Old Barnstaple House
Old Barnstaple House is a historic house in the heart of the charming old village of Chittlehampton surrounded by the beautiful North Devon Countryside. It is built of the traditional local materials of stone and cob, with a thatched roof; the oldest part of the house dates from the 1500's.
It's very spacious and comfortable. There are many historic features, giving it loads of character, combined with modern fittings and facilities. This is the result of a 5 year renovation project that we have carried out to create a home that we love to live in and think anybody would enjoy staying.
There is a large garden with a mixture of well-tended and wilder areas, which is an oasis of birdsong, peace and quiet. We have a big greenhouse - depending on the time of year we are always grateful for a bit of watering in exchange for any ripe produce that is available. From the back of the house is a fabulous view across a valley of green fields, trees and hedges.
Downstairs the house has a sizeable hallway, sitting room and dining room both with beamed ceilings and large stone fireplaces, a large well appointed modern kitchen, breakfast room, utility / boot room, toilet and shower room, study / library and sun room.
Upstairs are 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
About the location
North Devon is a rural farming community, characterised by rolling hills with ancient field patterns bounded by miles of Devon hedge banks. The unspoilt landscape and abundant wildlife have led to the area being designated a Biosphere Reserve.
Exmoor National Park is a 20 minute drive from the house, with extensive opportunities for walking. Dartmoor can be seen from many local walks and can be reached by car in an hour.
The river Taw, with extensive salmon fishing, runs nearby. It reaches the sea in an estuary at Barnstaple. West of Barnstaple the coast is rugged cliffs with fine walking along the South West Coast Path. In the other direction the coast runs north, with miles of fine sandy beaches in the North Devon World Surfing Reserve (one of only two in Europe).
Barnstaple can be reached in 20 minutes by car or by train from Umberleigh along the scenic Tarka Line that also goes to Exeter.
Chittlehampton has a fine village shop, immediately next door to the house, and a highly regarded pub, The Bell Inn. The market town of South Molton is 10 minutes away with a good range of shops and facilities. The Pannier Market in South Molton on Thursday and Saturday is excellent - awarded Best Community Market in the UK in 2023 & 2024.
Type of swap
- Home Exchange
- Weekend Exchange
Conditions of exchange
- Non smokers only
- No pets allowed
- No small children
Chittlehampton (HE43450)
Devon, England
- 4 bed (sleeps 6) 3 bath
Preferred destinations
- Open to offers