Local Area
The Jurassic Coast, village pubs, a beach sauna, and world-class walking — all from the doorstep.
Hole Mill is set in a secluded valley about a mile from Branscombe Beach. There are numerous walks to the beach and excellent local pubs, as well as easy access to the stunning South West Coast Path. A 15-minute drive reaches Sidmouth; Lyme Regis is just 25 minutes away.
From the doorstep
Seven walks & rides
From a 1 km stroll to the Fountain Head pub to a 10 km coastal hike to Beer Head — every route mapped on Komoot, ready to load onto your phone.
View walks & routes →While you're here
Book a private chef for one special evening
Even on a self-catering stay, one night with Nina transforms the weekend — a three-course dinner in the dining hall with zero time in the kitchen. Arranged directly with Nina; we're happy to make an introduction once you've booked.
Nina Groves
Private Chef Devon
Arranged directly with Nina — not included in your Hole Mill booking.
Read our guides
Devon, written from the doorstep
Long-form local guides to walks, beaches, towns and the Jurassic Coast.
Nature
·Editor's pickWild Swimming the River Dart: A Complete Walking and Swimming Guide
Discover the River Dart's crystal-clear pools and ancient woodlands on this spectacular day trip from Hole Mill. Perfect for wild swimming enthusiasts and adventurous walkers.
Food & Drink
·Editor's pickEvents & Festivals Near Branscombe — A Year-Round Guide
Sidmouth FolkWeek, the Dawlish Air Show, Beer Regatta, the Ottery Tar Barrels, Budleigh's literary festival and the Mason's Arms spit roasts — the events worth planning a Devon stay around.
Food & Drink
·Editor's pickThe Jurassic Sauna, Branscombe Beach
The wood-fired beach sauna ten minutes' walk from Hole Mill — what to expect, when to book, what to bring, and why winter sessions are the best.
Food & Drink
·Editor's pickThe Best Pubs Near Branscombe — A Local's Guide
The Mason's Arms, The Fountain Head, The Pig at Combe, The Salty Monk and the wider local circuit — honest notes on the pubs we actually recommend.
Nature
·Editor's pickWild Swimming in Devon: Our Organic Pond and the Best Spots Nearby
From our chemical-free swimming pond to the chalk-bottomed sea at Branscombe and the red sandstone stacks at Ladram Bay — six of the best wild swimming spots within easy reach of Hole Mill, plus the safety notes that matter.
Walks
·Editor's pickThe Best Walks from Branscombe — A Complete Guide
Seven walks from the door of Hole Mill — from a 1 km stroll to the Fountain Head pub to the full 10 km Beer Head coastal loop. Where to go, what to take, and where to stop for lunch.
Ask the local concierge
Ask me anything about Branscombe
Tell me who's coming and what you fancy doing — dog-friendly walks, rainy-day plans, best Sunday roast — and I'll suggest something local.
Try one of these to get started:
Beaches
Branscombe Beach
30 min walk / 5 min driveA stunning pebble beach on the Jurassic Coast, about a 30-minute walk from Hole Mill. There is a lovely beach café — and don't miss the old forge on the way down.
Wellness
Luxury Wood-fired Sauna on Branscombe Beach
5 min driveA wonderful wood-fired sauna right on Branscombe beach. Book ahead, particularly in summer.
Visit website →Pubs
The Mason's Arms
30 min walk / 5 min driveA historic 14th-century inn in the heart of Branscombe village. Excellent food, local ales, and a roaring fire in winter.
Visit website →The Fountain Head
10 min driveA traditional Devon thatched pub with its own micro-brewery. Very much a local favourite.
Activities
South West Coast Path
From the doorstepThe world-class 630-mile coastal path runs directly through Branscombe. Step out from the property and connect to it via the valley walks.
Visit website →The Donkey Sanctuary
3 milesA lovely family day out near Hole Mill, The Donkey Sanctuary offers beautiful coastal walks, friendly donkeys, scenic gardens and a relaxed café just a short drive away.
Visit website →Nearby Towns
Sidmouth
15 min driveA charming and well-preserved Regency seaside town with independent shops, restaurants, and a lovely esplanade.
Lyme Regis
25 min driveThe Jurassic Coast's most famous town. Famous for fossil hunting on the beach, and home to the iconic Cobb harbour.
Other
Andy Hearn - Taxi
100mLocal taxi service — ideal for evenings at the pub. Call:07768845463
Karen's Cars - Taxi
Local taxi service — ideal for evenings at the pub.
Restaurants
The Pig At Combe
5 milesTHE PIGs are a bunch of laid-back hotels where the restaurant is at the heart of the house, tucked away in some of the most stunning corners of the British countryside and coast. From seriously good local food and knock-out drinks to cosy bedrooms and unmissable experiences, every visit invites you to settle in and slow down.
Visit website →The Pea Green Boat - Sidmouth
Located in the heart of Sidmouth’s seafront, the Pea Green Boat cafe bar is a relaxed space to enjoy great coffee, good company and a drink overlooking the sea
Visit website →