Marchand Petit At Home - Issue 5

HOME AT

WINTER

FROM JEAN QUEEN TO LADY OF THE MANOR Langdon Court Manor is revived, Donna Ida style

SHORELINES & BYLINES Talking coasts with Andy Cooper

warm

WELCOME Whilst the winter storms have been sweeping across the region, it doesn’t seem to have dampened the desire for discerning buyers in search of their dream home in our beautiful South Hams.

In the post Covid housing boom, we assisted many families relocating for a slower pace of life, with remote working allowing people to choose lifestyle over accessibility and create a better work-life balance. This trend has remained for many potential buyers despite the economic downturn, and with mortgage rates settling, we have seen a steady level of confidence returning to the housing market. We cannot deny that the market conditions were changeable in 2023, but the strength and draw of this beautiful region has once again demonstrated its ability and power to create its own property microclimate in otherwise turbulent times.

With the colder months now upon us, I hope this issue of At Home provides you with the perfect opportunity to hide away from the rain or even snow for a little while, fire lit and hot chocolate in hand.

Helen Harris Director and Head of Prime Waterfront & Country House

Published by TBC Publishing Limited. Telephone: 01223 874483. ©TBC Publishing 2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction is forbidden except by express permission of Marchand Petit and the Publishers. The content of this magazine is believed to be correct but its accuracy is not guaranteed and it does not form part of any offer or contract. TBC Publishing Limited cannot accept responsibility for any omissions or errors.

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DARTMOUTH 01803 839190

KINGSBRIDGE 01548 857588

MODBURY 01548 831163

NEWTON FERRERS 01752 873311

SALCOMBE 01548 844473

TOTNES 01803 847979

PRIME WATERFRONT & COUNTRY HOUSE 01548 855590

FEATURES

OUR OFFICES

CONTENTS

08 FIRED UP Bringing glassblowing to the South Hams with Fire Work Glass Studio

22 FROM JEAN QUEEN TO LADY OF THE MANOR A behind the scenes look at 2024's hottest hideaway, Langdon Court Manor

26 THE PERFECT ESCAPE Jo Plummer, founder of Tropic Breeze, gives us her guide to the Caribbean

34 SHORELINES & BYLINES We catch up with the editor of Coast magazine Andy Cooper

62 LOCALLY GROWN We take a stroll down memory lane with the couple behind Gardentime

68 36 HOURS IN MODBURY What to eat, drink and do in magnificent Modbury

100 FAVOURITE FOUR: SUNDAY ROASTS Round off the week with the region's best Sunday roasts

LETTINGS

106 COTTAGECORE

01548 855599

As we edge into winter we look at cottages offering the perfect place to hibernate

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PROPERTIES

14 TAKE A LOOK Shoal of Furze is a showstopper of a family home

38 LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Discover the perfectly located Hanger Mill and Barn

44 LIVING THE DREAM Stylishly remodelled home in a tranquil waterfront setting

52 MODERN LIVING Welcome to this remarkable newly-constructed family haven in Dartington

58 GEORGIAN ELEGANCE Meticulously renovated townhouse situated in the beating heart of Dartmouth

76 COUNTRY LIFE Open the door to Magnolia Court, a serene haven in the peaceful hamlet of Abbotskerswell

82 GRAND DESIGNS The Whitehouse is a Georgian grand dame in the charming village of Chillington

90 THE RIGHT MOVE Cutters Cottage in Kingsbridge has been superbly converted into a stunning modern home

94 ON THE WATERFRONT This waterside cottage sits on The Point in Noss Mayo, affording it outstanding estuary views

The next edition of the showcase Marchand Petit ‘At Home’ magazine will be published and printed in February 2024. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 5

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FIRED

Up It takes fierce nerve and a steady hand to manouevre and manipulate molten glass into a work of art.

The process of glassblowing is spellbinding, the technique little changed in the 2000 years since it was invented and one which intrigued Izach Hyde at 16 years old. Fast forward several years and a Transatlantic relocation, and Izach is bringing his love of glassblowing to the South Hams through his Fire Work Glass Studio in Diptford. Read on as Izach shares his love of the craft and his mum Debby explains why running the studio is a family affair.

Izach, where does your love of glass blowing come from? Can you tell us a little about how you discovered the art and the journey to having your own studio and now teaching others?

I always loved art growing up and had the chance to try pottery and jewellery making alongside regular art classes, but it was my first glass blowing class around the age of 16 when I discovered something I could really get in to. I loved the challenge of the material, the intensity of the heat and the endless scope the medium provides to explore both creativity and practicality. It’s such a hard material to master, it intrigued me and inspired me to get better at it – and it’s still doing that!

So, I started taking classes at Chicago Hot Glass, much like the ones we run, every few weeks and then took up an unpaid internship at Ignite. During that time I attended a dedicated craft school in the US and concentrated on building my skills, as well as spending three months back in the UK at the House of Marbles with Teign Valley Glass. After a couple of years, I was offered a position at the Chicago studio and stayed there for a couple more years, delivering training classes as well as assisting in the glass production, before moving to North Carolina where I worked with a friend who was starting up his own studio, Hot Glass Alley. This gave me an insight into what it takes to run a start-up studio. After that I moved to Corning in New York State, and worked at Steuben, a fine art glass and crystal making company. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 9

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‘‘My designs are inspired

by the things I see around me every day, as well as simply wanting to explore how to improve what I do.

For instance, our Meadow vases were inspired by the wildflowers in our garden.

Unfortunately Covid hit and, like everywhere else, we were locked down. And that brings us to the opportunity to move back to the UK, and with my family’s support, build our garden studio. We’ve been open just a year and have great pleasure in being able to introduce a new audience to glass blowing with a really hands-on experience here in the heart of Devon.

Can you talk us through the glass blowing process?

Virtually all studios start with glass held in a furnace at a constant molten temperature and the ‘gaffer’ will use either a hollow or solid pipe to extract the glass. Adding colour and manipulating the material with a wide range of tools to create designs and shapes, the glass can be blown and sculpted into the final piece, and can take anywhere from 10 minutes to many hours to complete before it's put into a kiln to slowly cool down.

Your pieces are so beautiful and unique. Can you tell us what inspires your designs?

My designs are inspired by the things I see around me every day, as well as simply wanting to explore how to improve what I do. For instance, our Meadow vases were inspired by the wildflowers in our garden, but it took a lot of trial and error to really get the effect I was looking for – sometimes it works first time, but there was a lot of broken glass before we got the process worked out and the final design the way I envisaged it. I’ve also begun exploring sea inspired pieces, from conch shells to jelly fish and crab claws, and the occasional sea monster. The possibilities are endless.

world, but perhaps not household names. But to name a few, Nick Fruin, Davide Salvadore, Lucio Bubacco, Thor Bueno, Peter Ivy, Pablo Soto – all very different makers in their own right, but I consider them to be Masters of the craft.

Debby, Fire Work is a real family affair. What roles do you each play in the process and in running the studio and business?

It’s definitely a family affair. Naturally Izach as the glass blower (gaffer), handles virtually all the glass blowing, technically and creatively, while I am his studio assistant. As well as helping in the hotshop, I also handle all the bills, photography, social media, materials ordering and bookings – it’s a good job I’m retired.

