Exceptional Edwardian Estate on Dartmoor with Royal History, River Access & Guest Cottages

Nestled within the very heart of Dartmoor National Park, Brimptsmead Estate is an exceptional Edwardian country residence embraced by wildflower meadows, ancient woodland, and the dramatic open moorland at the confluence of the East and West Dart Rivers. Originally commissioned as a private hunting lodge in 1906 and later purchased from His Majesty King Charles III, this remarkable estate combines absolute privacy, illustrious heritage, and exceptional modern craftsmanship.

Set within approximately 9 acres, the estate (which is not listed) comprises an exquisitely restored Arts and Crafts main house, two beautifully appointed cottages, a granite-built party barn, extensive garaging, and private fishing rights along the tranquil banks of the East Dart River. Surrounded by land still largely held by the Duchy, Brimptsmead offers not just seclusion but legacy. It is a truly rare opportunity to own freehold land in one of the most protected and treasured landscapes in the UK.

When we first set eyes on Brimptsmead, it felt like a dream a place of history, beauty, and deep tranquillity. Owning freehold property in the heart of Dartmoor is incredibly rare, with much of the surrounding land still belonging to the Duchy of Cornwall. When we enquired about purchasing it in 1993, we never imagined the journey it would take us on.

We were invited to London for an interview, and only once approved were we granted the opportunity to buy Brimptsmead on the strict condition that we exchanged contracts within ten days. We did just that, and so began our 30-year love affair with this extraordinary home.

Brimptsmead is a gem, built from pink granite with elegant Dartmoor stone mullions, lintels, and a striking turret. From the moment we took ownership, we committed ourselves to an extensive restoration. It became a ten-year project one of craftsmanship, patience, and meticulous attention to detail. Every decision was made with authenticity in mind. The leaded windows were handcrafted by Lamplight of Ashburton, one per week. The bronze door handles were cast by a Devon workshop that once made metalwork for the Gladiator film. When a 100-year-old tree needed to come down, we brought in a mobile sawmill to cut the timber into the precise imperial sizes needed making the most of what the land had given us. Inside, we restored the original oak and satinwood panelling. We fitted a vast number of cast iron radiators, complemented by discreet underfloor heating. And we retained nine working fireplaces, including one in the master bathroom. Few things compare to the glow of a fire on a crisp Dartmoor evening.

It has been our family’s sanctuary. A place of laughter, music, and memory. From evening gatherings in the panelled drawing room, to quiet mornings in the turret, to watching the sun set from the Shed’s balcony Brimptsmead has been a place to live, to love, and to remember.

Brimptsmead Estate is a striking example of Arts and Crafts architecture, and its interiors reflect the same elegance and integrity as its pink granite exterior. The house has been the subject of an extensive and sensitive refurbishment, carried out to the highest standards, combining the charm of original period features with the understated luxury expected of a modern country home. The sense of arrival is immediate.

Stepping inside, you are greeted by a magnificent reception hall that doubles as a library a space that sets the tone for the rest of the home. Oak panelling, polished granite floors, and an imposing fireplace combine to create a warm yet impressive welcome. The scale and symmetry of the room are echoed throughout the property, where generous proportions and high ceilings are complemented by large stone mullion windows that bathe the interior in natural light.

From the reception hall, the principal living rooms flow with ease. To one side, the drawing room offers a superb setting for entertaining, panelled walls with sprung timber floors and a wide five-pane window that captures uninterrupted views across the open moor. This space opens into the dining room, equally grand and finished to the same exacting standard, making it ideal for formal occasions or relaxed family dinners.

The Turret Room, a truly unique feature of the house, sits on the opposite side of the entrance hall and is a place of real architectural delight. The curved part of the room is accentuated by three deep-set windows with stone mullions and built-in window seats, creating a peaceful and elevated vantage point from which to enjoy the surrounding landscape. A door from here leads into the gunroom a more intimate space with panelling and a fireplace perfectly suited as a cosy snug, media room, or office.

To the rear of the hall is a handy cloakroom and shower room, followed by double doors leading into what was once the ballroom. This space has been transformed into a versatile and striking sitting room. Grand in its proportions, with a wood-burning stove set into an elegant arched bay, it is both impressive and inviting a space equally suited to entertaining or quiet retreat.

At the heart of the home lies the kitchen, which blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary comfort. Handmade in oak and centred around a five-oven AGA, the space is anchored by a beautifully carved granite pillar forming the base of the central island. The adjoining breakfast room area is wrapped in exposed granite and topped with a large glass lantern, allowing natural light to flood in. A utility room sits conveniently nearby, providing practical support to this well-planned space.

