New Sheep.

We've got a few additions to our small flock of lawnmowers.  Bob, Lambkin and the Wyrd Sisters (and their lambs) have been joined by three rather posh pedigree Hampshire Down sheep together with their lambs.

We've no names for the new girls yet, or their lambs, so any suggestions?????

Safari in Devon?

Phil and I are planning our first child-free holiday for 18 years!  We're off to Kenya later in the year to spend some time with some friends and, the highlight of our trip, to head out on a camping Safari to the Masai Mara and Nakuru.

The idea of safari got me thinking about what we have right on our doorstep here in Devon.  Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks are blessed with dramatic scenery and a huge diversity of wildlife.  I've been doing a bit of research and have come up with a couple of interesting ideas for guests.

On Dartmoor, Dartmoor Nature Tours offer guided walks, at a lesiurely pace, including butterfly walks,  bird tours and funghi forays  with a guide who has lived and worked in the area for twenty years.

On Exmoor, Exmoor Wildlife Safaris can offer something slightly different.  They drive guests through old green lanes and tracks over moorland and through woodland in the heart of Exmoor (in long wheelbase Landrovers) where you may see ponies and deer in their natural environment.  The drivers have good knowledge of the wildlife on Exmoor.  The trip lasts about 3 hours and is suitable for all age groups - perfect for non-walkers!

For those who prefer something a little less strenous, why not try Exmoor Zoo, Dartmoor Zoological Park or Paignton Zoo - all within easy driving distance from The Barton and always popular with our guests, particularly those with younger children.