Dad, Steve, is the delivery driver and contracts manager. And not forgetting Shaka, Izach’s dog, who is the face of the company and can often be found snoozing in the studio.

As a family, you invite people into the glass blowing studio here at your beautiful home in Diptford to experience the craft for themselves and to make their own pieces. It must be very rewarding to see people immerse themselves in the experience and see their final piece?

We put a lot of thought into our Make Your Own experience, to try and give our visitors the best (safest) hands-on experience that we can. We love seeing how over the 90 minutes they grow in confidence with the material and get stuck in, ask tons of questions and enjoy the surroundings. The anticipation of seeing their work emerge from the kiln is always a blast and we get inspired too by their enthusiasm and appreciation.

How long does it take to take a piece from idea to design and creation?

It really depends. For me, it could be anywhere from 20 minutes to months, perhaps years. There were designs that I had in mind much earlier in my career that I simply didn’t have the skills to execute, but I can revisit them now and have a much better chance of success.

For example, it can take a long time to understand how colours react with each other, so something as simple as designing a piece where the colour mix doesn’t end up looking horrible together, or cause the piece to explode (it’s happened), is just another hurdle to get over.

Finally Izach, what are your ambitions for the future of Fire Work?

I’d really like to see the business grow, of course, and to build our reputation as a professional but really accessible studio, introducing glass blowing to an ever-growing audience. I’d love to be able to provide the opportunity for an apprentice at some point (and give mum a break!) and to have my work recognized.

We are just at the beginning of our journey, but I have high hopes for the future.

Are there any other glass blowers who inspire you?

There are many of course that are well known in the glass blowing

Get in touch with Izach at www.fireworkglassstudio.co.uk to plan your glass blowing experience. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 1 1

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Take a

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The juxtaposition of old and new, a transformation delivered by renowned local architectural designer Michael Stopher, has created a showstopper of a family home in Shoal of Furze.

T

he passion for good design, whilst retaining the character and integrity of the original building, shines through in this innovative, light and airy renovation.

With its white-washed walls, Cob in part, many original features are retained in the period part of the building, including early beams, various plank doors and an impressive spiral staircase. The modern extension forms the heart of this lovely home and takes full advantage of the glorious, South facing views over fields and down the valley to Bantham on the horizon. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 1 7

Underfloor heating and an attractive wood burner promise cosy evenings, while triple aspect doors flood the open plan kitchen/living/dining room with winter light and views out into the private garden and across South Hams scenery beyond.

Appliances are high-spec, integrating Neff, Liebherr and Miele in the kitchen and Duravit and Geberit in the bathroom, while the two bedrooms exude a warmth of character that only a building of this kind of heritage can offer.

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‘‘The modern extension forms the heart of

this lovely home and takes full advantage of the glorious, South facing views.

AVETON GIFFORD 2 bedrooms 1 bathroom 1 reception room EPC: D GUIDE PRICE £585,000

MODBURY 01548 831163 m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 1 9

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From Jean Queen to

LADY OF THE MANOR Wembury nestles into the rugged south Devon coastline, a place known more for attracting coast path explorers and the odd surfer than fashion royalty. But Donna Ida is about to change that. Dressed in her signature denim jumpsuit and a pair of fur lined Gucci Horsebit loafers, the impossibly stylish and effervescent Aussie isn’t your typical Lady of the Manor. Langdon Court isn’t your typical manor.

Left to ruin for years, its centuries-old features trashed and pillaged, the ‘old girl’ sought new custodians in 2020. Enter Donna and her husband, distinguished restauranteur and President of the Restaurant Association, Robert Walton MBE. Together with designer Geraldine Apponyi and an army of local tradespeople, the couple have spent almost two years reviving the Grade II* listed Jacobean manor.

Buried treasures have been unearthed, from moulded ceilings to intricate archways, hidden cupboards to whole rooms. Period features have been given a new chance at a more vivacious way of life, rubbing shoulders with some of modern art’s most notable names in a collection of Donna’s that has been 25 years in the making. While she may be a long-known name in the fashion world, her eye for design extends well into art and interiors too, Langdon Court’s countless trinkets sourced almost entirely by the couple on buying trips to Ashburton’s antiques shops and through hours spent trawling eBay for hidden gems.

This grand house has stature, its regal frontage looking out across acres of Devon countryside. Come spring, the hillsides will burst into shades of purple as the lavender fields Donna has planted begin to bloom. It is a view that greets those who wake up in some of the manor’s 15 bedrooms, while others pull back their curtains to reveal English Renaissance gardens bristling with hundreds of David Austin roses. In time, a Victorian greenhouse and kitchen gardens will grow provisions for meals rustled up by Robert in a kitchen m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 2 3

designed and built by Cornwall-based Williams and Son. Donna’s revival of Langdon Manor has leaned heavily on British companies, from Corson Architectural Detail hardware, Perrin and Rowe taps and Shaws of Darwen sinks, to cushions and curtains made just a few miles away by Niki's Soft Furnishings in Plymstock. However, when it comes to kitchen appliances – Robert’s area of expertise – only Italian will do; it is Bertazzoni all the way.

Spending the night at Langdon Court is akin to disappearing down a rabbit hole clad in cosy English country charm yet accented with chic, contemporary touches that could only have been thought up by someone with a finger firmly on the fashion pulse. Coffee table books nod to Bella Freud and Jonathan Adler, while fashion and rock royalty like Bianca Jagger and Kate Moss bring attitude to walls licked by Edward Bulmer paints in heritage shades. Brigitte Bardot casts her gaze across one of the manor’s largest bedroom suites, Terry O’Neill’s iconic black and white photograph of the French beauty standing almost six feet tall.

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‘‘Spending the night at Langdon Court is akin to disappearing down a rabbit hole clad in cosy English country charm yet accented with chic, contemporary touches that could only have been thought up by someone with a finger firmly on the fashion pulse.

Renovating this country house by the sea has had its challenges, but for Donna it is a dream come true. Langdon Court’s trajectory towards becoming one of Devon’s most notable new addresses in 2024 began with a soft launch that was as stylish as it was successful, its events including a beauty retreat hosted by beauty and skincare gurus Trish McEvoy and Dr Anita Sturnham, and breakfasts catered by Jamie Rogers, the epicurean enigma behind the renowned Restaurant Twenty-Seven in Kingsbridge.

Once it launches proper, Langdon Court Manor will become one of the most sought-after private use hotels and event venues in the country. One thing is for sure, this old girl has got her groove back and she’s looking better than ever.

Langdon Court Manor is available for exclusive hire for events and experiences. Contact the team at hello@langdoncourtmanor.com to enquire. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 2 5

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The Perfect

ESCAPE

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The heating is on, dog walks are cold and wet, and any hint of a tan has long since faded.

It’s at this time of year that thoughts turn to finding a bit of warmth and some sun to top up the vitamin D levels we’ll need to get us through the rest of the winter. And where better to go for guaranteed sunshine than the Caribbean?

As a destination, the Caribbean is served by around 50 flights weekly from the UK throughout the winter and there is an island to suit everyone, from the laziest sunseeker to the most active rainforest adventurer. Jo Plummer, founder and owner of Yealmpton based specialist travel company Tropic Breeze, has visited every single Caribbean destination she sells. Who better to give us a guide to the islands?

