, shepherd huts and an Airstream, which makes it easy to pick the right stay for your trip.

Before booking, check:
Which units are dog-friendly, how many people each one sleeps, whether children are allowed in your chosen accommodation and what is included with the hot tub.

Check prices and availability:
Check availability at Dittisham Hideaway

3. Dartmoor Domes – Best For Stargazing Near Dartmoor

Address: Portworthy Cottage, Lee Moor, Plymouth, Devon PL7 5JT
Best for: Nature lovers, couples, quiet breaks and stargazing
Good to check for: Dog-friendly units, hot tub availability, access and facilities

If you want something that feels properly different, Dartmoor Domes is a strong option. These geodesic domes are designed for a glamping-style stay close to Dartmoor, with comfort built in.

This is the kind of place that suits people who love being outdoors, but do not necessarily want to wrestle with tent poles in the rain. You get the atmosphere of sleeping close to nature, but with a proper bed, indoor comfort and that all-important feeling of being somewhere a bit special.

Dartmoor itself is ideal for walking, exploring and getting away from the noise of everyday life. By day, you can head out across the moors or explore nearby Devon countryside. By night, you can settle in, light the wood burner and enjoy the slower pace.

Some domes may include hot tubs, while others are better suited to families or dog-friendly stays, so it is worth checking the individual dome details before booking.

Why it stands out:
The dome-style accommodation gives this stay a real “sleeping under the stars, but make it comfortable” feel.

Before booking, check:
Whether your chosen dome has a hot tub, whether dogs are allowed, what kitchen and bathroom facilities are included and how remote the setting is.

Check prices and availability:
Book Dartmoor Domes

4. Harebelles Retreats, North Devon – Best For A Romantic Countryside Escape

Address: Quince Hill, Bishops Nympton, North Devon EX36 4PW
Best for: Couples, romantic breaks and peaceful retreats
Good to check for: Child rules, pet rules, exact accommodation type and seasonal availability

Harebelles Retreats is a gorgeous option if you want an unusual Devon stay with a romantic, tucked-away feel. The site includes beautifully designed accommodation such as Yggdrasil Treehouse, Ursa Bear Cabin and Little Poro Shepherd’s Hut.

This is the kind of place I would look at for a birthday, anniversary or “we need to disappear for two nights before we start answering emails with our eye twitch” kind of break.

Set near the edge of Exmoor, it is ideal if you want countryside views, fresh air and a quieter pace. The accommodation has a more grown-up feel, so it is especially important to check the rules before booking if you are travelling with children or pets.

Yggdrasil Treehouse is the real showstopper here, with a private hot tub, outdoor space and that lovely treehouse feeling without having to sleep in something that looks like it was built during a Blue Peter challenge.

Why it stands out:
The accommodation feels creative and characterful, with options designed around relaxation, views and a sense of escape.

Before booking, check:
Whether your chosen stay allows children or pets, whether a hot tub is included and what facilities are available on-site.

Check prices and availability:
Check Yggdrasil Treehouse

5. The Glasshouse At Barrington House, Dartmouth – Best For A Stylish Group Stay

Address: Barrington House, Mount Boone, Dartmouth, Devon TQ6 9HZ
Best for: Couples travelling together, small groups and stylish Dartmouth breaks
Good to check for: Sleeping arrangements, parking, access and minimum stays

The Glasshouse at Barrington House is a beautiful choice if you want an unusual place to stay in Devon with a more polished, luxury feel.

Set in Dartmouth, this glass-fronted holiday property is all about light, space and views. It is a strong option if you want somewhere special for a small group trip, a grown-up family break or a stylish South Devon escape.

Dartmouth itself is a brilliant base for a Devon break, with the River Dart, independent shops, places to eat and coastal days out nearby. The Glasshouse gives you a peaceful place to come back to after exploring, without losing the “wow” factor when you walk through the door.

This one is less “muddy boots glamping” and more “pour the coffee slowly while admiring the view”. Both are valid holiday personalities, obviously.

Why it stands out:
The design, glass frontage and Dartmouth setting make it feel much more distinctive than a standard holiday let.

Before booking, check:
How many guests it sleeps, bedroom layouts, parking arrangements, access and whether it suits children if you are travelling as a family.

Check prices and availability:
Check availability for The Glasshouse at Barrington House

You can also search nearby Dartmouth stays here:
Search Dartmouth accommodation on Booking.com

6. Holsome Hideaway, South Hams – Best For A Peaceful Couples’ Break

Address: Holsome Park, Diptford, Totnes, Devon TQ9 7NA
Best for: Couples, romantic weekends and peaceful countryside stays
Good to check for: Hot tub details, access, cooking facilities and booking rules

Holsome Hideaway is a bespoke shepherd’s hut in the South Hams countryside, designed for two. It is a lovely option if you want somewhere small, peaceful and romantic without heading into full “luxury hotel with tiny portions and scary prices” territory.

This is more of a quiet retreat than a busy base. Think countryside views, a slower pace and the kind of evening where you actually put your phone down for more than 11 seconds.

The wood-fired hot tub is a big part of the appeal, especially for a cosy weekend break. It is a good choice if you want to switch off, reconnect and enjoy a simple but special stay in South Devon.

The hut is set in a small woodland area next to one of Holsome Park’s meadows, with views towards Dartmoor, so it has that proper countryside escape feel without being too far from Totnes and the wider South Hams.

Why it stands out:
It combines the charm of a shepherd’s hut with grown-up comfort and a romantic countryside setting.

Before booking, check:
What is included in the hut, whether logs are provided for the hot tub, what cooking facilities are available and how secluded the setting feels.

