4 bedroom cottage for sale

Key Features:

- Stunning Grade II* listed cottage
- Incredible character and charm
- Annexe or income potential
- 2 large reception rooms and Ashgrove kitchen
- Ample parking for numerous vehicles
- Large garage/workshop
- Beautiful cottage style gardens
- Fantastic rural outlook

This stunning Grade II* listed detached residence is nestled in glorious countryside on the edge of Stockleigh Pomeroy, presenting a remarkable opportunity to become the next custodian of an enchanting piece of history.

The property has been sympathetically renovated to enhance the original character and charm whilst incorporating modern comforts. It also has the added benefit of a detached annex, believed to have been a Victorian school room, which has fantastic potential to be used as ancillary accommodation with income potential, subject to relevant consents.

History of the Property:

Originally an Open Hall, certain sections of the property are thought to trace back to approximately 1450. The roof is medieval, featuring cruck beams sourced from the original Medieval Hall.

Accommodation:

The walled front garden with tall hedging provides natural screening and privacy for the patio area it contains. Cobbled paving leads to the original wooden ledged front door with a doorbell hung to the side, immediately transporting you back in time and setting the tone for what will be discovered inside.

The door opens to reveal an original oak plank and muntin screens with apotropaic ancient symbology carved into the wood.

A doorway leads into the main reception room which was originally an Open Hall. Many of its original features are still present today, with exposed beams and a fireplace which houses a wood burner and is conveniently placed next to a large window seat, providing the perfect place to view the pretty cottage style front garden, whilst being warmed by the fire. A central column encases a staircase and acts as a room divider, providing a secondary seating area to the rear of the room, and access to a downstairs WC and shower room.

An expansive dining room also leads off the entrance hall and has a charming inglenook fireplace which adds a cosy feel to this spacious room. There is plenty of room for a large dining table and chairs, and an inviting window seat enjoys views of the rear patio.

The kitchen adjoins this room and has the character and warmth of a first-generation Rayburn (which dates to the mid-1940s), coupled with the convenience of a high-quality Ashgrove Kitchen. This beautiful kitchen with granite worktops and matching upstands has a range of integral appliances including a Neff fridge and dishwasher, and an integral washing machine.

There are two staircases in the property which lead to the first floor where four generously sized bedrooms are located, each with it’s own character and charm. The vaulted ceiling and blackened beams within the first floor give a hint to its history as an Open Hall. The bathroom also features a stylish slipper style bath and window overlooking the garden.

Victorian School Room:

The detached Victorian School room is no less steeped in history, believed to have originated as a farm building before possibly serving a role connected to the village school. Its presence on local maps dates back to 1888, adding an intriguing layer to its historical significance. The building has undergone extensive and sensitive restoration, yet there is still plenty of potential, with planning permission and listed building consent already in place to incorporate modern amenities, including a WC, shower room, and a wood-burning stove, turning this building into self-contained living accommodation. There is then the opportunity to use this this accommodation as an annex or as an additional source of rental income should the new owner wish to acquire ‘change of use’ permissions.

Shepherds Hut - Available by separate negotiation:

A well-appointed Shepherds Hut with its own wood burner, currently sits within the grounds. Its elevated position enjoys a privileged view of the garden and surrounding countryside and is surely a favoured place on a sunny day.

Outside:

This historical gem is situated within a south facing 0.25-acre plot on the outskirts of Stockleigh Pomeroy village, enjoying a beautiful rural setting and views. Much like the property, the outside space has also undergone extensive works and landscaping, with a focus on providing a low maintenance garden with hedgerows for increased privacy.

A substantial driveway offers ample parking space for multiple vehicles, and the property is further complemented with a large garage and workshop.

Sellers Insight:

Upon first viewing Frogpool, we were immediately struck by the welcoming atmosphere that draws you into every corner of this magical cottage. A sense of the passage of time was incredible: these walls pre-dated King Henry VIII, and in every room there was something to see which hinted at its 500 plus years of history. We had never seen a property with so many fascinating & original, period features.

After its year-long restoration, we like to think that Frogpool has been transformed into a unique home with everything needed for modern living. The thick cob walls make it both warm and cosy in winter and cool in summer. We have had many magical candlelit evenings with friends and family enjoying a meal beside the open fire in the dining room or watching a movie in the atmospheric sitting room – Frogpool really comes into its own at Christmas! The light and airy kitchen is also a wonderful place to socialise over a coffee whilst, often, watching the local herds of sheep or Jersey cows graze peacefully in the fields opposite. We have found that Frogpool enjoys much natural light with good head height throughout and plenty of space – many visitors say it resembles Dr Who’s Tardis with its many unexpected nooks and crannies and built in storage areas! Both of us have never slept so well as when we have lived at Frogpool.

Outside, the two patios and various seating areas offer many options for relaxation or al fresco dining in sunlight or shade throughout the day. We have loved using the Shepherd’s Hut all year round; it’s a wonderful home office and a lovely calm place to while away the hours with a good book. From its raised position, with the stable doors wide open in summer - or toasty in winter with the wood burner lit - the views of the countryside beyond are fantastic. The huge area available for parking is a real bonus, as is the space available in the large garage/workshop which has been invaluable for our antique hobby.

Frogpool’s situation is amazing. Stockleigh Pomeroy is a very friendly village with a stunning new Village Hall and many community activities on offer all year round. Moreover, despite being tucked away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, the many charming amenities of Credition, Exeter and Tiverton are all a short drive away, whilst the UK and world beyond can be accessed within an hour via mainline rail links and Exeter Airport. Truly, for us, the best of both worlds.

We have lost count of the times Frogpool has made us smile and it will always stay in our hearts. It has been a true privilege to be a custodian of this special home if only for a while. The cottage now waits to embrace is new owners, with the many opportunities presented by the Victorian School Room offering a particularly exciting project for the next stage of its long journey through time.

Area Description:

Stockleigh Pomeroy is a charming village nestled in the heart of Devon, England. Characterized by its picturesque surroundings, the village exudes tranquillity with its rolling green landscapes and traditional architecture. The community boasts a rich history, evident in the Grade II listed buildings that add to its quaint charm. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the peaceful environment and a sense of connection to the past, making Stockleigh Pomeroy an inviting haven for those seeking a serene countryside retreat.

Services:
Utilities: Mains electric, water.
Broadband: Superfast Enabled
Drainage: Private Treatment Plant (2019)
Heating: Wood burning stove & night storage heaters
Listed: Grade II*