Upstairs, the attention to detail continues. The principal suite is a standout, enjoying exceptional views across the moor and an open-plan en suite bathroom finished with the highest quality fittings. Three further bedrooms also benefit from their own en suites, while the remaining two one of which is the curved turret bedroom share a beautifully designed family bathroom. On the second floor, a further bedroom and bathroom provide additional guest space or potential staff accommodation.

Throughout, the house speaks of a love for materials, light, and proportion. Every decision, every finish, and every feature has been chosen with care creating a home that is not just beautiful to look at, but deeply rewarding to live in.

Set discreetly away from the main house, Bentley and Herb Cottages provide luxurious, self-contained accommodation ideal for guests, extended family, or staff. Both are finished to the same high standard as the main residence, ensuring continuity of quality and style.

Bentley Cottage features a generous open-plan Neptune kitchen and dining room, leading to a spacious living room with a conservatory that opens onto a private garden. Upstairs are three bedrooms one with an en suite and a family shower room. A large balcony extends from the landing, offering breathtaking views across the grounds and moorland beyond.

Herb Cottage offers an open-plan kitchen/dining room and two reception rooms on the ground floor, one of which provides access to a charming garden. Upstairs are three bedrooms two en suite and lovely outlooks from every window.

Brimptsmead enjoys a private, south-facing, and elevated position within Dartmoor National Park, with no public rights of way crossing the land. Approached via a long, tree-lined driveway, the house immediately reveals sweeping views across open moorland some of the most spectacular scenery Dartmoor has to offer.

The grounds are beautifully established with lawns, ancient woodland, grass meadow and a gently sloping grass field where a gate leads onto open Duchy farm land.

Footpaths meander through the trees, leading down to the River where the estate enjoys private frontage and fishing rights for two rods. This secluded stretch of riverbank is a haven for picnics, reflection, or simply watching wildlife in peace.

Behind the cottages is a cleverly designed stone building built into the hillside, providing garaging for six vehicles with a striking party barn above. French doors lead onto an eleven-metre balcony with far-reaching views ideal for entertaining. A separate double garage, garden stores, dog kennel, and pump house complete the practical buildings.

Brimptsmead Estate occupies an exceptionally private yet conveniently accessible position within Dartmoor National Park, close to charming towns including Ashburton and Tavistock, and within easy reach of Exeter and Plymouth. The area is renowned for its unique microclimate, offering milder winters and warmer summers than typical on the moor, enhancing the enjoyment of its spectacular natural surroundings.

Families benefit from proximity to prestigious private schools such as Mount Kelly in Tavistock, renowned for academic excellence and outstanding sporting facilities, and Stover School near Newton Abbot, with its idyllic rural campus and strong academic track record. Slightly further afield, Exeter offers highly respected options including Exeter School and The Maynard School.

The estate sits within easy reach of outstanding leisure and lifestyle amenities, from acclaimed dining experiences at Gidleigh Park to championship golfing at Bovey Castle and exceptional equestrian facilities that make full use of Dartmoor’s spectacular landscape. Boutique shopping is available in nearby Ashburton and Tavistock, while Exeter and Plymouth provide comprehensive cultural, retail, and entertainment experiences.

Brimptsmead offers an enviable combination of rural tranquility, sophisticated living, and convenient connectivity, perfectly suited to discerning buyers seeking the best that Dartmoor and Devon have to offer.

Ashburton – Approximately 7.7 miles


Bovey Tracey – Approximately 11.4 miles


Tavistock – Approximately 12.6 miles


Exeter – Approximately 28.7 miles


Totnes Train Station – Approximately 14.3 miles


Exeter Airport – Approximately 31.3 miles


Plymouth – Approximately 21.3 miles


London Paddington (fastest train from Newton Abbot) – Approximately 2 hrs 30 mins


Listing: The property is not listed

Tenure: Freehold

Rights of Way: There are no public rights of way across any part of Brimptsmead Estate. His Royal Highness King Charles III retains the right to fish from the property, with 24 hours notice.

Fishing: The property owner has a 2 rod licence to fish the river from the bank. This right remains with the property.

Local Authority: West Devon Borough Council & Dartmoor National Park


Council Tax Band: Main House band G (£4190.80 for 2025/26). Cottages band A (£1676.32 for 2025/26).

Services: Mains electricity, private water and drainage, oil-fired central heating


Internet: Up to 8 MBPS according to OFCOM broadband Checker. Services are also available via Airband.co.uk where speeds of up to 100 Mbps are available, or Starlink.com where speeds of up to 150 Mbps are available.

Mobile Phone: Limited to None indoor and outdoor according to OFCOM mobile reception checker.

Flood Risk: Very Low according to the Government Flood Risk Check

EPC: Main House E (53) Bentley Cottage: E (51) Herb Cottage: E (48)