Village Road, Woodbury Salterton, Exeter, Devon

A meticulously restored and comprehensively modernised Grade II listed country house where historic Victorian character meets striking contemporary architecture, offering buyers the rare opportunity to acquire a fully realised country home without the uncertainty, disruption and expense of major restoration works.

The Old Vicarage represents a rare opportunity to acquire a substantial period country house that has already undergone the difficult and often uncertain process of restoration, modernisation and enhancement. Over recent years the property has been the subject of an extensive programme of repair, upgrading and architectural improvement, transforming it into a highly efficient and practical family home whilst preserving its historic character and significance.

Set within approximately 1.6 acres of mature landscaped grounds, the house enjoys an unusually private and secluded setting screened by protected woodland and specimen trees. Despite this sense of privacy, it remains exceptionally accessible, being within easy reach of Exeter, Topsham, the East Devon coastline, the M5 and Exeter Airport.

At the heart of the house lies the dramatic curved kitchen extension, a landmark architectural addition which creates an exceptional family and entertaining space filled with natural light and opening directly onto the gardens and kitchen garden beyond. The contrast between the original Victorian house and this contemporary addition creates a home that is both characterful and highly relevant to modern living. Underfloor heating, extensive glazing, integrated Neff appliances and direct access to the terraces and gardens combine contemporary performance with day-to-day practicality.

Throughout the house, carefully preserved period features sit alongside bespoke contemporary finishes and sophisticated modern infrastructure, creating a property that feels both elegant and highly functional for long-term family living.
Behind the scenes, The Old Vicarage has been upgraded to a standard rarely found in listed houses. Extensive works include complete electrical renewal, three-phase power, new pressurised plumbing systems, upgraded heating infrastructure, underfloor heating, Starlink connectivity, thermal improvements, drainage upgrades and comprehensive restoration works carried out through multiple successful planning and listed building consents.

Importantly, much of the difficult work associated with owning and improving a listed building has already been undertaken. Multiple successful planning and listed building consent applications have secured the property’s transformation, allowing a future owner to enjoy the benefits of extensive heritage restoration and modernisation without having to navigate the uncertainty and disruption of a major project themselves.

The principal accommodation extends to approximately 4,672 sq ft and includes elegant formal reception rooms, a study/library, five bedrooms, four bathrooms and extensive ancillary accommodation. The drawing room and sitting room feature original fireplaces and wood-burning stoves, while large sash windows and French doors provide excellent natural light and direct connections to the gardens.

The welcoming reception hall with its chequerboard floor and impressive oak staircase leads to a generous first-floor landing and five beautifully presented bedrooms. The principal suite enjoys a dual aspect overlooking the grounds and includes a walk-in dressing room and substantial en suite bathroom, while two further bedrooms also benefit from en suite facilities.

The gardens combine formal lawns, productive kitchen garden areas and established planting to create a beautiful setting that can be enjoyed without the level of maintenance many buyers associate with a country house of this scale.

A substantial detached coach house already benefits from connected services and offers exciting future potential for guest accommodation, wellness facilities, studio space, home working or ancillary living accommodation, subject to the necessary consents.

The Old Vicarage occupies a unique position in the market, combining the romance and character of a Victorian country house with the practicality, efficiency and confidence that comes from extensive restoration and modernisation already having been completed.

The Old Vicarage occupies an enviable position within one of East Devon’s most sought-after residential areas, often regarded as part of the Exeter, Topsham and East Devon “Golden Triangle”.

Woodbury Salterton offers a rare combination of tranquillity and accessibility. Unlike many villages within easy reach of Exeter, it remains remarkably peaceful, with no busy through roads or significant passing traffic, creating a genuine village atmosphere whilst retaining exceptional connectivity.

The village itself is centred around its historic church, highly regarded primary school and popular village gastro pub, whilst the neighbouring village of Woodbury provides day-to-day amenities including a village store, doctor’s surgery and further local services.

The beautiful estuary town of Topsham is approximately four miles away and offers an excellent selection of independent shops, restaurants, cafés and sailing facilities. Exmouth and the East Devon coastline provide some of the region’s most attractive beaches and coastal walks, whilst the extensive open heathland of Woodbury Common offers outstanding walking, cycling and riding opportunities.

For families, the location is particularly attractive, with excellent access to many of the region’s most respected schools including Exeter School, The Maynard, St Peter’s Preparatory School and Exeter College.

Despite its rural setting, communication links are exceptional. Exeter city centre, the M5 motorway and Exeter Airport are all within easy reach, making the property ideally suited to both regional and national travel.

The result is a location that combines the lifestyle benefits of a peaceful Devon village with access to some of the South West’s best schools, countryside, coastline and transport connections.

Local Authority: East Devon District Council
Services: Mains electricity, gas and water. Private water as well via bore hole. Private drainage which we understand is compliant with current regulations. Starlink internet with hubs, network infrastructure and a dedicated data cupboard
Council Tax: Band G
EPC Rating: D
Wayleaves and Easements: the property is sold subject to any wayleaves or easements, whether mentioned in these particulars or not
Mobile and Broadband checker: Information can be found here