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Gitcombe Estate ourdoor pool, Gitcombe House and land

Gitcombe Estate is an exceptional collection of nine luxury holiday cottages in the secluded countryside of Cornworthy, near Totnes. With a variety of flexible accommodation, ranging from spacious barn conversions to cosy cottages, Gitcombe Estate is the ideal destination for a multigenerational family break or romantic getaway. Not only does the estate boast beautiful properties, but there’s also a wonderful plethora of facilities to enjoy and revel in, both indoors and outdoors. So, although Gitcombe is located near some of South Devon’s most popular towns, you can happily spend a holiday here without even leaving the estate – bliss!

‘Gitcombe’ is run by Peter O’Brien and Emma Banks, alongside Peter’s father Rodney. A family-run holiday home complex, the team go the extra mile to deliver exceptional holidays that leave you planning your next getaway before you’ve even left the vicinity.

Gitcombe Estate map


Use our quicklinks to find out about a particular topic, or continue reading for our complete guide to Gitcombe Estate:


Facilities at Gitcombe Estate

Come rain or shine, whether you’re looking to holiday with kids, as a couple or large group, there really is something for everyone here. From swimming pools and hot tubs to the indoor children’s soft-play area, you’ll find yourself relaxing with the ease of your holiday requirements being met at every point of your getaway. Read below for a breakdown of the outdoor and indoor facilities available at Gitcombe.

Communal outdoor facilities:

The estate offers a multitude of outdoor facilities, with many open even on the rainiest of days. These include:

·      Heated outdoor swimming pool

The heated outdoor swimming pool is open from the last Bank Holiday in May to the second week in September, subject to weather. During these times, the pool is open daily depending on the weather conditions.

Gitcombe Estate communal outdoor pool

·      Decked terrace and lounging chairs

The decked terrace surrounds the outdoor swimming pool, ideal for lounging round the pool on balmy summer days.

·      Hot tub

The hot tub is a wonderful spot to relax and even boasts views that stretch out as far as Dartmoor!

Gitcombe Estate communal hot tub

·      All-weather champion size tennis court

The sun doesn’t need to be shining to enjoy some friendly holiday competition on the all-weather tennis court, and with rackets and balls provided, you can enjoy a match or two throughout your stay. 

Gitcombe Estate tennis court

·      Basketball net on the tennis court

On the tennis court there is also a basketball net, so you can mix and match your holiday games during your stay.

·      Boules Court

For a more leisurely activity, play a traditional game of boules. Equipment is provided so you don’t need to worry about packing equipment to bring with you.

·      Swings and adventure playground

Children can roam and let their imaginations run wild in the family-friendly outdoor areas, playing on the swings and hand-carved adventure playground. The wooden playground features a pirate ship, train, tree house, throne and more – plenty to keep children occupied for hours!

Gitcombe Estate picnic and play area

·      14 acres of grounds

Roam around the gardens and enjoy a picnic on the grass for a traditional leisurely activity. From the grounds you will find footpaths heading out to surrounding countryside and traditional pubs, and you’ll often find a wealth of nature along these trails so be sure to keep an eye out!

Communal indoor facilities:

Gitcombe Estate boasts a variety of wonderful indoor leisure facilities, open daily throughout the year from 8:30am – 8:30pm, these include:

·      Heated indoor swimming pool

Make a splash in the indoor swimming pool, surrounded by a non-slip decking and loungers for your relaxation.

Gitcombe Estate indoor pool

·      Family size Klafs sauna and steam rooms

When you’ve ventured out on blustery beach walks, there isn’t a better way to warm up and rest tired legs than by lounging in the sauna and steam rooms.

Gitcombe Estate sauna

·      Changing rooms, WCs and showers

Don’t worry about waiting to shower when you get back to your holiday cottage, there are communal facilities by the pool for your convenience.

·      Children’s soft-playroom

The soft-playroom is suitable for those under the age of 5, a wonderful area for kids to play safely and meet other children on holiday.

Gitcombe Estate children's play area

·      Children’s rocking chairs

Located next to the soft-play area, there are wild animal rocking chairs handmade by ‘Newmakers’, a local Devon company.

Gitcombe Estate soft play and rocking toys

·      Table football

Next to the soft-playroom and rocking chairs, you can find a table football, great for older children and teenagers, fun for a bit of friendly competition.

