Cottage | Beach view

This unique and fascinating cottage, steeped in local history, has been lovingly restored to provide a wonderful holiday retreat. The Old Smithy provides guests with an opportunity to step back in time and experience the atmosphere of this genuine forge where Mr William Prideaux, working up to the late age of 89, claimed to be the oldest blacksmith in the country. The huge open-plan living area with original oak beams and a high vaulted ceiling is complemented by contemporary styling. Comfortable sofas surround the fireplace where a log burner and an adjacent Smart TV invite cosy evenings, and a spacious dining area is ideal for leisurely breakfasts. The kitchen is extremely well equipped with everything you could need and more. A wide wooden staircase rises to the landing and onto the minstrels' gallery where a half loft, originally used to store the iron, has been transformed into a unique main bedroom with king size bed. This is open to the high-vaulted ceiling and has a balustrade overlooking the living room below. A second double bedroom and a single bedroom with views over the town are found off the landing, together with an attractive bathroom. The Old Smithy is nestled right in the heart of Lynton, with a choice of shops, restaurants and family friendly pubs within easy walking distance. Set within Exmoor National Park, this area offers a haven of peace and tranquility, but is also brim-full of outdoor activities for get up and go adventurers who want to enjoy a more active Exmoor. After taking in the views over the Bristol Channel across to Wales, you can take a scenic ride on the world-famous Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, which is powered by water and connects Lynton to the lovely neighboring village of Lynmouth. Take a gentle forest walk to Watersmeet (2miles) and see the meeting place of the East Lyn River and Hoar Oak Water, this is a delightful National Trust spot, with a tea room, set within a wooded gorge. The Valley of the Rocks (1.5 miles) is also a superb destination for a walk and picnic - you are sure to see the wild goats on the cliffs and might even encounter the wild Exmoor ponies. You might like to follow the cliff path all the way to Heddon's Mouth or further - stop off at the Hunter's Inn Pub for lunch and a well earned pint, then grab a cheeky cab home! Further afield you can drive to the glorious surf beaches of Woolacombe or take the ferry from Ilfracombe to Lundy Island and catch a sight of some seals and puffins! Back in Lynton, why not play a round of mini golf down in Lynmouth, head to Lynton Cinema, dine in one of the restaurants or just hunker down for a cosy romantic night in front of the log burner. Lynton and its twin Lynmouth are nestled within Exmoor National Park on the North Devon coast. Lynton and Lynmouth enjoy one of the prettiest and most unspoilt coastal locations in England, offering breathtaking scenery and some of the best opportunities to admire the sheer rugged beauty of Exmoor's coast and countryside. Great heritage, cosy fireside pubs, tasty local food and 'green' credentials make North Devon an inspiring place to stay. There is a wealth of wildlife including magnificent red deer, the rare Exmoor pony, wild birds and rare butterflies. There are plenty of outdoor pursuits including horse riding, golf, walking, surfing and fly fishing on the beautiful Lyn river. Exmoor National Park is home to some of the darkest skies in the country so it's a great place to gaze at the stars. Lynton has a fabulous range of shops, pubs and cafes where you can wander between the picturesque cottages and meet the friendly locals. There are a number of attractions for the family including Exmoor Zoo, Lynmouth's water-powered cliff railway, and the Owl and Hawk Centre. Experience one of England's last remaining tranquil areas - there is something for everyone during a stay at Lynton and Lynmouth.