West Buckland, Kingsbridge

The Property:

Tucked away in a beautiful countryside setting, this is a 400 year old cottage that has been carefully and thoughtfully restored — a genuine labour of love where every detail has been considered, yet the character and soul of the original home remain firmly intact.

You enter through a traditional stable door into an open-plan kitchen and living space that immediately feels warm, welcoming and full of charm. The atmosphere is unmistakable — exposed stonework, feature beams and an original inglenook fireplace create a wonderful sense of history, while the finishes and layout provide comfort for modern living. The solid limestone flooring, laid over damp-proof matting, adds both practicality and quality underfoot.

The kitchen has been finished to a particularly high standard, blending craftsmanship with functionality. Solid Caesarstone worktops sit alongside handmade French tiles, with a Belfast sink and Perrin & Rowe taps adding to the overall feel. A dual-control electric Aga provides both cooking and heating, working in harmony with the woodburner to create a cosy and efficient living space throughout the seasons. There is ample storage, an integrated dishwasher and space for a fridge freezer, along with room for a dining table — making this a sociable and well-balanced space. The living area itself offers further characterful touches, including a window seat and the original bread oven, now thoughtfully used as a log store.

To the rear, a bright porch — added in 2014 with full building regulations and listed building consent — provides a highly practical addition. With underfloor heating, Velux windows and another stable door leading out to the garden, it also houses a modern shower room with WC, basin and heated towel rail — ideal after a day at the nearby beaches or countryside walks. There is also useful space for coats, boots and everyday storage.

Upstairs, a bespoke handcrafted staircase with a monkey-tail bannister leads to three bedrooms, each continuing the theme of character and thoughtful design. The principal bedroom is particularly generous, with built-in wardrobes, a window seat, exposed stonework and beams, along with a lovely south-facing aspect. The second bedroom enjoys views over the garden and includes a cleverly designed built-in desk/dressing area, while the third bedroom, positioned to the front, offers flexibility as a small double or large single, again with built-in storage.

The family bathroom has been finished with the same level of care, featuring Fired Earth tiles, a bath with shower over, basin set on Caesarstone, and an exposed Victorian-style shower rail — all combining to create a space that feels both timeless and well considered. Electric eco heaters serve the first floor.

Outside, steps lead up to a garden that enjoys elevated countryside views. A mix of lawn, raised borders and a patio area provides space to relax or entertain, with the setting lending itself perfectly to outdoor living. To the rear, a garage offers further potential — whether retained for parking, used as a workshop, or adapted to include utility space depending on individual needs.

The property is Grade II listed and retains single glazing in keeping with its character, complemented by a recently replaced thatched roof (approximately one year old). Positioned in a beautiful location close to the coast, it offers easy access to stunning beaches, countryside walks and a welcoming village community.

Whether as a main residence, a coastal retreat or a downsizing opportunity, this is a home that offers something quite special — thoughtfully restored, full of character, and ready to be enjoyed.

The Location:

West Buckland is a small, peaceful village set within the rolling countryside of the South Hams, just a short walk from the coast. Known for its rural charm and scattered period homes, it offers a quiet lifestyle while still being conveniently close to nearby villages and amenities. The surrounding area is ideal for walking and outdoor pursuits, with easy access to some of South Devon’s most popular beaches, including Bantham and Thurlestone. With a strong sense of community and unspoilt surroundings, West Buckland is well suited to those seeking a more relaxed pace of life without feeling isolated.

Services & Further Information:

Tenure: Freehold. Grade II Listed
Services: Mains electric, mains water and mains sewerage. Electric Heating, Aga and Woodburner. 
Construction: Stone cob walls with thatched roof. 
EPC Rating: F
Council Tax: Band C
Broadband Speeds: Superfast broadband available with speeds up to 41Mbps (Ofcom)
Flood Risk: According to the Environment Agency, the property is in low risk flood zone. Buyers are advised to conduct their own due diligence.
Planning or Development Issues: Permission granted for Summer Cottage (to the rear of the property and not visible by Myrtle Cottage)
Restrictive Covenants / Rights of Way: None known.

Additional Notes:
Buyers are encouraged to review this information alongside a full survey and legal advice. Full due diligence should be undertaken before entering into a contractual commitment. For full transparency, the Agents live in the neighbouring property.

Disclaimer:
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of these property details, however, they do not form part of any offer or contract and should not be relied upon as statements of fact. All measurements, floor plans, and photographs are provided for guidance only and may not be to scale. Services, systems, and appliances listed have not been tested by the agent and no guarantees can be given as to their working order. Buyers are advised to obtain verification from their solicitor or surveyor before proceeding with any purchase. If the property is above or adjacent to a commercial premises, mortgage availability may be affected and independent financial advice should be sought.