Shirwell is only a few minutes drive from Barnstaple the regional centre and takes it's name from the clear springs which abound in the area. This was the village in which John Gray composed the classic "Beggars Opera!" Another famous son, St Cuthbert Maye who was born at Youlston, the Parkland surrounding The Spinney. St Francis Chichester, of round the world sailing fame was born in the village and now lies buried in St Peters Parish Church.
Our range of bedrooms with en suite or private facilities are comfortably and attractively furnished with king size, twin or single beds. All are equipped with colour television, hairdryer, clock radio, hospitality tray and central heating. There is a separate lounge for guest use and ample parking within the grounds.
The Conservatory leads from the dining room allowing guests, during the summer months to enjoy their meals under the shade of an ancient vine in the atmosphere of the restored conservatory.
The Spinney is full licensed and open all year round. For the comfort of guests the Spinney is Non Smoking.

For Breakfast our guests are invited to choose from a selection of fruits and cereals, served from traditional carved oak sideboard followed by full english breakfeast or your choice from the menu.
Dinners are prepared fresh to order, using fresh local market produce whenever possible and the daily menu features local specialities and many other delicious dishes to tempt our visitors, complemented by the selection from our Wine List.
If you have any special dietary needs please let us know in advance and we will do our best to meet them.
North Devon is one of the loveliest areas of the West Country and provides a wide variety of activities to suit almost any taste. The Spinney is close to the junction of the rivers Taw and Torridge forming a network ofTarka Trails. The costal path ruining from North Cornwall to Somerset offers magnificent walks along the cliffs to Lynton. Horse riding is available onExmoor, inspiration for R.D Blackmore’s Lorna Doone novel.
Croyde and Woolacombe provide first class beaches for surfing and swimming. Browse around the attractive local market towns, Barnstaple's cattle and pannier markets or visit historicalArlington Court a local National Trust property. Horticultural attractions featureDr Smarts' Marwood Hill Gardens orR.H.S Rosemoor at Torrington.
The Spinney dates from circa 1750 and became the rectory of Shirwell following the retirement of Rev Charles Chichester. The main building dates from the 1750's with many additions and alterations up-to the present time to provide unique and spacious comfortable accommodation. Standing in over an acre of grounds, with extensive lawns and woodlands. The Spinney enjoys far reaching views over the typical Devon patchwork fields towards the heights of Exmoor only a few miles distant.
The local church is flanked by ancient yews and there are several nearby hillforts such as Castle Roborough. Sir Francis Chichester (the first person to achieve a true circumnavigation of the world solo from West to East via the great capes) is buried along with his wife in the local churchyard.
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Whether you are looking for challenging sports, family fun at the seaside, strolls round picturesque villages, spotting rare birds or exploring magnificent historic houses, you will find an unrivalled number of things to do in Devon. For the more active you can learn to sail or surf, ride a horse, take your rod fly-fishing or thwack a hole in one. For the more relaxing option try wine tasting or modelling in clay - Devon offers all these and much more.
Devon’s green attractions are unrivalled - follow a nature trail biking or go bug-hunting. Walk Devon's stunning footpaths or cycle from sea to sea made possible by the fact that much of Devon’s countryside is accessible to all.
Follow the A39 Lyton road 3 miles from Barnstaple on the left through the village of Shirwell opposite village stores.
For your Sat Nav - Shirwell, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 4JR.
| Telephone: | 01271 850282 | |
| E-mail: | thespinney@shirwell.fsnet.co.uk |