A Private 9 Acre Estate with Direct Moor and River Access

Presented by James Cooper - Part of By Design’s network, with more than 25 years’ experience in the South Devon premium property market.

Set within the very heart of Dartmoor National Park, Brimptsmead Estate occupies an elevated, south facing position at the meeting of the East and West Dart Rivers.

Extending to approximately 9 acres and enjoying complete seclusion with no public rights of way crossing the land, this is one of the rarest forms of ownership on Dartmoor: privately held freehold land with direct moor access and private river frontage.

The estate comprises an extensively restored Arts and Crafts main house, two substantial cottages, a granite built party barn, extensive garaging and private fishing rights along the East Dart River. The property is not listed.

Originally commissioned as a private hunting lodge in 1906, Brimptsmead today stands as a carefully restored country residence offering privacy, permanence and exceptional craftsmanship within one of the most protected landscapes in the United Kingdom.

Owning freehold property like this in the heart of Dartmoor is rare. When we acquired Brimptsmead in 1993, we understood that we were becoming custodians of something special.

Over the following decade, we undertook a comprehensive and meticulous restoration. Every decision was made with longevity and authenticity in mind.

Leaded windows were handcrafted one at a time by Lamplight of Ashburton. Original oak and satinwood panelling was carefully restored. Cast iron radiators were installed throughout, complemented by discreet underfloor heating. Nine working fireplaces were retained, including one within the principal bathroom.

When a mature tree had to be removed, a mobile sawmill was brought in so the timber could be cut to the precise imperial dimensions required for the house. Materials were reused wherever possible. Craftsmanship was prioritised over convenience.

For over thirty years, Brimptsmead has been a private family sanctuary. A place for gathering, reflection and connection to the landscape.

Brimptsmead is a striking example of Arts and Crafts architecture, constructed from pink granite with Dartmoor stone mullions and lintels, and defined by its distinctive turret.

The reception hall, which also serves as a library, establishes the scale and tone of the house. Oak panelling, polished granite floors and an imposing fireplace create a sense of structure and symmetry that continues throughout.

The drawing room enjoys uninterrupted views across open moorland through a wide five pane window. Sprung timber floors and panelled walls give warmth and proportion. The dining room sits adjacent, equally well suited to formal entertaining or family life.

The Turret Room provides a unique vantage point, with three deep set mullioned windows and built in seating. A connecting gunroom offers a more intimate retreat, ideal as a snug, office or media room.

To the rear, what was formerly the ballroom has been transformed into a substantial sitting room with a wood burning stove set within an arched bay. The scale allows it to function equally well for entertaining or relaxed daily use.

The kitchen blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary practicality. Handmade in oak and centred around a five oven AGA, it features a carved granite pillar forming part of the central island. The adjoining breakfast area, enclosed by exposed granite and topped with a glass lantern, brings natural light into the heart of the home. A utility room sits discreetly nearby.

Upstairs, the principal suite enjoys open views across the moor and an en suite bathroom finished to a high specification. Three further bedrooms have en suites. Two additional bedrooms, including the curved turret bedroom, share a family bathroom. A further bedroom and bathroom on the second floor provide flexible guest or staff accommodation.

Throughout the house, materials and proportion have been treated with consistency and care. The result is a home that balances period integrity with modern comfort.

Bentley and Herb Cottages are positioned discreetly away from the main house, offering self contained accommodation suitable for guests, extended family or staff.

Bentley Cottage includes a Neptune kitchen and dining room, living room with conservatory, three bedrooms, one en suite, a family shower room and a large balcony overlooking the grounds and moorland.

Herb Cottage offers an open plan kitchen and dining room, two reception rooms and three bedrooms, two of which are en suite. Both cottages reflect the same standard of finish as the main residence.

Brimptsmead enjoys a private, south facing position approached via a long tree lined driveway. The immediate outlook is across open moorland.

The grounds include established lawns, ancient woodland, meadow and a gently sloping grass field with direct access onto neighbouring Duchy farmland.

Footpaths lead down through woodland to the River, where the estate benefits from private frontage and fishing rights for two rods. The riverbank offers seclusion and direct engagement with the surrounding landscape.

Behind the cottages, a stone built structure set into the hillside provides garaging for six vehicles with a substantial party barn above. French doors open onto an eleven metre balcony with far reaching views. A separate double garage, garden stores, dog kennel and pump house complete the estate buildings.

Brimptsmead Estate sits within Dartmoor National Park, close to Ashburton and Tavistock and within reach of Exeter and Plymouth.

The area is known for a favourable microclimate, often enjoying milder winters and warmer summers than other parts of the moor.

Mount Kelly in Tavistock, Stover School near Newton Abbot, Exeter School and The Maynard School provide strong independent education options.

Dining at Gidleigh Park, golf at Bovey Castle and the extensive riding and walking routes of Dartmoor are all within easy reach. Boutique shopping is available in Ashburton and Tavistock, while Exeter and Plymouth provide broader retail and cultural facilities.

Brimptsmead offers privacy, landscape and accessibility in equal measure.

Tenure: Freehold

Listing: Not listed

Rights of Way: There are no public rights of way across any part of the estate.

Fishing: Two rod licence retained with the property

Local Authority: West Devon Borough Council and Dartmoor National Park

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

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