Riding Out
It often starts with the Pony Club – the hook on riding. Inevitably as children get older the hobby becomes an obsession and a pony paddock is no longer enough. A full blown stable yard, horse walker, menage, horsebox (lorry?), to say nothing of the tack, feed and vet’s bills! I can see many a parent smiling already - or is that grimace?! On the flip side a healthy outdoor activity is far better than being glued to a screen.
Devon, as a county is an outdoor environment and the chance of buying an old farmhouse with a few acres and stables is not insignificant – budget dependent of course. It’s best to choose one where access to open countryside, moorland, and bridle paths are nearby, and again there are myriad of suitable locations.
Buying a property always has some compromise whatever the budget. From experience when animals are important to the family the compromise will be the house, not the land and buildings. Priorities in order--animals then humans!
As farming has evolved and many small farms became uneconomic, holdings were broken up, often leaving the farmhouse with a few acres presenting opportunities for a more residential lifestyle but adequate for the equestrian market or indeed those looking for some self-sufficiency - The Good Life.
It is important from an investment angle when buying a farmhouse with a few acres not to over capitalise the equestrian angle and diminish the market potential when the time comes to sell. Whilst the house may be charming the capital value of state of the art stabling, an American Barn, can deter future buyers and minimise the buying pool. In the majority of cases the equestrian bug diminishes as university beckons and parents find themselves as full time stable hands and grooms! Time to be practical and sell – life evolves.
Location will always dictate a property purchase – work, school, sports amenities etc. may not be the same for all the family so compromises are required. Ticking one box when land is required can severely compromise other essential daily requirements so always assess the bigger picture when buying. It can be a costly and time enhancing headache if you buy in haste. It’s so easy to look at property portals covering Devon, finding that dream property and realising it is a long way from daily requirements.
Thelwell provided many an anecdote to life with a pony (or two), mostly true! When a healthy life is encouraged Devon has an answer for everyone minded to partake. Home is a very personal and individual matter - cottage to castle. The county can deliver: “It’s all about coming home”.
Some impressive former ecclesiastical houses:
Holdstrong Farmhouse, Coryton: 17th century Devon longhouse with up to 15 acres with range of barns and loose boxes, close to forestry for riding
Meldon Heights. Chagford: Family home literally on the Moor in 2.5 acres – stable yard - planning permission for replacement dwelling – unique moorland opportunity.
Pensford, Chulmleigh: Secluded equestrian holding in 12 acres pasture and woodland setting in rolling mid Devon countryside.
Narracombe Farmhouse, Ilsington: Imposing listed farmhouse last sold 300 years ago in 10 acres with additional land available, close to open Moorland. Traditional and modern livestock buildings.
Wydemeet, Hexworthy: Secluded retreat set high on the Moor with direct access. Imposing Edwardian home with additional guest annexe and barn stabling.