Barbados Barbados is a favourite Caribbean holiday destination, not only for A lister celebrities, but for couples, multigenerational family holidays or groups of friends wanting to kick back and just chill.

The island's main attraction is the coastline, with 60 miles of superb sandy beaches which are lapped by warm waters, where visitors can just lay back and relax or take part in water sports. Inland, gently undulating hills are covered with lush vegetation, dotted with colourful gingerbread houses and former sugar plantations. There are plenty of things to see and do in Barbados away from the beach, from wandering around picturesque fishing villages to visiting botanical gardens, from enjoying a sunset boat cruise to sampling rum at the Mount Gay Rum Distillery. Horse racing and cricket are both popular, with plenty of opportunities for visitors to go to sporting events.

In the evening, visitors can dine in one of the many award-winning restaurants, watch live steel bands or jazz performances or visit one of the many nightclubs, which are mainly to be found at St Lawrence's Gap in the south of the island.

The rugged east coast offers a stark contrast to the popular west coast, making it an excellent twin-centre holiday destination. Find out about a suggested twin-centre holiday to Barbados which allows visitors to explore the stunning coastline and to discover the cultural sights and attractions inland.

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Antigua As one of the largest Leeward islands in the heart of the Caribbean, Antigua is a popular holiday destination with plenty to offer visitors. A vast range of water sports are available, mostly in calm and protected waters, while the thriving coral reefs offer excellent scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities.

The island is a fantastic destination for family holidays, thanks to attractions including Stingray City where visitors can swim with stingrays and tropical fish.

You’ll also find rainforest tours with ziplines and excursions to nearby Barbuda.

Antigua also offers plenty of history and culture, with island tours offering a unique insight into the life of local people - the markets are constantly busy, the houses brightly decorated, and cricket is played wherever flat ground can be found. With an extensive Naval history, a visit to Nelson’s Dockyard at English Harbour is essential.

Barbuda is the other island which makes up the nation of Antigua and Barbuda, a small and undeveloped island with just one real town. Barbuda is bordered by deserted pink sand beaches and offers a natural habitat for Frigate birds, allowing visitors to relax in picturesque surroundings and get off the beaten track. Many people take a day trip from Antigua to Barbuda by ferry.

British Virgin Islands The British Virgin Islands, or BVI, is an area which offers one of the most spectacular cruising grounds in the world and is a mecca for yachtsmen, thanks to reliable trade winds, short easy passages, and perfect anchorages.

There are numerous yachts available for charter, by the day or by the week, either bareboat (without crew) or fully catered and crewed.

It’s easy to combine luxury resorts in the British Virgin Islands with sailing holidays on board the finest yachts in the Caribbean. Guana Island and Peter Island Resort & Spa both occupy private islands, Cooper Island Beach Club shares an island with just a few other houses, while Rosewood Little Dix Bay is located on one of the larger islands.

Diving and snorkelling are superb, with many reefs and cays as well as over 100 recognised dive sites. Most hotels and charter yachts have snorkel equipment available for hire, but if you are keen to make the most of the superb snorkelling, we recommend that you take your own equipment. There are plenty of dive operators, many of which will meet you at your yacht or hotel.

Access to the British Virgin Islands is via Antigua, with onward travel by local airline to Beef Island and speedboat to the relevant island.

Dominica Top left: Antigua & Barbuda.

Top right: British Virgin Islands.

Above: Barbados.

Described as one of the most beautiful countries in the world, a holiday in Dominica allows visitors to step back in time and enjoy a world before mobiles and laptops - watch abundant exotic birds, learn to dive, swim in cool rivers and enjoy the simple things in life. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 2 9

Located between Guadeloupe and Martinique, Dominica is a nature lover’s paradise. From towering mountain peaks and waterfalls to numerous rivers and sandy beaches, the island’s scenery is varied yet equally stunning.

Despite being one of the larger islands in the Caribbean, Dominica is relatively untouched by tourism and doesn't even have an airport with flights outside the Caribbean.

Snorkel on Champagne Reef, where gases from the underground volcanic activity rise in gentle streams from the seafloor. Trek to the Boiling Lake, a flooded fumarole located in the National Park, filled with bubbling greyishblue water and usually enveloped in a cloud of vapour. Take a whale watching trip to see the majestic beauty of the sperm whale or follow a local guide on one of the many paths through the unspoilt rainforest.

‘‘Guadeloupe is perhaps best

known amongst UK visitors as the filming location for the BBC’s Death in Paradise.

Guadeloupe Guadeloupe is ideally suited to travellers looking for something a little more off the beaten track. There are plenty of beautiful beaches to be enjoyed, but visitors can also take part in a range of exciting activities such as hiking in the National Park and climbing La Soufrière volcano. As a French overseas territory, the islands are a fascinating melting pot of Caribbean and French culture, with bakeries selling croissants next to market stalls selling fresh coconuts.

Guadeloupe is perhaps best known amongst UK visitors as the filming location for the BBC’s Death in Paradise. If you are lucky enough to be on the island during filming, you may even catch a glimpse of some of the series’ stars. A must visit is Le Madras, a bar in Deshaies which features as Catherine’s bar in the TV series and a tour with one of the islands’ local guides is essential for any true Death in Paradise fans!

St Kitts & Nevis St Kitts, the island, which forms a nation along with neighbouring Nevis, was a British colony for 270 years until achieving independence in 1983. For many years sugar and tobacco growing dominated the landscape of St Kitts and while no longer a major contributor to the island's economy, many local people are still employed in its cultivation and processing.

St Kitts is a relatively small island and in five hours you can cycle around the entire island, taking in the breathtaking views along the way such as historical sites, tropical gardens and exotic beaches. For those who prefer hiking, there are plenty of trails which can be explored with a guide to learn about the beautiful flora and fauna around the island. Mount Liamuiga is a dormant volcano which offers stunning views from the summit, the island's highest point. Guided tours start from Belle Mont Farm, where guests can also dine on authentic local cuisine in a relaxed setting on a 400-acre organic farm.

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Top: Dominica.

Above: Guadeloupe.

The local people of the twin island, Nevis, are charming, friendly and welcoming, while the pace of life in these stunning surroundings is easygoing. There are no traffic lights on the island, no fast food chains and no buildings that are taller than palm trees. At the centre of the island is the volcanic Nevis Peak, with lush green tropical vegetation tumbling down from the hillsides to secluded, palm fringed coves and sun-soaked beaches. If you enjoy exploring historic sites or mountain walks through cool tropical rainforest inhabited by chattering monkeys, colourful birds, and a profusion of flora and fauna, then you need look no further.

Nevis also boasts one of the best 18-hole golf courses in the Caribbean, located at the Four Seasons Resort but also open to non-residents.

It was on Nevis that Horatio Nelson met and courted a local widow, Fanny Nisbet, whose home was Nisbet Plantation. The couple married at Montpelier Plantation and their marriage certificate can still be seen in St John's Church.

St Lucia St Lucia has something for everyone – stunning surroundings to explore, gorgeous beaches to relax on and plenty of activities to take part in. Guests in search of an adrenaline filled holiday can hike in the mountains, zipline through the rainforest, walk the Tet Paul nature trail, climb a Piton or hire a jeep to explore.

