Axmouth, Seaton, Devon

THE PROPERTY.
The Old Vicarage is a particularly handsome and substantial period residence which is located on the country outskirts of the picturesque and highly desirable village of Axmouth. The property has direct access to some of East Devon’s most attractive rolling countryside, as well as riverside walks along the Axe Estuary, Seaton Wetlands Nature Reserves and the magnificent World Heritage Jurassic Coast. The Old Vicarage sits in a commanding position at the head of a long sweeping driveway and takes full advantage of some wonderful panoramic westerly views over the river and estuary to the countryside, sea and the white cliffs at Beer in the distance.

The Old Vicarage dates back to the late Georgian/early Victorian era and is an architecturally interesting property which has a classic double fronted facade with large sash windows and central segmented arched recess. The substantial accommodation retains much of its period charm and character and is both well-proportioned and elegant with the principal rooms taking advantage of the delightful outlook. Features include some superb carpentry with deep skirting boards, architraves and an impressive wide staircase, ornate cornicing, shuttered windows and several original marble fireplaces.

Worthy of particular mention is the simply stunning drawing room which has double doors opening into the spacious sitting room, as well as the striking formal dining room which is a double height room with a galleried landing and large stone fireplace. The accommodation is very adaptable in its layout and in addition to the principal residence, The Old Vicarage benefits from Cottage Pie, an attached one-bedroom cottage which was converted from the former stable block. This has, in the past, been let on a holiday basis through English Country Cottages, or alternatively could provide self-contained ancillary accommodation, the option for multigenerational living, or would be perfect for a housekeeper. Beneath the property is an extensive cellar which provides a very useful storage and within the grounds is ‘The Bothy’, a detached stone building which has a variety of uses.

Although The Old Vicarage would benefit from a programme of refurbishment, it offers an exceedingly rare opportunity for those looking to put their stamp on an impressive and individual country house in a wonderful setting close to the World Heritage Jurassic Coast.

GARDENS & GROUNDS.
The Old Vicarage is approached from the lane through an impressive pillared and gated entrance onto a sweeping driveway which passes a detached timber garage and leads up to the side of the property where there is ample parking. This driveway continues to the rear of the house where there is an attractive part cobbled courtyard, garaging and a private garden to the side of Cottage Pie. There is also a useful pedestrian walkway giving access onto Higher Lane.

To the north east is a beautiful area of woodland below which (and adjoining the road) is a paddock of about 4 acres. There is also a further paddock of about 1.4 acres to the west of the house. To the front and side of the property are terraces and formal gardens with lawns interspersed with profusely stocked shrub beds. These descend to the front to a swimming pool which has been re-lined in recent years and a small croquet lawn. On the southerly boundary is ‘The Bothy’ which is a useful detached building which would make ideal overflow accommodation, studio, home office etc. In total the gardens and grounds extend to about 9 acres.

SITUATION.
The Old Vicarage is situated on the edge of the popular village of Axmouth, which in turn is located only half a mile or so from the World Heritage Jurassic Coastline. Axmouth is a pretty village which lies on the banks of the River Axe Estuary, a wonderful location for wildlife and a bird watcher’s paradise. Axmouth has two popular public houses, an ancient Church of St Michael and an active village hall. The town of Seaton lies on the other side of the river and is a popular tourist destination, with a long esplanade and pebble beaches. It has an extensive variety of shopping and recreational facilities which include many independent shops, bank, supermarkets and primary school. This stretch of coastline is extremely picturesque and there are wonderful walks in the near vicinity which include the South West Peninsular Coastal Path from which there are magnificent views along this dramatic stretch of coastline.

The busy market town of Axminster lies approximately 6 miles to the north and also has a wide variety of facilities and amenities together with a main line rail link to London (Waterloo). The County Town and Cathedral City of Exeter is some 28 miles to the west and has excellent shopping and sporting facilities, theatres, cinemas, main line express rail link to London (Paddington), international airport and M5 access. The renowned Colyton Grammar School, one of the country’s top mixed state schools, is about 2.5 miles away.

DIRECTIONS.
Travelling east on the A3052 coastal road between the towns of Seaton and Lyme Regis, turn right onto the B3172 at Bosshill Cross signposted Axmouth and Seaton. Continue down this road for about a mile and the driveway to The Old Vicarage will be found on your left hand side just before the ‘Axmouth’ village sign.

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SERVICES.
Mains electricity, water and drainage. oil-fired central heating.

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

ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATE.
Not required due to the Grade II Listing.

FLOOD RISK.
Flood risk information can be checked through the following:

BROADBAND & MOBILE.
The seller has advised us that Broadband is available at the property. Broadband availability at this location can be checked through: checker.ofcom.org.uk/
Mobile coverage can be checked through: checker.ofcom.org.uk/en-gb/mobile-coverage