Lakeside living at Shepherd’s Delight

On arrival, we were warmly welcomed by owner Paul, who introduced us to the farm’s sweetest new resident, Agnes, a two-week-old alpaca. After a stroll through the fields, we caught our first glimpse of Shepherd’s Delight perched beside a peaceful lake with far-reaching views across the Devonshire countryside. It was every bit as idyllic as we’d imagined.

After dropping our bags, we set off on a wander around the lake to take in our surroundings. The afternoon sun was shining, and we discovered countless spots to pause and admire the view, from shady corners beneath the trees to sunny banks beside the water.

Back at the hideaway, we settled in and prepared a simple pasta supper to enjoy alfresco, accompanied by a glass of something special to the soundtrack of birdsong. As evening drew in, we played cards inside the cosy shepherd’s hut before turning in for the night. The bed was unbelievably comfortable, and we slept soundly in this peaceful pocket of paradise.

The next morning began slowly. We made breakfast and carried it outside to enjoy beneath the trees, watching the sunlight dance across the lake. After savouring our morning coffee, we packed our bags and headed off to explore. A short drive brought us to Killerton, the National Trust estate famed for its beautiful gardens and historic house. Blessed with glorious weather, we spent the morning wandering through the grounds before relaxing on the lawns in the sunshine.

For lunch, we headed to The Agricultural Inn, a charming local pub where we found a spot in the flower-filled beer garden. Sharing a selection of small plates and a generous portion of chips, the food was hearty, wholesome, and exactly what we were looking for after our morning outdoors. 

Back at Shepherd’s Delight, we made the most of the afternoon sunshine with a row across the lake. Gliding past water lilies and beneath the branches of a graceful weeping willow, it felt wonderfully tranquil. Afterwards, we wandered through the nearby woodland and meadow, climbing gently uphill for sweeping views across the surrounding countryside bathed in golden-hour light. As evening approached, we took drinks and nibbles down to the jetty and sat beside the shimmering water, watching the world gently drift by. Later, we returned to our hideaway to prepare dinner in the bijou yet well-equipped kitchen before dining outside once again.

Dessert was a hideaway classic, s’mores toasted over the chimenea with the lake as our backdrop. Wrapped up beside the fire as the sun slipped below the horizon, it was one of those simple moments that somehow feels unforgettable. Afterwards, we headed to bed with cups of tea and the promise of another peaceful night’s sleep.

On our final morning, we woke gently to birdsong and soft light filtering through the windows. After breakfast, we decided to start the day with a swim in the lake. Refreshing and invigorating in equal measures, it was more than worth it. A dip under the alfresco shower and a restorative session in the sauna soon had us warmed through again.

As we packed up to leave, neither of us was quite ready to say goodbye. Shepherd’s Delight is an idyllic escape that encourages you to truly slow down, savour the moment, and reconnect with nature. For a weekend of escapism, lakeside living, and simple pleasures, it couldn’t have been more perfect.