Testimonials
Some of the Reviews we have received
Below are some of the kind words we have received. You can find further recent reviews on Upfront Reviews by clicking on the logo below;
The Manor House
"Our first time staying at Cadhay and what a wonderful week we all had. The house and gardens are stunning. All the rooms are beautifully furnished and immaculate. Great location for exploring the area and an easy walk into Ottery for local amenities. The house is very well equipped to cater for such a large group. Beautiful bedrooms all with lovely bathrooms and an endless supply of hot water. Jayne and Rupert were very attentive and considerate hosts. We are already planning a return visit." 21st April 2024
"We have stayed many times at Cadhay over the past 14 years. We find it the best place for family gatherings from ages 2 years up to 80's. We have a large family and find all the rooms, so well appointed and comfortable, the majority with ensuite bathrooms. The kitchen is home from home and has us all sitting there in the mornings with coffee and crosswords.
The Gardens are out of this world, peaceful, beautiful and great for resetting from a busy life at home. We have finally learnt the rules of croquet and the kids love all the outdoor games, rounders, badminton, volley ball etc. Rupert and Jayne are very welcoming and do a great job of answering all my questions. It really is a very well oiled, slick operation. Even our group of 20+ plus kids all seem happy to chill there, remembering how to read books, play cards, etc.
Just to add we have also visited in December, where the gardens are equally as beautiful in a different way. The house is cosy with all the log burners easy to light. The dining hall, great place for large suppers. You wouldn't believe that a house of that size could be cosy but it most definitely is. We will be regular visitors for a very long time." 28th August 2024
"Cadhay is amazing. It manages to be huge and full of character, but cosy and welcoming. We loved it." 22nd September 2024
"This was our third visit to Cadhay. This time for an early October birthday celebration for my mother, aunt and partner . This was the first time we had seen the garden in flower as our earlier visits have been in December . The grounds are wonderful and the weather kind enough for us to play croquet by the moats. The highlight remains the wonderful atmosphere of the house. Cadhay looked finer than ever with much work evident . Beautifully maintained . As ever there were plentiful logs and lovely flower arrangements throughout. We had such a happy few days. Jayne and her wonderful team made us as welcome as always." 21st November 2024
"We all loved Cadhay, it is my most favourite place ever, so embedded in it's locale, I like to think if it always being there, waiting calmly in the green landscape. I can't think how the house could be any better and I think a lot of that is down to the hard work of everyone to make it a joy to be in, and the spirit of the place and it's extra special contents, and the guiding hand and vision of Rupert. I think it is the perfect blend of old and new, and it's so comfy and liveable-in as opposed to grand and slightly off-putting. I loved every single thing, including the trust placed in us. The Paulet room where we slept was my ideal in every way, large and square and filled with light and with a perfect view over parkland and the sheep! My Mum enjoyed the whole thing, although she has come home dissatisfied (with her house!) We all appreciated the physical warmth in the house, and all of us want a scullery! We debated hiding, until one of your gardeners pointed out the dogs would find us. All in all, it was a perfect week with perfect weather, and we won't forget it, so thank you, very sincerely, for sharing it with us." September 2024
"We had a full house and everyone was amazed by the manor. We loved the history, the furniture, the little touches everywhere reminding us of the past. We were warm and cosy in this vast house, which is no mean feast on a cold February weekend. Our host was attentive, friendly and a mine of information." 4th March 2023
"Our family of 21 had a glorious time at Cadhay, for the second time, lots of space for little groups to play games, strum on the piano, eat together, a brilliantly equipped kitchen, lovely garden and a really interesting 'museum'. Everyone, from the seven-year old upwards, appreciated the beautiful and precious furniture, antique and modern. We are saving up to come again. The health and safety measures are well thought out and everyone was safe and happy. " 22nd March 2023
"This was our thirteenth stay at Cadhay, which I think illustrates very effectively how much we like it. It is a grand and beautiful house and it feels like a privilege to stay there, but it is also cosy and comfortable. The house is always scrupulously clean and beautifully presented, and the owner and manager are helpful and attentive. We have always stayed in winter, and it is a great house for a cold-weather holiday as we stoke up the log burning stoves and enjoy having lots of indoor space for people to spread out. We have booked again for next year." 26th Feb 2023
Weddings and Occasions
"I chose Cadhay for my wedding venue and could not have been more impressed. Rupert and Jayne were extremely helpful and made the whole experience that much more special. The house is well kept and the grounds are stunning. Would highly recommend." 2nd July 2024
