West Devon
Think of Devon and holidays - the instant image is of golden sands and surf. Whilst Devon has two glorious coasts, there are vast swathes of rolling countryside where many happy hours can be spent exploring, rambling and sampling the endless delights of the many pubs, coffee shops, restaurants, farmers markets and other food and drink outlets that are now so much an integral part of our way of life. The wild expanse of Dartmoor has hidden gems, most notably the ancient Stannary town of Chagford, whilst the market towns of West Devon number Okehampton, Tavistock, Hatherleigh and Holsworthy to name a few. All steeped in history, embracing the lifestyle of modern man but retaining their individual character. Beyond these towns and stretching towards the Cornwall border to the west and the waves crashing on the rocks of the north coast is some of the most iconic farmland in the country. Pretty villages, once the whole world to the farming community who tended the land are now occupied by an eclectic population bringing a different wealth to the area and preserving it for future generations –maybe not as many would like but the world evolves constantly and fresh blood inevitably brings change and stability. The digital world and physical communication speeds bring remote areas into the fold. With this change and the demand for modern living standards reaching new heights the appeal of rural and village property is prospering.
It is a trend - and a fact - that virtually everybody looking at a house these days looks beyond what they see to how it can be altered, enlarged and changed. The media has exploded with lifestyle images for food and property and both are soaked up with equal enthusiasm. So an opportunity offered by Drew Pearce -01392 201748 to acquire a “Grand Designs” property high above Sticklepath near Okehampton has to be a winner. Within the Dartmoor National Park and with views as far as Exmoor , Crowsnest is ready for the creative vision of someone wanting a hidden moorland home that can be truly unique. Planning has lapsed for the erection of a replacement dwelling but can hopefully be reinstated. If that daunts you then further west is Green Oak Barn at Townlake , near Tavistock – built in 2000 and now sitting in professionally landscaped gardens you get the benefit of modern living within an individual oak framed building oozing character –Mansbridge and Balment -01822 612345 have the full details.
Maybe something more traditional will appeal on the edge of a rural village –then try North Hall near Iddesleigh, renowned for its connection with Michael Morpugo’s War Horse story and The Duke of York. A thatched house with large gardens and amazing views to Dartmoor – Jackson Stops 01271 325153 - or Berry Farm, a stunning 6 bedroom stone farmhouse looking across Petrockstow offered by Wilkinson Grant 01392 427500. Back on the edge of Dartmoor, Strutt and Parker -01392 215631- are offering Tavy House in Mary Tavy, an Edwardian house with a contemporary twist. A house that has to be viewed internally to be appreciated.
So, no matter what your taste and budget the choice is out there –so go seek that special feeling –It’s all about coming home.
Nigel Bishop
Founder & Managing Director of Recoco Property Search