South Reed Farm
Self-catering apartments and exclusive secluded fishing in 24 acres on the edge of Dartmoor
Ten key facts about South Reed Farm
Charming cottages and natural fishing
Developed on what was previously a marshy site used for growing reeds for thatching, South Reed Farm offers anglers the combination of a tranquil escape in a variety of charming cottages designed to accommodate between two and seven people together with exclusive fishing on its own one-and-a-half acre lake which is well stocked with carp, bream, tench and perch. There is also a smaller pond which is ideal for those with young children.
The cottages are spacious, comfortable and welcoming and range from the intimate Roundhouse which has been designed as a romantic hideaway for two people to the larger Bramble Cottage which sleeps up to seven.
One of the meadows at South Reed Farm
Set in 24 acres of rolling fields, South Reed Farm is pet friendly and within easy driving distance of Okehampton with its independent shops, cafes and three supermarkets, Devon’s only world heritage town of Tavistock and the popular seaside town of Bude. It is also just a five minute drive from the start of Dartmoor National Park.
The accommodation – Old Mill Cottage
Offering ‘Olde Worlde’ rustic charm, Old Mill Cottage is a lovingly converted 17th-century barn which now provides a stylish two-floor sanctuary. The open plan space seamlessly blends historic character with modern comforts, offering guests an unforgettable retreat in the heart of Devon’s scenic countryside.
Ideal for a small family or a cosy getaway for two, Old Mill sleeps three guests comfortably. Downstairs, the cottage features a full kitchen and a full bathroom, complete with shower and a luxurious bath.
The charm continues upstairs, where the equally welcoming bedroom offers a double bed and a single bed.
Bracken
Designed to accommodate up to four guests, Bracken features a well equipped kitchen/lounge plus two cosy bedrooms and a full bathroom, whilst outside there is a small seating area.
Bramble
The epitome of spacious comfort and convenience, Bramble Cottage is the largest accommodation at South Reed Farm and is designed to accommodate large groups with ease. Boasting ample space and modern amenities, this charming retreat promises an unforgettable stay for families, friends or groups of up to seven guests.
Designed to sleep up to seven people, Bramble cottage features three thoughtfully appointed bedrooms – a double bedroom, a bedroom with two single beds and a versatile bedroom with a double bed and a single bed which provides flexibility and convenience for guests. There are also two well-appointed bathrooms both of which have a shower .
Bramble’s spacious living areas include a comfortable lounge area and fully equipped kitchen where every detail has been meticulously crafted to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.
The Roundhouse
The Roundhouse will appeal to couples looking for a tranquil escape in an open-plan cottage which exudes intimacy and warmth.
Designed to sleep two people, its design offers a seamless blend of comfort and style, providing the perfect space for cosy evenings whilst its own private balcony provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The bedroom has a luxurious double bed which is complimented by the modern bathroom which comes complete with power shower.
Threshers
Threshers offers a charming retreat for those seeking tranquility and comfort. Designed to sleep up to five people, this two-storey cottage boasts an open plan design which incorporates a well-equipped kitchen and charming living room whilst the two beautifully appointed bedrooms come complete with their own en-suite bathroom. One bedroom features a double bed and one single bed whilst the other has a double bed. Additionally, guests can indulge in the luxury of two bathrooms – one with a rejuvenating bath and the other with a refreshing shower.
The Lake House
Set overlooking Main Lake, the Lake House is a great place for a summer BBQ. Although the BBQ is operated on a first-come first-serve basis, it is a great place to get to know other guests staying at South Reed Farm.
The Pond
There is a choice of two lakes to fish at South Reed Farm, an attractive pond about a quarter of an acre in size directly outside the cottages and the acre and a half Main Lake a bit further away from the accommodation.
Like Main Lake, the smaller of the two waters holds a mix of carp and silver fish and is ideal for parents with young children or those who are a bit unsteady on their feet who don’t want to walk too far.
However, most anglers head straight to Main Lake which is just a short walk from the accommodation.
Main Lake
Like the smaller pond, the stream fed Main Lake is reserved exclusively for guests staying at South Reed Farm and offers well spaced pegs and a good stock of fish including common and mirror carp to 20lbs as well as tench, bream and perch.
Natural environment
With the emphasis placed on keeping the environment as natural as possible, the lake is a haven for wildlife and provides a delightful spot for either a couple of hours fishing or longer stays.
Although there are few rules, to prevent the possible spread of disease, anglers must use the landing nets and unhooking mats provided. Keepnets and braided lines are not allowed and there is a maximum limit of two rods per angler.
Tree clad island
A three feet deep marginal shelf runs around much of the lake before depths drop off sharply to about five feet with a maximum of six feet being found in the centre. The main feature in Main Lake is the tree clad central island which rises steeply from the lake bottom.
Although there is a good head of decent sized carp, most pleasure anglers who aren’t worried what they catch tend to float fish with either waggler or pole fished in the margins or at the bottom of the drop off. All baits tend to work well with maggots, sweetcorn or meat baits being the most popular.
Those after the carp use both modern and traditional techniques with either sweetcorn, meat, a variety of flavoured boilies and pellets fished to the island or where the marginal shelf drops off to the bottom.
In warmer weather, fishing the three-foot shelf can yield decent catches, particularly on warm summer evenings.
Secure storage for tackle and bait
Anglers who use bivvies or shelters are asked to do so only where there’s ample space for others to move freely around the lake whilst tackle can be stored securely in the locked tackle shed which has fridges for bait, rod racks and space for gear.
Rules and conditions
– Exclusive Access: Only cottage renters can enjoy the lakes – day passes are not available.
– Anglers must use the landing nets and unhooking mats provided.
– Anglers aged 12 and over must hold a valid rod license.
– There is a maximum limit of two rods per angler.
– No keep nets.
– No braided lines.
– No standing while holding fish.
– All fish must be returned to their originating lake.
– Do not leave rods unattended.
– Bait and tackle can be securely stored the locked tackle shed with fridges, rod racks, and space for gear.
– Use bivvies or shelters only where there’s ample space for others to move freely around the lake.
– No radios. Use mobile phones considerately.
– Store fishing equipment in the tackle shed.
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