‘‘St Lucia has something

for everyone – stunning surroundings to explore, gorgeous beaches to relax on and plenty of activities to take part in.

St Lucia is an excellent choice for a twin centre holiday as it offers two diverse holiday experiences. The south of the island is dominated by the famous Piton mountains and the tropical rainforests, allowing visitors to hike and take day trips to explore the Sulphur Springs, while the coast offers wonderful snorkelling and diving. Meanwhile, the north of the island has a gentler landscape and more marinas, harbours and beaches, as well as excellent windsurfing opportunities.

The Grenadines The waters surrounding the Grenadines are renowned for fantastic snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities, and above all, perfect sailing conditions with reliable tradewinds. The area provides excellent offshore sailing with sometimes fast and exhilarating passages between the islands.

Equally enjoyable yet calmer and more relaxed cruising can be found along the leeward side of the islands, where there are many fine anchorages with coral white sand. The islands are conveniently spaced apart, so no passage between them is more than five hours sailing time. The heart of the Grenadines is the spectacular Tobago Cays, a national marine park which can only be reached by boat.

Access to the islands is via Barbados or St Lucia, with onward travel by plane and by boat. As well as offering a range of water-based holidays, luxury hotels and private island resorts are also available for those who just want a beach and a cocktail.

So, turn up the heating, put Death in Paradise on catch up and start dreaming of the lapping waves and welcoming smiles awaiting you.

Inspired? Get in touch with Jo and her team at www.tropicbreeze.co.uk or call 01752 880880 and start planning your winter escape!!

Top: Nevis.

Above: St Lucia.

Below: Grenadines.

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Marchand Petit are thrilled to have partnered with Salcombe Sea Wear for a special At Home competition that will see one lucky reader win a Salcombe robe worth £200.

SIMPLY SCAN THE QR CODE TO FIND OUT MORE AND ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN. GOOD LUCK!

& BYLINES Shorelines

It was a conversation with his then boss that presented Andy Cooper with his very own ‘sliding doors’ moment, his offer of a promotion bringing with it the opportunity to relocate to either Grimsby or Barnstaple. Andy chose Devon and the rest, as they say, is history. Fast forward a little over 25 years and we caught up with the editor of Coast magazine to talk teenage poetry, lucky breaks and underrated coastlines.

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Andy, let’s go back to the beginning. Tell us about those early years; did you always aspire to a career in journalism?

I reckon I’d wanted to be a journalist since about the age of 14. This is high on the ‘cringe’ factor but I actually had some teenage poetry printed in the local paper where I grew up in Northampton (must have been a slow news week!) and the thrill of seeing my name in print sparked something in me.

Later, when I was 16 and joined the sixth form at school, I sadly didn’t put a lot of time and effort into my studies – as witnessed by my eventual A level results – but what I DID put a lot of effort into was launching and editing a school magazine with two pals.

It was fairly scurrilous and gossipy affair, but it taught me early lessons about deadlines, putting the flow of a publication together and dealing with all kinds of contributors. And one of those contributors – Andrew Collins – actually went on to be a far more successful journalist then me, contributing to The Radio Times and the BBC as a film and television reviewer.

‘‘I visited north Devon on

a fact-finding mission to see what the area was like and as soon as I saw Saunton Sands I was sold on a move down here!

I then went on to join a local paper in Leicestershire as a trainee reporter and then subsequently qualified and hopped around the Midlands and East Anglia on various weekly and daily titles.

The story of how you came to be a travel editor in the South West sums up the magic of Devon and its ability to lure you in and keep you there. Tell us how you came to be here...

Well, I actually moved down to the region as a newspaper editor in 1997. I was editing a paper in Essex for the Daily Mail group’s regional arm and the boss called me down to London and offered me a promotion…to Barnstaple or Grimsby.

I am sure Grimsby is very lovely, but I visited north Devon on a fact-finding mission to see what the area was like and as soon as I saw Saunton Sands I was sold on a move down here!

The original idea was that I would do around a three-year ‘term’ in Devon and then move on to another of the company’s newspapers in the UK. But when they duly came calling three years later and asked me if I wanted to go to Nottingham, I declined. The South West had captured me for good!

I eventually spent 13 very happy years editing, first of all in north Devon and then a wider editorial management role in the South West. But the last 12 months or so became more about cuts than creativity as we faced up to some of the challenges local media faced and, in the end, I volunteered for redundancy.

I was just wondering what do next when the bosses at Devon Life called and offered me the editor’s role…that was a very lucky break. Again, I had 3 6 | AT H O M E | m a r c h a n d p e t i t .c o.uk

Top: At home with Andy Cooper.

Above: Alnmouth, Alnwick, Northumberland.

Below: Alderney, Channel Islands.

almost ten years really enjoying life as a magazine editor but then new management came in with some rather different ideas on how to run the business. I suspect from their perspective I was an unedifying mix of cynical, old and costly in wages terms, and so they manoeuvred things so my role was made redundant. Hey ho…I had enjoyed a good run.

You joined Coast from Devon Life in 2022. How have you found the transition from a county specific publication to one that takes in the whole of the UK? It was a steep learning curve! Although maybe not quite as steep as when I moved from newspapers to magazines, which are total different brands of journalism. The key challenge on Coast is that when it comes to our coastline, I like to think I am pretty knowledgeable about the South West and parts of East Anglia – where I once lived - but there are whole swathes of the UK and Ireland (which we also cover) that I need to get myself up to speed on. Thankfully, I have been doing lots of travel as part of the job to discover them for myself. And they call it work!

Can you talk us through the process of putting together an issue of Coast magazine?

We are all about the forward planning on Coast. I am answering these questions in early November and our January issue has just been sent to the printers and is on sale in a fortnight. It means, never mind about February issue - which is pretty much planned out and commissioned - I am already starting to think about March and beyond.

So, a lot of my work goes into planning features for specific issues and then commissioning writers to do them for us. I am the only editorial staffer on Coast so I am reliant on freelancers to write for us and thankfully over my career I have got to know some brilliant ones, so they were my first call when I took over.

As well as the planning I actually have to physically load all the words and pictures into our system for the designer to create pages and then check and proof them before deadline. The week before we go to press is always a rush of activity but I try and get the magazine completed about 48 hours before we actually go to press, which makes sure we don’t go too close to the wire. It feels calmer that way.

As well as the editing, I like to keep my eye in with some writing as well, and it’s great to be doing features again after many years when I seemed to spend more time on spreadsheets than subjective clauses. After all, it’s the reason I got into this trade in the first place, so to still be doing it 38 years later is a real pleasure.

Moving onto travel and in the spirit of coasts, can you tell us both your favourite coast and one which you think is most underrated?

I am a huge fan of the Isles of Scilly, particularly St Martin’s, so any of the islands’ beaches do it for me. In recent years, my Mum discovered that, despite the fact we thought our family was from the Midlands, we actually have roots back to the Scillies going back to the 16th century. My great-great-great-great grandmother is buried in the beautiful churchyard at Old Town on St Mary’s and so I always like to visit her grave when I’m on the islands and watch the sea breaking in the nearby bay. Beautiful.

And most underrated? I’d say it’s probably a toss-up between Alnwick in Northumberland or Putsborough in north Devon, but I am loathe to let on about the latter as it’s my personal favourite and I want it to myself!

