National Park Living
Exmoor National Park lies predominantly in Somerset but one third is in Devon, so I feel qualified to include a column Devon Life. Softer than its rugged neighbouring Park, Dartmoor, and not as large but many would say more picturesque -that is a matter of personal opinion.
Covering 1,730 square miles with 34 miles of coast line, the start of the South West Coast Path at Minehead, and boasting the highest cliff in Britain at Great Hangman, Exmoor has a right to attract its many visitors. From Mesolithic times our forbears farmed the isolated terrain, clearing woodlands and keeping stock, prising a living as best they could.
Living on Exmoor is a dream for many. Despite its apparent remoteness, access to the M5, the main line to Paddington and the A361 North Devon Link Road it doesn’t take long to reconnect with the world at large. For those who prefer to stay where there is no light pollution, flight paths or traffic jams (do three cars and a stubborn Exmoor pony constitute a traffic jam?) there are small towns and villages that are entirely self- sufficient. Life is taken at a pace where there is time to enjoy the amazing views.
As with Dartmoor, but less so, the weather can be harsher than the lower lying South Hams but ardent walkers are never deterred and residents embrace it as part of the beauty of the landscape. Houses and farmsteads were built into coombes and valleys to protect them from the winter winds.
Barkham -not too far from the bustling “Capital” of Exmoor- Dulverton -is an 18th century farmhouse lying in a coombe. Currently used in part for concerts and festivals it also has three holiday cottages converted from farm buildings , generating a good income. Sitting in 12 acres there is room to roam and walk the dogs. Stags (01398 323174) are the selling agents.
Sitting high up near the North Coast, not far from the twin towns of Lynton and Lynmouth, another farmhouse with two cottages. Cranscombe Farm, Brendon, a period house approached via tree lined drive through its 10 acres, enjoying spectacular views. The comfortable accommodation is heated by a biomass boiler benefitting from the Renewable Energy Tariff, minimising costs. Phillips, Smith and Dunn are the agents (01271 327878).
Not far away is The Old Rectory at Oare offered by Savills (01271 455755). Immaculately restored but retaining the period 19th century character it now offers 5 bedrooms, 4 receptions rooms and for those not so keen on running across the Moor, its own gym. Mature copper beeches grace the gardens whilst the house embraces the view across the beautiful Oare Valley and the expanse of open moorland.
Whilst appearing tucked away in a magical corner of South West England, there a lifestyle to enjoy, a home and income without the need to join the hustle of city life. Exmoor is a special place to call home- “it’s all about coming home”.