The Heart of Devon

Devon is dominated by its coastlines -north and south -dramatic in the north and balmy in the south. Water is the common theme throughout the county with long winding rivers heading out to sea. The Rivers Exe, Taw, Torridge, Teign and Dart are just a few to mention that all attract buyers. Flowing through moorland and countryside they define the character of the region and frequently dictate the lifestyle and areas of search for property.

Whilst sailing, surfing and sandy beaches provide a true escape the river valleys are the backbone and vertebrae of the county. Historic trading routes traversed the rivers at given points and we mustn’t forget the canals built to ease transport before rail and road were efficient .The Grand Western Canal joined Taunton to Tiverton and the Exe Canal eased the transport from the mouth of the Exe into Exeter city when it was a thriving port.

The grand Georgian houses in the St. Leonards area of Exeter were built on the back of the growth of business from the port and later in Victorian in times the railway influenced the expansion of the city. But rurally, the classic farmhouses, often stone, cob and thatch still served the population well. Nowadays, the old and new intertwine and modern designs merge into the landscape.  Accessibility and internet speed seem more important than local community as the pace of life has quickened. But escaping the hustle and bustle if city life is always a great attraction.

 England is an island nation where the sea has historically been a key element -the British Empire was built by sailing the oceans – so no matter what the seas and rivers are in our hearts -they define England and where we live -  “it’s all about coming home”.

Nigel Bishop - njb@recoco.co.uk 07939559349