A Haven for Nature
One of the most special things about Lower Winsford Farm is the abundance of wildlife that shares this beautiful corner of Devon with us.
Set within approximately 18 acres of private countryside on the Devon and Cornwall border, the farm is made up of mature woodland, open paddocks, a natural lake, a meandering stream, an orchard and a traditional kitchen garden. Every season brings something new to discover, making Lower Winsford Farm a wonderful destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, walkers and anyone looking to reconnect with the natural world.
We feel incredibly fortunate and privileged to be custodians of such a beautiful environment and are passionate about preserving the farm as a safe haven for the wildlife that calls it home.
Wildlife at Lower Winsford Farm
The lake, stream, woodland and surrounding habitats provide homes for a wonderful variety of wildlife, making Lower Winsford Farm a truly special place to stay.
We are fortunate to have a small family of deer that live within the farm boundaries and can often be seen wandering through the lower parts of the property, particularly around the lake, stream and woodland areas. Early mornings and evenings are often the best times to spot them as they quietly move through the landscape.
If you’re especially lucky, you may even catch sight of one of the rare white deer that occasionally visit the farm, including a magnificent white stag that has been known to wander through Kathy’s Corner. Seeing these beautiful animals is always a memorable experience and one of the highlights for many guests.
As you explore the grounds, please remember that the farm is enclosed by deer fencing designed to help protect both our wildlife and animals. We kindly ask that all gates are closed securely after use.
Our Resident Barn Owls
One of our greatest privileges is sharing the farm with a family of beautiful barn owls.
Several owl boxes have been installed around the farm and provide nesting and roosting sites for these magnificent birds. As dusk approaches, you can often spot them silently gliding across the paddocks and woodland edges as they begin their evening hunt.
Watching a barn owl drift effortlessly across the lake at sunset is one of those magical countryside moments that guests often remember long after their stay has ended.
Birds, Wildlife & Nature
Depending on the season—and a little luck—you may encounter:
- Kingfishers darting across the water in flashes of brilliant blue
- Osprey occasionally visiting the lake
- Badgers foraging during the evening hours
- Foxes quietly exploring the woodland and paddocks
- Grass snakes basking in sunny spots near the water
- Woodpeckers, warblers and a variety of woodland birds
- Dragonflies and damselflies skimming across the lake
- Butterflies and pollinating insects throughout the gardens and meadows
No two walks around the farm are ever quite the same, and every visit offers the opportunity to discover something new.
Woodland, Lake & Stream
The natural lake forms the heart of the farm and provides an important habitat for many species of birds, insects and aquatic life.
The surrounding woodland and stream create peaceful areas to explore and enjoy, offering beautiful scenery throughout the changing seasons.
Whether you’re taking an early morning walk, enjoying a quiet coffee by the water or simply sitting and listening to the birdsong, the grounds provide countless opportunities to slow down and appreciate the beauty of nature.
Orchard & Kitchen Garden
Lower Winsford Farm is also home to a traditional orchard and kitchen garden, both of which we are lovingly restoring as part of our ongoing journey here.
Over time, we hope to bring these areas back to their former glory, creating productive spaces filled with fruit, vegetables, herbs and flowers, whilst also providing valuable habitats for bees, butterflies and other pollinators.
Like much of Lower Winsford Farm, these areas are a work in progress and form part of our vision for the future as we continue to nurture and care for this special place.
A Place to Slow Down
Whilst Devon and Cornwall offer countless attractions to explore, many guests tell us that some of their favourite moments happen right here on the farm.
- Watching the deer emerge from the woodland.
- Listening to the dawn chorus from your cottage garden.
- Spotting a kingfisher across the lake.
- Watching the barn owls hunt at dusk.
- Or simply sitting quietly and enjoying the peace and tranquillity of the countryside.
At Lower Winsford Farm, nature isn’t something you visit—it’s something you become part of.
Helping Us Protect the Wildlife
We kindly ask all guests to help us preserve the peaceful environment that makes Lower Winsford Farm so special.
- Please respect wildlife from a distance
- Keep dogs under control, particularly around wildlife habitats
- Leave no litter behind
- Follow designated paths where possible
- Avoid disturbing nesting birds or wildlife habitats
The beauty of Lower Winsford Farm lies not only in its cottages and scenery, but in the incredible wildlife that lives here. Whether you’re watching deer emerge from the woodland, spotting a kingfisher by the lake, or listening to barn owls call as dusk falls, we hope you’ll experience the same sense of wonder that made us fall in love with this very special place.
