A truly distinctive and quirky holiday retreat in Devon has been recognised as amongst the most sought-after properties in the United Kingdom, according to a recent ranking by Holiday Cottages. The company has selected its top ten destinations for staycations, with Cornwall claiming the prestigious first place. Landing in an impressive fifth position is The Gun House, a unique property that has captured significant attention, located in the picturesque village of Shaldon on Devon's scenic south coast.
A Historic Coastal Gem with Modern Luxury
This former military watchtower, perched dramatically above the coastline, offers guests an utterly distinctive and memorable experience. Its remarkable heritage, combined with a sumptuous and thoughtfully designed interior, makes it an essential booking destination for those seeking something beyond the ordinary. The property has even featured on the popular television show George Clarke's Amazing Spaces, highlighting its architectural intrigue and charm.
Availability and Booking Details
Currently, there is availability for stays in February, March, April and beyond, with flexible options including three, four, seven and fourteen-night durations. This provides ample opportunity for couples or small groups to plan a getaway to this exceptional location.
Inside The Gun House: A Lush and Well-Equipped Retreat
The Holiday Cottages listing describes the property in detail: "This former guard tower once provided soldiers shelter to guard the Shaldon coastal defences, now provides a breath-taking retreat for couples during all seasons." Although small in external appearance, the interior has been perfectly designed to maximise comfort and functionality.
Guests enter via external steps to the first floor, which features an open-plan lounge, kitchen and diner area. This space boasts large sliding windows that offer uninterrupted sea views, a dining area for two, a comfortable sofa, and a Smart TV that can be discreetly hidden away. The well-equipped kitchen includes a built-in bean-to-cup coffee machine, adding a touch of modern convenience.
Additional modern amenities include a Bluetooth speaker, an iPad, mood lighting, and underfloor heating, ensuring a stay that is as luxurious as the panoramic vistas. A winding staircase leads down to the master king-size bedroom, complete with an en-suite shower room featuring a blissful rainfall shower and an LED mirror.
Outdoor Spaces and Local Attractions
Outside, the property offers two separate seating areas, each providing picture-perfect coastal vistas. An enclosed private garden, equipped with a grill BBQ and outdoor sun loungers, creates an ideal sanctuary for relaxation and al fresco dining.
The location is equally compelling. It is a short fifty-metre stroll to the beach, where guests can take a ferry trip across to Teignmouth or visit the hidden Ness Cove beach, accessed via an original smuggler tunnel just 0.2 miles away. The heart of Shaldon village is a gentle wander away, offering a local butcher, bakery, village shop, pubs and much more, meaning everything needed for a comfortable stay is within one mile.
Devon's Presence on the National List
The Gun House was not Devon's sole representative on Holiday Cottages' list of most-wanted holiday homes. The eighth position went to West Farleigh Barn, located in Cadeleigh, near Tiverton. This luxurious and generously proportioned barn features sophisticated contemporary styling and can accommodate up to eleven guests, catering to larger groups or families.
The Full Top Ten Ranking
The top ten most sought-after holiday homes in 2025, as compiled by holidaycottages.co.uk, are as follows:
- No 1 in Bude, Cornwall.
- Bodcott near Pembridge, Herefordshire.
- Yr Hen Ysgubor on the Llyn Peninsula, North Wales.
- Bryn Celyn Cottage, near Ruthin, North Wales.
- The Gun House in Shaldon, Devon.
- Hicks Farm in Winterbourne, Gloucestershire.
- Beaulieu River View near Brockenhurst, Hampshire.
- West Farleigh Barn in Cadeleigh, Devon.
- The Observatory in North Shields, Tyne and Wear.
- The Pilot House in Polruan, Cornwall.
For those seeking alternative coastal holiday stays in Devon, Sykes Cottages also offers a large selection of accommodation options across both Devon and Cornwall, providing further choice for holidaymakers.
