Chittlehampton, Umberleigh, Devon, EX37

A ring fenced residential farm in a favoured location with endless
lifestyle, conservation and sporting opportunities.

Description

Approached by a long, private drive, West Irishborough is a fascinating ring fenced private rural estate centred around an elegant period family home and surrounded by an attractive collection of well maintained traditional outbuildings. The traditional buildings currently benefit from planning consent for residential conversion and also provide opportunities for a myriad of other uses including equestrian, hobbies, studios and offices (stp). The immediate grounds and gardens are well stocked and established and include a mixed orchard, pond and tennis court.

There are useful versatile modern farm buildings one of which has class q consent for residential conversion. Surrounded by productive pastureland, there is a wonderful wooded valley running through the centre of the property with a series of lakes leading to a wild woodland area on the eastern boundary known as ‘Rubble Hills’ which includes historical lime workings dating from 1588 or earlier and a magnificent restored Lime kiln. The farmland is currently all down to pasture however the majority would also support arable cropping. There is already a mid tier stewardship agreement that runs until 31.12.27 and potential for further environmental and conservation projects.

For the equine enthusiast there is stabling for six horses and excellent outriding. The current owners have enjoyed running an informal family shoot over the farm and have had entertaining times boating and swimming in the lakes. The wildlife is species rich and include kingfishers, teal, otters and tawny & barn owls.

In summary, West Irishborough combines peaceful rural living with exciting possibilities.

Location

West Irishborough lies in a picturesque and tranquil position within the gently rolling countryside of rural North Devon. The property is ideally positioned near the charming village of Chittlehampton, known for its historic parish church, Post Office, local store, and inviting Bell Inn pub. The nearby village of Swimbridge adds to the area’s appeal with its notable church, once the parish of the famous terrier breeder Jack Russell, a primary school, and The Jack Russell pub. South Molton, just 6.5 miles away, provides a abundance of amenities including independent shops, bakeries, butchers and a supermarket, along with weekly livestock and farmers markets. Barnstaple, situated 6 miles away, offers an even broader range of facilities.
Educational opportunities are well catered for, with West Buckland School within 6 miles and Blundell’s School in Tiverton accessible via a convenient bus route. For transport, the A361 (North Devon Link Road) is just 4.5 miles away, providing a direct link to the M5 motorway at Junction 27. Tiverton Parkway, with its mainline rail services to London Paddington, is within easy reach, and Umberleigh Station, part of the scenic Tarka Line, is just 5.7 miles away.
For those who enjoy outdoor pursuits, Exmoor National Park is nearby offering expansive and unspoiled natural beauty to explore on foot, horseback or bicycle. Additionally, the renowned North Devon Coast and golden beaches of Putsborough, Saunton, Croyde and Woolacombe are easily accessible for surfing and coastal relaxation. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the renowned Royal North Devon Golf Club, the oldest golf course in England.




Acreage: 156.93 Acres

Directions

Postcode - EX37 9RJ
What3words - /// dairy.advantage.marble

Additional Info

A noteworthy asset of West Irishborough is the fascinating collection of traditional barns that have been built over the centuries and are arranged around the yard to the south and east of the house. Planning consent was granted in March 2024 for conversion of the barns to residential use which opens up considerable opportunity for a variety of buyers to convert one or all of these barns depending on their needs. The Poundhouse is the oldest building at West Irishborough and is an intriguing barn constructed of part lime rendered cob and stone walls under a thatched roof. The barn has had many uses over the years most recently as a shoot room and party barn. Planning consent was granted in March 2024 for residential conversion to a spacious two bedroom detached house with double garage and garden.

West Irishborough encompasses approximately 156.93 acres of diverse and productive land. The property features gently sloping, south-facing pastures ideal for grazing, mowing, and growing crops. The soils are well-draining loams and clayey types, classified as Grade 3, supporting a variety of agricultural uses.

A unique feature of West Irishborough is the area known as the Rubble Hills, where the former historic lime workings remain evident and are accessible, together with expansive broadleaf woodlands, and a series of lakes and ponds creating a serene and multifunctional landscape rich in flora and fauna. These lakes are currently enjoyed by the owners for swimming, fishing, and boating.

Additional highlights include the charming woodland that runs down the valley from the farmstead to the Rubble Hills which feeds a further two lakes. The land is enclosed by mature hedgerows and is suitable for agriculture and conservation projects.