Westleigh, Bideford, Devon, EX39

Occupying an enviable elevated position in the picturesque North Devon village of Westleigh, West Living is an impressive five-bedroom detached Edwardian residence, perfectly combining the charm of country living with the beauty of the coast. Surrounded by approximately 0.6 acres of established gardens, this distinguished home enjoys exceptional privacy, with no immediate neighbours and magnificent far-reaching views across the surrounding countryside, over the estuary and towards Appledore and Crow Point.

West Living represents a rare opportunity to acquire a substantial family home of character and heritage. Formerly owned by the Christie family of the renowned Tapley Estate, the property retains much of its Edwardian charm, with generously proportioned rooms, attractive fireplaces and an abundance of natural light.

The remarkable setting is undoubtedly one of the property's defining features. Whether relaxing in one of the elegant reception rooms or enjoying the peaceful gardens, the ever-changing estuary scenery provides a wonderful backdrop to everyday life.

Stepping Inside

Entering through the front door, a traditional entrance hallway creates a welcoming introduction to the property, with the principal reception rooms leading off and a staircase rising to the first floor.

The formal sitting room is a particularly impressive space, enjoying generous proportions and a delightful dual-aspect arrangement that floods the room with natural light. Attractive timber-framed double-glazed windows perfectly frame the magnificent outlook across the gardens and towards the estuary, with the picturesque shoreline of Instow visible in the distance. A central fireplace provides an elegant focal point, creating a wonderful setting for both entertaining and relaxed family living. Even at ground-floor level, the elevated position affords exceptional views, with the changing tides and coastal light creating an endlessly captivating scene.

Across the hallway, the formal dining room offers an equally charming atmosphere, with beautiful parquet flooring, an attractive fireplace and large windows overlooking the established gardens. The generous proportions make this an ideal space for hosting family celebrations and dinner parties, whilst the peaceful garden outlook adds to the room's character and appeal.

Continuing through the property, an inner hallway leads to a further reception room and the kitchen/breakfast room, with a secondary staircase providing additional access to the first floor.

The third reception room is a wonderfully inviting snug, where a wood-burning stove creates a cosy retreat during the cooler months. Currently suited to informal family living, this versatile room could equally serve as a home office, library or children's playroom, offering flexibility to accommodate a variety of lifestyles.

The kitchen/breakfast room enjoys one of the home's most delightful features: far-reaching views across the countryside and towards the estuary and Instow beyond. There is something particularly special about enjoying such beautiful scenery whilst preparing meals or sitting down for a morning coffee.

A traditional Rayburn adds warmth and character, complementing the welcoming country-house atmosphere. The kitchen provides a range of fitted storage and ample space for a breakfast table, creating a practical and inviting environment for everyday family life. Even from the kitchen sink, the spectacular outlook serves as a constant reminder of this remarkable coastal setting.

First-Floor Accommodation

Ascending to the first floor, the generous proportions continue, with five well-sized bedrooms providing excellent accommodation for family members and visiting guests.

The flexible arrangement offers considerable scope to suit individual requirements, whether accommodating a growing family, creating a dedicated workspace or providing comfortable guest accommodation.

The property's elevated position and wonderful connection with the surrounding landscape remain central to its appeal, with the spectacular estuary setting contributing to the peaceful atmosphere of this distinguished home.

The combination of the main staircase and secondary staircase adds to the traditional Edwardian character whilst providing a practical layout for modern family living.

Gardens and Grounds

Stepping outside, the exceptional setting of West Living truly comes into its own.

Standing centrally within approximately 0.6 acres of established, ring-fenced grounds, the property enjoys a remarkable sense of privacy and tranquillity. The beautifully mature gardens wrap around the residence, with extensive lawns, attractive borders, established shrubs and an abundance of natural greenery creating a delightful country-house setting.

The elevated position allows the gardens to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views across the surrounding countryside and over the shimmering waters of the estuary towards Appledore. As the tides ebb and flow and the light changes throughout the day, the scenery provides an ever-changing panorama that can be appreciated from numerous areas of the grounds.

Benefiting from excellent sunshine throughout the day, the gardens offer a variety of inviting spaces for relaxation and entertaining. A particularly appealing front patio provides the perfect setting for alfresco dining, summer gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet evening whilst admiring the magnificent coastal outlook.

An established orchard of mature apple and plum trees adds a wonderfully traditional touch, whilst the expansive lawns offer ample room for outdoor activities and family enjoyment. Towards the upper part of the garden, a sheltered, level lawn provides an ideal space for badminton, bowls or children's games.

The generous grounds also offer exciting opportunities for further landscaping and personalisation, subject to any necessary consents, allowing future owners to make the most of this beautiful and exceptionally private setting.

Whether enjoying a leisurely summer afternoon in the gardens or watching the evening light settle over the estuary, West Living offers an outdoor lifestyle that is difficult to replicate.

Location and Lifestyle

Westleigh is a highly regarded North Devon village, celebrated for its picturesque setting, historic cottages and welcoming community atmosphere. The popular village pub provides a focal point for local life, whilst regular events and activities contribute to the village's friendly and vibrant character.

The nearby coastal village of Instow is particularly appealing, renowned for its sandy beach, picturesque waterfront and relaxed seaside atmosphere. With opportunities for scenic walks, waterside dining and exploring the wider North Devon coastline, the location is ideal for those wishing to embrace the very best of coastal and country living.

Despite its peaceful surroundings, West Living enjoys convenient access to surrounding towns and amenities, with local bus services within a short stroll and useful road connections.

A Rare Opportunity

West Living is a distinguished Edwardian family residence offering generous accommodation, beautiful established gardens and an exceptional elevated setting with breathtaking views across the estuary towards Instow.

Coming to the market for the first time in almost six decades, this much-loved home presents a wonderful opportunity for its next owners to enjoy a truly special lifestyle in one of North Devon's most attractive coastal locations.

A remarkable combination of Edwardian character, countryside tranquillity and spectacular coastal scenery, making West Living a truly special place to call home.
From Bideford proceeding out of the town towards the villages of Westleigh and Instow on the B3233. When on the 'Westleigh Straight' turning right towards Westleigh village. Follow the road for about half a mile, take a right turning follow the road for a further 200 yards where the gates to the property are in front.