South Hams
Maybe the softest stretch of Devon countryside running from South Dartmoor to the renowned sailing waters of the south coast with one of the mildest climates in Britain. Whilst the coastline has become a hotspot for second home owners and holiday makers where the sailing and beaches are simply stunning, time should be taken to enjoy the wonderful countryside and towns in the real rural South Hams.
Whilst embracing the modern world, as inevitably we all do, the towns and villages retain their original character and abound with artisan and entrepreneurs keen to live and enjoy this rural environment. Historically a farming community the towns held regular markets that have evolved with Farmers Markets selling locally produced foods and wares. These create a great sense of community and encourage the tourist market to visit the areas.
Modbury is mentioned in The Domesday Book and later became the scene of two battles in The Civil War. The winding High Street and town centre retains it’s charm – it was proud to be the first town in England to ban all plastic shopping bags leading the way to a green, sustainable environment.
Totnes, complete with castle and at the head of the River Dart, again retains its character with numerous artisan outlets and known for its music background. Towns to embrace as real communities welcoming all ages.
Lets not get too romantic as there are hidden successful commercial enterprises providing employment and funding for these picturesque towns ensuring natural growth and development.
Whilst tourism plays a big part in the local economy the infrastructure for self -funded development is secure even in the current economic difficulties. Modern housing developments are growing around the towns and villages with a mix for all affordability levels whilst the classic Devon thatched farmhouses and cottages still attract great interest especially as modern technology is implementing ways to maintain them in a more sustainable way. The combination of independent shops nudging alongside supermarkets compliments the mix of housing in all these towns ensuring growth and permanency.
The South Hams has to be one of the gentlest places in Britain to live with both coastline and Dartmoor within the region, yet with access via the A38 to the national road network, a mainline train to London and not forgetting close to Plymouth for ferries to European destinations. For those that relish country living but need 21 st century technology where better to settle than The South
Hams: ”It’s all about coming home.”
Property Section
Spring Combe. North Pool: Large, elegantly appointed family house with views towards Kingsbridge Estuary and Frogmore Creek. Quietly set in 1.64 acres with indoor swimming pool.
Estate Agent: www.struttandparker.com
Fox House. East Allington: Charming edge of village family house in 2.8 acres, beautifully presented, within Kingsbridge Community College catchment area.
Estate Agent: www.harrietgeorge.co.uk
Orchard Barn. Rattery: Stunning, reverse level barn conversion in central village location with private gardens and separate home office/studio.
Estate Agent: www.luscombemaye.com
Leigh Barton. Kingsbridge: Impressive Grade 1 listed medieval farmhouse in 3 acres with two guest cottages and Gatehouse. A little piece of Devon history.
Estate Agent: www.savills.com
Kingscote, Beeson, Kingsbridge: Fabulous 16 th century property providing the perfect juxtaposition between old and new - just 0.5 miles to the beach.
Estate Agent: www.stags.co.uk