Cathedral Close, Exeter, EX1

An extraordinary Grade I listed Tudor residence overlooking Exeter Cathedral a rare opportunity to own one of the city’s most historically significant private homes.

The Property

There are historic houses, and then there are houses that form part of the history of a city. Mol’s House is one of the latter. 

Occupying an extraordinary position overlooking Exeter Cathedral and Cathedral Green, this Grade I listed Tudor residence offers a combination of architectural importance, rich history and contemporary living that would be exceptionally difficult to replicate.

Behind its instantly recognisable façade lies a beautifully restored private home arranged over several floors, culminating in a spectacular vaulted living space and balcony with an unforgettable outlook towards the Cathedral.

For the next owner, this is far more than the opportunity to acquire a two-bedroom city house. It is the opportunity to become custodian of one of Exeter's most distinctive historic residences.

The Armada Room

The principal reception room is arguably the defining historic space within the house.

Known as The Armada Room, it looks directly towards the Cathedral through deep-set oriel windows and features extensive oak panelling decorated with hand-painted coats of arms associated with prominent Devon families, including Sir Francis Drake.

A substantial fireplace, carved timberwork and centuries of architectural detail create a room of genuine atmosphere and significance.

Discreetly incorporated into one corner is a charming bar area with sink and wine cooler, allowing this remarkable historic room to work equally well for entertaining.

Bedrooms

The bedroom floor provides two beautifully presented double bedrooms.

The principal bedroom combines impressive ceiling height and natural light with fitted wardrobes and a luxurious en-suite shower room with underfloor heating.

The second double bedroom is similarly light and characterful, while a stylish principal bathroom, also with underfloor heating, completes the accommodation on this level.

The Top Floor

The transformation on reaching the upper floor is remarkable.

Here, historic architecture meets contemporary living in a spectacular open-plan kitchen, dining and reception space beneath a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams.

Natural light enters from multiple aspects, while the bespoke painted kitchen incorporates high-quality work surfaces, integrated Siemens appliances and a Bora extracting hob.

A cast-iron range set within an exposed brick fireplace provides another reminder of the building's past.

There is generous space for dining, relaxing and entertaining, but perhaps the most memorable feature lies beyond.

Doors open onto the private balcony overlooking Exeter Cathedral and the Cathedral Green.

It provides an exceptional vantage point from which to experience the changing seasons of Cathedral Close, from summer evenings above the Green to the atmosphere of Exeter's Christmas Market.

Over 600 Years of History

The history of Mol's House is as extraordinary as its architecture.

The site formed part of the Annuellars' College, associated with the Cathedral's chantry priests, as early as 1410.

Following the Reformation, the property passed into private ownership and was substantially remodelled in 1596 as Exeter's Custom House. The Royal Coat of Arms added to the building remains visible today.

In 1726 another chapter began when the building became a coffee house. Taking the name Mol's, it subsequently became an important part of Exeter's social history.

Today, following careful restoration, Mol's House begins another chapter – this time as an exceptional private residence.

Cathedral Close

Few addresses define Exeter quite like Cathedral Close.

Step outside and the Cathedral, independent restaurants, cafés, shops and cultural attractions of the city centre are immediately accessible, while Exeter's mainline railway connections provide direct services towards London.

Yet inside Mol's House, particularly when looking across the Cathedral Green from the Armada Room or balcony, there is a remarkable sense of separation from the city beyond.

A Rare Opportunity

Properties can be renovated. Locations can be sought out. Luxury can be created.

History like this cannot be recreated.

Mol's House represents a rare opportunity to acquire not simply an exceptional Exeter residence, but a recognised part of the city's architectural story.

Viewing is strictly by appointment through Fine & Country Exeter.

Property Information

Tenure: Freehold
Council Tax: TBC
Services: Mains electricity, water and drainage
Outside: Private landscaped courtyard garden

Garden

There is a beautifully landscaped courtyard garden at the rear of the property