And finally, ‘A weekend in…’ is a regular feature in Coast. Can you tell us where your personal favourite ‘weekend in…’ location would be?

That’s a hard one, but I might go for Alderney – a truly charming Channel Island with a different ‘feel’ to it and some amazing history and wildlife.

Above: Putsborough Sands, North Devon.

Below: Hugh Town, St Mary's, Isles of Scilly.

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Location, Location,

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Hanger Mill and Barn sits poised in its own peaceful valley, yet is just a few minutes’ walk from Salcombe’s North Sands beach. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 3 9

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he centuries old mill house captures hearts on first impression; its gardens extend to around two acres and are spectacular, dotted with grand trees, edged with woodland, and accessorized with an ornamental greenhouse that could encourage even the most reluctant gardener.

Inside, the historic Grade II listed home blends period features like exposed stone walls, deep sills and window seats with lots of natural light and space for family living. Its bedrooms are bright and sizeable, with three ensuite bedrooms on the first floor and a further bedroom with sea views on the second floor.

Set slightly away from the main house, a detached stone barn has proven a successful holiday let in recent years, its guests enjoying open plan living and enough space for the whole family to relax after days spent exploring Salcombe and the surrounding South Hams. With boat storage and space for several vehicles, Hanger Mill and Barn has all the makings of a handsome retreat in one of the country’s most loved seaside towns.

SALCOMBE 7 bedrooms 4 bathrooms 3 reception rooms EPC: Exempt GUIDE PRICE £2,750,000

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Living the

DREAM...

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‘‘Overlooking the attractive

creekside village of Noss Mayo through a vibrant selection of specimen trees that fringe the sparkling waters of the River Yealm estuary.

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here is something special about coastal ‘no through’ roads that turn into paths especially when they lead you closer to water and village highlights often tranquil, seldom discovered by general visitors and remaining the secrets of locals.

Yealm View Road is one such location in the prime coastal village of Newton Ferrers, overlooking the attractive creekside village of Noss Mayo through a vibrant selection of specimen trees that fringe the sparkling waters of the River Yealm estuary.

This property has recently undergone a transformation into a chic and contemporary home.

Handsomely finished in eye catching painted Siberian larch, the feel of the house is elegant from the moment you step over the threshold. The open plan selection of downstairs zones are enhanced by the beautifully appointed herringbone parquet flooring, the sitting room catching tantalizing views of the water at different times of the tide and seasons. From the dining area, you can step out onto a sun terrace that is ideal for al fresco entertaining. The bespoke Mayflower kitchen has been designed with both luxury and function in mind, while Siemens appliances, including a steam oven, have harmonized the minimalist and expansive space. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 4 7

The boutique hotel-style specification extends to the first floor, where the benefits of redesigning shine through in the adaptation of rooms – a double bedroom is currently used as a second living room/snug/office space with doors out onto the top balcony. The master suite also opens out onto this balcony, which runs the width of the property and overlooks the creek, and benefits from an exceptionally well-appointed bathroom adding to the opulence of this beautiful bedroom suite. Planning permission exists to add a second bathroom and extend into the rear garden, while the property also has off road parking, electric car charging and a further adaptable room that could make the perfect home office.

NEWTON FERRERS 3 bedrooms 1 bathrooms 1 reception room EPC: D GUIDE PRICE £1,150,000

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Modern

LIVING Welcome to a remarkable newly-constructed family haven, graced with Cedar Clad finishing, meticulously crafted by a local, award-winning company. This residence is a rare gem, offering an opportunity to embrace sustainable living in the muchcoveted village of Dartington. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 5 3

‘‘

A brand-new high specification, sustainable living, family home, completed by an award-winning local company.

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he property stands as a beacon of energy efficiency, boasting an impressive array of eco-friendly features. From the air source heat pump to the underfloor heating, solar PV panels, EV charging point, and top-tier insulation, it is a testament to modern sustainability.

Stepping inside, the wide hallway beckons, adorned with a stunning glass staircase and a herringbone wood floor that flows seamlessly through the ground floor. Notably, one of the home’s many features includes a storage

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area primed for a potential future lift installation.

The spacious, dual-aspect sitting room features a multi-fuel burner and has bi-fold doors opening to the rear garden. The heart of the home, the kitchen/dining room is a light, triple-aspect space.

The modern kitchen, complete with integrated AEG appliances, an island unit and quartz worktops, is an inviting space for culinary adventures.

DARTINGTON 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms 2 reception rooms EPC: B GUIDE PRICE £1,050,000

TOTNES 01803 847979

The ground floor further accommodates a versatile home office or potential fifth bedroom. Upstairs, the first floor boasts generously proportioned living, with four double bedrooms (two en-suite) and a well-appointed family bathroom.

Outside, the meticulously landscaped garden combines a lush lawn and a delightful patio seating area. At the front, a block paved driveway offers parking for four vehicles, complemented by a substantial green oak double carport, and for the eco-conscious, an electric car charging point awaits in the carport, adding to the property's sustainability appeal. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 5 5

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Georgian

ELEGANCE Step into the epitome of Georgian elegance a meticulously renovated townhouse situated in the beating heart of Dartmouth.

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his exquisite home, graced with a secluded walled garden, has undergone extensive refurbishment to achieve an impeccable standard, welcoming natural light and spacious, era-defining rooms.

The ground floor unfolds with a grand entrance, revealing a kitchen/dining area with a bespoke central island focal point, crowned by an atrium-style glazed roof that floods the space with light.

A well-appointed larder and a practical utility room complete this level, opening to steps leading to the garden sanctuary.

Ascend to the first floor, where an en suite bedroom doubles as a chic reception room, while a cosy sitting area invites with a direct connection to the outdoors. The upper levels house en suite guest rooms and two additional bedrooms, one boasting unparalleled views across the River Dart.

The home's pièce de résistance is it's walled garden – a sprawling canvas featuring a paved dining terrace, lush lawns, mature borders, and an elevated deck perfect for al fresco dining.

Nestled in Dartmouth, a renowned sailing haven, this townhouse not only exudes refined elegance but also offers a vibrant lifestyle surrounded by galleries, chic boutiques, and a flourishing culinary scene.

DARTMOUTH 4 bedrooms 4 bathrooms 3 reception rooms EPC: D GUIDE PRICE £950,000

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Locally

GROWN Nestled between Totnes and Dartmouth in South Devon, Gardentime has been a thriving sanctuary since its launch in 2003.

What began as a modest garden shop has blossomed into a vibrant garden centre, cafe, and farm shop, firmly fixing itself as a cornerstone of the community. As Gardentime celebrates its 20th anniversary, we take a stroll down memory lane with the couple behind the business, Chris and Philly Varlow, reflecting on their journey from a pipe dream to a cherished family business and home. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 6 3

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hris Varlow chuckles; "It all sounds a bit like Darling Buds of May, but it all started when Philly and I met at her dad's garden centre up in Buckinghamshire." He reminisces about those early days, fresh out of college, and how fate led him to Philly. With a wry smile, Chris adds, "I was 23, doing my dream job, with a beautiful girlfriend. I was a happy guy!”

