The Flete Estate
Self Catering Holiday Cottages by the sea
Last-Minute Availability
Coastguards Cottages
Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy peaceful countryside views, luxurious accommodation, and all the serenity Flete Estate has to offer.
Limited dates left in September & October
Our Self Catering Accomodation
The Flete Estate in South Devon is the most spectacular setting for a holiday by the sea. It is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Heritage coast and Site of Special Scientific Interest, alive with wonderful wild flowers, birds and animals.
Our self catering cottages can sleep from 4 to 18 people, including a mill cottage, a row of coastguards cottages overlooking the estuary, a gamekeeper’s cottage in the woods, and a Grade II listed house sleeping 18.
The majority of our properties are all within a 10 minute walk to the unspoilt Erme estuary, sandy beaches , gentle surf, and the South West Coastal footpath. You can enjoy walking, bird watching, fishing, sunbathing, star gazing, surfing & paddle boarding without having to leave the Estate.
Short Breaks Available
Minimum of 3 nights, Prices start from £820
If you’re looking for a last-minute beach getaway or simply a place to escape everyday life, this is the perfect spot!
Welcome to The Flete Estate
John & Lily Mildmay-White would like to welcome you to the estate. The Flete Estate has been in the Mildmay Family since 1872 when Henry Mildmay, bought Flete House and Estate. The Estate crosses both sides of the Erme Estuary from the beaches at Mothecombe and Wonwell to the A379 above Flete House. It comprises of estuary and foreshore, salt marsh, ancient woodland and farmland.
A main focus of the Estate has always been conservation of the natural environment, as can be seen by the extensive woodland and lack of development along the riverbanks, quite a rarity for the South West of England.
John & Lily returned home to manage the Estate in 2016 and are working to conserve and enhance this magical place; planting for pollinators, farming with nature from the soil up and restoring native broadleaf woodland all forming part of the plan.
By The Beach
The Flete Estate boasts three stunning sandy beaches for you to enjoy and explore: Mothecombe, Coastguards, and Wonwell Beach on the other side of the estuary.
Dogs are welcome all year-round on Coastguards & Wonwell Beach.
Dogs are not permitted on Mothecombe beach between 1st May and 30th September.
The estuary waters are especially suitable for water sports such as paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, wind/kite surfing & surfing.
Please note that for environmental and safety reasons, overnight camping, BBQs & Fires on the beaches are strictly prohibited at all times.
Holiday Cottages
Short Breaks
It's all about the intention to detail
Fancy getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Treat yourself to a short break. Out of season we offer short breaks of a minimum of 3 nights from September to March (excluding school term dates).
Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend to recharge your energy or prefer a mid-week escape to explore the beaches and footpaths at your own pace, we have the perfect holiday for you. With so much to do on the estate you don’t have to get back in your car!
Mothecombe Gardens
Mothecombe Gardens are open every Tuesday from February to the end of August 2026
Mothecombe House and its stunning gardens, nestled above Mothecombe Beach at the mouth of the Erme estuary on the Flete Estate, offer a serene and picturesque retreat. Visitors are invited to stroll leisurely through the well-maintained gardens, enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. After exploring, guests can unwind with hot drinks and delicious cake, making for a perfect relaxing day out.
For dog owners, the good news is that dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on a lead.
Dog Friendly
It’s a holiday for your dog as much as it is for you
There are countless walks and beaches to explore with your dog near all our properties. With private woodland and drives just a short distance away, adventure is always close at hand. From Mothecombe Beach, you can easily reach the coastal path.
Whether your dog loves exploring new trails, running across the estuary when the tide is out or enjoying a swim in the sea, this is the perfect place for you both. Additionally, you’ll find a variety of dog-friendly restaurants and cafes to enjoy together.
Explore The Erme Estuary
Did you know if your staying with us you can hire paddle boards too!
Paddle board up the estuary and enjoy the views from the water. Paddle boarding allows you to glide through tranquil waters, providing a unique perspective on the natural beauty around you. As you paddle, you’ll have the opportunity to observe wildlife such as spotting Curlews, Kingfishers, Oyster catchers and many more. Enjoy the serene environment and explore hidden coves and inlets.
Activities on the Estate
What's on
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