About The Daukes Family (and Pete)

Ash Barton is lovingly owned and run by Simon and Julie Daukes and their grown-up children Siobhan, Thomas, and Oliver. They bought the house in 2009 after spending months searching for a holiday ‘cottage’ in the North Devon area.

Julie had spent her childhood summers in nearby Combe Martin where her Grandad was the milkman, and had always dreamed of having a place of her own in the area. Ash Barton was a little larger than they had in mind but, quite frankly, it was love at first sight.

Simon previously spent 30 years at the Haymarket Media Group, which is why the house is always stacked with glossy magazines. Julie is a teacher of children with special needs, a role she’s had for over 25 years.

So what’s the ‘secret ingredient’ that makes Ash Barton so special? 'The building, the meadows, Pete and Alfy the dog, the chickens, the kitchen. We could go on!'

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What a fantastic and amazing weekend we had at Ash Barton Manor! After a fab BBQ on Saturday, we had a garden fete, with all the families having a games stall to play. Thanks to Pete for always being there for us, and the chickens for the lovely eggs! This is THE place for a family celebration.
All of us from Bristol for Carrie's 30th birthday

Who is Pete?

Pete Day is Ash Barton’s caretaker, and keeps the place running like clockwork. He’s there when you need him and quietly in the background when you don’t. If you need anything, absolutely anything, during your stay at Ash Barton – ask Pete.

No job is too big or small. From changing a lightbulb to hanging fairy lights and drapes in the barn. He’s even fixed the bride’s brother’s shoes on one couple’s big day. And where there’s Pete, there’s Alfy. He’s the ultimate ratter. And the Ash Barton mascot.