Business Details
Welcome to Yarde Orchard Cafe & Accommodation
Established as a unique destination in North Devon, Yarde Orchard combines a sustainably renovated 1930s sailor's dormitory with a modern eco-conscious ethos. Our cafe serves freshly prepared meals using locally sourced, fair trade, and organic ingredients, including award-winning Union Coffee and Southwest Milk. Located alongside the Tarka Trail Cycle Path, we cater to cyclists, walkers, and local communities while maintaining a commitment to environmental stewardship. The business operates from a historic building repurposed into a bright, welcoming venue, offering both daytime refreshments and year-round eco-lodge accommodation. Our team prioritises sustainable practices, including waste water treatment via reedbed purification and solar-powered heating systems.With direct access to national cycling routes and a focus on regional suppliers like The Milk Cart and Essential Trading, we provide a distinctive blend of heritage and innovation. The eco-lodge accommodates up to eight guests across flexible sleeping arrangements, complemented by secure bike storage and electric charging facilities. Our seasonal camping field and dark sky experiences enhance the connection to Devon's natural landscapes. Through partnerships with local producers such as Dunstaple Farm and McG Apple Juice, we maintain a menu that reflects the quality and diversity of West Country agriculture. This approach ensures both visitors and residents benefit from a business deeply integrated with its community and environment.
Services
Cafe dining
Eco accommodation
Cycle route access
Dark sky tours
Local produce sourcing
Camping facilities
Bike charging
Water refills
Group bookings
Event hosting
Highlights and features
- We use 100% locally sourced organic ingredients
- Our building is a sustainably renovated historic landmark
- Direct access to National Cycle Network routes
- Eco-lodge with solar-powered heating systems
- Award-winning fair trade coffee served daily
What people say
Amazing organic meals
Perfect cycling stop
Stunning dark skies
Eco-friendly ethos
Friendly staff
Services
Cafe dining
Our cafe serves freshly prepared meals using organic, fair trade, and local produce. We offer baguettes, salads, homemade cakes, and hot drinks sourced from regional suppliers. The menu caters to various dietary requirements with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
Eco accommodation
The eco-lodge provides year-round sustainable accommodation with solar heating and wood-fuelled ranges. Options include en-suite rooms, bunkbed dormitories, and self-catering facilities. Guests enjoy free wifi, bike storage, and proximity to cycling routes with flexible booking arrangements for individuals and groups.
Cycle route access
Located directly on the Tarka Trail, we offer secure bike storage, free electric bike charging, and drying rooms. The cafe serves cyclists with packed lunches and refreshments, while the accommodation provides convenient overnight stops for Devon Coast to Coast riders with direct trail access.
Dark sky experiences
Our location offers exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. We provide telescope and binocular loans for guests to observe constellations, the Milky Way, and meteor showers. The dark skies complement our eco-philosophy and create unique opportunities for astrophotography and nature appreciation.
Local produce sourcing
We partner with regional suppliers like The Milk Cart and Essential Trading to source organic ingredients. Our meat comes from Devon and Cornwall farms, while dairy and ice cream originate from nearby producers. This approach reduces carbon footprint while supporting West Country agricultural communities.
People
Vince Stewart
Owner
Vince co-founded Yarde Orchard with a vision to create sustainable hospitality in North Devon. His leadership combines heritage preservation with modern eco-practices, ensuring the business supports local suppliers and environmental conservation efforts across the Tarka Trail region.
Michelle Stewart
Owner
Michelle manages daily operations at Yarde Orchard, focusing on customer experience and ethical sourcing. She developed the cafe's menu using local ingredients and oversees accommodation bookings, ensuring visitors enjoy both comfort and environmental responsibility in Devon's countryside.
Alice Stewart
Operations Manager
Alice coordinates Yarde Orchard's eco-lodge and camping facilities. She implemented sustainable technologies like reedbed wastewater treatment and solar heating systems. Her work ensures the business maintains its environmental commitments while providing modern comforts for guests.
Questions
What makes Yarde Orchard eco-friendly?
We use solar heating, reedbed wastewater treatment, and locally sourced organic materials. Our building repurposes a historic structure with Warmcel insulation and wood-fuelled ranges to minimise environmental impact.
Can cyclists access charging facilities?
Yes, we provide free electric bike charging and secure storage. The cafe also offers packed lunches and drying rooms for riders on the Tarka Trail and Devon Coast to Coast routes.
Are there accommodation options for families?
Our eco-lodge sleeps up to eight with flexible arrangements including en-suite rooms, bunkbeds, and self-catering facilities. Children are welcome with safe outdoor spaces and family-friendly amenities.
How do I book accommodation?
Check availability through our website link. A 20% deposit is required via bank transfer, with full payment due seven days before arrival. Contact us directly for specific requirements or group bookings.
What food options are available?
We serve baguettes, salads, homemade cakes, and hot drinks using local organic ingredients. Evening meals and breakfasts require pre-booking, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
Is camping available year-round?
Our nearly wild camping field operates May-September via online booking, but we accept year-round inquiries. Facilities include hot showers, toilets, picnic areas, and limited tent loans for spontaneous visitors.
