According to its Grade I listing, The Manor House was constructed in 1547 for local MP, Peter Sainthill. Over the years, the house has undergone various transformations. In the 17th century, cross-wings were added and, during the 18th century, the hall was redesigned, resulting in the Manor House’s current elegant appearance as a delightful country residence. As you approach the Manor House, you’ll pass through impressive wrought iron electric gates that open into a sweeping private driveway. The southeast facade greets you with its symmetrical design, charming sash windows and picturesque views. The drive curves around the house, revealing a neatly positioned parking and turning area. The interior of the Manor House is equally captivating. The impressively proportioned dining hall sets the tone with its detailed craftsmanship and comfortable
atmosphere. Noted architectural historian Pevsner described the hall as a “noble, restrained, classical room.” Two magnificent pillars adorn one side, complementing the panelling and cornicing. Ideal for entertaining, boasting stunning views of the terrace garden, front lawn and the tranquil lake.

One of the most remarkable rooms in the house is the exceptionally preserved 16th-century ‘Job’ room. It features a decorative plaster ceiling with pomegranate panels, oak panelling and a captivating overmantel on the stone fireplace which depicts a narrative of episodes from Job’s trials and tribulations. Large stained-glass windows provide a high degree of natural light. The adjacent library provides a perfect space for a home office or study.

Throughout the Manor House, you’ll notice a welcoming and manageable ambience. The current owners have made significant improvements, bringing the property into the 21st century while preserving its character. The kitchen and bathrooms, finished to the highest standards, showcase the attention to detail.

The proportions of the Manor House are impressive, extending to the practical elements at the rear of the property. Here, you’ll find a spacious utility room, along with an extensive cellar that houses a home office/games room and a separate wine storage area. Beyond that, is an indoor swimming pool (room size 12.19m x 6.95m), with direct access to a private
terrace and lawn at the rear of the house.

The staircase hall, centred around a grand 16th-century dog-leg staircase, leads to the principal bedroom, known as the “King Charles Room”- as the King stayed there during a visit in 1644 – a particularly notable room, offering a grand scale, breath-taking views of the lake and surrounding countryside, a barrelled ceiling, and a newly refurbished en suite shower room. Adjoining this is the principal guest room – also, impressively proportioned, featuring a curved staircase leading to a mezzanine shower room finished to exacting standards. A long corridor leads to additional bedrooms and a family bathroom. Four further bedrooms, all generously sized, include one with an en suite shower room. Accessed by a secondary staircase, the second floor comprises a self-contained apartment, ideal for a live-in nanny, housekeeper, or additional guest accommodation, having a kitchen/dining room, sitting room, bedroom and bathroom.

For those not interested in using an indoor swimming pool it may be possible, with the necessary permissions, to turn the pool room into a larger kitchen area as depicted in the computer
generated image in the gallery of photos.

The Manor House is surrounded by beautiful gardens, grounds, and outbuildings. Attractive and practical, the newly constructed garages encircle a large stable yard, with three stables and a tack room. The carefully designed gardens
create a sense of privacy rarely found in an edge-of-village house A terrace in front of the house invites outdoor dining, leading to a vast expanse of lawn that stretches toward the lake.

The grounds span approximately seven acres and appear even more extensive due to the abundance of mature trees, diverse plant life, and gently undulating terrain. Thoughtfully carved paths wind through the well-tended gardens, featuring several seating areas for relaxation.

A bridge crosses a flowing stream that runs throughout the year, leading to a horseshoe-shaped seating area with a captivating view of an impressive Lucombe Oak, believed to be one of the oldest of its kind. From there, pathways parallel the stream, passing a pond with a pontoon and leading to a productive vegetable garden situated behind the garages. Perched above the vegetable garden, offering views of the entire grounds, you’ll find a summer house. On the south side of the house, there is an established rose garden that leads to a west-facing terrace and lawn at the back, providing direct access to the swimming pool room.

The Manor House is a truly exceptional property, blending historical charm with modern comforts. Its stunning architecture, well-maintained gardens, and tranquil surroundings make it a remarkable and inviting place to call home.

The Manor House sits in a private position on the edge of the picturesque village of Bradninch. Just 10 miles from the centre of Exeter, this popular village offers a good selection of local amenities including a village store and post office, two pubs and an excellent local school. More extensive facilities can be found in Cullompton, about 3 miles to the north.

The Cathedral City of Exeter is the regional centre and has an excellent selection of shopping facilities, ranging from independent boutiques to large stores and supermarkets. The city’s renowned Princesshay shopping centre also offers a wide range of cafés, shops and restaurants and further dining options can be found at the historic quayside. There are some excellent schools in the area, including Blundell’s at Tiverton, and in the city, Exeter School, The Maynard and Exeter Cathedral School.

The nearby Killerton Estate which has 4,000 acres of woodland owned by The National Trust, is a haven for walking and riding enthusiasts. Communications in the area are superb, with junction 28 of the M5 motorway approximately 3 miles away. There are regular rail services to London Paddington from Tiverton Parkway and Exeter St David’s and Exeter international airport is just 8 miles away.