Converted Observation Post on the South West Coast Path
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For more than 80 years, Brandy Head Observation Post has stood sentinel over the cliffs at Stantyway Farm near Otterton in South Devon. It has now been converted into a simple but stunning and remote place to stay for up to six people, and sits right on the south west coast path.
When it opened in 1940 Brandy Head Observation Post was the range observation post for the Gunnery Research Unit (based at RAF Exeter). It has long been a popular rest stop for South West Coast Path walkers as the path runs past the front of the building. In 2020 the building was restored, and now offers basic but comfortable self catering holiday accommodation. The farm on which it is set is a 268 acre organic mixed farm on the Jurassic Coast of East Devon.
The location is perfectly suited to walkers, rambling groups, families looking to get away from it all or anyone who wants a quiet and quirky place to stay. A network of public and permissive footpaths links the farm to the South West Coast Path so there are no end of walks you can go on, and of course you have the coastline and many beaches all within a short distance. There is a pop up honesty cafe by the farmyard - converted from a Navy warship parts container. For the birdwatchers, it's worth noting that the farm is the official easternmost breeding site of Cirl Buntings in the UK. The estate who own the farm are planning to re-wild the estuary of the River Otter, a mile or so to the west. This has already got beavers, otters and rare birds, and the restoration project will bring in loads of migratory waterfowl as well. A keen amateur photographer and naturalist has got a book privately published, "Wildlife of Stantyway Farm", a copy of this and a telescope are kept at the Observation Post for your interest.
Getting There:
Detailed driving directions provided on booking. Access is on foot only. The nearest place to leave a vehicle is 500 yards away at the bottom of a fairly steep coast path so you will need to walk up with whatever you need for your stay.
Nearest Train Station:
Exmouth (Regular buses run from Otterton (1 1/2 miles from Brandy Head) to Sidmouth, Exmouth and Exeter).
Nearest Restaurant:
The Kings Arms pub and the highly regarded Otterton Mill restaurant are both in the village. A couple of miles south down the SW Coast Path, Budleigh Salterton has a range of restaurants and takeaways. Fish and chips and pub at Ladram Bay Holiday Park, a mile north up the coast path.
Nearest Beach:
A short walk away
Nearest Shop:
Small supermarket at Ladram Bay, well-stocked village shop in Otterton, we are happy to accept supermarket deliveries at the farm for collection by anyone staying at Brandy Head!
Car Hire:
Essential
Interior Details
The accommodation can sleep up to six people in two bedrooms. There is one double bedroom, and a second room with two sets of bunk beds. All linen and towels are provided. The central living room as a 5 ring gas hob, charging points for phones and a woodburning stove (plentiful log supply included). The building is well insulated, and there is hot water, and a bathroom with shower and flushing toilet. Please note that there is no mains power - the lights are solar powered. The front opening double doors give you the chance to see incredible sunrises over the sea.
Exterior Details
Outside the huge expanse of the Devonshire countryside and coastline awaits you.
Conditions of Rental
Simple pricing structure of a nightly fee for up to six people, with no surcharges for cleaning, pets etc. 20% deposit payable on booking, and the balance payable when you pick up the key from the farmhouse on arrival. Pets welcome. Please note that users of the coast path often stop to rest on the benches outside the building, and to read the signs about the history of the observation post.
