Rousdon, Lyme Regis, Devon

Cliff Cottage comprises a truly unique, secluded residence which is located in a stunning woodland setting within the Rousdon Estate, a private 350 acre coastal estate situated in Lyme Bay on the World Heritage Jurassic Coast. Rousdon Estate dates from the 1870’s and belonged to Sir Henry Peek, first baronet, and was designed by architect Sir Ernest George who constructed an impressive Tudor style mansion and a fine array of estate cottages and houses. It stands within a beautiful parkland landscape which includes direct access to the private beach at Charton Bay and the Southwest Coastal Path which is just a stone’s throw from the property. Although being situated within the estate woodland and undercliff, Cliff Cottage does not form part of it and has had an interesting history being built in 1911 and formerly known as Engineers Cottage before being purchase and restored by the current owners in 1993. This magical position offers unrivalled peace and quietude and is a haven for an abundance of wildlife and birdlife. It is completely unique and perfect for those looking for a beautiful woodland retreat, off grid living and the opportunity to be relatively self-sufficient.

The property itself is of traditional construction with principally rendered elevations under a tiled roof and was the subject of a large extension in more recent years in order to provide the superb part vaulted kitchen. It retains a wealth of character features such as high ceilings, wooden floors and several working gas lamps, and all the rooms take advantage of the glorious leafy outlook.

GARDENS & GROUNDS.
Undoubtedly one of the main features of Cliff Cottage is its stunning setting. The property is approached over a ¾ mile private track which is owned and maintained by the Estate. This meanders its way through the picturesque native woodland and comes to a head at the parking area for the cottage. The property itself sits in beautifully established grounds which extend to about 0.67 acre and which have glimpses of the sea through the trees. To the front of the cottage is a paved terrace and a wisteria clad pergola on which sits the photovoltaic panels. A lawn with a central pathway leads through to the working park of the garden where there is a productive kitchen garden with raised beds, chicken coup and a timber shed.

To the rear of the cottage is a range of buildings which includes a superb timber cabin which offers ancillary accommodation, or would be perfect as a home office, studio, gymnasium etc, or alternatively could provide an income through letting (subject to any necessary planning conditions). Below this is a store housing the electrical system including the sophisticated invertor and battery storage, and a further store in which sits the generator.

SITUATION.
Cliff Cottage’s truly unique setting falls within one of the most unspoilt tracts of countryside in southern England and was declared a National Nature Reserve (The Undercliffs) in 1955. Located on the World Heritage Jurassic Coast in the East Devon National Landscape, it is also considered a Special Area of Conservation due to its unique geology and spectacular flora and fauna. The South West Coastal Path meanders through the undercliffs giving a picturesque route of about 3 miles to Lyme Regis and off which are a number of (challenging) routes down to several secluded coves including the Estates private beach at Charton Bay.

Rousdon itself offers several amenities including a popular café/restaurant and shop, and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s River Cottage Kitchen is also close at hand being about 4 miles away. A comprehensive range of facilities can be found in the popular nearby coastal town of Lyme Regis, approximately 4 miles to the east, or in Seaton which is about 6 miles to the west. These include a range of independent shops, cafe’s, restaurants and theatre. There are also numerous sporting opportunities including sailing and bowling clubs, Lyme Regis golf course, fossil hunting on the famous Jurassic Coast and walks along the cliffs or the historic Cobb harbour.

Cliff Cottage is within easy reach of both Woodroffe School and the renowned Colyton Grammar School which is regarded as one of the top coeducational schools in England. The market town of Axminster is about 6 miles to the north with a main line rail service to London Waterloo. The Cathedral City of Exeter is approximately 27 miles to the west and has a main line express rail link to London Paddington and an international airport.

DIRECTIONS.
Rousdon sits midway between the coastal towns of Seaton and Lyme Regis. Turning into the Rousdon Estate, proceed down the driveway to the Manor House, turning left. Continue for about 300m and turn right at an electric metal gate. If you press Cliff Cottage on the intercom this will open. Follow the track for about 3/4 of a mile where the property will be found at the head of the track.
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TENURE & SERVICES.
Freehold. Electric generation from photovoltaic panels with battery storage and a diesel generator. Private spring water (gravity fed, pipe relayed about 10 years ago). Private drainage, thought to be a septic tank.

LOCAL AUTHORITY.
East Devon District Council - .
Council Tax Band: B.

ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATE.
Rating: F.

FLOOD RISK.
Flood risk information can be checked through the following:

BROADBAND & MOBILE.
The seller has advised us that Broadband is available at the property. Broadband availability at this location can be checked through: checker.ofcom.org.uk/
Mobile coverage can be checked through: checker.ofcom.org.uk/en-gb/mobile-coverage