"Wanting to celebrate 50 years of marriage with our oldest and dearest friends we came across Cadhay House with room for 22 friends to stay we realised it was the perfect venue for us. We all arrived on the Friday evening to be able sit in the Sovereigns Court enjoying a Curry dinner provided by Jeffery's restaurant in Ottery. Saturday came with a tour of the house which was so intriguing that we didn't even notice the rain teeming down. That evening was our Black Tie Dinner in the stately dining room with delicious food provided by Ginny Lyons, who had been recommended by Jayne Covell, the house manager. When Sunday dawned sunny and warm we could really appreciate those extraordinary gardens in full bloom. Laser Clay Shooting and Croquet on the lawn filled the afternoon with pleasure until it was time for another feast from Ginny. All too soon we had to pack up and leave on the Monday morning for the next lucky visitors. A truly memorable weekend for everyone. Thank you Cadhay you are great!" 24th May 2024
"We chose to get married in the stunning roof chamber of Cadhay House and it was definitely the right decision. Many of our guests commented on how beautiful and well looked after the house, bedrooms and grounds were. The property struck the perfect balance of feeling like somewhere very special to celebrate, while also leaving us feeling very comfortable and at home for the weekend. Every bedroom is unique and well cared for and it was fantastic to feel like every guest was getting somewhere great to stay. Overall, the weekend was excellent value for money and Jayne was incredibly responsive and helpful in the run up and throughout our stay. We’d love to return as Cadhay is now incredibly special to us!" 19th April 2024
“We hired Cadhay for our wedding reception and turned our big day into a big weekend. The gardens were absolutely stunning and we were showered with compliments by our guests. (Which we later passed on to the gardeners). We filled all rooms including all the cottages and there was still plenty of space for everyone to find a quiet corner throughout the grounds. All staff at Cadhay are passionate about the house and it shows. I can fully recommend Cadhay for anyone planning their special day. 10/10." June 2023
“Cadhay House and gardens provided the most magical setting for our daughter’s wedding weekend. The house guests were amazed when they were shown to their beautiful bedrooms on Friday evening and enjoyed relaxing in the lounges as, although it is the most beautiful Tudor Manor House, it has a lovely homely feeling.
We were lucky enough to have sunny weather all weekend, so we used the lawn for the ceremony with the guests looking towards the stunning lake and the Apple Store looked really pretty when it was set up for the wedding breakfast.
The house guests enjoyed the use of the BBQ on Sunday and we had a memorable alfresco meal on Sunday evening which we set up in the enclosed garden by the kitchen area. Jayne was so helpful from the moment we first visited until the end of the wedding weekend. Communication was excellent, she responded immediately to any questions we had and the information provided was comprehensive.
Cadhay House is a perfect venue for a wedding, lots of the guests said it was the best wedding they had ever been to and I can’t imagine how it could have been any better. I would recommend it without hesitation." 27th May 2023
“We have previously taken our family - up to 22 of them - to Cadhay for two 80th birthday occasions. They were both wonderful and, this spring, we did not trouble to look for any other venue for the celebrations to mark our 60th Wedding Anniversary.
The house and its setting is magnificent, the bedrooms are attractively individual and the reception rooms are ideal for entertaining in style. The garden is large and the different 'rooms' in it are delightful.
Jayne could not have been more efficient in making the booking process easy and answering any and all enquiries. On our arrival Rupert was there to welcome us and, instantly, we felt that we were coming home for another memorable family occasion - and so it proved. If you want to have a really, really special holiday which will be remembered for years by all those lucky enough to have been there, don't mess about searching for venues: just get on the internet and book Cadhay. You will not be disappointed." 21st April 2023
The Coach House
"Cadhay is a magical place. The peace and tranquillity is enhanced by the beautiful gardens. It is the holiday location you never want to leave. The whole of Cadhay’s team are brilliant." 12th June 2024
"A magnificent house and gardens to stay for a weekend. The Coach house is like a home from home and the team at Cadhay could not be more helpful - thanks to the whole team." 19th June 2024
"From the first correspondence to when we left was excellent. The house was done to a high standard and had everything you would need so felt like home from home. There is plenty of room for people to have their own space if need be or all together in the sitting room. Excellent place to relax." 30th June 2024
"Our fourth visit and as comfortable and relaxing as ever. A great place to relax, welcoming, lovely gardens and a variety of places to visit nearby, including walks and nature reserves. A day at the seaside is also a must."
"Host is very helpful and welcoming. Can't recommend too highly." 29th September 2024
"We had a wonderful, relaxing week here with friends. The booking arrangements were trouble-free and the Coach House was spacious, comfortable and well-equipped. Can certainly recommend Cadhay and would be happy to return." 23rd October 2024
“The Coach House is light and airy and very well maintained and presented. It has everything you need for a thoroughly enjoyable stay. The grounds are beautiful and the house looks directly onto the lovely main drive.
