We converted Old Armoury Barn from a dilapidated shell almost 6 years ago now. As a listed building in a conservation area we had to work closely with the planners and when it came to roof lights the requirements were particularly demanding. We used Lumen roof lights from therooflightcompany.co.uk and 6 years on I can say that they were one of the best investments we made. The light floods in and I have had almost zero maintenance – I have re-seated two seals in 6 years taking under 5 minutes total. 

We were so impressed we also used them for The Coffin Makers Barn and will be using them in future builds too. They may be expensive, but you really do get what you paid for.

It has been claimed that some extreme athletes find the immense repetition required to develop and sustain excellence a transcendental or spiritual experience. I have never been sufficiently driven or focused to achieve anything like these heights but do find the weekly ironing of bed linen for a dozen guests is beginning to become less dull as I listen to radio programmes that otherwise I would not find time for. Whilst I doubt that I shall find enlightenment at the ironing board, I may find education and enjoyment.

Om.

After lunch today I was weeding a border that had been left alone for almost a month. I was struck by how lush the weeds were, they looked much like those mysterious, expensive salad leaves from a luxury retailer. Perhaps I should have bagged a few and put them out for sale.

Whilst weeding I found a splendid large green frog, perhaps he is the one who has been croaking of late, and also a juvenile newt approximately 3 inches long. Both were transported to some dense, shaded leaves adjacent to the pond.

Twice in the past week we have heard the bullfrog croaking at the side of the pond. Were this mid to late February it would not be surprising to hear their mating call, but in late August it seems a bit strange. Wonder if we will get spawn in September?

The Old Armoury is a Grade II listed building that was re-built in the early 1800’s and sympathetically restored in 2010-2015 after a prolonged period of neglect. Parts of the building date from the 17^th and 18^th centuries and dwellings are known to have been on this site for hundreds of years previously. The Old Armoury is today a comfortable family home where the many original features are complemented by modern additions

The Old Armoury Barn is thought to date from after 1750. Initially an industrial or agricultural building, in the early 20^th century it formed part of an important tannery. Restored and renovated between 2012 and 2014 using locally sourced materials and craftsmen, today The Old Armoury Barn is a luxurious base sleeping four from which to explore and enjoy the rich surrounding natural environment of the Dartmoor National Park and South Devon.

Situated on the Southern slopes of the Dartmoor uplands, The Old Armoury Barn is in the centre of the thriving moorland town of Ashburton. It is within easy reach of all parts of the Dartmoor National Park, the South Hams and the South Devon coast. You could be relaxing at The Old Armoury Barn within 3 hours of leaving London.

To maximise your vacation time we can take delivery of an online grocery order, make a reservation in one of the many recommended local restaurants or one of the ancient pubs nearby. We are within 7 miles of Newton Abbot train station (2.5 hour direct journey from Paddington) and 24 miles from Exeter Airport and can arrange collection if needed.

If you would like a home made meal ready upon arrival – or for a special occasion – we can cater for most requirements. If you would like the fridge stocked with just breakfast or filled with quality local produce, please ask for more details.

There is much to see and do in the Dartmoor National Park and the South Hams, please see the information on the “Activities” and “What’s On” pages. If you would like a guide for a walk upon the moor, drive to the beach, visit to an event or simply for company this too can be arranged.