Get More From Your Axe Valley Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Axe Valley gives you the perfect blend of countryside charm and coastal access. This stunning corner of East Devon and West Dorset offers rolling hills, dramatic cliffs and picturesque villages that have barely changed in centuries. The River Axe winds through ancient woodlands and meadows before meeting the sea at Seaton.
Whether you're planning romantic breaks for 2 or large family getaways, the area delivers. We love how you can explore Jurassic Coast beaches in the morning and soak in your private hot tub by evening. The variety of holiday cottages here ranges from boutique cottages in converted barns to luxury cottages with swimming pools and everything between.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Axe Valley
The Axe Valley has transformed from a quiet farming region into one of Devon's best destinations for cottage breaks. Historic market towns like Axminster sit alongside coastal gems such as Seaton and Beer. You'll find medieval churches, working farms and independent shops that give the area real character.
Hot tub stays here suit everyone. Families can book large cottages near beaches whilst couples prefer secluded retreats tucked into hillsides. Many holiday homes welcome dogs and the best properties offer jacuzzi facilities alongside log burners and country views. Pet friendly cottages are plentiful since the area has brilliant walking routes.
Sightseeing in Axe Valley
The landscape here tells 185 million years of geological history. Red sandstone cliffs meet white chalk formations along the coastline. Inland you'll discover thatched villages, ancient woodlands and the kind of rural England that inspired Thomas Hardy. The South West Coast Path runs through the valley offering some of Britain's most spectacular cliff walks.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Axe Valley
From fossil hunting to vintage trams, the attractions here cater to all ages and interests. We've picked five that showcase what makes this area special.
Seaton Tramway
This heritage tramway runs three miles alongside the Axe Estuary through a nature reserve. The open-top trams date from the 1900s and give you stunning views of wetlands where herons and egrets feed. It's a brilliant way to see the valley without walking and kids absolutely love it.
Beer Quarry Caves
These underground caverns were hand-carved by Romans nearly 2000 years ago. The limestone extracted here built 24 cathedrals including Exeter and St Paul's. Guided tours take you deep into the hillside where the temperature stays constant year-round. The scale of the chambers is genuinely impressive.
Lyme Regis Beach and Fossil Hunting
Just west of the valley, Lyme Regis offers world-class fossil hunting along its beaches. This is where Mary Anning discovered her famous ichthyosaur in 1811. You can find ammonites and belemnites yourself after winter storms. The town itself has excellent seafood restaurants and a historic harbour called The Cobb.
Axminster Heritage Centre
Axminster carpets were once the finest in the world, gracing royal palaces and stately homes. This small museum tells the story of the town's weaving heritage through original looms and carpet samples. It's compact but fascinating and shows how one industry shaped an entire community.
Pecorama Gardens and Model Railway
Set in seven acres above Beer, Pecorama combines beautiful gardens with one of Britain's best model railways. The outdoor railway runs through tunnels and over viaducts with coastal views. There's also a miniature railway that children can ride. The gardens feature exotic plants that thrive in this mild coastal climate.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Seaton Tramway | Vintage trams through wetland nature reserves with estuary views | Families |
| Beer Quarry Caves | Underground Roman quarries with cathedral-scale chambers | Everyone |
| Lyme Regis Beach | Fossil hunting on Jurassic Coast beaches and historic harbour | Families |
| Axminster Heritage Centre | Carpet-making history with working looms and royal connections | Couples |
| Pecorama Gardens | Model railways and exotic gardens with coastal panoramas | Families |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Axe Valley?
The A35 runs through the valley connecting Exeter and Dorchester. Axminster has a mainline railway station with direct trains from London Waterloo taking under three hours. If you're booking last minute deals, the area is easily accessible for weekend breaks.
What family activities are available?
Families love the beaches at Seaton and Beer for rock pooling. The tramway and Pecorama are brilliant for children. Many holiday houses offer games rooms and large gardens. Dog friendly options mean you can bring pets on coastal walks.
Where are the best romantic spots?
Beer village has thatched cottages and clifftop walks perfect for couples. Book a cottage with hot tub overlooking the valley for ultimate privacy. The coastal path at sunset offers incredible views. Small fishing lodges and log cabin retreats provide intimate settings.
Is there good shopping?
Axminster has independent shops and a weekly market. Lyme Regis offers galleries and craft shops. You won't find big chains but that's part of the charm. Local farm shops sell excellent produce for self catering breaks.
Why choose cottages with hot tubs in Axe Valley?
After days exploring beaches and walking coastal paths, a private hot tub is perfect for unwinding. The area suits hot tub breaks because properties are often remote and secluded. You get countryside peace with coastal access. Many places to stay offer hot tub cottages as standard now.
Whether you're after cheap cottages for a 1 night escape or luxury villas for New Year celebrations, the Axe Valley delivers. Visit Sykes Cottages or similar sites to book holiday lets that suit your group size. From 1 bedroom chalets to big cottages for large holiday groups, the rental options cover every budget. Country breaks here combine the best of Devon and Dorset with that essential hot tub for hire.