Originally from Penzance, Cornwall, Chris honed his skills at Pershore College of Horticulture where he studied garden centre management. His career started at Booker Garden Centre, eventually becoming manager, before taking a regional role with the nationwide garden centre group Country Gardens.

By contrast, Philly, who was born into a farming family, was raised in East Portlemouth, just 30 minutes from Gardentime. She recalls her early years, saying "I loved Devon as a little girl and there was always a part of me that hoped I would get to come back. After my dad gave up farming in Devon, he founded a garden centre - he was one of the first and became renowned in the industry, so in many ways I feel like we're keeping that history going in our own way."

After college, Philly trained as a florist and worked for Claridge’s in London, eventually establishing her own floristry business, Forget-Me-Not, in 1988.

After 10 years of trade, Philly’s father retired, and she joined the management team at Booker. A few years on, Chris moved on to Country Gardens. By this time, plans to start their own business had been brewing for a while and before long, they had found their dream site in the West Country. Although it was a significant financial leap, the couple felt confident there was potential for business as well as an opportunity to create a home on site in Dunkirk House, which came with the four-acre site.

"We loved the site immediately. There are not too many garden centres with a house on site and a sea view!” says Chris.

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‘‘It’s clear that Chris and Philly have given

their lives to Gardentime, but it’s been helped along by a dedicated team. "Our team is our family - some have been with us since the beginning," Chris remarks.

Their decision to live on-site allowed them to be close to the business, Chris remarks “Having managed larger garden centres for big companies, we both wanted to get back to our roots, to be there daily and to be hands on sourcing and showcasing the very best quality plants.”

It’s clear that Chris and Philly have given their lives to Gardentime, but it’s been helped along by a dedicated team. "Our team is our family - some have been with us since the beginning," Chris remarks.

In 2016, they expanded with a farm shop which stocks a curated selection of fresh produce and larder treasures sourced locally. Alongside this is The Glasshouse Cafe "It’s a very relaxed space—we keep it simple and offer wholesome classics, cooked in-house," Philly explains, emphasising their warm welcome to all, especially four-legged friends, who often find a friendly greeting from the couple's own two Labradors – Lily and Daisy.

In 2019 they expanded their covered shop and plant area, rivalling national chains with an impressive selection of plants, from classic perennials to exotic varieties. Chris emphasises "Our promise is to keep gardening at the core of our business. Our point of difference is our knowledge, passion and access to the very best plants. Our focus every day is keeping our fantastic customers happy, giving them great value and encouraging more people into gardening."

The couple's commitment has been evident even in the face of challenges.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in spring 2020, Gardentime swiftly adapted to offer a click-and-collect service during what is typically the peak season for garden centres. However, the initial days were far from idyllic.

Chris reflects, "The first few weeks were horrendous—we had pre-ordered stock arriving that Philly and I had to water for hours each day or bin." The situation improved as restrictions eased and they soon found themselves overwhelmed with demand. Chris shares, “In a number of weeks, it was a radical turn around and suddenly, everyone wanted to garden."

This surge of interest during the pandemic brought in a younger demographic, a welcomed sight. Philly observes, "It's lovely to see families coming in with excitable little ones, keen to plant bulbs and get their hands dirty." However, they are mindful of living costs and strive to remain accessible.

To mark the 20th anniversary and to support customers, they introduced the Garden Club Loyalty Card, which rewards points for every purchase and also gives access to expert tips, fostering a sense of community. "We've worked a lot with local charities, schools, and care homes - community is king for us" added Chris.

The couple’s grounded nature is evident day to day - delivering compost in their jolly green van to potting hanging baskets at local pubs. Chris summarises their ethos: "Our daily focus is to keep our community happy – gardens are an extension of our homes and something we love and nurture over the course of our lives – it’s a pleasure to be part of that process.”

Looking ahead, they're in the planning stages of an exciting expansion, including a larger covered space, an expanded cafe and farm shop, and additional parking. The Gardentime family is growing too, with their daughter Alicia joining to help with marketing. With a gleam in her eye, Philly sums it up, "It feels like a great privilege to do what we do in a place we love - here's to another 20 years.”

Gardentime is open daily from 9:00am-5:30pm Monday to Saturday and 10:00am-4:00pm on Sunday - www.gardentime.biz - 01893 712345. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 6 5

In the

GARDEN Meet Chris and Philly Varlow – At Home’s new gardening columnists! We’re thrilled to welcome the Gardentime founders to their new patch, where they will be sharing their top gardening tips for the season ahead.

This season’s to do list: Prune your apple and pear trees and bushes, removing any dead or damaged branches. If you’ve got children or grandchildren, keep hold of deadwood and create little habitats for insects and birds.

Cover your garden beds with dry mulch, like a composted bark or straw mulch, around tender perennials plants to protect the crown. You could also use leaf mould or piles of leaves to add some extra protection too.

Don't forget the birds at Christmas! Hang suet snacks and keep your bird feeders topped up, and find a spot for fresh water in the garden.

If you have space, sow hardy vegetable seeds indoors for early crops, like peas, broad beans and spinach. You can get really great little compact grow houses - they’re a great gift idea for Christmas too!

Plan Ahead With more time indoors hunkered down, get on and plan your vegetable garden for the upcoming growing season. Why not try something new this year?

Consider starting a compost bin or heap with kitchen and garden waste. It reduces landfill and creates nutrient-rich soil to use in your garden - win, win!

Plan ahead for the frost. Your delicate plants will need cover, so think about protecting with frost fleece or reusable cloches and cold frames.

Enjoy Now On a cold, bright day, the English winter garden is a beautiful place – so find some time to sit back and enjoy views you can’t otherwise see when the trees are full of leaves. Take pleasure in birds such as sparrows, robins, wrens and magpies busying themselves around the garden.

Winter is a time to enjoy the fruits of your labour, so if you’ve spent time harvesting fruit and veg in spring and summer, crack open the pickles, sauerkrauts and kombuchas!

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36 hours in

MODBURY ‘‘The unspoilt and absorbing

countryside of the South Hams encircles the town, while the nearby coastline sits to the south and the majestically rising foothills of Dartmoor lie to the north.

Top: Art from Brownston Gallery.

Above: Bigbury-on-Sea. Left: Church Street, Modbury.

Nestled in the undulating hills of the South Hams and with a Conservation Area at its heart, Modbury is an ancient market town that has stood the testament of time and gathered a patchwork past that has seen many mentions in the history books. It has served as the site of two bloody battles in the Civil War, is recorded in the Domesday Book and became widely renowned for its wool trade in the early 19th century. It championed sustainability long before most, receiving national and international acclaim when, all the way back in 2007, its local traders declared they would no longer give customers plastic bags. Today, it is recognised by its much photographed, distinctive, and predominantly Georgian and Victorian main street, dotted with indie boutiques and vintage treasure troves, coffee shops and well-frequented watering holes, as well as all of the amenities that make a little town like this the perfect place for families.

The unspoilt and absorbing countryside of the South Hams encircles the town, while the nearby coastline sits to the south and the majestically rising foothills of Dartmoor lie to the north. Plymouth City Centre and its historic waterfront is a mere 15 miles away, Kingsbridge under 8 miles, and the A38 Devon Expressway even closer still. With so much on its doorstep and within its myriad of streets, Modbury is the perfect place to hunker down this winter. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 6 9

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‘‘Marchand Petit’s Modbury

office touches shoulders with the nationally renowned Brownston Gallery, one of the South West’s leading contemporary fine art galleries.

