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Ash Barton Estate. Braunton. North Devon

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.

Their favourite memory of Ash Barton? 'When Siobhan got married here in 2012. It was everything and more we could ever have dreamed it would be. Pure magic.'

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!'

This is such a fantastic place to stay - our week was just brilliant, so much to do, and a beautiful setting. The house really does have everything you could want and Pete was always on hand to help (or bring fresh eggs from the chickens!). Our chapel wedding at the start of the week was intimate and simple, and the grounds make a great backd...

Eleanor Gill


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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.

Looking for a place to party?

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Call Simon Daukes today on 07785 386 622