Bedroom details
2 Bedrooms (Sleeps 4 + cot)
Bedroom 2
1 x zip and link
Discover our 18th century cottage, originally an Old Forge, settled in the sweet village of Brompton Ralph, tucked away in the picturesque Brendon Hills where ascents, valleys and spectacular views abound. With flickering wood burning stoves, elegant country-inspired interiors, traditional wooden and slate floors, and a dreamy cottage garden, escape the ordinary in pursuit of a rural getaway like no other. Warmly welcoming parties of four, our characterful abode enjoys a gloriously tranquil location, well situated for wandering both the beautifully untouched Exmoor National Park and stunning Quantock Hills, whilst days spent roaming the coast are within easy reach by car. For the seekers of rural romance, embrace countryside living at Empyrean, where you'll hear the gentle trot of equine friends and hedgerows alive with nature...
Special 'Just for Two' rate
A special 'Just for Two' rate applies if only two guests are staying at Empyrean. The discount off the advertised rate is 10% and only applies out of peak weeks, bank holidays and school holidays.
When Empyrean is booked for two guests, this is on the basis that only the master bedroom is used during your stay.
If you have any queries or would like to book, please don't hesitate to get in touch on 01872 553 491 or email enquiries@boutique-retreats.co.uk.
Living
Step inside the snug country living room, where exquisite green tones and rustic interiors promise an inviting setting for those heavenly slow living moments. Featuring window shutters, a charming tartan coffee table, unique antique pieces and two gorgeous cream sofas topped with plump cushions in floral fabrics, there is plenty of space for everybody to stretch out in style. Central to this cosy nook, is the handsome wood-burning stove, a most welcome addition in the colder months. French doors lead out onto the divine walled courtyard, where you can admire magnificent leafy vistas and delight in the soothing sound of birdsong.
For entertainment, you'll find a selection of games, a Smart TV and a Sonos speaker for movie nights, watching your favourite box sets, or creating your perfect staycation soundtrack.
Upstairs, you'll discover a comfortable office space complete with an antique writing desk and chair, a dream for chronicling your travel reveries, whilst a jewel-green velvet corner seat is the perfect place to settle with your current page-turner.
Eating
The tastefully modern yet rustic kitchen with an integrated Belfast sink, sleek marbled worktops and bespoke wooden cabinets in sage hues, is a cottagecore dream. You'll find all you could possibly need for crafting culinary treasures, including an oven, induction hob, microwave, and dishwasher.
The oak dining table sits beside another wood-burning stove, where a delightful fireplace features a concealed bread oven - an idyllic spot for savouring views of the garden and countryside beyond through the open stable door whilst enjoying leisurely breakfasts with loved ones.
An additional fridge freezer can be found in the garage, along with a washing machine and tumble dryer.
Sleeping
Gazing out onto the cottage garden, the divine master bedroom is dressed in soft cream tones. Complete with a vaulted ceiling, original beams and botanical prints, this boudoir promises only the most restful slumbers. You'll find a sumptuous king-sized bed, two elegant wooden bedside tables, a full-length mirror, hanging space and a bijou antique dressing table.
The lovely second bedroom with a zip-and-link bed is adorned in an assortment of calming green tones, ensuring a wonderfully serene space to settle after days spent exploring the countryside. You'll find two bedside tables, a Georgian chest of drawers and a quirky bamboo hanging rail for storing your belongings.
Both beds come swathed in luxurious linens, cloud-soft bedding and opulent cushions and throws.
Bathing
In the pretty family bathroom, you'll find a beautiful and inviting free-standing rolltop bathtub for restorative, indulgent soaks.
Additionally, there is a separate shower along with a heated rail for keeping keep towels warm and fluffy.
Outside space
Uncover the enchanting walled courtyard and cottage garden which promises a peaceful setting for moments of relaxation.
In the summer months, majestic trees provide dappled shade and privacy, while a generous lawn is a wonderful setting for picnics.
Within the walled courtyard, the original 'Old Forge', is a wicker dining table, the perfect space to barbecue or lounge with drinks and nibbles, or simply relish nights spent under dark starry skies in all seasons.
A secure garage provides generous storage space for those with motorcycles, bicycles, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, surf boards, or just your wet or muddy outdoor attire!
Babies and children
Children and babies are most welcome at Empyrean, please bring your own baby equipment with you.
Dogs
Empyrean is one of our pet-free properties.
Mobile reception
Empyrean has Wi-Fi, so if you need to stay in touch with the outside world, you can, but please be aware that due to its delightfully rural location, mobile signal can be patchy at times.
Parking
You will find off street parking in front of the garage doors for one car, however additional roadside parking is available adjacent to the property.
In the Area
Nestled on the border between Devon and Somerset, Empyrean resides in the sweet village of Brompton Ralph, a bucolic, secluded and gloriously peaceful setting. A stone's throw from the breath-taking wilds of Exmoor, a designated International Dark Sky Reserve, where dramatic landscapes and free-roaming ponies make for mesmeric scenery.
For those yearning for a traditional country inn, a short ten-minute drive away is The Notley Arms, a classically cosy establishment with a beautiful beer garden bounded by a bubbling stream and a heart-warming traditional menu. Slightly further afield, you'll discover a myriad of other fine pubs to choose from.
In the pretty village of Dulverton is Woods, an award-winning restaurant focused on delivering a from farm to fork menu, offering dishes brimming with flair, and beside the river you'll find The Bridge Inn for excellent pub grub. On the doorstep of Brompton Ralph, is the William Sitwell Supper Club, a wonderful spot for self-proclaimed foodies. Head into the heart of Exmoor and explore the chocolate box villages of Winsford, Withypool and Dunster with its National Trust castle, take in the 12th century clapper bridge at Tarr Steps, stroll on the beach and enjoy freshly caught seafood and al-fresco dining at Porlock Weir, or visit Hestercombe Gardens which showcases four centuries of garden design as well as a contemporary art gallery.
Only thirty minutes away by car is the riverside town of Taunton with excellent amenities, a variety of independent shops, and plentiful eateries, including the Michelin recommended bistro Augustus and Parisian inspired restaurant, Brazz.