I’m a mum of three – here’s how to do a family holiday in Devon that keeps everyone entertained

ON the holidays I took before having kids, my head would be swayed by swanky facilities like a swim-up bar, infinity pool or luxe spa.

But fast-forward three kids and my priorities have changed.

Caroline Iggulden

Which is why Compton Pool Farm in South Devon was an ideal pick for our multi-generational getaway, in celebration of my parents’ golden wedding anniversary.

Arriving at the rustic-chic building for our weekend break, I danced a jig of excitement as I spotted child-friendly black-out blinds in the bedrooms.

It meant us adults were in for a blissful few days of lie-ins — rare for any parent of three.

There are ten cottages at Compton Pool Farm, ranging in size from one-bedroom to the five-bedroom farm-house we were staying in.

While the beautiful farmhouse had all the cosy touches you would hope for — wood-burning stove, warm Aga at the centre of the kitchen, and pretty private garden — it also came with all the gear you need for youngsters, such as high-chairs and kids’ cutlery, avoiding the need for us to lug all that with us.

There is even a secret playroom for children, which was a delight to discover.

I won’t say where it is hidden, and spoil the surprise, but it certainly kept the little ones entertained while we prepped food in the kitchen or shared some peaceful time with a glass of wine in the living room in front of the roaring fire.

Younger kids aren’t the only ones who have been considered here, though.

The quiet cottage, nestled in stunning countryside, also boasts a heated indoor pool — perfect for any rainy days — and a games room with air-hockey table, toys, books, table tennis and a snooker table.

And there are 14 acres of stunning grounds to roam backing on to woodland and with a huge lake filled with wildlife.

Within the gardens, you’ll find a hand-built playground, modelled on local attraction Compton Castle, as well as a trampoline, football pitch and tennis court.

Best of all, though, at the centre of the property lies the orchard, home to friendly pot-bellied pigs, goats and rabbits, all of whom love to be picked up and cuddled.

Animal feed is left in every cottage so kids can really get involved — as mine did.

Each morning, they would pull on their wellies and run out to greet the animals, stroking them and scattering feed around the pens.

If your kids really love interacting with animals, it’s worth taking a trip to Pennywell Farm, a 30-minute drive away.

You’ll be able to stroke donkeys, Highland cattle and ponies, among other cute creatures, but the miniature pigs were the biggest hit with my kids.

Pig-racing events

On top of lots of piggy cuddles, there’s regular pig-racing events where little ones can cheer for their favourites.

For more exotic animals, Paignton Zoo (£58.50 for a family of four, paigntonzoo.org.uk) is a short drive away, where you can spot rhinos, orangutans and flamingos, or if you’re a train lover there are great steam rail rides to be had nearby.

And you’ll want to venture to the seaside if visiting in summer.

Some of Devon’s best beaches are right on your doorstep — the closest, Hollicombe, is only a ten-minute drive away.

Devon’s “English Riviera” mini-climate also makes it perfect for a winter break, like ours.

On wet days we visited Plymouth’s aquarium, as well as the quirky, shop-cum-museum House of Marbles in Newton Abbot.

But nothing topped the tranquility of a night on the sofa with a board game.

And that’s what my parents have planned next summer for their return visit.

Except this time, they’ll be staying in a — somewhat more peaceful — one-bedroom cottage.

We’re not a little envious.

Maybe we’ll have to book too.

Alamy

Visit Plymouth’s aquarium on wet days[/caption]