Whidborne Avenue, Torquay, TQ1

INTRODUCTION

Tucked away along the prestigious tree-lined setting of Whidborne Avenue, this exceptional coastal home delivers complete wow factor, combining refined elegance with breathtaking natural beauty. Situated in a highly sought-after position just moments from the South West Coast Path and overlooking the dramatic coastline of Hope's Nose, the property offers an enviable lifestyle defined by beauty, tranquillity and connection to the sea.

From the moment you step through the front door, the impact of the outstanding, uninterrupted sea views that form the home’s undeniable centrepiece is immediate—a stunning outlook that stretches endlessly across Lyme Bay. Immaculately presented throughout, the interiors are both stylish and spacious, with beautifully appointed open plan living, dining and kitchen areas designed for modern coastal living. Flexible luxurious accommodation includes three generous en-suite bedrooms and two reception rooms which could be used as additional bedrooms, all finished to an exceptional standard, creating a true turn-key home.

This is a property that perfectly balances tranquillity and accessibility—a peaceful and private retreat, yet within easy reach of vibrant culture, boutique shops, beaches and the surrounding South Devon coastline. A truly magical home where every detail has been carefully considered, and where the ever-changing sea view provides a spectacular backdrop to everyday life.

SELLERS INSIGHT

“We had always dreamed of living by the sea. When I was just 17, visiting Torquay from Germany as a student, I completely fell in love with it. I remember saying to myself back then that one day, when I retired, I would return and live here by the sea. Forty years later, that dream became a reality.

We were drawn to the clean sea air, the sense of space and the absence of pollution—but it was the moment we stepped into this home that everything fell into place. We didn’t need to look anywhere else. The outlook, the position, the peace of the setting—it captivated us instantly. Being on a quiet road was also important, especially for our cats to roam safely, and here it has always felt calm and secure.

Every single day still feels special. We wake up to an ever-changing seascape and never tire of it—the way the light dances across the water, the rolling sea mist, and those magical mornings when dolphins pass by. We even keep binoculars by the bed so we don’t miss a thing.

The house itself has worked beautifully for us. The open plan living space is incredibly sociable, whether it’s just the two of us or when friends and family come to stay. I often have a yoga group here, and there’s something truly special about practising in front of the sea before gathering for coffee and cake afterwards—there’s plenty of space for everyone. When we host family reunions, we can cook, chat and spend time together without ever losing sight of the view. In the warmer months, we open up the doors onto the terrace and let the sound of the birds and waves drift in—it’s effortless and relaxing.

The bedroom layout has also been ideal, giving guests their own private spaces with en-suite bathrooms, so everyone feels comfortable and at home.

In the evenings, we often find ourselves in the hot tub, reflecting on the day while looking up at the stars. There’s a real sense of being connected to nature and the sea—it’s peaceful, grounding and incredibly special. Despite the generous space, the house never feels overwhelming, and it’s been very manageable to maintain.

The location has been perfect for us. There are several beautiful beaches nearby, and the South West Coast Path offers endless opportunities for coastal walks. We also love being close to Dartmoor for its dramatic landscapes and incredible scenery. Wellswood has a wonderful selection of independent shops and cafés, and for a change of pace, Exeter and Plymouth are both within easy reach for shopping, dining and culture.

For us, this home has been everything we imagined all those years ago—and more. It’s a place where every day feels like a privilege.”

STEP INSIDE

Stepping through the landscaped front garden, there is an immediate sense that this is a home designed not just to be lived in, but to be experienced. The entrance hallway sets the tone—light dances across subtly sparkling ceramic tiles, and almost instinctively your eyes are drawn forward, through the home and out to the endless blue of the sea beyond. It is a view that stops you in your tracks, and one that will quietly shape everyday life here.

To the front, a beautifully designed snug with an atrium ceiling offers a cosy yet uplifting retreat—perfect for slow mornings with coffee or unwinding in the evening away from the main living space. The cloakroom, with its bespoke handmade sink inspired by tiles brought back from New Zealand, reflects the thought and individuality woven into every detail. A separate study provides a calm and inspiring place to work, with a view of the coastline towards Thatcher Point—a subtle reminder of the setting beyond. Both the snug and the study would equally work exceptionally well as bedrooms, offering further sleeping space if required.

As you step up into the main living space, the home truly reveals itself. The view expands, the light deepens, and the connection to the outdoors becomes all-encompassing. This open plan kitchen, dining and living area is the social and visual heart of the home—an elegant, flowing space designed for both effortless day-to-day living and memorable entertaining. Three large glazed sliding triple doors dissolve the boundary between inside and out, opening onto the terrace where long lunches, sunset drinks and quiet moments overlooking the water become part of your routine.

