It was as an au pair over here from Sweden that Monica first dreamed of living in this exceptionally attractive part of England. After many years living around the world through Tony’s jobs in environmental protection, we returned to find the derelict Bulmoor Farmhouse hidden away in this verdant tranquil coombe where the Blackdown Hills meet sea.

Our next decade, or more, was one of concrete removal, oak beam repairs, cob mixing, lime slaking, re-opening of inglenook fireplaces, hair plastering, paint stripping, beeswax polishing, stonewall rebuilding, hedge laying and orchard restoration, while also commuting weekly to work in the south-east.

The Byre was the final stage of this painstaking project; completed in 2010.

Monica Ashton purchased this barn in 2006

We are now privileged to live in this place, peacefully remote, but with good communications to all other parts of the country and continent. On our doorstep is the Dorset-Devon border area, with its rare combination of beautiful countryside and magnificent coastal scenery, and free from the mass commercialisation of so many other tourist destinations.

Contact me direct on monica@

The Byre has given us the enjoyment of meeting a wide range of people and sharing the place and its surroundings, with others.

Our approach to the letting is relaxed and informal. This is why we are with ‘Owners Direct’, rather than an impersonal on-line booking agent with their add-on fees, deposits, cancellation penalties and other complications.

We understand that holidays are usually the long-awaited highlight of the year for our guests. Because self-catering is our own preferred type of holiday, we appreciate the importance of utmost cleanliness throughout the accommodation and a warm welcome after what is often a long journey. We also keep up-to-date on the nearby attractions: places to eat-out, festivals and other events, to provide a handy source of advice if required.