Shepherd’s Delight

A few miles outside the Roman city of Exeter, a few miles inland from the east Devon Jurassic Coast, and many miles away from the fast pace of everyday life, sits a delightful shepherd's hut – an 'away from it all' bolthole waiting to be discovered.

Situated at the end of its own private track, in four acres of woodland, Shepherd's Delight is in a perfect and tranquil oasis in a hidden valley next to a lily-covered lake (please take care) – complete with a little rowing boat for two and fully stocked for your enjoyment with various types of carp, roach, rudd, tench and bream. There is not a house in sight and with 60 acres of certified organic farmland to explore (taking care of livestock especially if you are bringing your dog to share this experience with you) you will be in another world.

Steps lead from the decking up into this traditionally designed and fully insulated shepherd's hut which has a comfortable double bed at one end and the luxury of an en suite mains water shower with a proper flushing WC and wash-basin at the other. There is room to sit at a little table next to the wood-burner, and a simple kitchen with a fridge and double ring gas hob (a low wattage solar panel powers the electricity for the lights and sockets). With a chiminea, lakeside jetty, hammock and a choice of places to sit and eat outside in the sun or in the dappled shade beneath the trees, this is the place for al fresco dining!

If you can tear yourself away from this scene and the taste of another lifestyle, you can be in the heart of Exeter in ten minutes. Sit on the Cathedral green and watch the world go by, find the remains of the old Roman walls, wander along the quay with its antiques shops and cafes or hire a canoe and paddle lazily to the two renowned canal side pubs, The Double Locks and The Turf Hotel, for a jug of Pimms.

Alternatively you can head to the unspoilt east Devon coast where there are a string of traditional seaside towns such as Budleigh Salterton, Sidmouth and Beer and of course the stunning Jurassic cliffs. If you prefer to stay locally, bring your bikes and explore the Exe Valley or cycle along the lanes to the National Trust's Killerton House. Shepherd's Delight is truly a get away from it all glamping experience.

Shepherd's Oak is also at Pynes Farm, situated near the main farmhouse, a few fields away. Book both together and enjoy a glamping getaway with friends.