The Mission House, Bayards Cove, Dartmouth, Devon

The Mission House

Standing statuesque on the banks of the River Dart on the iconic Bayards Cove is The Mission House, an exquisite example of Georgian architecture, with two topiered bushes standing sentry by the elegant period front door.  Charming panelled reveals lead to a recessed 6-panel wooden door under radial fanlight, the contemporary sage colour, matching that of the beautifully crafted balcony and the windows, gives a hint that there is something very special beyond this understated elegant facade. 

Marble tiles run underfoot as we pause to admire the impressive hallway. A right turn takes us into the marvellous open-plan kitchen and dining room. Bespoke shaker-style cabinetry makes clever use of the space in this welcoming room. Storage is plentiful in the wooden cabinets, topped with a mix of solid wood and granite worktops, though the centre stage is taken by a glorious cream gas Aga. Two sinks and a moveable island make this a great space to prepare a feast for your guests, waiting patiently in the generous dining area. Your guests can take their place at the grand dining table in front of the imposing fireplace or curl up and admire the river views through the large sash window, flooding this comfortable room with light. Either way, this room makes for an amazingly sociable space to entertain your family and friends.

Beyond the kitchen lies a superb additional room comprising of a useful utility room and a wine cellar. A set of stone steps leads us to the sunny, central courtyard and connects to the first floor but we will explore this divine home by drifting back through the kitchen and into the hallway. Before ascending the stylish staircase take a peek at the handy understairs WC and cloakroom area, tucked neatly away.

Wind up the stunning period staircase and marvel at the elegance of this breathtaking space. A great sense of tranquillity washes over us as we enter the magnificent drawing room. Glorious 9ft ceilings are balanced beautifully by the grand dimensions of this vast room. Spanning the width of the whole house and taking full advantage of the two large sash windows, this wonderful living area has sensational views out over the river and out to sea. The view is framed by the beautiful wisteria creeping romantically around the original cast-iron balcony, ornamented with rosettes and anthemia If you can tear yourself away from this delightful vista, you’ll note the sophisticated marble fireplace adorning the open fire.  Honey-toned oak floors add a contemporary feel as does the addition of underfloor heating and modern conveniences. This home is right up to date whilst respecting its characterful period features.

Bespoke bookshelves turn the rear of the drawing room into a wonderful library - the perfect spot for curling up with a good book. A third sash window this time provides views out over the courtyard whilst further illuminating this delightful room.

Beyond the library area, we find a fabulous cinema room. With plenty of room for cosy sofas, the broody dark walls provide an excellent backdrop for a large TV screen and a great space for the family to enjoy a film together.  By contrast, opposite, whitewashed stone walls highlight the brilliant greens of the mature planting in the sunny enclosed courtyard. A great private place for a spot of alfresco dining.

Drift back through the drawing room and up the stairs to the second storey where we find the principal bedroom. Imagine waking to the sound of the river lapping against the bank, river views from your pillow. This superb suite has a full wall of built-in wardrobes and a decadent ensuite bathroom, complete with a freestanding roll-top bath and heritage-style sanitary ware.

Across the roomy landing, we find the second bedroom in glorious heritage colours and views over the pretty courtyard. A beautiful vanity unit nestles perfectly in the alcove, highlighted by intricate cornicing. Up on the light-filled top floor, characterful pale-washed exposed beams add great features to the two double bedrooms we find here.  A dormer window to the front allows for sensational panoramic views of the river, sea and the pretty village of Kingswear beyond. A charming family bathroom is also situated on this floor.

An independent cottage & large garage with workshop are available by separate negotiation.

Tenure: Freehold

Location: Conservation Area

EPC Band: Grade II Listed

Council Tax Band: G

Local Authority: South Hams District Council

Mains: Water, electricity & drainage

Thoroughly Refurbished Throughout - Lutron Light Control System, Cat 5 Cabling, Underfloor Heating & Radiator System Controlled By Smartphone, Security Alarms, Integrated TV & Audio Networks

Mobile Signal: Varies Depending on Provider

Broadband Speed: Up to 80Mb

Postcode: TQ6 9AT

About The Area:

In times gone by, prosperity in Dartmouth centred around the trade brought in by shipping. The river was alive with fishing vessels, shipbuilding and most importantly merchant ships bringing luxurious goods such as wine and tobacco into the vibrant port. Bayards Cove Fort was built in the early 1500s to protect the illustrious quay from invaders, the quay itself dates back to 1665. The Mayflower and Speedwell resided here before starting their famed journey across the ocean to the new world of America. Its position at the narrowest point of the river also served well during the World Wars, where the area was heavily utilised for water-based campaigns.

The Mission House is located in the thriving heart of Dartmouth, which has fantastic amenities that will keep the family content year-round on its doorstep. From Tudor buildings, arty side streets, brilliant restaurants and pubs, fresh seafood and of course, the Dart itself, you’ll never be short of things to do – or eat. Yachtsmen will be delighted by the local sailing facilities and the world-renowned Royal Regatta. On the town’s doorstep, you will find the South West Coastal Path and the South Devon AONB area, providing a huge range of walks with unbeatable scenery. You can also hop in a boat and explore Kingswear or take the kids or grandkids on the steam railway.

Beach lovers will be unable to resist the pretty coves and the glorious dog and family-friendly coastline, which is a world-class attraction in its own right. Those with a romantic frame of mind will also be happy to know that Dartmoor is within easy reach of the town. The nearest educational institution is the Ofsted-rated 'Good' Dartmouth Academy, which is both a primary and secondary school. Across the water, Churston Ferrers Grammar School provides 11-18-year-olds with an outstanding education.

Totnes Offers rail links across the country, including London Paddington. The A38 Devon Expressway, accessed at Buckfastleigh, provides quick links to Exeter and the rest of the county.

The Coastal House use all reasonable endeavours to supply accurate property information in line with the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. These property details do not constitute any part of the offer or contract and all measurements are approximate. The matters in these particulars should be independently verified by prospective buyers. It should not be assumed that this property has all the necessary planning, building regulations or other consents. Any services, appliances and heating system(s) listed have not been checked or tested. Purchasers should make their own enquiries to the relevant authorities regarding the connection of any service. No person in the employment of The Coastal House has any authority to make or give any representations or warranty whatever in relation to this property or these particulars or enter into any contract relating to this property on behalf of the vendor. Floor plan not to scale and for illustrative purposes only. Coastal House Ltd Registered Office: 14 Mayors Avenue, Dartmouth, Devon, TQ6 9NG Registered in England & Wales: No 9447216