A Nest by the Ley

Looking out over shimmering freshwater reedbeds and a sweeping stretch of unspoilt coastline, our cottage offers a peaceful retreat on the very edge of Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve. Step straight into a landscape alive with birdsong, where each season brings its own delights. In spring the air is filled with warblers, including the elusive and nationally important Cetti’s warbler, whose powerful call is a true highlight of the reserve. Reed and sedge warblers dart through the rushes, swallows skim the water, and herons and egrets stalk the shallows.

Winter transforms the ley into a haven for waterfowl, with flocks of pochard, tufted ducks, and great crested grebes joined by teal and gadwall. From kingfishers flashing blue along the edge to marsh harriers circling overhead, there’s always something to see for keen birdwatchers and casual strollers alike.

For dog lovers and walkers, miles of coastal paths, woodlands, and long shingle beaches begin right outside the door. After a day of exploring, return to comfort, quiet skies, and the soothing rhythm of nature all around you.

A cetty's warbler perched on a dried reed among tall reeds, with a soft blue sky in the background.
A cozy living room corner with a blue velvet sofa, cream textured throw pillow, and a shaggy beige rug. A wood-burning stove is lit, with a basket of firewood beside it, and fireplace tools on a stand. A basket with magazines and a wooden wall decor piece are also visible.

About the cottage…


The cottage itself is a beautifully restored period property, with a welcoming, homely feel. The open-plan living space is bathed in natural light, thanks to windows framing panoramic views. Deep blue velvet sofas face the log burning stove, the perfect spot to relax by the fire after a busy day. You'll also find a dining table with a lovely outlook over the Ley.

At the rear of the property the kitchen is well equipped and includes dishwasher, washing machine and tumble drier, plus plenty of room to cook up delicious dinners with the produce you've picked up at the local farm shop.

Upstairs, the bedrooms continue the theme of rustic charm, with soft linens, calming hues, and large windows to wake up to that glorious view. The main and second bedrooms both look out over the Ley to the sea, while the twin bedroom overlooks the garden. The master bedroom has a kingsize bed and its own en suite shower room, while the second bedroom and the twin room share the good sized family bathroom. You'll also find a further WC downstairs.

Outside, the cottage is equally inviting, with a quaint patio area at the front, overlooking the lake. The outdoor dining table is a great spot for an al fresco lunch, or to simply soak up the sun with a good book. There's a further garden to the rear of the property, a private space with two terraces.

Torcross is a delightful village in a prime location, with Slapton Ley lake on one side and the sea on the other. Its shingle beach is perfect for a morning swim, or the starting point for a long walk along the South West Coastal Path. There are a handful of shops, plus the traditional pub only a short stroll away, a great place for fish and chips or a crab sandwich.

Beyond, some of Devon's best beaches and spectacular coastline are waiting to be explored. Seaview Cottage offers a fantastic base to discover the beauty of the South Devon area.

  • A kitchen with cream-colored cabinets, black countertops, and a window with plants outside. The floor is wooden, and there are built-in ovens and various kitchen appliances.

    Cook in comfort

  • A cozy bedroom with a large bed featuring a gray tufted headboard, white and blue pillows, and a floral bedspread. There are two bedside tables with lamps, a large window with a view of houses outside, and a tall wardrobe with a mirror. The walls are painted off-white, and the room is carpeted.

    Master Bedroom with lake and sea views

  • A cozy bedroom with two twin beds, each with white bedding and blue accent pillows and towels. There is a small nightstand with a lamp between the beds, and a window with blue and white striped curtains to the right. Two framed pictures hang on the pale yellow wall above the beds.

    Twin Bedroom

  • A cozy bedroom featuring a bed with a tufted headboard, decorated with patterned pillows, next to a window with a scenic view of houses and snow outside, and a small lamp on the bedside table. There is a wooden closet door on the right side.

    Double with lake and sea view

  • Breakfast Bar

    Breakfast Bar

  • Dine in style

  • A cozy bedroom with a large window showing a scenic view of a lake and houses under a blue sky with clouds, a bedside table with a lamp, and pillows on a bed.

    Laze with views

  • View of a calm lake with golden reed marshes in the foreground and houses with leafless trees on the right, with rolling hills and a partly cloudy sky in the background.

    Looking out to Ley and Sea

  • Lounge in luxury