Northlew, Okehampton, Devon

Set back from the lane along a tree-lined drive, the distinctive Victorian twin gables of Morth Grange reveal themselves as the road curves towards the house. Built in the 1860s by John Morth Woollcombe of the local Woollcombe Estate, this elegant country home retains many of its original period features while offering generous, versatile accommodation. The property extends to approximately 6.1 acres, incorporating formal and kitchen gardens, woodland and gently sloping pasture, together with a separate building plot benefiting from planning permission for a two-bedroom bungalow.

An arched timber door opens into a mosaic-tiled porch and through to the welcoming reception hall. The principal reception rooms are arranged to one side, with the more informal living spaces and the kitchen to the other. The drawing room is particularly impressive, with floor-to-ceiling shuttered windows framing views across the gardens towards Dartmoor. French doors open onto the lawn, while an inset wood burner provides a cosy focal point in winter. A five-sided Victorian conservatory provides a relaxed additional reception space, while the dining room features large sash windows and views across the front of the property. A study and snug offer further flexible family space. The bespoke kitchen combines traditional character with modern practicality. Sage-green cabinetry provides extensive storage, complemented by granite worktops, a two-oven Aga, electric double ovens, hob and extractor, and a double butler sink. Generous proportions allow space for a breakfast table and make this an ideal gathering space when entertaining. A large larder and well-appointed utility room sit just off the kitchen, while a downstairs WC and substantial cellar provide further convenience and storage.

Five generous double bedrooms occupy the first floor. The principal bedroom benefits from a large bay window offering wonderful views towards Dartmoor and en suite bathroom with a bath and a separate shower unit. Two further bedrooms also benefit from en suite facilities while a family bathroom serves the remaining bedrooms.

The one-bedroom self-contained annexe has its own entrance as well as internal access to the main house, making it ideal for guest use or multi-generational living. The annexe also offers income potential subject to consents. The annexe comprises a well-equipped kitchen, modern shower room, generous living/dining room with French doors to a terrace, and an adjoining sunroom.

Building plot
A rare opportunity exists within the grounds to create an additional two-bedroom single-storey dwelling. Works have already commenced, as confirmed by Building Control, and the proposed design includes two en suite bedrooms and a light-filled open-plan kitchen, dining and sitting room with extensive bi-fold doors. The plot occupies approximately 2.6 acres and has its own access from the adjoining lane, together with an established gravel driveway. Approximately 1.5 acres comprise gently sloping to near-level pasture, with an existing field shelter and ample space for gardens, animals or leisure.

The 6.1 acres offer a wonderful variety of landscapes, from formal lawns and established borders to a French-style kitchen garden, mature woodland and open pasture. The kitchen garden features raised beds and a useful workshop, while woodland paths lead to pasture with far-reaching views across Dartmoor. A traditional ha-ha separates the pasture from the formal lawns without interrupting the outlook. Mature trees, laburnum, rhododendrons and a wisteria-clad arbour provide colour and character around the house, with paved terraces and direct access from the drawing room and conservatory creating an effortless connection between house and garden.
A double timber garage, generous parking and a gated courtyard complete the outside accommodation.

The property is set in a rural location amidst the beautiful Devon countryside, close to the small village of Northlew and six miles northwest of the town of Okehampton. Northlew itself has a church, a post office, a local pub and a primary school, while nearby Hatherleigh offers a range of amenities including a supermarket, newsagents with post office, a primary school, a café, two pubs and a number of agricultural suppliers and engineers. There is also a doctor’s surgery, vet and two garages. Okehampton offers a choice of shops, supermarkets (including Waitrose, Lidl, Co-op) and leisure facilities, while further schooling in the area includes an outstanding primary at nearby Highampton and the secondary, Okehampton College together with a number of noted independent schools, including Shebbear College, Mount Kelly, West Buckland, Exeter School and Stover. The opportunities for outdoor pursuits in the area are endless. There is good walking, riding and cycling direct from the property, whilst the National Parks of Dartmoor and Exmoor are both within easy reach. A short distance from the property is also Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve (150 hectares) which also joins up with the Tarka Trail where you can cycle, walk and ride. By road, the A30 provides fast and efficient connections to Exeter, and the M5. The nearest train station is at Okehampton (only nine miles), recently reopened and with hourly trains to Exeter.

Local Authority: West Devon Borough Council
Services: Mains electricity and water. Private drainage which the vendor is currently investigating complies with current regulations. Oil-fired and multi-fuel fired central heating.
Mobile and Broadband checker: Information can be found here
Council Tax: Band G.
EPC Rating: E
Right of Access: Right of access is granted to the neighbouring property for maintaining the exterior facade.
Wayleaves and easements: the property is sold subject to any wayleaves or easements, whether mentioned in these particulars or not.
Planning Reference: 2056/17/FUL. Prospective purchasers are advised that they should make their own enquiries of the local planning authority.