Cobbaton, Chittlehampton, Umberleigh

5 Bedroom Detached House for sale in Umberleigh

4 5 3

Stunning and unique Grade II listed 3/4-bedroom thatched cottage
Accompanied by a substantial 2-bedroom detached annexe (suitable for dependant relative or potential income stream)
Rich in history, with period features including exposed beams, Inglenook fireplace, exposed floor boards to first floor
Former country residence of the late Rt Hon Jeremy Thorpe (leader of the Liberal Party in the late 1960s and early 1970s)
Historical character retained while incorporating modern-day necessities
Set in stunning, mature gardens of approximately 1.5 acres with a large pond and streams, with many rare plants obtained by former owner, direct from Kew Gardens
Oil fired central heating (electric underfloor heating to 2 reception rooms)
Triple Garage with additional parking for 5 plus cars, and a workshop
Enjoying complete privacy, however, still only a short drive to local amenities, with West Buckland School only 5 miles away. The stunning beaches of North Devon are also within easy driving distance.
Nestled directly between Exmoor to the North, and Dartmoor to the South

Presenting a stunning and unique Grade II listed three/four bedroom detached thatched cottage, accompanied by a large separate two-bedroom detached former barn, with its own kitchen, bathrooms and lounge, now serving as a separate annexe suitable for a dependent relative or potential income stream, due to its favourable location near the beaches of North Devon and Moors.   

This exquisite property, rich in history dating back to the 16th century, boasts characterful rooms replete with unique period features.

This quintessential traditional picture postcard cottage is nestled in stunning, mature gardens and grounds extending to approximately 1.5 acres. The property was once the country residence of a famous MP and his wife with Royal Connections. Following their tenure, the current owners have meticulously updated and renovated the property to an exceptional standard. They have skilfully retained the historical character while incorporating all modern-day necessities, ensuring this is a first-class, comfortable home.   

Higher Chuggaton offers a pretty Entrance Porch leading through to the Entrance Hall with Cloakroom. The Sitting Room features French doors leading to the garden, a herringbone tiled floor with underfloor heating, and a large Inglenook feature fireplace housing a wood-burning stove. From the Sitting Room, a door leads to the charming Kitchen/Breakfast Room, which boasts bespoke fitted kitchen units, slate work surfaces, a Smeg electric range cooker and a window offering delightful views over the garden.

A further reception room, accessible from the Sitting Room, offers versatile space that could serve as either a Dining Room or an Office. This room also has a slate tiled floor with underfloor heating and metal crittal French doors dating back to the 1930's leading to the garden. Back in the Entrance Hall, a door leads to a large Garden Room featuring glass modern skylights and currently used as a gym, off is a Utility Room, equipped with plumbing and ample storage for coats and boots.

The Annexe a former barn, offers refurbished and renovated accommodation with a modern fitted Kitchen with integrated appliances. The substantial main room offers vaulted ceiling with exposed beams, part exposed stone walls and a useful Mezzanine area, and the room is known to have been used in the past as both a music room, and an artist's studio. A double ground floor Bedroom offers sink and wardrobes. To the first floor is a further double Bedroom with wardrobes, modern Bathroom and a further separate Cloakroom.   

All set within beautifully landscaped grounds, offering a perfect retreat with modern amenities and timeless elegance.

Double gates open up to a brick paved driveway providing ample parking (for at least 5 cars) and triple garage with attached workshop / store. There is a further off-road parking space outside of parking area, and within the gardens further parking if needed.

The stunning mature gardens, encompassing approximately 1.5 acres, are a true gem of this property. These beautiful grounds feature sweeping lawns interspersed with a variety of specimen trees, shrubs, and plants, offering an abundance of colour and variety throughout the year. In addition, there are a variety of fruit trees, including Mulberry and hazelnut trees. The rear south-facing garden enjoys far-reaching countryside views, adding to its serene and picturesque appeal. At the bottom of the garden, a small stream bordered by pretty footbridges adds a charming touch. Various areas of wild garden, stocked with flora and fauna, create a haven for birds, owls, and other wildlife, while a beautiful feature pond further enhances this natural sanctuary. Additional access to the garden provides further parking space, making it both practical and enchanting. Leading off from the main cottage is a large composite decked patio, perfect for outdoor dining and socialising, with spectacular views over the garden and beyond.

Historical Context
The property was not only Mr Thorpe's country residence but also a venue for various high profile gatherings and meetings. Many famous personalities visited Higher Chuggaton including Politicians for social gatherings and possibly for more clandestine meetings given the era's political context. Members of the British royal family were known to have stayed at the property, reflecting the social and political stature Jeremy Thorpe held at the height of his career.

As a site where significant political and social figures gathered, Higher Chuggaton holds great cultural importance.

The visits by prominent politicians and royalty underscore the estate's former significance in British political and social circles.
In Jeremy Thorpe's autobiography "In My Own Time" he mentioned Higher Chuggaton and wrote; "For me, it is the nearest thing to paradise on earth"!

Entrance Porch

Entrance Hall

Garden Room 18'5" (5.61m) max x 11'3" (3.43m) max.

Utility Room

WC

Sitting Room 16'6" x 13'7" (5.03m x 4.14m).

Kitchen 15'4" x 11' (4.67m x 3.35m).

Dining Room 14'5" x 11'10" (4.4m x 3.6m).

First Floor

Master Bedroom 14'5" x 9'3" (4.4m x 2.82m).

En Suite Bathroom

Bedroom 2 15'10" x 11' (4.83m x 3.35m).

Bedroom 3 11'10" x 9'6" (3.6m x 2.9m).

Bathroom

Annexe

Entrance Hall

Living Room 29' x 14'10" (8.84m x 4.52m).

Mezzanine

Kitchen 12'5" x 6'10" (3.78m x 2.08m).

Bedroom 1 14'10" x 10'6" (4.52m x 3.2m).

First Floor

Bedroom 2 16' x 9' (4.88m x 2.74m).

Bathroom

WC

Tenure    Freehold

Services    Mains water. Mains electricity. Oil fired central heating. Individual private drainage (septic tank) to each property

Viewing    Strictly by appointment with the sole selling agent

Council Tax Band    Main House - E
Annexe - A

From Bishops Tawton roundabout, proceed straight over and into the village of Bishops Tawton. Heading out of the village, turn left up Codden Hill and follow the road signposted to Cobbaton. On entering the hamlet of Cobbaton at the crossroads, turn right to Chuggaton and the property will be found on the left hand side.

Important Information

• This is a Freehold property.

Property Ref: 55707_BAR240494

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