·      Toy Shed

Buckets and spades, windbreaks, crabbing lines, body boards, tennis rackets and balls are available for days out exploring the nearby coast and countryside.


Where is Gitcombe Estate?

Gitcombe Estate is nestled within the rolling South Devon countryside, conveniently located within easy reach of the harbour town of Dartmouth and market town of Totnes. The riverside of Villages of Tuckenhay and Dittisham are both close by, as well as the hamlet of Cornworthy.

Directions

For sat nav users travelling to Gitcombe, use the postcode TQ9 7HH.

Alternatively, use the interactive map below for directions from your location.


Things to do near Gitcombe Estate

Explore the towns of Totnes and Dartmouth

Explore the area on foot or discover the neighbouring coast and countryside by car, when you’re not bathing in the sauna or pool of course. The historic naval town of Dartmouth and the eclectic market town of Totnes are both situated along the River Dart, and both boast fantastic independent shops and tea rooms. So, why not enjoy an indulgent Devonshire cream tea between boutiques! You can even travel by boat from Totnes to Dartmouth if you’d like to explore both areas, taking in views of Dittisham and Tuckenhay on route.

For more inspiration on how to spend your time in these unique towns, read our handy blogs:

Go crabbing!

Crabbing at Dittisham near Gitcombe Estate

When holidaying in South Devon, crabbing is a must! One of our favourite places to catch mighty-clawed crustaceans is at Dittisham. The pontoon is a fantastic spot to drop your line, and you can enjoy a refreshing takeaway drink as you do so from the Ferry Boat Inn, often referred to as the FBI by locals. Click here to read our South Devon crabbing guide for our ultimate tips!

Dine by the River Dart

For a hearty waterside pub meal where you can sit outside and enjoy sweeping views of the River Dart, we recommend heading to Tuckenhay and dining at The Malsters Arms. This traditional inn is a hidden gem and is much loved by locals and holidaymakers alike. There is ample outdoor seating, great for balmy summer days.

Head to the beach

Blackpool Sands near Gitcombe Estate

No matter what the weather, a trip to the beach is fantastic, and where better than Blackpool Sands in Start Bay. Not only is this a popular spot for outdoor events, including cinema screenings and music festivals during the summer, but the beach even boasts a seaside shop and one of our favourite South Devon beach cafés. Fantastic for watersport lovers, you can hire kayaks and paddleboards at Blackpool Sands during the summer months. However, in the winter, order a cup of hot chocolate (or pack a warming flask) and enjoy wellington walks along the sand and fine shingle.

Enjoy some rest and relaxation

luxury spa near Gitcombe Estate

Sometimes you just need a little R&R, and what better than a massage at one of South Devon’s best luxury spas or a spot of golf at one of the region’s best golf courses. The Dartmouth Hotel, Golf and Spa boasts fabulous relaxation, massage and leisure facilities, a golf course and driving range – perfect for romantic getaways and holidays with friends.

Visit Woodlands Family Theme Park

Woodlands near Gitcombe Estate

When looking for an exciting activity for kids, Woodlands Family Theme Park is an excellent choice! From thrilling water slides to farm animals and rides, a miniature village and boat rides, there is so much to be enjoyed for all ages. On-site there are ample eateries, but picnics are also welcomed.


Gitcombe Estate Holiday Cottages

The properties at Gitcombe are superb, and you can easily tell how much care and attention has been put into every aspect of the estate as soon as you arrive. From a range of idyllic country cottages to the cosy Garden House, modern Gitcombe Retreat and opulent Gitcombe House, you can book one or multiple properties within the estate dependent on your party size or holiday requirements.

Gitcombe cottages

Gitcombe Estate cottages

The idyllic cottages sleep 4 to 6 guests and boast charming interiors, some even featuring a roaring open fire – perfect for winter. These properties are ideal for romantic breaks or young family holidays, featuring a master bedroom and twin room/s.

The Garden House

Gitcombe Estate Garden House

Garden House is an inviting, cosy cottage with a wood-burning stove. Sleeping 8, the property features four bedrooms and spacious open-plan living for a comfortable getaway. With an enclosed terrace to the rear of the property, complete with Weber BBQ and outdoor seating, you can revel in the sunshine on your private terrace.

