12 bed detached house for sale

Bishops Court, Exeter, Devon EX5

A remarkable Grade I listed family home, set within over 30 acres of historic parkland, featuring a private chapel, multiple apartments, a gate lodge, a stable yard with a medieval stable, a tithe barn, and outbuildings. The property benefits from biomass heating, blending heritage with modern sustainability.

Dating back to its medieval origins as the country residence of the Bishops of Exeter, Bishops Court was transformed in the 1860s by William White, one of the leading architects of the Gothic Revival movement. Today, the house remains largely unaltered, standing as one of White's most significant domestic works.

The grand reception rooms, including the kitchen, overlook the western gardens, bathed in the afternoon sun, while the dining room, library, and chapel face east, catching the morning light. The interior is richly detailed, featuring tall ceilings, gothic arched windows, intricately carved stonework, decorative joinery, and beautifully stencilled and tiled surfaces.

A centrally positioned reception hall provides access to the main living areas, leading to a corridor that runs from the chapel to the principal staircase. The first floor hosts eight large double bedrooms and five bathrooms, all offering glorious views across the parkland and countryside.

Additional Accommodation & Historic Outbuildings
The former domestic staff wing has been converted into self-contained apartments, accessible via a private walled courtyard and a dedicated staircase. Tenants benefit from discreet parking, ensuring privacy for the main house.

To the south, a collection of exceptional medieval buildings forms part of the estate's unique history. These include a Grade I listed tithe barn (1376) and a magnificent Grade I listed stable block (early 1400s), constructed from Heavitree stone. The stable block is regarded as the largest and most complete surviving medieval stable in the British Isles. These buildings, along with ancillary outbuildings, garaging, and a biomass heating facility, frame a charming cobbled stable yard, offering potential for restoration.

Gardens & Parkland
The extensive grounds provide an idyllic and private setting, featuring a diverse range of mature specimen trees, rewilded parkland, and a thriving natural habitat. The estate has been sensitively managed to encourage biodiversity, with thousands of broad-leafed trees and shrubs planted to complement the existing landscape. A two-acre lake with its own island enhances the beauty and tranquillity of the setting, while a woodland screen offers further privacy from Exeter.

Additional Features
Standalone secondary accommodation
Gate lodge
Private chapel
Parkland setting
Extensive parking for 12+ vehicles

Bishops Court enjoys a highly convenient yet private position, just 1.4 miles from Junction 30 of the M5, providing excellent connections to the wider South West and beyond. Exeter Airport is just over two miles away, offering both domestic and international flights, making the property ideal for those requiring swift access to travel.

The historic city of Exeter is 5.5 miles away, offering a vibrant mix of boutique shops, fine dining, cultural attractions, and excellent schooling options. The city's rich history is reflected in its stunning cathedral, medieval architecture, and quayside waterfront, which boasts an array of cafés, restaurants, and scenic walking routes.

Exeter St David's station is within 5.7 miles, providing direct rail services to London Paddington from approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes, ensuring connectivity to the capital. Despite its accessibility, Bishops Court remains peacefully secluded, surrounded by unspoilt countryside and offering the rare combination of a rural setting with city convenience.