Check prices and availability:
Check Holsome Hideaway availability

7. Burgh Island Hotel, Bigbury-on-Sea – Best For Art Deco Island Luxury

Address: Burgh Island Hotel, Bigbury-on-Sea, Kingsbridge, Devon TQ7 4BG
Best for: Romantic breaks, special occasions, history lovers and luxury stays
Good to check for: Tides, restaurant availability, room prices and dress expectations

Burgh Island Hotel is probably one of the most famous unusual places to stay in Devon, and for good reason. It is an Art Deco hotel set on its own tidal island, reached from Bigbury-on-Sea.

Part of the magic is the arrival. Depending on the tide, guests may cross by the hotel’s iconic sea tractor, which is not exactly your average check-in experience. No shade to a Premier Inn reception desk, but it does not usually involve travelling across the beach like you are entering a 1930s film scene.

The hotel is best suited to couples, special occasions and anyone who loves history, coastal views and a touch of old-school glamour. It is not the cheapest Devon stay on this list, but it is certainly one of the most memorable.

If you want a Devon stay that feels like a proper experience rather than just somewhere to sleep, this is the one that really leans into the drama.

Why it stands out:
The tidal island setting, Art Deco style and sea tractor arrival make this one of Devon’s most distinctive hotel experiences.

Before booking, check:
Room options, restaurant availability, tide information, access arrangements and whether the overall style suits your trip.

Check prices and availability:
Check prices for Burgh Island Hotel

8. Clawford Lakes, Holsworthy – Best For Lakeside Lodges And Family Breaks

Address: Clawford Lakes, Clawton, Holsworthy, Devon EX22 6PN
Best for: Families, fishing fans, couples and nature-focused breaks
Good to check for: Accommodation type, dog rules, lake access, activities and facilities

Clawford Lakes is a great option if you want an unusual Devon stay with plenty going on around you. Set in a large wildlife haven near Holsworthy, it offers lakeside accommodation, fishing, nature and a peaceful countryside feel.

Accommodation options can include lodges, apartments, lake pods, floating lodges and luxury cocoons, depending on availability. It is especially appealing if you like the idea of waking up near the water, enjoying a private deck or having activities close by.

This one is a strong family option, particularly if you want more facilities than a tiny off-grid hut can offer. It also works well for fishing fans or anyone who wants a Devon break that feels relaxed but not too remote.

Clawford Lakes sits close to the Devon and Cornwall border, so it can work well if you want a North Devon base with easy access towards Bude too.

Why it stands out:
The lakeside setting and range of accommodation make it feel different from a standard holiday park or hotel.

Before booking, check:
Which accommodation type suits your group, whether dogs are allowed, what activities are included and whether fishing, spa access or leisure facilities need to be booked separately.

Check prices and availability:
Check Clawford Lakes Resort and Spa prices

How To Choose The Best Unusual Stay In Devon

The best unusual place to stay in Devon depends on the type of break you want.

For a romantic weekend, look at Harebelles Retreats, Holsome Hideaway or Burgh Island Hotel. These all feel special, but in very different ways.

For families, Dittisham Hideaway, The Orchard Retreat and Clawford Lakes are worth checking first because they offer more space, flexibility or family-friendly accommodation options.

For countryside peace, Dartmoor Domes, The Orchard Retreat and Harebelles Retreats are strong choices.

For coastal charm, Burgh Island Hotel, Dittisham Hideaway and The Glasshouse at Barrington House give you easy access to South Devon scenery, Dartmouth or the sea.

For hot tubs, always check the individual listing before booking. Some properties offer them with every stay, while others only include them with certain units.

FAQs About Unusual Places To Stay In Devon

What are the most unusual places to stay in Devon?

Some of the most unusual places to stay in Devon include treehouses, geodesic domes, shepherd’s huts, eco camping, glass-fronted retreats, lakeside lodges and Burgh Island’s Art Deco tidal island hotel.

Where can couples stay somewhere unusual in Devon?

Couples may like Harebelles Retreats, Holsome Hideaway, Dartmoor Domes or Burgh Island Hotel. These are good options if you want a romantic break with countryside views, a hot tub, stargazing or coastal drama.

Are there unusual family-friendly places to stay in Devon?

Yes, Dittisham Hideaway, The Orchard Retreat and Clawford Lakes are good options to check for family-friendly unusual stays in Devon. Always confirm sleeping arrangements, age rules and facilities before booking.

Are there unusual places to stay in Devon with hot tubs?

Several unusual stays in Devon offer hot tubs, including some treehouses, shepherd huts, domes and glamping retreats. Always check the exact unit before booking, as hot tub access can vary by accommodation type.

Is North Devon or South Devon better for unusual places to stay?

South Devon is ideal for Dartmouth, coastal scenery, romantic stays and family-friendly breaks. North Devon is better for countryside retreats, Exmoor-edge stays, lakeside accommodation and quieter escapes.

What should I check before booking an unusual stay in Devon?

Before booking, check the location, parking, bathroom facilities, kitchen facilities, Wi-Fi, dog rules, hot tub details, cancellation policy and whether the stay is suitable for children.

Final Thoughts On Unusual Places To Stay In Devon

Devon is perfect for a stay that feels a little different. You can sleep among the trees, stargaze from a dome, relax in a shepherd’s hut, wake up by a lake or arrive at a hotel by sea tractor, which is definitely not your average check-in.

The best unusual place to stay in Devon depends on the kind of trip you want. For romance, look at shepherd huts, treehouses and island hotels. For families, prioritise space, parking, kitchen facilities and easy access to days out. For proper switch-off time, Dartmoor, North Devon and the South Hams countryside are hard to beat.

Before booking, always check the latest prices, facilities, dog rules and cancellation terms, especially if you are travelling during school holidays or peak summer dates.

Wherever you choose, these unusual places to stay in Devon should help make your break feel less ordinary and a lot more memorable.