Girlguiding

Bowerman's Cottage is owned by Girlguiding Devon and is situated near Manaton on Dartmoor. It is in a very safe environment, surrounded by beautiful peaceful scenery. On a clear night the stars are amazing! Since 1964, members of Devon Guiding have tried hard to maintain the character of Bowerman’s whilst moving it forward with standards acceptable to today’s members.

Accommodation (first floor) comprises 2 dormitories, each with bunk beds for 6 girls. There is a separate leaders’ bedroom. Maximum residential accommodation is 12 girls and 3 leaders.

The cottage is also very suitable for sleepovers, one-day activities (e.g. Rainbows) or as a base for moorland walks and we are willing to accommodate families, when the cottage is not needed for Guiding groups.

Ground floor accommodation comprises two bath/shower rooms, a dining room, a day/activities room, a small sitting room and a well-appointed, modernised kitchen for self-catering.

 

 

 

 

The cottage has been recently refurbished to include oil-fired central heating and double glazing, thus making it very cosy and warm.

 

 

 

 

 

Outdoors there is a pleasant garden with barbecue, composter, flag pole, picnic bench, wheelie bin and a car park with space for 7 cars.

 

 

 

 

 

Friends of Bowerman's

A “Friends of Bowerman’s” group has been formed, as so many people in Devon are very fond of the cottage and we, the committee, are sure many of you would like to help us perpetuate the use of our lovely cottage.

Naturally we’d be delighted for any offers of help but also we hope you’ll be willing to pay an annual subscription, e.g. minimum of £5. These contributions will be spent on “those little extras”. We will, annually, send you a leaflet/brochure showing how the “Friends’” money has been spent.
If you are interested in joining, please let us know and we’ll put you in contact with the Chairman of “Friends of Bowermans”
 

Activities

Activities from the cottage could include various walks e.g.

• Bowerman’s Nose Grid ref 742805
• Easdon Tor and Downs Grid ref 729823
• Hound Tor Grid ref 743790 via Jays Grave Grid ref 733799;
• Becky Falls Grid ref 760800
• Widecombe in the Moor
• …and accessible with transport:- Stover Country Park
• Haytor & Granite Railway
• Trago Mills

Activities for perhaps “less fine” weather

• House of Marbles
• Miniature Pony Farm , Nr Moretonhampstead
• Indoor Swimming Pool at Dyrons, Newton Abbot

Adventurous Activities - all within “reasonable” distance with transport

• Chudleigh Rock Centre (climbing etc)
• Pridhamsleigh caves (caving)
• Windsurfing/canoeing at Havenbanks, Exeter
• Pony trekking

 Frequently Asked Questions

How many children can stay at Bowermans?

A maximum of 12 plus 3 leaders

What does it cost to stay at Bowermans cottage?

See Fees as set out above

When the cottage is available?

The cottage is available all year round but peak weeks are during school holidays and weekends. You may book 9 months in advance if you wish.

How do I book?

Contact Hilary Hughes 01803 873245 who will advise on availability and send information booklet and forms.

May families use the cottage?

Yes, but priority is given to groups of e.g. Brownies, Guides & Rangers.

Are girls in Guiding allowed to walk on the moor?

Yes, but must be within 30 minutes of a road.