59 HEN CELEBRATIONS THE LEAPING TROUT TRANSFORMED INTO LUXURY ACCOMMODATION An iconic thatched pub that had been derelict for several years has undergone a six-figure facelift and will re-open as a stunning place to stay for groups of friends and families. New life has been breathed into the historic The Leaping Trout, formerly known as The Trout Inn, a Grade 11-listed building located in the Exe Valley at Bickleigh, Tiverton, following a year-long renovation project. It’s now available for private hire sleeping up to 30 people, offering an authentic old pub experience in a luxurious setting. The pub was purchased by business partners Brian Lord and Michael Mourant in 2020. It had been closed for two years and was in a state of disrepair. The pair felt it deserved to be refurbished and brought back to its former glory. They committed to investing £1/2 million, employing local builders with expertise in renovating old buildings, and have created a stunning private house with 12 bedrooms, most with en suites, a large farmhouse kitchen, vintage-style cinema, private bar, dining terrace, gardens, cosy seating areas and an array of extras like vintage pub games and a pool table, perfect for a hen weekend. The stunning spaces celebrate natural, eco-friendly local materials that compliment the history of the building. Mr Lord said, “When we bought the pub, we knew there was potential to create something very special for large groups of friends to enjoy. Every inch of this building has been renovated. It’s been a huge project, but very rewarding and we’re delighted with the result.” The building still retains the cob walls and a reef-thatched roof, old casement windows, inglenook fireplaces with bread ovens and chambered cross beams. Brian said: “It’s an unusual concept, creating private accommodation for large groups in a pub, but it’s certainly unique and we hope that people will come from far and wide to enjoy this incredible and luxurious building.” Project manager and interior designer Alice Deuchar says, “The rooms are timeless and rustic offering incredible spaces to relax. Upcycling and recycling have been key and we’ve managed to source many wonderful things such as antique bedsteads, a wooden spiral staircase, Chesterfield sofas, chairs, freestanding antique baths, and many other gorgeous items which add to a sense of luxury. We found the cinema seats online - everything is vintage and upcycled and it adds to the romance of the building. To book, visit www.theleapingtrout.co.uk Enjoy one of Devon’s finest afternoon teas in the elegant conservatory at Hartnoll Hotel located in Tiverton. Enjoy a delicious selection of freshly baked scones with clotted cream, jam, homemade cakes and finger sandwiches accompanied by a selection of teas, a glass of champagne or even Exmoor gin. Prices start from £9.50 per person for a cream tea and £18.50 per person for an afternoon tea, www.hartnollhotel.co.uk/ restaurant/devons-best-afternoon-tea Plan the perfect hen event CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES WHAT’S NEW? POLURRIAN ON THE LIZARD UNVEILS HEN PARTY SPECIAL Why not celebrate at Polurrian on the Lizard? Enjoy some time with the girls (and guys) in the stunning surroundings of this Cornish-based hotel. The Hen Party Special package includes: ❤ Chilled prosecco or a signature cocktail on arrival ❤ A one-night stay with dinner (to the value of £20 per adult), bed and breakfast ❤ A dance or yoga class or a surfing lesson ❤ A bottomless afternoon tea ❤ A cocktail-making class ❤ 30-minute treatment for the hens and a one-hour treatment for the bride-to-be ❤ Full use of the health club facilities throughout the stay *This package is just £367 per room based on two people sharing. *This offer is subject to availability and is valid until further notice. *Supplements apply to larger room categories. *This offer requires a 30% deposit at the time of booking and is non-refundable and non-transferable. To book, call 01326 240 421 or visit www.polurrianhotel.com Relax and unwind in the stunning spa at Northcote Manor nestled in the North Devon countryside and be pampered with a variety of facials, massages, and body and nail treatments, https:// northcotemanor.co.uk/spa www.gettyimages.co.uk
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