Property description

An outstanding former Rectory in an exquisite position with uninterrupted rural views, whilst enjoying grand proportions, flexible accommodation and ancillary accommodation

Description
Having been in the current ownership for the past 35 years, The Old Rectory is an impressive, unlisted country residence. Typical of its period it has incomparable proportions and grandeur in addition to offering a great deal of flexibility with ancillary accommodation, games room and studio. The approach sets the tone for things to come whilst the porch and reception hall is perfect for welcoming guests with its striking carved staircase that is a wonderful feature alongside the fireplace. Typical of its era the two formal, double aspect reception rooms are incredibly beautiful with outstanding proportions and long distant southerly views. The drawing room benefits from a spectacular square bay window and the dining/sitting room has a further bay window and pretty doors which lead out onto the terrace – perfect for alfresco dining. The dining/sitting room is of particular interest, double doors provides access into the drawing room to create a splendid open plan space if desired. There is a wonderful feature fireplace, space for a generous dining table and a seating area.

Adjacent is the kitchen/breakfast room fitted with a wide range of appliances and centred around the Stanley. There is a useful pantry and a rear hallway to a cloakroom, storage cupboards catering kitchen and access to the courtyard.

The striking staircase rises to the first floor where you are greeted with a significant landing. The Victorian proportions continue with five en suite double bedrooms and a dressing room. The two front bedrooms are arguably the most noteworthy, both of which enjoy a bay window capturing the true setting and making the most of the uninterrupted countryside view across the valley. Stairs continue to the second floor where there is a further four bedrooms, three of which are en suite.

Centred around the attractive courtyard are two additional dwellings which have become a successful income channel for the current owners. The Studio is an open plan and double height unit with a galleried en suite bedroom and access onto the private decking and its own garden area. Whereas the former stables, now known as The Cobbled Room Duplex due to the original floor is another charming and fruitful unit. Completing the outbuildings is a comprehensive studio with uninterrupted views and its own shower room and changing room. There is a gym, store, substantial snooker room with a pitch pine floor, fireplace, a huge yoga studio which is a great “party room”, laundry room servicing the ancillary accommodation and plant room.

Gardens and Grounds
Outside doesn’t disappoint, particularly the Grade II listed gate pillars and the incredibly special Victorian Grotto. In addition to the astro covered tennis courts, there is a solar heated swimming pool and the surrounding area is a real treat benefiting from total privacy and a Mediterranean ambiance. The established gardens have a wide variety of specimen trees and shrubs with pretty paths meandering through the grounds. A delightful yew hedge enclosed croquet lawn and a walled vegetable garden with large greenhouse and a stone built open barn. Beyond the formal garden is a paddock with its own road access and in total the gardens and grounds extend to 5.41 acres.

Location
Occupying an enviable position on the edge of the thriving market town of Chulmleigh, a Conservation Area, this property is tucked away in total privacy with far reaching views across the surrounding countryside. The small, attractive hilltop town is dotted with stunning cob and thatched properties as well as an impressive selection of amenities including a deli, bakery, two public houses, restaurants, cricket club, golf club and both a primary and well-regarded community college. The local area provides ample opportunity for exploring by foot as well as cycling and riding with fabulous walks on your doorstep.

Barnstaple, approximately 18 miles away is the regional centre offering many of the high street and independent retailers, renowned Pannier market and theatre. There are a number of well-regarded state and private schools in the local areas. The North Devon coast with its rugged coastline and stunning beaches as well as both Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks are all easily accessible from the property within 15-20 miles.

The Cathedral City of Exeter is approximately 23 miles away. Exeter is a thriving city, which boasts The Princesshay Shopping Centre, Guildhall Food Halls, a John Lewis Department store as well as an extensive selection of independent shops and eateries, theatres, an award-winning museum, world class University and excellent transport links. The Tarka train line between Exeter and Barnstaple runs every hour and the nearest station is at Eggesford (2.5 miles away).

Square Footage: 6,649 sq ft

Acreage:
5.41 Acres

Directions
From Exeter proceed along the A377 to Barnstaple passing through Crediton and continue for approximately 15 miles. After passing Eggesford train station take the next right onto Darky Lane, this road will meet Chawleigh Hill and turn left. Proceed down the hill and when you get to the brow of the hill turn right into The Old Rectory, through the gated entrance and as the road bends around to the right.

Additional Info
Crediton about 13 miles Barnstaple about 18 miles Tiverton about 19 miles Exeter about 23 miles

Services - Mains water and electricity. Private drainage, wood pellet boiler, oil central heating and solar heated swimming pool.
Amenities

Outstanding, unlisted country residence

Lifestyle opportunity with versatile accommodation

Ancillary accommodation and generous studio

Unrivalled countryside views

5.41 acres of gardens, swimming pool and paddock

EPC Rating = F