The Old Watermill, Colyton, Devon

“A seamless blend of early 20th-century industrial heritage and mid-century design”

Set within the folds of the Devon countryside near the village of Farway, The Old Water Mill is a beautiful mill conversion, whose wheel once fed the River Coley. Spanning some 1,912 sq ft, the original mill’s industrial bones are apparent in its elongated proportions and exposed beams, while a sympathetic modernist extension features three of the four bedrooms and exposed brick throughout.

The Building

The Old Water Mill was built as an estate workshop for Netherton Hall and was subsequently used to generate electricity for the main house until the arrival of the main grid in the district. The building was converted in the early 20th century, and extended in the 1970s by the architect Charles Greenberg, an additional partner of Chamberlin, Powell & Bon who worked on the Barbican project.

The Tour

The house occupies a peaceful position along a quiet country lane, surrounded by mature gardens.

Entry is through a set of Crittall-style doors into an open-plan living area that occupies one end of the plan, part of the original mill. The characterful space is defined by exposed brickwork, auburn-toned maple joinery, and large glazing – details repeated in most rooms. Beautifully composed, the bespoke kitchen pairs fluted stained oak cabinetry with granite worktops and integrated appliances. Glazed doors open to the garden and frame leafy views, creating an enduring connection with the outdoors.

From here, a wrought-iron spiral staircase rises to a mezzanine-level, which doubles as a studio/storage space. Opposite, a second staircase rises to a parallel mezzanine-level that currently serves as a double bedroom. Both overlook the living space, with a partition screen that lends a sense of privacy. Also on the ground floor are a study, and a bathroom with a bath.

A bright conservatory joins the original building with the later 1970s extension, with exposed brick and timber trusses overhead. The room is flooded with sunlight, care of a glass roof and doors on both sides that lead to the gardens.

Beyond are three further bedrooms; two occupy the ground floor, with impressive floor-to-ceiling wardrobes and a shared bathroom.

A separate staircase rises to the first floor, where a generously sized bedroom, originally used by Greenberg as his studio, is arranged with its own kitchenette. A wall of glazing frames far-reaching views of the rolling hills beyond.


Outdoor Space

The Old Water Mill is set within landscaped gardens, with sweeping lawns and mature herbaceous borders. On the far side, stone wall remains and shrubbery cluster around the old water wheel. There are two separate seating areas for outdoor dining, making the best use of natural light throughout the day.

There is a wide gravelled parking area with space for several cars.

The Area

The Old Water Mill sits within the village of Farway, part of the East Devon National Landscape. The village has a thriving community centred around its church and village hall. The nearby market town of Honiton is ten minutes by car and provides a wide selection of every day amenities. A 30-minute drive away, the city of Exeter is a vibrant cultural centre based around Exeter Cathedral, with an excellent selection of restaurants, shops, theatres, cinemas, and sporting activities.

Renowned for exceptional open countryside and woodland, the area is a unique meeting point for the East Devon and Dorset AONBs. There are excellent walking paths at the foot of the house.

Lyme Regis and its coastline is a 25-minute drive and has a great selection of independent shops and cultural events. The Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site’s dramatic coastline and beaches are less than 20 minutes away by car.

There are some excellent schools in the area, including Farway Primary School and Colyton Grammar School. The nearest train station is Honiton, running direct services to London Waterloo in around three hours and 20 minutes. Exeter Airport is a 25 minute drive away offering international flights.

Council Tax Band: E