Get More From Your Bampton Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Bampton gives you the perfect blend of rural Devon charm and proper relaxation. This historic village sits on the southern edge of Exmoor National Park and offers the kind of authentic countryside experience that hotels simply can't match. You get space, privacy and your own bubbling hot tub to sink into after exploring the moors.
Bampton works brilliantly for romantic breaks and family getaways alike. The village has kept its traditional character with a proper working community, local shops and pubs that welcome visitors. From here you can walk straight onto Exmoor, visit the coast or explore market towns. Whether you're after isolated retreats or boutique cottages in the village itself, there's something for everyone.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Bampton
Bampton earned fame as the filming location for Downton Abbey's village scenes. The streets and buildings you see on screen are real and you can walk past them all. St Michael's Church served as the setting for several weddings in the series. The village has been here since Saxon times and still holds its traditional Pony Fair each October.
Beyond the Downton connection, Bampton sits in prime walking country. Exmoor National Park starts just north of the village with over 260 square miles of moorland, woodland and dramatic coastline. Red deer roam freely here - Britain's largest wild land mammal population. The area suits everyone from gentle strollers to serious hikers.
Sightseeing in Bampton
The village itself rewards a good wander. Independent shops line the streets and the weekly market brings local producers together. Bampton's architecture spans centuries with Georgian and Victorian buildings sitting alongside older structures. The village maintains its agricultural roots with working farms surrounding the settlement.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Bampton
We've picked out five must-visit spots that show off what makes this corner of Devon special. These range from natural wonders to historic sites and they're all within easy reach of your cottage with hot tub.
Exmoor National Park
This vast protected landscape covers moorland, ancient woodland and a stunning coastline. You can spot red deer, Exmoor ponies and rare birds. The park offers hundreds of miles of footpaths plus mountain biking routes and horse riding trails. Dark sky status means incredible stargazing on clear nights.
Wimbleball Lake
Just four miles from Bampton, this reservoir provides water sports, fishing and circular walking routes. The lake covers 374 acres and you can hire kayaks, canoes and sailing boats. A 8.5-mile trail loops the water with wildlife spotting opportunities. The visitor centre offers refreshments and the beach area works well for families.
Knightshayes Court
This Victorian Gothic Revival house sits in Tiverton, 12 miles away. The National Trust property features elaborate interiors and 50 acres of formal gardens. Rare plants fill the borders and woodland walks extend through the grounds. The kitchen garden supplies the on-site café and children love the natural play area.
Tarr Steps
This ancient clapper bridge crosses the River Barle in a remote valley. The 17 stone slabs may date back 3,000 years though most experts suggest medieval origins. It's a 30-minute drive from Bampton followed by a short walk. The surrounding area offers excellent riverside rambles and wild swimming spots for the brave.
Dunster Castle
A thousand years of history fill this hilltop fortress near Minehead. The castle evolved from Norman stronghold to comfortable country house. Subtropical gardens thrive in the mild coastal climate and the views stretch across to Wales. The medieval village below has a yarn market and working watermill.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Exmoor National Park | Wild moorland, red deer herds and dramatic coastal scenery with endless walking routes | Everyone |
| Wimbleball Lake | Water sports, fishing and lakeside trails in a peaceful reservoir setting | Families |
| Knightshayes Court | Victorian mansion with stunning gardens and woodland walks | Couples |
| Tarr Steps | Ancient stone bridge in a remote valley with riverside walks | Everyone |
| Dunster Castle | Medieval fortress with subtropical gardens and coastal views | Families |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Bampton?
Tiverton Parkway station is 11 miles away with direct trains from London Paddington taking under 2 hours. From there you'll need a taxi or rental car. Driving from the M5 takes about 20 minutes from Junction 27. The village has limited public transport so hiring a car makes sense for exploring.
What family activities are available near Bampton?
Wimbleball Lake offers water sports and adventure activities. Exmoor has pony trekking centres and wildlife watching. The Big Sheep near Bideford provides farm entertainment and rides. Crealy Theme Park sits 40 minutes away with attractions for younger children.
Where are the best romantic spots around Bampton?
The Quarryman's Rest pub overlooks Wimbleball Lake with sunset views. Tarr Steps provides a secluded riverside setting perfect for picnics. Book dinner at The Swan in Bampton for locally sourced food. Evening walks across Exmoor offer complete privacy under dark skies.
What shopping options exist in Bampton?
The village has a Co-op, post office and several independent shops. Tiverton offers supermarkets and high street stores 20 minutes away. Dulverton makes a lovely browse with craft shops and galleries. Barnstaple provides the nearest large shopping centre.
Are cottages with hot tubs in Bampton suitable for winter visits?
Absolutely. Winter brings its own magic with fewer crowds and cosy pub evenings. Hot tub stays become even more appealing when you can soak under the stars in crisp air. Many properties have log burners and the village maintains its charm year-round. Book early for new year breaks as they fill quickly.
Choosing holiday cottages in Bampton means you get proper countryside living with modern luxury. After days exploring Exmoor or visiting coastal towns, returning to your private hot tub feels perfect. The village offers enough to keep you busy yet stays peaceful enough for a proper retreat. Whether you want dog friendly accommodation, large holiday houses for groups or secluded lodges for two, Bampton delivers authentic Devon at its best.