Higher Shelvin

A stunning farmhouse of impeccable quality offering extensive and adaptable accommodation, a beautiful country setting, circa 6 acres, and an excellent range of traditional outbuildings including a 5-bay garage.

THE PROPERTY.
Higher Shelvin is a distinctive period farmhouse, the earliest parts of which are thought to date to the early 16th century when it was more than likely a Hall House. It has evolved considerably over the centuries and is a
classic example of a Devon Longhouse, retaining a wealth of fine character features indicating that it was once a house of considerable status. These features include two impressive inglenook fireplaces and many exposed timbers including a plank and muntin screen and interesting cross beam ceiling to the dining room. Due to this historical importance the house is listed as Grade II.

The property has undergone a considerable programme of refurbishment and enlargement over the past decade which has included the conversion of a substantial barn to the to the west which now provides a large wing. This ’West Wing’ is currently incorporated into the main house offering a superb modern drawing room, billiard room and two stunning vaulted bedroom suites to the first floor (accessed via two staircases). It could, however, also suit large or extended families and provide annexe accommodation subject to any necessary planning consents.

The accommodation is found in exceptional order and great care and attention has been given to the fixtures and overall finish which beautifully blends period character with a more modern approach to the decoration and fitments. This can be seen in the contemporary family shower room, as well as the suites to the bedrooms. Other superb features include a home office, gymnasium and high quality kitchen with bespoke units under granite work tops, marble floor and 4-oven electric Aga.

To summarise, Higher Shelvin offers exceptionally adaptable accommodation of great space, quality, style and character. This coupled with its stunning setting makes for a unique home of enormous appeal.

GARDENS & GROUNDS.
Undoubtedly one of Higher Shelvin’s main features is its picturesque setting which offers a great deal of seclusion and quietude, as well as magnificent panoramic southerly views over a typical Devon patchwork countryside. The property is approached on the west side through electric double timber gates which lead to a large gravelled courtyard providing space for numerous vehicles. This area benefits from security/convenience lighting, as does the farmhouse and garden. Grouped around the courtyard is the West Wing and the handsome traditional farm buildings which comprise a 2-storey stone and timber former linhay under a galvanised iron roof, and a superb single storey 5-bay garage with reception area under a slated roof. These buildings provide a variety of uses and could have further conversion potential subject to planning.

On the east side of the house is a smaller range of attractive stone farm buildings under a slated roof, and these are divided into a number of useful stores for machinery and logs. These have electric and lighting. The formal garden lies to the front of the house and is laid principally to lawn interspersed with colourful plants and shrubs. There is a large paved terrace which takes full advantage of the commanding southerly views down the valley.

To the north of the lane is approaching 5.5 acres of ground which is divided into 2/3 areas of paddock. This is a wonderful natural area and is a haven for wildlife, offering unrivalled peace and stunning views. Here there is a substantial summer house/garden room which has a wood burner and views over the pond.

SITUATION.
Higher Shelvin is situated in a slightly elevated yet sheltered rural location in the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and commands far reaching views over the Otter Valley and market town of Honiton some 3 miles in the distance. Although rural, the property is readily accessible to Honiton, or the tiny village of Luppitt with its Village Hall and ancient Parish Church of St Mary’s. Honiton is well-known as an antique and book centre, as well as having most of the usual multiples such as Smiths, Boots, Tesco and a variety of independent shops, restaurants, schools, sports centre/swimming pool, Golf Club and main line rail link to London Waterloo.

Exeter, the County Town, is some 25 miles to the west and has excellent shopping and sporting facilities, theatres, art centre, express rail link to London Paddington and an international airport together with M5 access. The coast at Sidmouth, East Devon's premier coastal resort, is some 15 miles to the south. Colyton Grammar School, one of the country's top state schools is approximately 17 miles distant. Approximately 15 miles to the north lies Taunton, the County Town of Somerset, which has an express rail link and also direct access to the M5.

DIRECTIONS.
From Honiton High Street proceed in an easterly direction out of the town and over the bridge of Honiton by-pass. Take the left hand turn signposted Dunkeswell and Luppitt and follow this over the River Otter taking the third turning on your right at the crossroads to Combe Raleigh. Turn left at the 'T' junction and follow this road for just over a mile turning left at a staggered crossroads, and immediately left again (signposted Shelvin) into a dead-end lane. This leads to Higher Shelvin and the farmhouse will be found after about a third of a mile on your left hand side.

LOCAL AUTHORITY.
East Devon District Council - . Council Tax Band: - G.

SERVICES.
Mains electricity. Private water via a borehole. Oil-fired central heating. Private drainage - treatment plant.

Marketed by: Humberts, Honiton