Axmouth, Devon, EX12

Believed to have originated in the 16th century and thoughtfully expanded in the Gothic style during the early 19th century, this captivating home features a distinctive castellated tower complete with a functioning bell, offering a unique touch of character. Facing southwest, Havencliffe commands a prominent coastal position, surrounded by its own private woodland, which provides both seclusion and a serene backdrop. The property's long veranda grants stunning views over the sea and Axmouth Harbour, making it a perfect haven for those seeking peace and natural beauty.

Accessed via a pillared entrance, a gently rising drive leads through enchanting woodland to a spacious parking and turning area at the main entrance. Upon entering the property, one is greeted by a grand entrance hall that sets the tone for the rest of the home. The main reception rooms extend from this central point, including the exceptional drawing room, which features a striking barrel ceiling and offers panoramic views of the gardens, grounds, harbour, and sea. The family kitchen, large and immaculately presented, opens onto an inner courtyard garden, creating a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living.

The bedroom accommodation at Havencliffe is equally impressive. The principal bedroom, with its high ceilings, en suite bathroom, and commanding views, serves as a luxurious retreat. Four additional bedrooms provide ample space for family and guests, each room thoughtfully designed to ensure comfort and privacy.

Separate from the main house, across the charming courtyard, lies a delightful cottage, offering ideal accommodation for staff, family, or guests. This additional living space is both versatile and private, ensuring that everyone who visits Havencliffe enjoys the same level of comfort and luxury.

The property also includes a traditional courtyard of stables, complete with stores and workshops above, perfect for equestrian enthusiasts or those requiring extra storage and workspace. However, the most striking feature of Havencliffe is undoubtedly the breathtaking view over the sloping grounds that lead down to the harbour and sea at Axmouth. The southwest side of the house is graced with an attractive veranda, offering enchanting views that stretch far beyond the immediate surroundings.

The meticulously maintained grounds include a lawn dotted with two small ponds, which extends down to an ornamental balustrade and a paddock that gently slopes towards the harbour. Behind the house, a charming enclosed garden, accessible from the kitchen, offers a tranquil retreat with a level lawn, paved areas, and a central pond. This garden is sheltered on three sides, providing privacy and protection from the elements. Additionally, an open-sided loggia with a spring-fed pond in one corner adds to the garden's charm.

Further enhancing the outdoor amenities, Havencliffe boasts a heated swimming pool, surrounded by lush gardens and sheltered by walls on three sides. A large garden room complements this space, offering a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. To the north and east, the property is embraced by a crescent of natural woodland, filled with tall native species. A hidden path through this woodland leads to a secluded lookout point, offering breath-taking views of the sea, completely hidden from view and providing a perfect escape.

Situated above Axmouth Harbour, Havencliffe provides an unparalleled setting, combining the serenity of coastal living with easy access to some of the region's finest natural and recreational amenities.

For those with a passion for sailing, the location is ideal, with the Axe Yacht Club, Seaton, and Beer sailing clubs all within close proximity, offering excellent opportunities to take to the water. Additionally, the South West Coast Path is just a short distance away, providing access to some of the best walking routes in the area, where one can explore the stunning cliffs, coves, and countryside that make this region so special.

Convenience is another key feature of Havencliffe's location. The property is approximately a quarter of a mile from the centre of Seaton, a vibrant town offering an excellent range of everyday facilities, including shops, restaurants, and leisure amenities. Axmouth village, steeped in history and character, lies nearby, set along the tidal estuary of the River Axe. Historically a Roman port, Axmouth is now a charming village with a beautiful church, traditional inns, and a small harbour, as well as a stunning cliff-top golf course that enjoys spectacular coastal views.

The property benefits from superb communication links, making it an accessible retreat. The A30/A303 is approximately 19 miles away, providing direct access to the M5 motorway at Taunton to the north or Exeter to the south. Rail services from Axminster offer direct routes to London Waterloo in about 2 hours 45 minutes, while trains from Exeter and Taunton to London Paddington provide even faster services, with the quickest journey taking just 1 hour 45 minutes from Taunton. For those who travel further afield, Exeter Airport is within easy reach and offers an increasing number of flights to both UK and international destinations.

Axminster, a nearby market town, provides a range of excellent local amenities, including its historic Minster Church, supermarkets, schools, and a variety of shops, pubs, and restaurants. Exeter, the major regional centre for the southwest, is renowned for its extensive shopping options, including a John Lewis store, as well as a vibrant selection of restaurants and theatres, ensuring that all your cultural and retail needs are met.

Havencliffe is also ideally located for families seeking access to outstanding educational institutions. Devon boasts an excellent selection of state and private schools, with the property situated conveniently close to many of them. The highly regarded Colyton Grammar School, one of Britain's top-performing selective state schools, is just 3 miles away. Nearby private schools include Wellington School, Kings, Queens, and Taunton School in Taunton. Exeter is home to several prestigious schools, including the Maynard School for Girls and Exeter School, while Blundell's School is located in Tiverton.