Gitcombe Retreat

Gitcombe Retreat interior on Gitcombe Estate

This luxury modern holiday home features four bedrooms and sleeps 8 guests. Indoors the stunning open-plan living room, contemporary fireplace, gorgeous wooden beams, high ceilings and beautiful bedrooms invite you to get cosy and relax. Outdoors there’s a spacious terrace and private hot tub which overlooks the neighbouring countryside, so you can sip on sundowners at sunset and cheers to the holiday – paradise!

Gitcombe Retreat is also ideal for those with accessibility needs, as it has been designed with a ramp, ground floor bedroom and wet room. To find out more, read our accessible holidays blog.

Gitcombe House

Gitcombe House

The definition of opulence and sophistication, Gitcombe House is a fabulous Grade II listed Georgian house that sleeps 13 guests. Boasting original features, ornate fireplaces, wonderful large windows and a fantastic AGA, this characterful property is elegant, welcoming and cosy. The living areas are spacious and encourage you to spend time together baking in the kitchen, dining together at dinner or cosying up on the sofas. With a large enclosed garden, children can roam free and play in the great outdoors.


A Q&A with the managers of Gitcombe Estate

As a family run destination, Peter and Emma’s keen eye for detail and welcoming arrival will have you settled in swiftly, and you’ll find them on-hand throughout your stay to make sure your getaway runs smoothly.

We spoke to Emma, the estate manager, who gave us an insight into why a holiday to Gitcombe Estate is so special, proving you don’t need to rummage for your passport for an unforgettable break.

  • How did you find the treasure trove that is Gitcombe Estate, and what was it like when you first viewed it?

Farming father and son, Rodney and Peter, were travelling around South Devon some seven years ago when they stumbled upon the estate. At the time, Gitcombe was a self-catering complex. However the properties were a little tired and in need of some TLC. Peter and Rodney brought the estate in 2013, and have now created a beautiful collection of nine luxury holiday homes with a variety of quality facilities.

  • Can you tell us a bit about the history of Gitcombe Estate?

Before becoming a self-catering estate approximately 20 years ago, Gitcombe was originally a farm. It had all the elements to become a luxury holiday cottage complex, with a little imagination, and there are still many references to the farm. Gitcombe House is the original Georgian farmhouse and is now a fantastic family-friendly holiday home.

Gitcombe House on Gitcombe Estate

  • From a Grade II listed manor house to the modern design of Gitcombe Retreat, the mix of traditional and modern architecture works in perfect harmony with each other, how did you manage to achieve this?

The estate is spread over 15 acres. The old and the new are a marriage of elegance and harmony, they complement each other by being such high standard in everything, from soft furnishings to accessible bathrooms.

  • How hands-on are you in the day to day running of Gitcombe Estate?

Peter lives on site and works tirelessly to make sure everything is spotless, overseeing a slick operation that leaves guests feeling relaxed and cared for. From arranging linen to maintaining the lawns, Peter is on-hand to take care of your holiday requirements, so you can make the very most of your stay and feel at ease.

  • From building the estate to meeting and greeting customers, what has been your favourite part of creating a luxury holiday complex that appeals to so many?

The most rewarding part so far has been the making of Gitcombe Retreat with its accessible design. We work hard to ensure our guests have a hassle-free holiday ​by ensuring they have everything they require. By offer​ing an easy access accommodation option, it means we can cater for all.

Gitcombe Retreat

  • What makes Gitcombe Estate unique in your eyes?

It appeals to all age groups and party makeups, from groups of friends and couples, to multigenerational families. The location is sensational, with something for everyone!

  • Do you have any top local tips for those looking to explore the nearby region when staying at Gitcombe?

We offer a concierge style plan your stay service. I will arrange anything to suit your holiday requirements, from unique shopping experiences and manicures, to rock pooling and private catering experiences. For more information, click here.

  • For guests looking to stay during the festive season, what can guests expect from a Christmas break at Gitcombe?

Christmas trees, log burning fires, carol singing at the local pub and your catering needs arranged for you, should you wish. Local catering company Dartmouth Fine Foods can deliver everything you require for an indulgent feast! From crackers to stuffing, homemade condiments and all, you can look forward to delicious local food on your Christmas break. For more information about the holiday cottage services on offer, take a read of Gitcombe’s services at your cottage page here.


Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat, family getaway or dream destination for a special occasion, Gitcombe Estate boasts all the elements for a wonderful holiday, and with the help of Peter and Emma, you’re sure to have a truly relaxing break. To book your Gitcombe getaway, click here.

Book your Gitcombe holiday today