East Devon: Tranquil Charm & Modern Living
Possibly the gentlest corners, in all senses, of the county. Despite being the most accessible to the major road, rail and air networks it oozes calm and attracts people looking for a slower pace of life. Do not be deceived! Beyond the manicured farmland rolling down to the Jurassic coastline with famous fossil beaches there is a vibrant business and tourist community.
The Blackdown Hills are integral to the region where views from many of the farmsteads and homes dotted along the hillsides are spectacular encompassing country and sea. The towns nestled within this enclave include market towns such as Honiton and Axminster - famous for lace and carpets respectively – and now embracing modern cafe culture society. Running along the waterside Sidmouth flourished in Victorian times, not least due the young Princess Victoria residing there prior to becoming Queen. A genteel town still with numerous hotels straddling the promenade where a pleasant afternoon can be passed watching cricket on the lawn – how very English!
Whilst Sidmouth and neighbouring Budleigh Salterton have a reputation for only attracting a retired population it belies the vibrant young family communities borne out by the flourishing primary schools and in Sidmouth an international school. Places to settle for life and for all generations.
Exmouth, at the mouth of the Exe has the largest population and is favoured by families for the water recreational opportunities and the high achieving secondary school. Served by a local train line and cycle path connecting to Exeter it offers the best of all worlds East Devon, as everywhere, has embraced the need for housing growth with developments in varying locations of a significant size where residents commute both to Exeter, Taunton and beyond.
The main line to Waterloo runs through the region and whilst slower than the Paddington line (connecting at Exeter and Tiverton Parkway) , takes you to the capital for business and pleasure in a convenient time with easy access to the stations.
Possibly retaining more character homes than other parts of Devon it epitomises the thatched cottage, roses round the door image of Devon - Otterton high street proves the point. Cream Tea (cream first remember! This is Devon) is available at Otterton Mill after a walk along the Otter Valley nature reserve.
If quaint, listed homes are not appealing there are plenty of contemporary, eco-friendly sustainable homes to choose from with excellent EPC ratings ensuring maintenance and running costs are contained.
As an antidote to the fast pace of modern living you can take a step back in this corner of England and enjoy the natural world whilst still enjoying the spoils of the 21 st century – a unique combination for a lifestyle and home: “It’s all about coming home”.
A varied selection of East Devon properties:
Higher Wadden Farm, Southleigh: Stunning, south facing listed farmhouse and 2 cottages set in 13.9 acres with excellent open country views.
Kingston House, Ebford: Impressive 4 bedroom family home in popular River Exe village, convenient for Exeter and the coast.
Lambrook Farm, Farway: Historic listed cross passage thatched farmhouse with cottage and equestrian facilities in 12 acres.
Springfield House, Sidbury: Attractive listed Georgian house in favoured Sid Valley with 4.5 acres (further land available).
Maybury, West Hill: Tradition but contemporary high spec 6 bedroom house in woodland village – A rated EPC. Stunning executive style home.