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Millcombe House

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Lundy Island

Millcombe House is Lundy Island’s most prestigious accommodation, a beautiful Georgian villa built in 1836 by William Hudson Heaven, the island’s former owner.

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Millcombe House
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St. Helen’s Church
St Helen’s Church is a beautiful and remote place of worship on Lundy Island, standing as a spiritual and historical landmark in the heart of this rugged landscape.
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Marisco Castle
Marisco Castle is one of Lundy Island’s most historic landmarks, originally built in 1243 under the orders of King Henry III to defend against pirates and outlaws.
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Old Light
Old Light is one of Lundy Island’s most striking landmarks, standing as a testament to maritime history while offering visitors a unique off-grid accommodation experience.
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Millcombe House
Millcombe House is Lundy Island’s most prestigious accommodation, a beautiful Georgian villa built in 1836 by William Hudson Heaven, the island’s former owner.
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Lee Bay
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Tunnels Beaches in Ilfracombe is a historic and unique coastal attraction, famous for its hand-carved tunnels dating back to the 1820s.
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The Ilfracombe Museum
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St. Nicholas Chapel
St. Nicholas Chapel in Ilfracombe is a historic 14th century chapel and one of the UK’s oldest working lighthouses, perched atop Lantern Hill overlooking the harbour.
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Tarka the Otter Statue
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Kingsley Statue
The Charles Kingsley Statue in Bideford is a historic tribute to the renowned Victorian author and clergyman.
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St Mary's Church
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The Burton at Bideford Art Gallery
The Burton at Bideford is a vibrant art gallery and museum, located in Victoria Park, Bideford.
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Wuzzy look out post
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Yeo Valley Community Woodland
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Manning’s Pit
Manning’s Pit is a beautiful and cherished green space on the outskirts of Barnstaple, Devon, near the villages of Pilton and Bradiford. For generations, it has been a beloved spot for locals, offering scenic landscapes, peaceful walking routes, and a strong connection to nature.
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St Peter,
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Holdstone Down
Holdstone Down, perched high above the North Devon coast, is one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Exmoor National Park.
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Bideford Railway Heritage Centre
Located along the picturesque banks of the River Torridge, the Bideford Railway Heritage Centre is a historic railway site dedicated to preserving the town’s rich railway history.
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Torrington Common
Torrington Commons is a remarkable 365-acre expanse of woodland, heathland, and rolling countryside, surrounding the historic market town of Great Torrington in North Devon. Established over 800 years ago, the commons offer a rare blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation, making it a unique and treasured landscape for both locals and visitors.
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Abbotsham Cliffs
Abbotsham Cliffs, located along the dramatic North Devon coastline, offer a stunning mix of rugged cliffs, breathtaking sea views, and fascinating geological formations.
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Seafeild House
The house’s elevated position provided breathtaking views and an escape for those seeking fresh sea air and the therapeutic benefits of the coast. Over time, Seafield House transitioned from a luxurious home to a guesthouse and later a hotel, welcoming visitors eager to enjoy the rugged beauty of North Devon’s coastline.
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Chudleigh Fort
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Tawstock Court
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Castle Hill Gardens
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Round Tower
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Bull Point Lighthouse
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Hele Bay Beach
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Rapparee Cove
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Woolacombe Beach
Woolacombe Beach is one of the most celebrated coastal destinations in North Devon, renowned for its expansive golden sands, rolling dunes, and clear blue waters.
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Morte Point
Morte Point, situated near Woolacombe in North Devon, is a stunning promontory that offers a mix of breathtaking views, rich history, and rugged coastal beauty.
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Codden Hill
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Lyn & Exmoor Museum
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Queen Anne's Walk
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Pannier Market
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Skate Park
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St George's Church, Georgeham
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Croyde Bay
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Baggy Point
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Capstone Hill
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Putsborough Sands
A secluded, sandy beach located at the southern end of Woolacombe Bay, offering great surf and peaceful surroundings.
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The Landmark Theatre
