Cockwood Harbour, Exeter, Devon

Description

Nestled within the charming estuary village of Cockwood, The Croft offers a rare and exciting opportunity to acquire a large, adaptable detached home just moments from the water’s edge. With glimpses towards the picturesque harbour and Exe Estuary, this handsome, characterful residence is set within mature, private grounds of around half an acre and offers enormous flexibility for modern family life, intergenerational living, and home-working.

Spanning two spacious floors, The Croft provides extensive, light-filled accommodation, including elegant bay-windowed reception rooms that take full advantage of the setting. Having evolved from its original roots as a traditional family home, the property has been thoughtfully extended over time and now boasts multiple en-suite bedrooms, generous living space, and distinct zones that could be easily configured as self-contained living accommodation—ideal for grandparents, older children, live-in carers, or simply offering everyone in the household their own space and independence.

Whether you’re looking for a versatile home that comfortably accommodates extended family or a peaceful base for working from home, The Croft offers endless scope. The adaptable layout is perfect for those embracing a more flexible lifestyle, including remote working or creative pursuits. Quiet nooks, private entrances, and spacious interiors allow for a harmonious blend of shared family time and personal retreat.
There is also potential for small-scale commercial use—such as a home-based business or guest accommodation—subject to the necessary consents.

Beyond the house, the expansive approximately half an acre gardens wrap around the property with a mix of level lawns, mature planting, fruit trees, and pleasant seating areas, creating an oasis of calm and offering a high level of seclusion and privacy. A secondary driveway offers additional access, while features such as a pond and hidden pathways leading through a delightful woodland area, add to the charm. The garden offers fantastic scope for development — whether for a garden office, play area, or space to grow your own food as part of a sustainable family lifestyle.

Practicality is equally well catered for, with ample private parking, a large studio/outbuilding, and proximity to local amenities. The property lies just a short stroll from the Anchor and the Ship inns, while the nearby estuary, countryside, and beaches offer a host of recreational opportunities including sailing, walking, and cycling.

The Croft is a truly rare find: a home with heart, heritage, and huge potential. Whether you're seeking space for family, room to grow across generations, or a peaceful retreat by the coast, this property offers the lifestyle—and flexibility—you've been looking for

Situation

Tucked between the sparkling waters of the Exe Estuary and rolling Devon countryside, Cockwood is one of South Devon’s most charming and tightly knit estuary villages. Centred around its pretty harbour and flanked by two popular and characterful pubs—The Anchor Inn and The Ship Inn—the village has a warm, welcoming community spirit that makes it a joy to live in year-round. Locals enjoy a peaceful coastal lifestyle with the benefit of strong village ties, seasonal events, and a friendly, neighbourly atmosphere that is becoming increasingly rare.

Despite its tranquil setting, Cockwood is exceptionally well connected. The nearby village of Starcross (approximately 0.5 miles away) offers a mainline railway station with regular direct services to Exeter (c. 12 miles), Dawlish (c. 2 miles), and Newton Abbot, making commuting or day trips easy and convenient. The M5 motorway is within easy reach via the A379 and Exeter, providing swift access to regional hubs and the rest of the country. Excellent local schools, including a well-regarded primary school in Cockwood itself, and further options in Dawlish and Exeter, make it ideal for families.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the proximity to the coast, with beaches, sailing, and coastal walks all within walking or cycling distance. The Exe Estuary Trail—a scenic cycle and walking route—passes nearby, offering stunning views and access to nearby towns along the estuary. With all the essentials nearby yet a peaceful, village ambiance, Cockwood offers the perfect blend of rural charm and modern convenience.

Directions

From Exeter city centre, take the A379 southbound towards Dawlish. Pass through the villages of Kenton and Starcross and into Cockwood village. The Croft is located near Cockwood Harbour, just past the bridge on the right hand side. The journey typically takes around 20 minutes, depending on traffic.