National Park Living
National Parks were created in the mid twentieth century to protect the heritage of the countryside with subsequent legislation ensuring modern living can embrace the culture and beauty of these scenic wonders. Life evolves and the infrastructure must be sustainable to pass through the generations.
Devon is blessed with two National Parks -Dartmoor and a part of Exmoor, although the larger part is in Somerset. Space only allows for a look at Dartmoor so another month I will look at Exmoor.
Dartmoor is 360 square miles of granite outcrops - the highest reaching 2,000 feet above sea level. It’s a wild and beautiful area with a population of 34,500 compared to London which covers the same area with a population around 8,600,000! Ancient towns and villages have a timeless feel that belies the activity and strong communities that attract multi -generational living. As ever, technology now allows people to work from home and be connected to the world!
Whilst the towns in and around the Moor are self -sufficient there is nowhere very far from the main arterial routes of the county linking a life of serenity with the commercial and social hubs of Exeter, Plymouth and beyond.
Whilst many enjoy the timeless character of the old farmhouses there are many instances of contemporary dwellings, indeed Grand Designs standards, which have been sympathetically integrated into the landscape.
Always high on the agenda when house hunting are the market towns of Chagford, Ashburton and at the western end of the Moor, Tavistock. Whilst equally appealing to tourists who boost the economy these Stannary Towns provide a quality of life unequalled anywhere. The many villages surrounding these towns (far too many to label here) are equally popular, all with their individual characters and varying attributes.
Fowlers in Chagford (01647 433595) are selling the Stannary Gardens development on the edge of town. Built by Blue Cedar Homes, with an age restriction of 55, to an exceptional specification these houses are the perfect retiring, downsizers homes with an estate manager on hand for maintenance, walking distance into town and yet a cut above the average “retirement” development. With 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, spacious reception rooms and garaging it may not feel like downsizing at all.
Stags of Totnes (01803 865454) are selling the ultimate life style escapism home. Seale Stoke Farm at Holne above Ashburton. A seamless blend of a restored farmhouse with a contemporary twist in a magical setting, within 33 acres of pasture and woodland with direct access on the open moorland. With four reception rooms, four bedrooms, cinema room, office there is room for all the family to have their own space. For income there is a high yielding holiday cottage and planning for a further conversion. With no light pollution, road noise or near neighbours this is made for embracing life on Dartmoor. –
Choosing where to live is dictated by practicalities but choosing a house is about feeling at home - “It’s all about coming home”.