St Leonards, Exeter

Description

Holly House is a distinguished Grade II Listed house located in the heart of St Leonard’s — one of Exeter’s most desirable residential areas. This substantial period home offers a rare combination of elegant Georgian architecture, thoughtfully designed modern living, and exceptional versatility, making it perfectly suited to growing families or those seeking flexible space for home working, entertaining, or multi-generational living.

Arranged over three spacious floors, the property has been sympathetically enhanced in recent years to create a warm and welcoming family home. Carefully preserving the integrity of its original features — including sash windows, decorative cornicing, and working fireplaces — it also benefits from a high-quality rear extension, introducing a stunning open-plan family kitchen with vaulted ceilings, skylights, and contemporary finishes that blend effortlessly with the period charm.

Three adaptable reception rooms provide excellent options for everyday family life, formal entertaining, or creative uses such as a home office, music room, or snug. The ground floor also includes a practical utility room and a modern cloakroom with shower — ideal for busy households.

Upstairs, the first floor hosts four beautifully proportioned bedrooms and a recently refitted family bathroom. Each room retains individual character and offers ample space for children, guests, or a dedicated study. The entire top floor is given over to a superb principal suite, featuring a generous double bedroom with elevated views across the city to the Haldon Hills, a walk-in wardrobe, dressing room, and a private bathroom — offering a peaceful retreat at the top of the house.

Outside, Holly House continues to impress. A south-facing courtyard garden at the rear offers a secluded, cottage-style setting perfect for relaxing or al fresco dining. A private gated driveway provides parking for two to three vehicles and access to a large double garage with additional loft storage. The mature lawned garden, with its raised beds and established trees, adds further charm and privacy.

This is a truly special home in a coveted location — just moments from the much-loved Magdalen Road “village” shops, highly regarded schools including Exeter School and The Maynard, and within easy walking distance of the city centre, the hospital, and the river. With generous proportions, quality finishes, and adaptable living space throughout, Holly House offers both the elegance of a bygone era and the practical comforts of modern family life.

Situation

Perfectly positioned in the heart of St Leonard’s, Holly House enjoys a prime address in one of Exeter’s most desirable neighbourhoods. This elegant location combines the charm of a close-knit community with the convenience of vibrant city living, just a short, level stroll from Exeter’s historic centre.

At its doorstep lies the much-loved Magdalen Road “village” — a thriving hub of independent cafés, artisan food stores, and everyday essentials, bringing a lively, local atmosphere to daily life. The area is exceptionally well served by education, with a wide selection of highly regarded schools nearby, including The Maynard, Exeter School, and several excellent state schools. The University of Exeter and Exeter College also offer outstanding further and higher education opportunities.

The Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital is just moments away, making the location particularly attractive for healthcare professionals. For leisure, residents enjoy easy access to riverside walks along the Exe, and the cultural delights of the city, from theatres and museums to Exeter’s historic quayside and cathedral. Sporting enthusiasts will appreciate proximity to major venues including Sandy Park, home of the Exeter Chiefs, and St James Park football ground.

Transport connections are superb. Exeter St David’s offers direct rail links to London Paddington in around two hours, while the M5 motorway and Exeter Airport—just over five miles away—provide excellent connectivity for both business and leisure travel.

This rare combination of community, culture, education, and accessibility makes Holly House an exceptional choice for modern family living in Exeter.

Directions

From Exeter city centre, head east along Heavitree Road (B3183) and turn right into College Road. Follow College Road until you reach the junction with Magdalen Road. Turn right onto Magdalen Road, passing through the 'Village' shopping area and Holly House, No. 16, will be found a short distance along on your left-hand side on the corner of Wonford Road.