Some-fin to be proud of

A love of fishing has led a couple to transform a Devon farm in to a luxury staycation destination, with a fishy theme. TINA HUTCHINGS finds out more from the Durrells

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A PASSION for fly fishing has seen a derelict Devon farm transform into an in-demand, unique staycation experience like no other.

Drawn to its peaceful setting and proximity to the River Taw, Michael and Joanna Durrell fell hook, line and sinker for Week Mill Farm in September 2020 and saw an opportunity to breathe new life into the Chulmleigh site, which was once home to a working mill.

For the next four years, the couple, who are originally from Essex and have more than 30 years' experience in the construction industry, worked tirelessly to transform the farm into a luxury rural retreat with two incredible holiday lets that need to be seen to be believed.

Wanting to preserve the farm's heritage and fulfil keen fly fisherman Michael's dream of owning a property with fishing rights, Michael and Joanna enlisted local craftspeople to help them restore Fisherman's Cottage (a traditional semi-detached barn conversion) and build Copper Lodge, a beautifully hand-crafted log cabin designed for a secluded getaway.

Every detail was carefully considered, from heritage windows and original lime-plastered walls in the cottage, to the lodge’s striking hexagonal design, hand-carved doors and upcycled furnishings.

And, to pay homage to Michael's love of fishing, the couple also added personal touches, such as a quirky stair handrail designed to resemble a fishing rod, fun window blinds with silhouette cut-outs of Michael in angler positions, and even disguising a small silver trout and salmon in the pointed walls of the cottage for guests to find.

Joanna said: "The guiding principle behind the design was simple - if it made us laugh and smile, we incorporated it. Generally, the cottage is a tribute to Michael and his love for fishing."

Having decided to give each building a unique theme, Fisherman’s Cottage was the first to be renovated and the couple worked to preserve the original features while incorporating bespoke elements.