The kitchen, installed in 2022, is as functional as it is beautiful—sleek quartz black worktops paired with soft sea foam tone cabinetry create a calming, coastal palette. Fully integrated appliances from NEFF along with a ceiling-mounted Faber extractor and a Quooker instant hot water tap ensure everything is in place for both everyday cooking and hosting on a larger scale. The substantial kitchen island becomes a natural gathering point—morning breakfasts, casual conversations, or a glass of wine while dinner is prepared.

The dining area is surrounded by glazing, meaning every meal is accompanied by a changing seascape, while the adjoining seating area is perfectly positioned to pause and simply take it all in. The living area, centred around a gas fire with a slate chimney breast and warm wooden flooring, offers a cosy contrast—ideal for cooler evenings, where the glow of the fire meets the ever-present horizon beyond.

The principal bedroom is a sanctuary in every sense. Thoughtfully arranged with a dressing area leading down to the sleeping space, it is a room designed around the view. Sliding doors open directly onto the terrace, inviting you to start each day with fresh sea air and uninterrupted coastal panoramas. The en-suite is indulgent and beautifully crafted, with independent underfloor heating and bespoke double sinks inspired by the movement of water, an oval bath perfectly positioned for long, restorative soaks overlooking the ocean, and a spacious walk-in shower.

The remaining bedrooms continue this sense of comfort and quality. Bedroom two, with its striking glazed feature, with shutters, overlooking the snug, bespoke finishes and private en-suite, offers a stylish and secluded guest space. Bedroom three, overlooking the front garden, provides equally luxurious accommodation with its own beautifully appointed en-suite, ensuring every occupant enjoys both privacy and refinement.

Practicality is seamlessly integrated into the lifestyle here. A well-equipped utility room keeps daily life effortlessly organised, while the integral double garage and generous attic space provide excellent storage without compromising the clean, uncluttered feel of the home.

This is a home where design and setting work in perfect harmony—where light, space and the rhythm of the sea define how you live. From quiet mornings watching the horizon to evenings spent entertaining against a backdrop of ever-changing skies, every moment here feels elevated, effortless and deeply connected to its coastal surroundings.

STEP OUTSIDE

The front garden sets the tone for the lifestyle this home offers—an oasis of calm, privacy and coastal charm. Set back from the road, it provides secluded areas for quiet reflection or casual conversation, all framed by sea views stretching towards Thatcher Rocks. Carefully landscaped with attractive slate and centred around a contemporary water feature, the garden is both visually striking and a serene retreat. Sunny and sheltered, it even supports the growth of citrus fruits, adding a subtle Mediterranean feel to the setting. Side gated access leads you to the garden where you find the large terrace from the living space, laid in Millboard, a luxury component, with steps descending to a lush lawn and the mature, established planting beyond.

A charming side path winds through a small orchard, where apple, plum, damson and cherry trees flourish, offering both beauty and seasonal fruit. The garden is enriched with a variety of perennials, shrubs, and iconic Torbay palm trees, creating texture, movement and year-round interest. Meandering steps guide you to a decked area complete with a three-year-old hydro pool hot tub, surrounded by seating—an idyllic spot to relax while watching the ever-changing seascape.

Further steps lead to a lower level, where seating is perfectly positioned to take in the dramatic coastline of Hope's Nose. Here a small pond and an additional decked area with a fully serviced summerhouse provide the ideal setting for intimate evenings under the stars. Beyond the garden boundary, a natural area of foliage, which belongs to the property, stretches down to the coast path. This low-maintenance space looks after itself, preserving both privacy and a sense of wild tranquillity.

Designed for effortless enjoyment, the garden combines beauty, practicality and absolute seclusion. Every inch is private—there is no interruption from neighbours, and the only sounds are the birdsong and the gentle rhythm of the waves. It is a true extension of the home’s lifestyle, offering spaces for quiet contemplation, social gatherings, and moments of pure coastal indulgence.

USEFUL INFORMATION

Tenure – Freehold
Local Authority – Torbay District Council
Services – Mains water, drainage, electric & gas
Heating – Gas boiler serving underfloor heating and radiators
Solar Panels linked to 4 batteries of 2.6 KW each
Additional outdoor water meter - Water through this meter is charged at a lower price than the main residence
EPC – 80 C : NB 81 points is the next banding, B

Parking - Double garage

Parking - Driveway