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Ilfracombe Museum
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Verity Sculpture
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Tunnels Beaches
A unique set of beaches accessible via hand-carved tunnels, offering safe bathing pools, dramatic cliffs, and a rich history.
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Newberry Beach
A hidden gem located just outside Combe Martin, known for its clear waters, rock pools, and peaceful surroundings.
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Ilfracombe Harbour
A historic and picturesque harbour, known for its scenic beauty, maritime history, and vibrant atmosphere.
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Heddon’s Mouth
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Castle Hill, Torrington
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RHS Garden Rosemoor
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The East Lyn River Walk
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Watersmeet
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Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
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Lynmouth Harbour
A picturesque harbour located in the heart of Lynmouth, offering scenic views and access to coastal walks and boat trips.
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Valley of Rocks
A dramatic coastal valley near Lynton, known for its striking rock formations, wild goats, and stunning coastal views.
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Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway
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St Mary's Church
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The Skern Northam Burrows
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North Devon Maritime Museum
A fascinating museum located in Appledore, showcasing the region’s rich maritime history, including shipbuilding, fishing, and exploration.
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Albert Clock Tower
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Appledore Quay
A charming quay located in the heart of Appledore, known for its picturesque views, quaint shops, and vibrant maritime culture.
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St Anne's Chapel
A beautifully preserved medieval chapel located in the heart of Barnstaple, offering a glimpse into the town's rich ecclesiastical history.
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Rock Park
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St Mary's Church
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Castle Mound
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Queen's Theatre
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Kenwith Valley Nature Reserve
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Braunton Marsh
A coastal marshland offering stunning views and excellent birdwatching opportunities, popular with walkers and nature lovers.
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Barnstaple Long Bridge
A historic 13th-century bridge that crosses the River Taw, connecting Barnstaple to its western outskirts.
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Saunton Sands
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Northam Beach
A popular sandy beach stretching for miles, known for its excellent surfing conditions and family-friendly atmosphere.
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St James Church
A 12th-century parish church in Swimbridge, renowned for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
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Instow Signal Box
A restored Victorian signal box, located alongside the Tarka Trail, providing a glimpse into the region's railway history.
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St Mary Magdalene Church
An ancient church located in the heart of South Molton, known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
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South Molton Museum
A small but fascinating museum that tells the story of South Molton's local history, including its agricultural and industrial heritage.
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South Molton Pannier Market
A traditional market in the heart of South Molton, offering a variety of local produce, crafts, and antiques.
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Braunton Countryside Centre
An environmental education centre, the Braunton Countryside Centre provides information on the local landscape, flora, and fauna of the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
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Museum of British Surfing
The Museum of British Surfing in Braunton celebrates the history and culture of surfing in the UK, with exhibits on the sport’s development and its impact on local communities.
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Bideford Pannier Market
A historic indoor market that has been a vital part of the town’s community for over 150 years. The market is home to a variety of independent businesses, offering locally produced foods, crafts, and antiques. It serves as a community hub with regular events and activities, enhancing its role as a significant cultural and economic landmark​​.
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Victoria Park
This large, family-friendly park in the heart of Bideford offers various recreational facilities, including playgrounds, a paddling pool, sports pitches, and an outdoor gym.
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Braunton Burrows
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Braunton Burrows is the largest sand dune system in England, offering diverse wildlife and walking trails.
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The Lundy Shore Office
The Lundy Island Ferry departs from Bideford Quay, offering a scenic journey to the wildlife-rich island of Lundy in the Bristol Channel.
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Bideford Long Bridge
An iconic 13th-century bridge that connects the east and west sides of Bideford, offering panoramic views of the River Torridge.

