Hartland, Bideford, Devon, EX39

Speke Valley Cottage immediately evokes the charm and tranquillity of a quintessential thatched Devon hideaway. Dating back to the 16th century and Grade II listed*, the property retains an abundance of original character, thoughtfully preserved throughout and sits in a sided valley in a plot of over 1/3rd of an acre. Featuring a garage/ workshop and external alfresco entertaining area this timeless home sits on two sections of lawns with a bubbling stream at the front of the property which flows down through the valley to the stunning waterfalls down to the beach of Speke Mills Mouth, which is only a 15 minute walk from the cottage.

STEP INSIDE

The moment you step into the main reception space, the cottage’s history surrounds you. A richly textured exposed cob and stone walls and oak beam spans the ceiling. Its time-worn surface soft and grained into the wood focuses ones attention alongside the matching latch pin doors. The quirky, uneven floors also create a delightful mix of gently sloping timber boards which echo centuries of footsteps and lend an irresistible authenticity. Notably the property has had a scheme of modernisation with freshly laid carpets and modern fixtures and fittings creating a complimentary mix between the new and the old. Off the porch the dining room features a set of stairs and cupboard which leads to a downstairs shower room. A large inglenook-style fireplace forms the focal point of the living room, offering the perfect setting for a wood burner and evenings spent in warmth and comfort. To one side, a cosy snug or study area offers a space to work and the opposite side opens into the charming brand new kitchen. Consisting of NEFF double oven, integral fridge and freezer, inset wine fridge and dishwasher the kitchen is ready for the next owner to use as new with the stickers still on the packaging! This is a space designed for slow mornings, home baking, and relaxed living rather than formality.

Upstairs, the cottage continues to delight. Carpeted timber stairs lead to three characterful bedrooms tucked beneath the rafters. Exposed roof timbers, peg-jointed trusses and beams reveal the building’s ancient past, while the softly sloping ceilings create snug, atmospheric spaces. A traditional shower room serves this floor, completing the accommodation inside.

STEP OUTSIDE

The grounds extend to 0.36 acres and are mainly positioned to the side of the house, creating a peaceful and private setting bordered by mature woodland to the rear alongside native planting. There is a cobbled path with gates leading to a workshop and garage area with adjacent wood store to the front where the path opens up to a gently sloping lawn with natural borders. There are areas of wildflower growth, and a sheltered area comprising of a hot tub creating a perfect space to take in the surroundings and Summer House which has been used as a remote office with access to 300MB wifi. A meandering path leads past a small wooded area into an additional lawned area. Towards the rear, a secure gated hardstanding driveway provides generous off-road parking for up to six vehicles, approached through a pair of contemporary wooden swing gates.s.

NB: We believe there is a right of way to the properties well which is located above the house in a farmers field in perpetuity

NB: We understand that the property has suffered from a freak flood caused by a dammed bridge further up the valley. All neccessary damp works have been undertaken

NB: The thatched roof has been replaced three months ago by a local thatcher
From Bideford Town, head west on the A39 Atlantic Highway towards Bude. At Clovelly Cross, continue on and then take the second right turn towards Hartland past Baxworthy. Continue on this road and take the fork to the left and then take the sixth left hand turn and follow the signposts to Elmscott. The road heads down to the valley with the property located on the corner before the bridge on the right hand side.