Top: Catherine Gillen, Brownston Gallery. Above: Wonwell beach.

DO THIS Culturally, Modbury is a vibrant place throughout the year. Marchand Petit’s Modbury office touches shoulders with the nationally renowned Brownston Gallery, one of the South West’s leading contemporary fine art galleries. With the unfailingly warm and welcome Catherine at its helm, the gallery sources and exhibits original and exciting artworks from both artists at the top of their game and rising stars making their mark in the art world.

Above: Bigbury Golf Club.

Another cornerstone of the community are the Modbury Players, a group of local talented thespians whose theatrical performances and concerts attract a crowd from across the South Hams. February 2024 sees them bring Oliver! to the stage, with Marchand Petit proud to be sponsors.

For those of an outdoor disposition, Modbury’s obvious attraction is its myriad of coastal and country walks, as well as its close proximity to the beaches of Bigbury and Wonwell, and the pretty Aveton Gifford estuary, all of which are within a ten-minute drive. Bigbury is particularly well-known for its golf club, a GolfMark accredited Top 100 course with 360° views across the surrounding seascapes, Avon Estuary, Moorlands and Burgh Island. Here since 1923, it is a must visit for avid golfers. And whether you are shopping for picnics at the beach or feasts at home after long wintery walks, stocking up is an absolute pleasure here with such sources of good, locally-produced food as the Aune Valley Farm Shop, Mackgills Delicatessen, and The Old Bakery.

Left: The Aune Valley team.

Above: Aune Valley in Modbury.

Modbury twins with Lanvéoc, in the Finistère department of Brittany in northwestern France, a place easily accessed via the Plymouth to Roscoff ferry.

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‘‘Essential caffeine and

cake pitstops include The Curator, a new arrival to the town that has made waves.

Above: Shilstone. Right: Weaver Green. Below: The Oyster Shack.

EAT HERE Modbury is certainly a place for hospitality. Essential caffeine and cake pitstops include The Curator, a new arrival to the town that has made waves with its cool interiors and fantastic wood-roasted coffee. Longer-standing favourites Cool Beans Café and The Old Bakery are also found in the town centre, while The Ring Feeder, a farm-themed café with spectacular views is just north of the town. Venturing further into the meandering hills that surround the town, Shilstone, a wonderful Grade II Listed country house, serves up brunch and afternoon tea on the ground floor of the historic Devon Archive building and in a charming outdoor area.

Also nearby is the Calancombe Estate, an award-winning Devon Vineyard, Winery and Distillery whose grand tours are rounded off with a chance to sample their unique wine, cassis and gin, and tuck into charcuterie piled platters. We particularly love the Grand Afternoon Sparkling Tour & Tasting; starting with a guided stroll through the vineyard and winery, followed by a guided tasting of three sparkling wines and a delicious Devon cream tea, it is the perfect way to spend an indulgent Saturday afternoon.

The traditional First and Last Bistro at Ermington, and the Heron Valley Café, with its celebrated Weaver Green shop, are to the east, just below Blackdown Rings, the earthworks of an Iron Age hill fort. Venus Café at Bigbury-on-Sea sits overlooking the sea and dishes up beachside dining for sand-bound families and the post-surf crowd, while The Oyster Shack on the Avon Estuary is also within a few minutes’ drive, or a healthy walk, of Modbury town.

DRINK UP

Left: The Curator.

Above: Raise a glass at the Calancombe Estate.

After wellington-clad rambles through the countryside or blustery dog walks on Bigbury Beach, Modbury welcomes the thirsty home with cosy surroundings and cold pints in convivial ‘locals’. The Modbury Inn is quietly set away from the main thoroughfare, just at the top of Brownston Street, while The While Hart stands prominent on the town’s crossroads, almost directly opposite another option, the 14th century Exeter Inn. Out in the country are The Dolphin Inn at Kingston, The Journey’s End at Ringmore, The Fisherman’s Rest at Aveton Gifford and The California Inn at California Cross, each of them entirely worth making a special trip for. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 7 3

‘‘Outside, the walled garden is a tranquil retreat, featuring immaculate lawns, seating areas, vibrant borders, and of course, a magnificent magnolia tree.

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Country

LIFE

Open the door to Magnolia Court, a serene haven nestled in the peaceful hamlet of Abbotskerswell, surrounded by only a handful of neighbouring houses.

This property offers beautifully presented accommodation with abundant character, showcasing oak beams, local stone walls, and striking gothic arched doorways.

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he ground floor unveils expansive living spaces adorned with charming stone and oak fireplaces, seamlessly connecting the dining room and living room to the garden through triple bi-fold doors. The kitchen boasts a garden room extension with black matte granite worktops and a central island.

Upstairs, you’ll find four spacious bedrooms, two featuring en-suites, all enhanced by newly fitted bathroom suites.

Outside, the walled garden is a tranquil retreat, featuring immaculate lawns, seating areas, vibrant borders, and of course, a magnificent magnolia tree.

Abbotskerswell itself is a picturesque village steeped in history. It offers a quiet valley setting yet is conveniently located just two miles from Newton Abbot, providing easy access to everything you need from a town along with a mainline railway.

ABBOTSKERSWELL 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms 3 reception rooms EPC: E GUIDE PRICE £975,000

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TOTNES 01803 847979

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Grand

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The Whitehouse is something of a Georgian grand dame in the charming village of Chillington.

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‘‘Enter the grand teal door and

you’ll find yourself in a wonderland of inspiring interiors, period features and plenty of space for a family to make themselves at home for years to come.

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he Whitehouse sits pretty within its walled gardens with eclectic interiors that lend some serious fun to the family home. The beaches of Slapton and Blackpool Sands are just minutes away, as is Kingsbridge, while venture a little further and you’ll find yourself in Salcombe and Dartmouth. It is the coastal pile with acres of personality.

Tucked away in a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it spot on the outskirts of the village, The Whitehouse welcomes you in with a beautiful sheltered garden, from where dog walks can take you along green lanes, the coast path or into the nearby orchard. Enter the grand teal door and you’ll find yourself in a wonderland of inspiring interiors, period features and plenty of space for a family to make themselves at home for years to come.

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Spectacular feature windows and fireplaces are the stars of the show in cosy sitting and living rooms, while your very own bar serves as the perfect place to raise a toast to the weekend. From here you can head straight to the huge kitchen to make a start on dinner with glass of wine in hand, or head into The Whitehouse’s largest reception room; an extension to the original Georgian symmetry and a vast, light-bathed space punctuated with a wood burning stove. There can be few places better to host a Sunday roast with all of your nearest and dearest.

The Whitehouse has seven bedrooms, with a double bedroom just off the kitchen and five generous doubles on the first floor, each with its own ensuite and individually designed to have a character all of its own. Tiled fireplaces, garden views, rainfall showers and deep, luxurious baths all feature. Climb the spiral staircase to the second floor and you’ll find the final bedroom, filling the light and airy roof space with its very own sitting room and indulgent bathroom.

The Whitehouse runs as a boutique hotel just a stone’s throw from all that makes the South Hams so special, but it has the markings of a very special family home here in Devon.