Millcombe House

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About

Millcombe House

Millcombe House, Lundy Island: Historic Luxury in a Remote Paradise

Millcombe House is the grandest accommodation on Lundy Island, offering visitors a unique chance to stay in a historic Georgian villa set in a picturesque sheltered valley. Built in the early 19th century, this elegant residence once served as the home of the island’s owners and is now available for visitors seeking a truly special getaway.

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With breathtaking sea views, beautiful gardens, and spacious period interiors, Millcombe House is an ideal retreat for families, groups, weddings, and special occasions. Whether you want to explore Lundy’s rugged landscapes, immerse yourself in its rich history, or simply relax in a tranquil setting, Millcombe House provides a luxurious yet off grid escape.

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History of Millcombe House

Millcombe House was built in 1836 by William Hudson Heaven, who purchased Lundy Island in 1834 with the dream of creating a private estate. The house was designed in the classic Georgian style, with large sash windows offering panoramic views over the island and across the Bristol Channel.

Heaven Family Estate Millcombe served as the Heaven family's residence for nearly a century until financial difficulties forced them to sell the island.

20th Century Changes The house changed hands multiple times, passing through private ownership before being taken over by the National Trust in the 1960s.

Modern Conservation Now managed by the Landmark Trust, Millcombe House has been carefully restored to retain its historic charm while providing comfortable modern amenities.

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Accommodation and Features

Main House: A Spacious and Elegant Retreat

Millcombe House is the largest accommodation on Lundy, ideal for families, groups, or celebratory stays. The house sleeps up to 12 guests across six beautifully furnished bedrooms.

Six Bedroom A mix of double, twin, and single rooms, with stunning views of the valley and coastline.

Elegant Drawing Room A spacious living area with classic Georgian decor, high ceilings, and large windows that flood the space with natural light.

Dining Room A large table perfect for group dining, set against the backdrop of a picturesque garden view.

Fully Equipped Kitchen Includes a modern oven, fridge-freezer, dishwasher, and all essentials for self-catering.

Two Bathrooms and Additional WCs Featuring bathtubs and showers for a relaxing end to a day of island adventures.

Private Garden and Patio Area Offers a peaceful outdoor space with seating to enjoy morning coffee or evening drinks.

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Things to Do at Millcombe House

Explore the Millcombe Valley Gardens

Stroll through the sheltered valley, which boasts subtropical plants and rare flora.

Spot Lundy’s famous Soay sheep and wild goats, often seen grazing nearby.

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Enjoy Exclusive Coastal Views

The panoramic sea views from Millcombe House are some of the best on Lundy.

Watch sunrises over the Bristol Channel from the comfort of your bedroom or garden.

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Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting

Lundy is a haven for rare seabirds, including puffins, Manx shearwaters, and razorbills.

Seals and dolphins can often be seen from the cliffs just a short walk away.

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Hiking and Exploring Lundy’s Trails

Easy Access to the South of the Island Millcombe House is located close to the Marisco Tavern, the island’s only pub, as well as key trails leading to:

Marisco Castle  A historic fortress with panoramic views.

Old Light  The island’s iconic lighthouse.

The Battery  A 19th-century coastal defense with dramatic cliffside views.

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Star Gazing and Night Photography

With no light pollution, Lundy offers some of the clearest night skies in the UK, making it perfect for stargazing.

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Host a Private Celebration or Wedding

Millcombe House is one of Lundy’s best wedding venues, offering an intimate, private setting for a small ceremony.

St. Helen’s Church, just a short walk away, provides a traditional setting for wedding services.

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Visitor Information and Booking

How to Get to Millcombe House

Millcombe House is located just a five minute walk from the landing bay, making it one of the most accessible accommodations on Lundy.

By Ferry The MS Oldenburg sails from Bideford and Ilfracombe from March to October.

By Helicopter A winter helicopter service operates from Hartland Point.

By Private Boat Visitors arriving via private boats can moor at the landing bay.

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Check in and Check out

Check-in Time: 4:00 PM

Check-out Time: 10:00 AM

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Booking Information

Sleeps: Up to 12 guests

Minimum Stay: Three nights (shorter stays may be available in winter)

Self-Catering: Yes

Pet-Friendly: No

WiFi and Electricity: Limited; Lundy is an off-grid island, so be prepared for a digital detox.

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Where to Eat

Marisco Tavern The island’s only pub is a short walk from Millcombe House and serves hearty meals, local ales, and fresh seafood.

Self-Catering The house’s fully equipped kitchen makes it easy to prepare your own meals.

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Why Stay at Millcombe House?

Historic charm  Stay in a 19th century Georgian manor with a fascinating history.

Exclusive sea views  Enjoy breathtaking scenery from your private garden and windows.

Perfect for groups  Accommodates up to 12 guests, ideal for families, reunions, or special occasions.

Prime location  Close to walking trails, the Marisco Tavern, and wildlife hotspots.

Unique island experience  Escape modern distractions and reconnect with nature, history, and adventure.

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Conclusion

Millcombe House is the most prestigious and spacious accommodation on Lundy Island, blending historic elegance with remote island charm. Whether you're looking for a memorable family holiday, a group retreat, or a romantic celebration, this beautifully restored Georgian home offers an unforgettable experience.

If you're ready to step back in time, disconnect from the modern world, and embrace the wild beauty of Lundy, Millcombe House is the perfect choice.

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