About the Smiling Sheep

Our smallholding is tucked away in a secluded spot at the end of a rough track in the lush countryside between Dartmoor and Exmoor. This part of Devon is very much off the tourist trail and deeply rural. It’s rich in tradition, wildlife, picturesque villages and cosy pubs. There are many well-signposted walking routes nearby (including the Two Moors Way and the Devonshire Heartland Way) and innumerable smaller trails and tracks to explore. The spectacular tors of Dartmoor are just a short drive away.

About us

We are Holly and Andrei – we arrived here some years ago, as escapees from hectic city life and instantly fell in love with the area and the little thatched cottage that is now our home. Our smallholding has nearly 8 acres and on it we keep our flock of rare breed sheep (for their wonderful wool and also for meat), raise a few rare breed pigs (for their delicious pork), keep chickens and ducks (for fresh eggs) and grow a variety of fruit and vegetables.

In the Wool Studio, we are enjoying producing luxury cat blankets, handwoven on a simple peg loom from the hand-washed wool from our flock of rare breed sheep.  We also sell luxury throws and blankets, celebrating the natural hues and textures of undyed wool.

We have really enjoyed creating and running our exclusive and romantic BnB in the Linhay (a little converted thatched barn). Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we are not currently able to take bookings but we are ever hopeful of a return to hospitality in the future.

Our plans for 2022 are always evolving, but we hope to offer a variety of opportunities to visit The Smiling Sheep, and enjoy the craft of woolmanship, sheep-walking, and culinary delights – watch this space!

Please have a look around our website (all the pictures were taken here).

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Get in touch here enquiries@smilingsheep.co.uk