✅ How to book your XL Escape

Bookings are managed through their long-established Airbnb listing, where guests can view availability, full accommodation details and previous guest reviews. If you’re travelling with an XL Bully, reactive dog or more than the standard number of dogs, the owners encourage guests to get in touch before booking so they can discuss your needs and help make your stay as comfortable as possible 🐾

Kim & Chris Ewen

We are SO excited to welcome you to our home! As the founders of XL Escapes, we pour our hearts into creating a space where you can relax, unwind, and make lasting memories.

With two rescue dogs—Holly from Bosnia and Buddy from All Bullie Rescue—and Nala, our beautiful ginger cat (and undisputed Queen of the house), we understand how important it is to feel not just at home, but truly content and relaxed—especially when traveling with your furry companions.

Our goal is to offer more than just a holiday; we want to provide a home away from home where you can escape daily pressures, have a laugh, and enjoy quality time with loved ones. Whether it’s a cosy night in, exploring the local area, or simply making time for yourself, we’re here to make your stay special.

If you have any requests—big or small—just let us know. We’re always happy to help (and we love an excuse to bring a smile to your face, drink in hand, of course!).

Cancellation Policy

We understand that plans can change, and we’ve designed our cancellation policy to be as fair and transparent as possible.

If You Need to Cancel

More than 5 weeks before arrival: You’ll receive a full refund, including your deposit.
5 weeks or less before arrival:
- 5 weeks or less: 30% of the booking is charged.
- 4 weeks or less: 40% of the booking is charged.
- 3 weeks or less: 60% of the booking is charged.
- 2 weeks or less: 85% of the booking is charged.
- 1 week or less: 100% of the booking is charged.

How Refunds Work

If you’re entitled to a refund, it will be processed promptly and returned via the same method of payment.

Need Assistance?

If you have any concerns or extenuating circumstances, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help and will always try to find a solution that works for you.

.

Payment Details
At XL Escapes, we strive to make the booking process as straightforward and secure as possible. Here’s how it works:
Deposits

A 20% deposit is required within 7 days of booking to secure your stay.

XL Escapes Booking Fee

We charge a small 5% booking fee, which is significantly lower than other major platforms.

Remaining Balance

The remaining balance, including any refundable breakage deposit (if applicable), must be paid 4 weeks before your check-in date.

Secure Payments with Stripe
All payments are processed through Stripe Connect, a trusted and secure platform. Your funds are safely held with Stripe until after your check-out date. This extra layer of protection ensures peace of mind for both guests and hosts. Your payment details are always handled securely, so you can book with confidence.

Check-in and Check-out

Check-in: 4 PM
Check-out: 10 AM
We can’t guarantee early check-ins or late check-outs, but our housekeeping team will update us on their progress. If the property is ready early, you can let yourself in. Similarly, if no one is arriving immediately after, a later check-out might be possible—just message us on the day to check availability.

Pets

Dogs of all breeds and sizes are welcome. 🐾
The garden is fully enclosed to keep your furry friends safe.

Hot Tub

The hot tub is for your exclusive use. It will be freshly cleaned and ready when you arrive. Please follow the usage guidelines provided in the welcome book to ensure it remains in top condition.

Parking

Parking is strictly on the driveway only.
Do not park on the grass or the private road, which is also used by neighbours.

Gatherings and Events

Small, private gatherings are welcome, but parties are not allowed.
Be respectful of the property and neighbours during your stay.

.

What’s included in the booking?

We provide:

Fresh bedding and towels
Tea, coffee, sugar, sweetener, and coffee pods
A raw doggy hamper (treat your furry friends!) 🐾
Dog-friendly essentials like bowls, poo bags, and towels
A welcome hamper to make you feel right at home
Access to the luxury hot tub

What amenities are nearby?

Owl and Otter Gastro Pub and Restaurant: A 10-minute walk away. Dog-friendly with great food, cocktails, and a beer garden boasting stunning views of the Derwentside Valley.
Boutique cafes: Two charming cafes just a short walk from The Chase.
Local shops: Two within walking distance and larger supermarkets only a 10-minute drive away.

What are some recommended activities nearby?

Beamish Open-Air Museum: A dog-friendly, fantastic day out for all ages. Explore history, meet animals, and enjoy a unique experience.
More local attractions: Ask us for our Local Recommendations Guide before booking to discover even more options in the area.

Can I book The Chase for special events?

Yes! If you’re planning a small celebration or gathering, let us know so we can help accommodate your plans. Please note that large parties are not allowed.

.

Meet Your Hosts

The owners of Oakfields know first-hand how difficult and stressful it can be finding genuinely welcoming accommodation for XL Bullies and reactive dogs. After experiencing cancelled holidays and restrictions themselves, they made the decision to actively welcome XL Bullies and their owners into their accommodation when many places wouldn’t. Their priority has always been creating a safe, understanding and realistic environment where responsible owners can properly relax with their dogs. With years of Airbnb hosting experience, they understand how important holidays are — often being the only break families get each year — and they work hard to ensure both dogs and humans feel comfortable, supported and genuinely welcomed throughout their stay.

