The Best Homes of the West Country

Look at these houses and you’ll soon see why second-home owners can’t get enough of the West Country. These are the best homes on the market in the south west of England…

The Best Homes of the West Country

Whether it’s evenings curled up watching Poldark and Doc Martin, or quiet memories of childhood bucket-and-spade holidays, there’s a strong chance that Devon or Cornwall – or both – come high on the list of areas in Britain that are special to you.

It might be a first road trip down the A303, that time the seagull stole your pasty, or alcohol-impaired recollections of a New Year’s Eve party in fancy dress – a very West Country tradition. If you’re lucky, it’ll be memories of food by Rick Stein, Michael Caines, Nathan Outlaw, Mitch Tonks, Ben Tunnicliffe, or any one of the scores of celebrity chefs plying their trade in the region.

‘We’re seeing a sustained interest in south-west homes, specifically by the water. They’re generally established holiday areas, so have good places to eat and drink with water-based activities for families,’ according to Richard Speedy of Strutt & Parker. To find your perfect home in the south west, keep scrolling for our top ten.

1. Stoke Court, Taunton

This 16th-century manor house set in the rural Somerset countryside is a grand home for any family or commuter looking for a slice of country life. The simple and elegant interiors of this historic house make it an easy home to move into, and the spaciousness of the interiors mean there’s plenty of room for the largest of families. SOLD. 

2. Riverside Crescent, Newquay, Cornwall

If you are looking for something near the sea, Riverside Crescent is perfect as it overlooks Crantock Beach and the Gannel Estuary, which is sure to make these unpredictable English summers more bearable. The interiors are made light and airy to take in the views with large windows and simple decor. Outside there’s also a wrap around terrace, perfect for alfresco dining. SOLD through Country & Waterside Prestige.

3. Stoke Farm, Pewsey

This Grade II listed home dates back to the 1820s. Thankfully, it has since been updated though. With four spacious bedrooms, 2.7 acres of land, and a charming village location, Stoke Farm won’t be on the market for long. SOLD through Hamptons International.

4. The Old Rectory, Barnstaple

Located along the North Devon coastline (and within reach of Exmoor National Park) this six-bed home has a great location for young families looking to enjoy the rural and coast simultaneously. The Old Rectory is a fine example of a rural Victorian rectory, with gorgeous views and plenty of outbuildings with potential. SOLD through Savills.

5. Upton Grove, Tetbury

For sale for the first time in over sixty years, Upton Grove is a classic example of a charming Cotswold stone property. Grade II listed, with more than 50 acres to play with, and a close location to Tetbury town, this is what moving to the countryside is all about. With seven bedrooms, five reception rooms and a further three-bed cottage, stable yard and barns, you’ll have plenty of space to play with too. SOLD through Knight Frank.

6. France Cottage, Exeter

This Grade II listed thatched house is as idyllic and charming as you could imagine. With sweeping views of the Devon countryside, a log cabin and a little under an acre of land, this is a great property for enjoying the great British outdoors. SOLD through Strutt & Parker.

7. Netheravon House, Salisbury

Dating back to the 1730s, this historic country villa was originally built for Henry Somerset, the third Duke of Beaufort, and then later extended by Sir John Soane.  With spacious and grand living inside and out, you’ll live like a grand Duke at Netheravon House. SOLD through Hamptons International.

8. Crofthayes, Exeter

A charming detached home in the sweet Devonshire village of Bradninch is a perfect home for families. Comprised of five bedrooms, three reception rooms and a light and airy conservatory, you’ll have plenty of space for the kids and all of their friends. Outside in the garden, there’s a paddock, kitchen garden and the potential for stabling. SOLD through Savills.

9. The Old Rectory, Edgeworth

History is part of the charm when it comes to The Old Rectory in the Cotswold village of Edgeworth. With Victorian and Edwardian parts of the house (thought to date back to 1864), there’s oodles of history in the original features scattered around the property. The interiors have been modernised to create an elegant finish, and outside there are over eight acres of land including woodlands. SOLD through Knight Frank.

10. Horsington Manor, Templecombe

Well, properties don’t get much prettier than this Grade II listed manor house in Somerset. With seven bedrooms and reception rooms, a host of outbuildings, stabling, a swimming pool, tennis court as well as land, this property has it all. The interiors could do with a little updating, but that’s hardly a hard price to pay when you’ll have a home as grand as this. SOLD.

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