A Devon holiday let with stunning views has the country's best hot tub, according to a new national awards. Little Silver Leaf is one of four shepherd huts in the grounds of Peter and Lisa Earnshaw's home in High Bickington. Perched at the top of an apple orchard, the secluded retreat has a wood-burning stove and a private hot tub with views of the Taw Valley.

It has now scooped gold in the Best Hot Tub category of the Sykes Gems Awards 2024, run by staycation specialists Sykes Holiday Cottages. Little Silver Leaf also won silver for Best in South West. Meanwhile Kate and Iain Harwood picked up gold in the Best in the South West category for their property 1 The Quay in Lympstone.

Little Silver Leaf owner, Lisa Earnshaw, said: "We stumbled upon holiday letting by chance when our renovated annex went unused. Creating a relaxing and memorable stay for our guests is our greatest joy. "From the moment they arrive to the time they leave; we strive to make them feel at home and it's incredibly rewarding to see them switch off and explore the local area.

" James Shaw, managing director of Sykes Holiday Cottages, added: “It has been brilliant to see so many fantastic properties recognised in this year’s Sykes Gems Awards. We know how hard our owners work to ensure their properties remain at a high standard year-round and it is great to be able to reward their efforts. "While it was difficult to choose winners after receiving so many wonderful entries, Little Silver Leaf was a clea.