Business Details
Luxury Self-Catering Holiday Cottages in South Devon
The Flete Estate, a family-owned estate since 1872, offers luxury self-catering holiday cottages in South Devon's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Our properties, ranging from historic Grade II listed houses to secluded woodland cottages, provide direct access to unspoilt beaches, estuaries, and the South West Coastal Path. With a deep commitment to conservation, we maintain ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, and pollinator-friendly gardens while offering modern amenities like electric vehicle charging and eco-friendly practices. Our team prioritises sustainable land management through regenerative farming and chemical-free gardening techniques. Guests enjoy exclusive access to three sandy beaches, Victorian tea houses, and Mothecombe Gardens - a RHS partner garden renowned for its biodiversity.The estate's heritage is preserved through careful restoration of historic buildings like Mothecombe House, dating back to 1710. We provide year-round accommodations sleeping 4-18 people, including dog-friendly options and accessible facilities. Our commitment to excellence has been recognised through film industry features and repeat guest visits. The estate actively supports local wildlife conservation initiatives, including partnerships with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust. Every booking contributes to our ongoing efforts to protect this unique coastal environment for future generations.
Services
Holiday Cottages
Beach House Hire
Garden Access
Event Hosting
Wildlife Conservation
Highlights and features
- Family-owned estate since 1872 with deep local knowledge
- Designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and SSSI status
- Eco-friendly properties with electric car charging and solar power
- Three dog-friendly beaches with year-round access
- Award-winning Mothecombe Gardens open to guests
What people say
Peaceful surroundings
Exceptional natural beauty
Well-equipped accommodations
Dog-friendly policy
Unique eco-cabins
Services
Holiday Cottages
Luxury self-catering accommodations sleeping 4-18 people across South Devon's coast. Properties include historic Grade II listed houses, woodland cottages, and modern eco-cabins with full amenities. All feature private entrances, smart TVs, and electric vehicle charging points. Dog-friendly options available with direct beach access. Properties include unique features like wood-fired hot tubs and private tennis courts.
Beach House Hire
Victorian beach houses available for daily hire at Mothecombe and Pamflete beaches. Fully equipped with cooking facilities, open fires, and seating for four. Ideal for picnics, celebrations, or relaxing after water activities. No power supply requires guests to bring lighting for evening use. Bookable through online form with gift voucher options available.
Mothecombe Gardens
Award-winning RHS partner gardens open Tuesday 10-4pm February-August. Features include Lutyens-designed terraces, pollinator-friendly lavender beds, and historic walled gardens. Entry 6 per person with charity open days. Educational programs available through Bumblebee Conservation Trust partnerships. Season passes available for repeated visits.
Event Hosting
Stable venue hire for workshops, meetings, and private events with kitchen facilities. Capacity for 50+ guests with beach access. Includes exclusive use of gardens and private drives. Available for weddings, art exhibitions, and corporate retreats with bespoke packages available through dedicated event coordinator.
Wildlife Conservation
Active conservation programs protecting local biodiversity through regenerative farming and chemical-free gardening. Features include wildflower meadows supporting pollinators, protected woodland habitats, and water quality improvement initiatives. Guests can participate in guided nature walks and educational programs about local ecosystems and sustainability practices.
People
John Mildmay-White
Estate Owner
John returned to manage The Flete Estate in 2016, implementing conservation initiatives including pollinator planting and regenerative farming. He oversees the estate's sustainable development while preserving its 150-year family heritage.
Lily Mildmay-White
Estate Owner
Lily works alongside John to maintain the estate's natural environment through eco-friendly practices. She focuses on community engagement and educational programs about the estate's conservation efforts.
Izzy
Holiday Cottage & Events Manager
Izzy manages holiday rentals and event bookings across the estate. With extensive local knowledge, she ensures guests enjoy the best of South Devon's coastal environment while maintaining the estate's conservation standards.
Martin Haxton
Head Gardener
Martin leads garden conservation efforts at Mothecombe House, maintaining RHS partner status and developing pollinator-friendly spaces. He manages the estate's wildflower meadows and historic walled gardens.
Jamie & Kate
Life Space Cabins Collaborators
The creative team behind Rusty Sheds eco-cabins, collaborating with the estate to develop sustainable holiday accommodations. They combine Scandinavian design principles with local materials for unique guest experiences.
Questions
Can I bring my dog to the holiday cottages?
Yes, most properties welcome dogs with direct beach access available at Coastguards and Wonwell beaches year-round.
Are the beach houses equipped with modern amenities?
Our Victorian beach houses have cooking facilities and basic amenities but no electricity supply. Guests should bring lighting for evening use.
What conservation efforts are in place?
We practice regenerative farming, chemical-free gardening, and maintain wildflower meadows to support local biodiversity across the estate.
How do I book garden access?
Mothecombe Gardens are open Tuesday 10-4pm February-August. Entry is £6 per person with RHS members admitted free.
Are there nearby dining options?
The School House restaurant in Mothecombe offers seasonal menus with beach views and live music during summer months.
What water activities are available?
Paddle boarding, kayaking, and bird watching available on the Erme Estuary with surf lessons at nearby Bigbury beach.
