Membury, Axminster, Devon

THE PROPERTY.
North Mill Farm is a wonderful example of an old Devonshire building and comprises a detached Grade II Listed farmhouse with origins dating back to the early 17th century, as evidenced by an inscribed stone on one of the inglenook pillars with the date 1624. The property is traditionally built principally of mellow local stone with part rendered exterior elevations under a roof which is mainly thatched with a mellow tiled extension to the rear.

North Mill Farm is found in superb order and underwent a very thorough programme of restoration and refurbishment about 15 years ago, creating the exceptional home of immense character we find today. These extensive works uncovered many of the fine period features which the property has such as the handsome and impressive fireplace in the dining room and a small portion of plank and muntin screen which formed part of the original cross passage. Other period features include window seats, beams and timbers, and evidence of old bread ovens, yet the property offers many modern conveniences. A truly delightful country kitchen/breakfast room with Aga and luxury bathrooms which have been created reflecting a mixture of contemporary and traditional styling. The property was also re-plumbed, with extensive re-wiring. These improvements have resulted in creating the truly delightful property we find today which has its own distinctive ambience.

OUTBUILDINGS.
Worthy of particular note is the former mill building which stands to the rear of the house on the opposite side of the courtyard and which comprises a detached 3-storey former water mill constructed principally of stone under a galvanised iron roof. This building still retains many period features such as ceiling beams, wide elm floorboards and part of the original mill workings to the second floor. It has many potential uses such as conversion for extended families, letting income, studio space, etc – such alternative uses being subject to any necessary planning consents that need to be obtained. Adjoining this building is a range of further outbuildings comprising a former shippon and a 3-car garage to the rear.

GARDENS & GROUNDS.
Undoubtedly, one of the main features of North Mill Farm is its stunning setting which offers unrivalled peace and tranquillity and simply breathtaking views. The property is approached from the quiet country lane to a large courtyard area where there is parking and space for numerous vehicles. As mentioned, to the north are a range of traditional stone and timber clad outbuildings. The gardens themselves lie principally to the south of the property and are laid to a large area of lawn being enclosed along the lane by a stone wall and a bund to the west. A small gate at the end of the garden leads to the meadows which have recently been planted with a variety of trees, as well as being interspersed by many mature native trees. The grounds offer a magical, secluded retreat and a
wonderful haven for an abundance of wildlife and birdlife and include a nature pond, as well as fishing on the River Yarty.

To the other side of the lane is a further small area of ground and in total the land extends to approximately 10 acres.

SITUATION.
North Mill Farm is situated within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, set in a sheltered location between the villages of Membury and Stockland. Standing in the Yarty Valley, the property enjoys an open, sunny position with southerly views over its own garden and pastureland. A tranquil yet accessible location with delightful walks and rides in all directions from the gate. The grounds extend to approximately 10 acres of mainly level pasture which lies principally to the south and west of the property and is bordered by, and through which runs, the River Yarty, where there is single and double bank fishing. East Devon is renowned for its beautiful rolling hills and wooded coombes and most of the area is designated as being of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is bounded to the south by Lyme Bay and the World Heritage Jurassic Coast.

North Mill Farm lies between the villages of Membury and Stockland, both of which have a Primary School, Parish Church and Village Hall, and Stockland also having a popular public house. These villages have strong communities and there are many social events and activities taking place throughout the year. It is approximately 4 miles from the market town of Axminster which has an excellent range of shops, leisure centre, swimming pool and main line rail link on the Exeter to Waterloo line. Colyton Grammar School, one of England’s top mixed schools is approximately 13 miles distance and the Jurassic Coast is some 12 miles to the south. Taunton, the County Town of Somerset is approximately 16 miles to the north with a very good shopping centre, M5 access and express rail link to London Paddington.

DIRECTIONS.
From Honiton, travel in an easterly direction along the High Street and bear left at the mini roundabout. After about 200 yards, on reaching a sharp bend, turn right signposted Cotleigh and Stockland. Pass under the railway bridge and carry on up Northcote Hill for approximately 3 miles. Proceed straight over the crossroads signposted Stockland and carry on through the village of Stockland, past the Public House on your left hand side and follow the signs to Membury/Axminster. After approximately 2/3rds mile after leaving the village, turn left at Crandons Cross, follow this lane over the bridge and turn first left. After a few hundred yards North Mill Farm will be found.

SERVICES & TENURE.
Mains electricity. Private water. Private drainage. Oil-fired central heating. Freehold.

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

ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATE.
Exempt due to the Grade II Listing.

FLOOD RISK, BROADBAND & MOBILE.
Flood risk information can be checked through the following: 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