XL Escapes Peace Of Mind Promise

Every business you see on XL Escapes has confirmed to us that they welcome XL Bullies. Before being listed, we ask the questions we’d want answered ourselves — from real experience living and travelling with XL and reactive dogs. That includes confirming they are happy to host XL Bullies, that their listing details are accurate, and that they’ve considered their own legal and insurance responsibilities. We don’t assume. We don’t guess. We ask — and they confirm. If anything changes or a business doesn’t stand by what they’ve told us, we take it seriously. If a business listed on XL Escapes turns you away because of your dogs breed, contact us. We will review it, remove them if necessary, and refund your membership.

Cancellation Policy

Home Rules & Useful Information

Oakfields, Semi -Rural ,Fully self contained Annex

⚲ Somerset

Self-contained annex · Sleeps up to 5 guests · Up to 2 dogs welcomed (more considered on request) · XL Bullies welcomed · Reactive dog friendly · Fully fenced private orchard for off-lead exercise · Shared gardens with owners onsite · Nearly 1 acre of outdoor space · Semi-rural Somerset location · Dog goodie bags included · Dog friendly pubs nearby ·

A peaceful self-contained annex set within the beautiful Blackdown Hills in Somerset, offering a relaxed, dog-friendly stay with a secure private orchard for off-lead exercise and a warm welcome for XL Bullies and reactive dogs.

Book Now

Full Property Description:

Oakfields is a completely self-contained annex located within the stunning Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Somerset, offering guests a peaceful semi-rural escape with excellent road links for exploring Somerset, Devon and beyond. Designed to feel like a true home-from-home, the annex comfortably sleeps up to 5 guests with a double bedroom, sprung sofa bed, additional single bed option and travel cot available. Guests have access to nearly an acre of outdoor space including patio seating areas, gardens and a fully fenced orchard where dogs can safely enjoy private off-lead and muzzle-free exercise. While the annex itself is private and self-contained, the wider outdoor spaces are semi-shared with the owners who also live onsite with their own dogs and ducks. The owners understand first-hand how difficult it can be finding genuinely welcoming accommodation for XL Bullies and reactive dogs, especially following breed legislation changes. Because of this, they have worked hard to create a supportive and realistic environment where responsible owners and their dogs can properly unwind and enjoy a countryside break together. Dog guests are welcomed throughout the accommodation and can cuddle up on sofas and beds if owners bring their own covers and bedding. Thoughtful extras including dog goodie bags, fresh eggs when available, tea, coffee, milk and bread all help create a warm and welcoming stay. Set within a beautiful dog-friendly area with woodland walks, beaches, countryside pubs and easy access to Devon, Oakfields is ideal for relaxing getaways, stopovers whilst travelling or longer countryside breaks with your dogs.

About This Listing

This property is owned and managed by the host. The information below is provided by the property owner and confirmed as accurate by them.
XL Escapes publishes this information to help guests make informed decisions and does not own or manage this property.

Full Property Description:

Oakfields is a completely self-contained annex located within the stunning Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Somerset, offering guests a peaceful semi-rural escape with excellent road links for exploring Somerset, Devon and beyond. Designed to feel like a true home-from-home, the annex comfortably sleeps up to 5 guests with a double bedroom, sprung sofa bed, additional single bed option and travel cot available. Guests have access to nearly an acre of outdoor space including patio seating areas, gardens and a fully fenced orchard where dogs can safely enjoy private off-lead and muzzle-free exercise. While the annex itself is private and self-contained, the wider outdoor spaces are semi-shared with the owners who also live onsite with their own dogs and ducks. The owners understand first-hand how difficult it can be finding genuinely welcoming accommodation for XL Bullies and reactive dogs, especially following breed legislation changes. Because of this, they have worked hard to create a supportive and realistic environment where responsible owners and their dogs can properly unwind and enjoy a countryside break together. Dog guests are welcomed throughout the accommodation and can cuddle up on sofas and beds if owners bring their own covers and bedding. Thoughtful extras including dog goodie bags, fresh eggs when available, tea, coffee, milk and bread all help create a warm and welcoming stay. Set within a beautiful dog-friendly area with woodland walks, beaches, countryside pubs and easy access to Devon, Oakfields is ideal for relaxing getaways, stopovers whilst travelling or longer countryside breaks with your dogs.

Paw of Approval

Photos from real stays, with dogs who gave it their paw of approval.

Got a question about this holiday home?

Contact us or send us an instant message now

Contact Us

Amenities:

Dog-Friendly Details That Matter

XL Bullies and reactive dogs welcomed. The annex itself is fully self-contained and private. Outdoor areas are semi-shared with the owners who also live onsite. Fully fenced and gated orchard available for private off-lead and muzzle-free exercise. Nearly 1 acre of gardens available for guests and dogs to enjoy. Dogs can interact with resident dogs as little or as much as owners prefer. XL Bullies/Types must arrive on lead and muzzle for first introductions, with paperwork shown on arrival. Dogs welcome on beds and sofas if owners bring their own covers and bedding. No dogs to be left unattended inside the annex or outdoor spaces. Ducks free roam at certain times of day, so leads may be required depending on timings. Deep pond onsite — water-loving dogs may need supervision. Usually accepts up to 2 dogs, with more considered on request depending on size and circumstances. Orchard fully fenced; remaining garden boundaries mainly thick hedges.

Neighbourhood Overview:

Located within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Somerset. Semi-rural location with countryside surroundings and excellent road links. Devon approximately 2 miles away. Woodland walks and dog friendly pubs nearby. Beaches approximately 45 minutes away. Easy access to multiple counties for exploring without heavy traffic routes. Quiet countryside setting ideal for relaxing breaks with dogs.