Yealmpton, Plymouth, Devon, PL8

Exquisite Grade II listed barn conversion, set in 8.16 acres of glorious grounds and wildlife haven.

Description

Nestled deep within a tranquil fold of the South Devon countryside, Wrescombe Court presents a rare opportunity to acquire a distinguished Grade II listed former bank barn of exceptional scale and presence. Extending to over 5,800 sq ft and set within approximately 8.16 acres of landscaped grounds, this remarkable home combines historic architecture with a contemporary sense of comfort and style.
Originally constructed in the early 1800s to serve local farms, the barn underwent a sensitive conversion in the 1990s and has since been re-imagined and refined by the present owners. The interiors are a masterclass in balancing grandeur with warmth: intimate, atmospheric spaces sit alongside rooms of exceptional proportions, all finished in a soft, natural palette designed to accentuate original features.
The west-facing entrance hall sets the tone, with exposed beams, dressed stone walls, flagstone flooring and an impressive fireplace with wood-burning stove. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves transform this generous space into a library or cosy snug. Two exceptionally spacious ground-floor bedrooms, each with their own bathrooms and direct garden access, are arranged off this hall, lending a wonderful sense of privacy and connection to the outdoors.
At the heart of Wrescombe Court lies the farmhouse-style kitchen – a cook’s kitchen of real distinction. Anchored by a six-oven AGA and bespoke cabinetry, with subtle nods to classic deVOL hardware, it combines practicality with beauty. A generous breakfast area opens through double doors onto a sunlit terrace, perfect for morning coffee or summer suppers.
The Great Hall is a truly remarkable space: a vaulted ceiling rises dramatically above a magnificent open fireplace, creating a fabulous setting for large-scale entertaining, formal dining or relaxed family gatherings by the fire. A further bedroom with en suite completes this floor.
Upstairs, a galleried landing looks back into the Great Hall, giving access to the principal suite – a sanctuary with a walk-in dressing area and a luxurious en suite bathroom complete with both bath and walk-in shower. Another generous double room, currently used as a music room, offers potential as a study or further bedroom.
The most recent addition to the house is a lower-ground extension designed as a multipurpose leisure suite. Here, large sliding doors open onto a lower terrace with cedar hot tub and outdoor shower. A sauna, cloakroom and extensive storage complete this versatile space, while a purpose-built laundry on the upper level ensures even everyday tasks are a pleasure.
Grounds and Setting
Approached along a quiet country lane, a gated gravel drive leads to a central courtyard with ample parking, a four-bay car port, workshop and wood store. Residents also enjoy mooring rights and kayak storage on the nearby River Yealm, ideal for sailing or paddleboarding enthusiasts.
The surrounding parkland is integral to the experience of Wrescombe Court. Stone terraces are planted with thoughtfully designed borders, leading down to gently rolling lawns that invite both play and repose. A long polished concrete dining table and wood-fired pizza oven create a magical al fresco dining area.
Beyond the formal gardens, the land opens into wildflower meadows and young native woodland planted as part of an ongoing rewilding project to support pollinators and local wildlife. At the centre lies a wildlife lake with timber pontoon, a haven for birdlife and quiet reflection alike. A shepherd’s hut here, available by separate negotiation, offers scope for guest accommodation or creative retreat.
For those seeking a more self-sufficient lifestyle, a thriving kitchen garden is enclosed within raised beds, two greenhouses and a chicken coop. An adjoining paddock provides grazing for a pony or scope for a smallholding.
With its blend of historic charm, contemporary comfort and exceptional leisure facilities, Wrescombe Court is more than a house; it is a way of life.

Location

Noss Mayo is an idyllic, picture postcard village which lies within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Located on the banks of the beautiful River Yealm estuary, it is a haven for keen sailors with the River Yealm being a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a European Special Area of Conservation with deep water moorings both close to the village and in the quiet upper reaches of the estuary. It is a hidden gem surrounded by ancient woodland, creeks and coastal paths all offering an abundance of wildlife. Close by are many secluded coves, including the beautiful Mothecombe Beach and the sandy beaches of the South Hams.

Newton Ferrers sits on opposite bank of the River Yealm and between them, the villages share a number of facilities including two churches, a good primary school, tea rooms and also an abundance of clubs, societies and special interest groups. Amenities include several shops (Post Office Stores, Co-Op food store, pharmacy, etc.) three good pubs/restaurant and the Yealm Yacht Club with bistro.

For more comprehensive shopping, Plymouth is about 10 miles to the northwest or Modbury and Kingsbridge to the east.

Communication links are excellent with the main route from Plymouth to Exeter (A38/M5 Devon Expressway) only a few miles away and bus services run to Plymouth city centre which is within easy commuting distance. Intercity trains run daily from Plymouth to Paddington and for those wanting travel further afield, the continental ferry port in Plymouth is also easily accessible.

Square Footage: 5,839 sq ft


Acreage: 8.16 Acres

Directions



Additional Info

SERVICES: Mains water, electricity and gas. Private drainage.

PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY:
A public footpath runs through a corner of the grounds, well away from the house.

PHOTOGRAPHS: supplied by property owner

VIEWINGS: Strictly by appointment with Savills.