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‘‘The Whitehouse runs as a

boutique hotel just a stone’s throw from all that makes the South Hams so special, but it has the markings of a very special family home here in Devon.

CHILLINGTON 7 bedrooms 7 bathrooms 5 reception rooms EPC: E GUIDE PRICE £1,550,000

KINGSBRIDGE 01548 857588 m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 8 7

The

RIGHT MOVE Cutters Cottage was superbly converted by its current owners to transform five one-up-one-down period cottages in Kingsbridge into one modern and light four bedroomed home, finished with fine attention-to-detail and with careful restoration of its period features. The result is a property which must be seen to be appreciated.

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‘‘This is a beautifully presented property

ideally situated in the heart of the town, just a short level walk to amenities and the quay.

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he open-plan kitchen dining room features granite work surfaces, bespoke units, a practical pantry and a characterful exposed stone wall.

A couple of steps takes you to the beautifully presented triple aspect sitting room, its focal point inglenook style fireplace set with a multi-fuel stove, with the upper level featuring a second dining area.

Cutters Cottage’s four bedrooms are all double, with the master bedroom featuring its own wet room and a further family bathroom just along the hallway. A vaulted ceiling on the landing sees light pour in, with access into the full-heigh loft space from here via a ladder. Outside is equally charming and contemporary, with multi-level patio seating and a walled courtyard complete with a spiral staircase that climbs to a south facing roof terrace offering lovely views of Kingsbridge.

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KINGSBRIDGE 4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms 1 reception room EPC: C GUIDE PRICE £499,500

KINGSBRIDGE 01548 857588

On the

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This idyllic waterside cottage sits on The Point in Noss Mayo, affording it outstanding panoramic estuary views. This glorious location not only provides scenic views, but local estuary and woodland walks from your doorstep too, along with Cellars Beach and the village’s welcoming pubs.

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Outside, opening the gate opposite the cottage takes you into your own beautiful cottage garden adjoining the River Yealm.

1 Noss Mayo impresses from the moment you step through the door, with its luxurious shaker-style kitchen with AGA and a delightful bay window with window seat overlooking the estuary beyond. Breakfasts have rarely been served with a more beautiful view. Steps lead to a spacious sitting/dining room with flagstone flooring, a woodburning stove and French doors opening onto the water facing terrace.

The character extends upstairs, where French oak flooring and sash windows lend more charm. Window seats create a room with a view in the master bedroom, which features its own dressing area with built-in wardrobes and an indulgent roll top bath in its ensuite. Two further bedrooms also boast estuary views.

Outside, opening the gate opposite the cottage takes you into your own beautiful cottage garden adjoining the River Yealm. The river room within it is as versatile as it is magical, with potential to be a separately let space, a home office or studio, or simply a fabulous space for entertaining. Finally, garden steps lead down to a private quay and outhaul mooring (subject to permission of the harbour master) so you can enjoy cold water swimming, sailing, kayaking and all of the other joys of river life from the very end of your own garden.

NOSS MAYO 3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms 3 reception rooms EPC: C GUIDE PRICE £1,750,000

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Our favourite four...

SUNDAY ROASTS

A Sunday well spent brings a week of content and there can be few better ways to spend yours than tucked away in a cosy spot, fire roaring, red wine in hand and one of the region’s best Sunday roasts on order.

Circa at Sandridge Barton Circa shares its home with Sandridge Barton, the muti-award-winning champions of British wine, so you’re guaranteed an excellent tipple with your Sunday roast. Circa’s vegetarian option is also worth writing home about, the yorkie stuffed with pearl barley, shitake mushrooms and Sharpham cheese proving just as tempting as its meatier counterparts.

Left and this page: Circa at Sandridge Barton and its head chef and director Rob Weeks.

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‘‘Sunday lunches are served all

year round at the charming 16th century inn nestled in a tidal creek on Salcombe estuary.

Millbrook Inn, South Pool

This page: Millbrook Inn, South Pool and its head chef Iain Dawson.

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Many a foodie’s sat nav has been set for the Millbrook Inn. The gastropub’s seasonal menu is a showcase of regional day-boat catch and organic local produce, oftentimes sourced from the nearby family farm at Fowlescombe.

Sunday lunches are served all year round at the charming 16th century inn nestled in a tidal creek on Salcombe estuary.

Furzeleigh Mill, Buckfastleigh Furzeleigh Mill teeters on the edge of Dartmoor and is also just a few miles from Ashburton, so whether you prefer to spend your Sundays on long, rambling walks or treasure hunting in antique shops, it’s the perfect place to reward your endeavours with a good roast and great red.

Above: The Mill Room, Furzeleigh Mill, Buckfastleigh and its head chef John Dobson.

The Sloop Inn, Bantham

Above: The Sloop Inn, Bantham and its head chef Andy Russell.

Bantham locals often find that those pesky easterlies have a tendency to blow them right into the Sloop Inn on a Sunday afternoon. The quaint 14th century coaching inn is the perfect post winter walk or surf hideaway, its beamed ceiling and open fire wrapping you in a warm hug that makes it difficult to leave. Throw a Sunday roast into the mix and you might well find yourself here all day. m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 1 0 3

THE COTTAGE, HANSEL, NEAR SLAPTON Newly thatched and dating back to the 1600s, The Cottage is flooded with original features and cottage character, as well as acres of natural light.

GUIDE PRICE £585,000 KINGSBRIDGE 01548 857588 1 0 6 | AT H O M E | m a r c h a n d p e t i t .c o.uk

COTTAGECORE Cottagecore is having a moment, but our adoration for chocolate box thatches, English country gardens, beamed ceilings and inglenook fireplaces began long before the term came to trend. As we edge into winter and those cosy cottage characteristics come into their own, these adorable abodes offer the perfect place to hibernate.

QUACK COTTAGE Paint a picture of the quintessential country cottage and it might well look just like this. Quack Cottage is just a few minutes from the beach, its log burner perfect for warming up post-coast path walk.

GUIDE PRICE £525,000 DARTMOUTH 01803 839190

ROSE COTTAGE, NOSS MAYO Few chocolate box cottages command quite such a glorious setting as Rose Cottage, a handsome family home in a glorious spot above the Yealm Estuary.

GUIDE PRICE £1,200,000 NEWTON FERRERS 01752 873311 m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 1 0 7

LOWER SOAR, MALBOROUGH Turn coastal cottage dreams into reality with a thatched hideaway that is tucked just along the valley from Soar Mill Cove and a little way back from the rugged cliffs of Bolt Head and Bolt Tail.

GUIDE PRICE £600,000 SALCOMBE 01548 844473 1 0 8 | AT H O M E | m a r c h a n d p e t i t .c o.uk

ALMS COTTAGE, HALWELL Alms Cottage has stood for around 400 years and still has many of its original features, along with newer but befitting additions like a Rangemaster oven and cosy log burner.

GUIDE PRICE £295,000 TOTNES 01803 847979

OAK CORNER, 1 TWO CROSSES, YEALMPTON This restored two-bedroom thatched cottage sits in an idyllic edge of village setting and features its own charming English cottage garden.

GUIDE PRICE £395,000 NEWTON FERRERS 01752 873311 m a r c h a n d p e t i t . c o.uk | AT H O M E | 1 0 9