The Collective at Woolsery, nr Bideford, Devon, United Kingdom - Explore & Book
"Take a Devon boy, a tech startup, a tumbledown pub and a vision for the future, and you get The Collective at Woolsery: a restoration project breathing life back into a little rural village. When Michael Birch heard that The Farmers Arms in Woolsery, where he spent childhood summers, would be turned into flats, he and his wife Xochi set their sights on restoring it. Once word got around that these two young tech entrepreneurs would be taking on the 350 year old pub, locals began to offer up other businesses and buildings in need of tender loving care. Now there are 4 guest rooms, 3 cottages, a pub, a village shop, a chippy, and 150 acres of farmland, transforming the village into an idyllic place for guests to stay and locals to thrive.
Mingle at the bar, peruse the goodies in the nostalgic village store (built by Michael's grandparents), and enjoy the fresh seasonal produce - from the collective's own Birch Farm - being served up in ingenious ways at the beloved pub. Then, after a day of exploring the stunning local scenery, tuck yourself into one of their lush beds. Couples will love the Shop Rooms and Suites, with their tasteful period styling and well-placed windows, while families will appreciate the larger cottages where modern tricks and quality craftsmanship combine. Laid back, casual yet oh-so-efficient service completes the picture to make this a treat you'll want to rebook time and again.
Highs
Relaxed yet efficient and friendly service from the mostly local team
The young chef is knocking out reinvented pub classics and unforgettable breakfasts with the finest ingredients
The finish on everything is second to none and every detail is carefully considered, from underfloor heating to swanky lighting
Birch Farm is leading the way with sustainable, forward-thinking planting and growing – look out for seminars in the Potting Shed
The Collective was awarded Michelin One-Key status
Lows
Kids and dogs are only welcome in the cottages
Downstairs rooms in The Old Smithy face the road and there can be some noise
If you don't get on with tech, you might find the gadgetry a bit intimidating
Be prepared for stairs up to the Shop Suites and Rooms
There are no twin rooms in the Cottages, only doubles" - Kate Parsons