4 bed cottage for sale

Swimbridge, Barnstaple EX32

This charming 16th–17th century cottage masterfully combines period character with contemporary comfort, featuring exposed beams, a stone fireplace with bread oven, and a stylish modern kitchen that flows into a bright, extended breakfast area opening onto a beautifully landscaped garden. Set in a peaceful countryside location, the property also includes a detached double garage with loft space and an EV charging point, alongside flexible living areas and a thoughtfully updated layout—offering a rare opportunity to enjoy timeless elegance with practical, modern living.

Tucked away in a peaceful corner of the countryside, this captivating Grade II listed period cottage is a rare find—offering a beautiful blend of heritage character and contemporary design. With its whitewashed render and classic slate roof, the property dates back to the early 16th Century with changes in the 17th Century, yet has been sympathetically updated to meet the needs of modern living.

Stepping inside, you're immediately greeted by rich historic detail—from exposed timber beams and original a-frame roof structures to an impressive stone fireplace complete with a traditional bread oven. These authentic elements are paired with thoughtful updates, such as the light-filled kitchen/breakfast room at the rear of the home. Extended in recent years, this inviting space features a Velux skylight, a partially glazed roof, and wood-framed double-glazed patio doors that open directly onto the garden—creating a seamless flow between indoor comfort and outdoor tranquillity.

The south-facing rear garden is a secluded haven—a place of peace and natural beauty. Carefully landscaped, it offers a mix of raised slate patios, seating nooks, and lawns bordered by flowering beds, mature shrubs, and fruit trees, including apple and plum varieties. A small pond, wildlife-friendly features, and a productive fruit patch enhance the garden’s charm, while rear access to a detached double garage with loft space and EV charging point, alongside a brick-paved front driveway parking.

Inside, the home unfolds with a balanced layout ideal for families or those working from home. The entrance hallway leads to a study/4th bedroom, a convenient shower room, and to the left, a cosy living room rich in period charm. The fireplace here is the focal point, complimented by a window seat, original beams, and a warm, intimate ambiance.

Next to the living room, the dual-aspect dining room is bright and welcoming, perfect for entertaining or casual meals. The adjacent kitchen is a showpiece of light and function—fitted with base units, a dresser, tall utility cupboard, and space for all modern appliances. It features a combined ceramic sink and drainer, white granite-effect worktops, and provisions for a range cooker beneath a chimney-style extractor. The room’s generous size allows for a family dining table, making it the true heart of the home.

Upstairs;, three double bedrooms provide comfortable spaces with ample room for furnishings. The family bathroom is equipped with a traditional three-piece suite, tiled surrounds, shower attachment, heated towel rail, and an airing cupboard housing the hot water tank.

Every detail of this lovingly maintained cottage speaks to its history and heart—from the handcrafted features to the smart layout and beautiful garden sanctuary. A home that honours its past while embracing the future, it’s a true gem waiting to be discovered.

Hallway (4.38m x 1.35m (14'4" x 4'5"))

Living Room (4.48m x 4.88m (14'8" x 16'0"))

Study/Snug (4.25m x 2.12m (13'11" x 6'11"))

Dining Room (4.37m x 2.65m (14'4" x 8'8"))

Kitchen (3.42m x 6.40m (11'2" x 20'11"))

Downstairs Shower Room (1.61m x 2.18m (5'3" x 7'1"))

Landing (1.36m x 6.44m (4'5" x 21'1"))

Bedroom 1 (3.01m x 4.13m (9'10" x 13'6"))

Bedroom 2 (4.66m x 2.76m (15'3" x 9'0"))

Bedroom 3 (2.74m x 4.74m (8'11" x 15'6"))

Family Bathroom (2.06m x 2.62m (6'9" x 8'7"))

Double Garage

Boiler Cupboard

Beautifully positioned near the heart of the picturesque village of Swimbridge, this property enjoys the perfect balance of rural charm and modern convenience. The village is rich in character and community spirit, offering a selection of local amenities including an award-winning pub, a highly regarded primary school, a well-maintained playing field, and a historic parish church. It’s an ideal setting for families, with the local school praised by Ofsted for its quality education.

Nature lovers will find themselves immersed in some of North Devon’s most breathtaking countryside, with scenic walks, rolling hills, and wildlife-rich woodlands right on the doorstep—making it a haven for walkers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Swimbridge is also exceptionally well-connected, with a reliable bus service to Barnstaple, the thriving regional centre of North Devon. Nestled in the stunning Taw Valley, Barnstaple offers a comprehensive range of shopping, dining, and leisure facilities, along with excellent transport links. The spectacular beaches and dramatic coastal landscapes of North Devon’s Atlantic coast—including Saunton, Woolacombe, and Croyde—are all within easy reach, making this location as practical as it is picturesque.

This is an outstanding opportunity to enjoy village living at its finest, with the benefits of a strong community, excellent amenities, and easy access to town, coast, and countryside.