Marley Estate, South Brent, Devon

Elegant Double-Fronted Home on the Exclusive Gated Marley Estate, Rattery

Set within the prestigious, gated Marley Estate, this beautifully presented double-fronted home offers generous living space and a peaceful countryside setting.

Inside, the property features a welcoming entrance hall, downstairs WC/utility, and a stunning dual-aspect sitting room with American oak flooring, a marble fireplace, and French doors opening onto a veranda. The fitted kitchen includes an oil-fired Aga (currently disconnected) and also opens to the veranda – perfect for alfresco dining.

Upstairs, there are three spacious en-suite bedrooms, including a luxurious main suite with a dressing room and lovely estate views.

Outside, the property enjoys its own private garden with a paved veranda, ideal for relaxing or entertaining, along with two garages and two parking spaces. Residents also benefit from access to beautifully maintained communal grounds, including a tennis court, all securely accessed via a gated entrance.

The property includes a share of the freehold, with a 999-year lease from 1996. Ground rent is just £10 per year, and the £3,800 annual service charge covers exterior maintenance, insurance, gate security, water, sewerage, and groundskeeping.

Location

Moving beyond the estate, the hamlet of Rattery sits on the edge of South Brent – a welcoming, community-driven village nestled in the rolling hills of Devon. South Brent offers a primary school, health centre, dentist, and a variety of local shops, clubs, and community groups.

Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Dartmoor National Park, offering endless opportunities for walking, cycling, and outdoor adventures. The Marley Estate enjoys a prime position just off the A38 Devon Expressway, with excellent road links to Plymouth and Exeter. Totnes train station is a short drive away, and a convenient bus stop at the estate gates provides direct routes to Exeter city centre and Bristol airports.

Owner's Comments

"I moved here back in 1999 when I got a new job in Devon. At the time, I was living in a flat in Plymouth while my wife stayed up in Worcestershire. I wanted something between Exeter and Plymouth, and I just happened to drive past and saw the "for sale" sign. As soon as I came in, I couldn’t believe it—the grounds, the house—it was exactly what I was looking for. A modern house that looked traditional, with beautiful surroundings and easy access to where I needed to be.

What I’ve loved most—and will really miss—are the seasons and the nature here. The weather has character—sometimes beautiful, sometimes wild. The birdlife is incredible. I even call one of the nearby trees "Bird City" because the birds gather there every evening. I've seen deer, hedgehogs, and all sorts of wildlife. I used to love sitting outside after work with a gin and tonic, just soaking it all in. And in retirement, it’s been lovely to walk the land, enjoy the peacefulness, and connect with neighbours when you want—or not, if you don’t.

At first, I was a little unsure about the leasehold aspect, but then I found out we actually own the freehold and have the right to manage everything ourselves, which was reassuring. There's 11 acres of communal land we all share—you can walk, picnic, or play there. There’s even a small tennis court that people use.

The area itself is fantastic. Totnes and South Brent are both nearby, each with a different character and great schools. The A38 runs close by, so it’s easy to get to Exeter, Plymouth, or even further afield. Totnes also has a mainline station that’ll take you to London, or for me, up to Birmingham for the cricket.

Some people ask about the management charges, but when you realise they cover external maintenance, water, communal lighting, garage repairs, and buildings insurance, it’s actually quite reasonable. Plus, the ground rent is only £10 a year and can’t be increased."