From the moment your group arrives everything is yours. All 8 ensuite rooms, the lounge and dining areas and bar. Your group has full privacy, full flexibility, and the peace of North Devon just outside the door.
Looking for a space that inspires creativity, connection, and calm?
Nestled in the heart of Mortehoe, surrounded by dramatic coastline and the rolling beauty of North Devon, The Smugglers Rest offers the perfect private haven for your next group retreat, workshop, or celebration.
Whether you’re planning a writing retreat, a digital detox, a walking holiday, or simply a peaceful getaway with friends, our boutique guesthouse is available for exclusive hire—allowing you and your group to take over the entire space and make it your own.
Tailored to You
We pride ourselves on making each private booking personal and memorable. Stacey and I will work with you to create your private hire menu’s – think group banquets bespoke to your requirements. From seasonal à la carte menus and BBQ buffets to wood-fired pizza nights and wine tastings, we offer flexible dining options to keep your group nourished and inspired. The bar is always ready for a relaxed cocktail evening or celebratory toast. We will do our best to fully tailor your stay from check in, to meal times and activities.
Over the years, we’ve hosted everything from writing and yoga retreats to photography courses, corporate team-building events, and small weddings—including Nikon photography workshops for over seven years. We have the experience to make your stay exactly what you envision.
A Home for Creative Retreats
Writers, artists, and thinkers have long been drawn to the tranquillity of the North Devon coast. The rhythm of the sea, the vast open skies, and the gentle pace of village life make The Smugglers Rest a naturally inspiring setting for creativity.
With eight individually designed ensuite rooms, we can comfortably accommodate up to 16 guests. Each room blends modern comfort with coastal charm—perfect for reflection, rest, and focus.
Our communal areas provide both cosy corners for quiet contemplation and open spaces for group sessions, readings, or workshops. Step outside and you’ll find endless walking trails, clifftop views, and hidden coves—ideal for sparking new ideas or clearing the mind between writing sessions.
Space, Simplicity, and Connection
Your group will enjoy exclusive use of the entire property—including our dining areas, guest lounge and bar. With the freedom to shape your stay exactly as you wish, The Smugglers Rest becomes more than a venue—it becomes your home by the sea.
Whether you’re gathering to write, walk, reflect, or celebrate, we’ll ensure your retreat at The Smugglers Rest is everything you imagined and more.
Ready to start planning your retreat?
Get in touch to discuss exclusive hire, retreat packages, and catering options—we’d love to help bring your vision to life.
Enquire below
A quote from a previous retreat host, Helen Garlick
Will and Stacey Jones of the Smugglers Rest in Mortehoe have created the perfect environment for our creative writing retreats – warm, safe, fun and relaxed – in the breathtaking, dramatic North Devon landscape. Their bedrooms are frankly lush and the locally sourced, award winning food is the icing on this delicious cake. Not forgetting everyone’s favourite doorman, Kingsley the golden retriever who welcomes the participants from the first moment they arrive.