In association with Trinity House, we are pleased to present Sherrin at Bull Point Lighthouse, North Devon.
Since its original construction in 1879, Bull Point Lighthouse has been guiding vessels to safely navigate this dramatic headland. 93 incident free years passed, with the help of the lighthouse keepers who lived here, before the Principle Keeper reported ground movement in 1972, resulting in 15 metres of cliff face falling away into the sea and the partial collapse of the engine and fog station. The replacement lighthouse seen today has been constructed using much of the original equipment, but now automated and controlled remotely from Harwich in Essex, Trinity House's Planning Centre. Bad news for the lighthouse keepers, however very good news for the rest of us, as all four cottages have been refurbished for the comforts of the 21st century explorer; complete with luxurious mattresses, bedding and towels, well-equipped kitchens, and comfy sitting rooms. More recently, despite its remote location, even WiFi has reached the site, although, understandably, not always as reliable as we're used to, especially when a storm's a-brewing!
The sympathetic restoration process has ensured the ambience of the original dwelling remains, with no bells and whistles, but all the creature comforts needed for an authentic headland stay experience. Ear plugs are not required as the fog horn was discontinued in 1988, however pack a pair of binoculars and enjoy watching the many fishing boats braving the Bristol Channel for the day's catch.
The nearby village of Mortehoe is pretty village with good pubs and restaurants, a fish and chip shop, stores and a delicatessen; and very easy to reach on foot from Bull Point. For a larger variety of shops and restaurants, and of course, the Blue Flag sandy beach, walkers can easily reach the popular village of Woolacombe (1.2 miles) via the South West Coast Path in around 30 minutes. Or enjoy the slightly more challenging circular walk from Woolacombe to Putsborough Sands (approx 4 miles), the views are unforgettable and you might spot a few seals! The historic seaside town of Ilfracombe is just under 6 miles away and boasts the largest harbour on the North Devon Coast and is overlooked by Damien Hirst's stunning 66ft tall sculpture of Verity. Ilfracombe also enjoys pretty beaches and local eateries, along with opportunities to visit Lundy Island by boat trip.
Sherrin, the former home of the Principle Keeper, is the largest of the four cottages, being detached and standing separately from the other three, close to the lighthouse building itself. The generous single-storey accommodation includes a dual aspect sitting room with a sea view from one of the windows; a light and spacious dining kitchen, again with a sea view from the dining area. This large kitchen leads into a useful utility room with access out to the viewing deck. There are three bedrooms; one with a king-size bed, a twin room and a single room; the modern family bathroom has a bath with overhead shower. Outside, Sherrin sits within its own little area behind the three terraced cottages, with ample parking, a viewing deck, and unenclosed grassed areas.
There are four former lighthouse keeper's cottage at Bull Point Lighthouse, Warden is the smallest (sleeping two guests and welcoming one dog), shown on the left hand side of the row of the three sea-facing cottages (as you face them); with Triton in the middle (sleeping four guests in three bedrooms and welcoming two dogs); and Siren on the right hand side (sleeping five guests in three bedrooms and pet free); Sherrin is the largest, and a detached property located behind these three, close to the lighthouse itself, and also sleeps five guests in three bedrooms, welcoming two dogs.