Welcome to Symonds Down Cottages
Our Story
Welcome! We became the proud owners of our holiday lets on the 17th May 2024, taking over from the previous owners after relocating from Hamble, Hampshire.
We are a family-run business, managed by Carlo, his wife Marie, and Carlo's parents. Together, we are passionate about providing a warm welcome and ensuring every guest enjoys a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Carlo works as a Telecommunications Engineer and Team Leader, while Marie is an Office Manager in the insurance industry. Carlo's parents have spent their lives working as fruit farmers and running a camping and caravan site, as well as producing fresh free-range eggs, before retiring in 2024. Their many years of experience in hospitality and customer care have been invaluable in helping us continue offering a friendly, personal service.
As a family, we have two wonderful children—a son and a daughter, with five years between them. At home we're also kept busy by our two Ragdoll cats and a flock of happy chickens.
We take great pride in looking after our holiday lets and hope you'll feel right at home from the moment you arrive. Whether you're visiting for a relaxing break or an adventure in the local area, we're delighted to share this special place with you and look forward to welcoming you.
About Axminster
Nestled on the eastern edge of Devon, Axminster is a charming market town surrounded by beautiful countryside and just a short drive from the stunning Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rich in history and full of character, the town is perhaps best known as the birthplace of the world-famous Axminster carpet, a tradition of craftsmanship that dates back to the 18th century.
Today, Axminster offers a wonderful mix of independent shops, cafés, traditional pubs and local markets, making it an ideal place to explore at a relaxed pace. The town is also home to the renowned River Cottage Kitchen & Store, attracting food lovers from across the country.
Its convenient location makes Axminster an excellent base for discovering both Devon and neighbouring Dorset. The picturesque seaside towns of Lyme Regis, Seaton and Beer are all within easy reach, while the surrounding countryside offers countless opportunities for walking, cycling and wildlife spotting.
Whether you're looking to enjoy the coast, explore historic towns, sample fantastic local food or simply unwind in peaceful surroundings, Axminster provides the perfect starting point for your Devon holiday.
Discover the surrounding area
Things to Do Around Axminster
- Visit Lyme Regis – Just a 15-minute drive away, this beautiful seaside town is famous for its sandy beach, historic Cobb Harbour, fossil hunting and independent shops.
- Explore the Jurassic Coast – Discover dramatic cliffs, coastal walks and stunning beaches along England's only UNESCO World Heritage coastline.
- Charmouth Beach – A favourite destination for families and fossil hunters, Charmouth Beach is one of the best places on the Jurassic Coast to search for ancient fossils or simply enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.
- Seaton Tramway – Take a relaxing journey aboard a heritage tram through the beautiful Axe Valley Nature Reserve between Seaton and Colyton.
- Crealy Theme Park & Resort – A fantastic family day out featuring thrilling rides, indoor and outdoor play areas, animal attractions and live entertainment for children of all ages.
- Pecorama – Perfect for families, with beautiful gardens, miniature railways, adventure play areas and breathtaking views over Lyme Bay.
- Forde Abbey & Gardens – Wonder through the magnificent historic house and its award-winning gardens, home to lakes, fountains and peaceful woodland walks.
- Beer Village – Visit this picturesque fishing village with its pebbled beach, traditional pubs, art galleries and the famous Beer Quarry Caves.
- Walking & Cycling – Enjoy miles of scenic footpaths and cycling routes through the East Devon countryside, including sections of the South West Coast Path.
- Local Markets & Independent Shops – Browse Axminster's weekly market, independent boutiques, antiques shops and artisan food producers.