It is also a great location for exploring with some great walks and beaches nearby. Highly recommended." 17 June 2023
“We’ve been to both Cadhay Coach House and The Stables several times since 2014 and it has always been a very enjoyable experience. The gardens are kept beautifully by Dave and his team and provide a peaceful holiday environment. The house itself is extremely comfortable and roomy and many essential items are provided. There are some lovely walks in the area including to the nearby village of Ottery St Mary. Ottery has all the necessary local shops including a supermarket, butcher, baker, cafe and deli. A great place for a holiday." 21st May 2023
“Another fantastic week in Devon, in beautiful surroundings with superbly maintained gardens. The house is very comfortable, a real fire and plenty of space with pretty walks on the doorstep, a nearby town with great restaurants, pubs, cafes, shops and farm shops. The beautiful coast is in striking distance and just waiting to be explored. Can't wait to go again." 19th Feb 2023
The Stables
"The Stables offers spacious and comfortable accommodation, in beautiful surroundings, at a very affordable price. Our three-generation family have recently returned from another memorable stay at Cadhay, and are already planning our next trip back. Staying at Cadhay is wonderfully relaxing and Rupert and Jayne are wonderful hosts, making you feel relaxed and welcome." 22nd April 2024
"This is a wonderful place to stay. Accommodation cleanliness, beautiful gardens and the friendliness and kindness of all who work here is amazing. It is our favourite place to stay." 12th May 2024
"Best hol accommodation ever? Don't take our word for it, go - and be impressed (read the visitors book!) by the huge number of repeat bookings. We hope to add to that number. Beautifully appointed property in peaceful and picturesque surroundings of Cadhay's walled garden." 18th June 2024
“Visited on three occasions and have always found the property to be comfortable and cleaned to a high standard. The kitchen door leads out into the allotment area of the walled garden which is a highly relaxing view, thanks to the gardening expertise and work of the two gardeners. The manor house and gardens are worthwhile visiting on Fridays. "21st May 2023
“We had a wonderful stay. A gorgeous location, excellent communication & a lovely cottage. Thanks so much! "4th May 2023
“We had a lovely stay in the stables at Cadhay House. The accommodation was spacious, clean and good value for money. We would happily book to come back again. "19th April 2023
“Everything at Cadhay is great, and our stay at The Stables could not have been better. The rooms, facilities and cleanliness were exceptional - all this surrounded by a beautiful garden, close to Ottery St Mary and half an hour from Exeter or the sea. Thanks to the owners and their staff." 25th June 2022
“We had an excellent stay as a family of 5 with 2 small children. The property is much larger than expected from the photos and has lovely antique furniture pieces. Cadhay house, it’s grounds and gardens are beautiful. Great to go on guided tour of Cadhay house and to explore the gardens. Jayne the manager and Rupert the owner were very friendly and helpful. Would recommend and would love to return. "11th June 2022
“A Sanctuary. One of the most pleasurable places to stay. Part of a small country estate the cottage is overlooking the walled garden area so there is always gardening activity throughout the seasons. The cottage is spacious, comfortable and clean. The gardeners and staff who work daily are extremely helpful.." 15th May 2022
The Cider Press
"The Cider Press is an excellent place to stay. The location is beautiful & scenery gorgeous too. I particularly loved seeing the sheep in the nearby field." 12th April 2024
"My Dad stayed in the Cider Press cottage for my wedding weekend. He loved the private and well kept accommodation. He was bowled over by the incredible grounds and would highly recommend this cottage to other potential visitors." 2nd July 2024
"Beautiful cottage situated in an idyllic position. The views are amazing looking down the valley and up to the hill beyond. This is truly a lovely place to stay." 18th August 2024
"We love the Cider Press at Cadhay. Near enough to everything you need, but far enough to only hear the birds and sheep."
"As ever, ( this was our 7th stay), everything was lovely. Not too far from the trunk routes for the bigger towns, its situation is just about ideal. Lots of dog walking right on the doorstep and the (relative) bustle of Sidmouth only a 15 minute drive away.
Our next visit is being planned already." 16th October 2024
“A perfectly relaxing break at Cadhay, self-catering but all essentials provided, a comfortable countryside retreat. The Cider Press is set in the grounds of the Cadhay Estate with access to some interesting countryside walks, and when wishing to explore further afield is in an ideal location for travel to the coast or other areas of interest in Devon." 2nd June 2023
“Our sixth visit says it all really! Cadhay is peaceful, clean, near enough to stuff to be convenient, yet away enough to be tranquil. Back again in September, can’t wait." 14th May 2023
“Comfortable, well equipped, cosy. We enjoyed our stay very much. Pleasant walks nearby and stunning scenery and walks along the coast." 27th Mar 2023
“We enjoyed our stay at the Cider Press during a bracingly cold week in January. The supply of wood and the wood burning stove made it a welcoming cosy place to chill out after some lovely country walks with our Labrador .Its proximity to Sidmouth made it a special place to stay. Everyone from Cadhay made one feel very welcome. I would recommend the Cider Press to anyone who want to get away from urban life." 24th Jan 2023
