
Devon · EX37
Umberleigh
Umberleigh, Devon, EX37
Guide price
A rare opportunity to acquire a unique Grade II Listed thatched cottage, steeped in history and occupying an idyllic rural setting near Umberleigh. Believed to date back to the early 16th century, Middle Nethercleave is a home of exceptional character and architectural significance, showcasing centuries of Devon heritage. Offering versatile four/five bedroom accommodation, the property is set within approximately six acres of grounds including two paddocks, an orchard, established gardens and a range of useful outbuildings. Rich in charm and history and available with no onward chain.
The home, in the agent’s words
- Enchanting Grade II Listed thatched cottage dating back to the early 16th century
- Approximately 6 acres including two paddocks, orchard and established gardens
- Four/five bedroom accommodation full of character and period charm
- Exceptional living room with exposed beams and impressive inglenook fireplace
- Spacious kitchen with oil-fired Aga and doors opening to a cobbled courtyard
- Beautiful grounds featuring two ponds, a leat and an array of seasonal colour
- Range of useful outbuildings and open barn with potential for conversion (subject to consent)
- Idyllic rural setting near Umberleigh, ideal for equestrian or smallholding interests
- Fine & Country
Read the full agent description
A rare opportunity to acquire an enchanting Grade II Listed thatched cottage, steeped in history and occupying an idyllic rural setting near Umberleigh. Believed to date back to the early 16th century and later remodelled and extended through the 16th and 17th centuries, Middle Nethercleave is a home of immense character and architectural significance, showcasing centuries of Devon heritage.
Set within approximately six acres of beautifully maintained grounds, the property enjoys a wonderfully private and picturesque setting with two paddocks, an orchard and established gardens bursting with an array of seasonal colour. The gardens provide a true haven for wildlife and outdoor enjoyment, further enhanced by two ponds and a charming leat running through the grounds, together with winding pathways, mature planting and delightful seating areas from which to admire the surrounding countryside.
Approached via a private driveway, rich in history and atmosphere, the cottage immediately captivates with its timeless appeal. The traditional thatched roof, rendered stone and cob construction, together with an abundance of period features, reflect the craftsmanship and charm of its historic origins.
A spacious kitchen welcomes you into the home, complete with an oil-fired Aga and double doors opening out onto the delightful cobbled courtyard, creating a wonderful space for indoor and outdoor living. The kitchen leads through to the inner hall where, to the left hand side, is a useful study which could equally serve as a ground floor bedroom if required.
To the far end of the hall is the exceptional living room, rich in character with exposed beams, an impressive inglenook fireplace and further doors leading out to the courtyard and gardens. The ground floor also benefits from a useful utility area and separate WC.
From the hall, a magnificent hand-carved staircase immediately captures your attention, showcasing the history and craftsmanship of the property whilst leading to the first floor.
The first floor accommodation comprises an exceptionally spacious principal bedroom, a further generous double bedroom, and two additional double rooms, noting that bedroom four is accessed via bedroom three. The family bathroom is a spacious suite comprising a bath, WC and wash hand basin.
Extending to approximately 6 acres, the grounds include two delightful paddocks, ideal for equestrian or smallholding interests. The first paddock is accessed separately via a five-bar gate from the driveway and leads through to the second paddock. The second paddock can also be accessed via the side of the property, where, just before entering, there is a useful open barn providing excellent storage or shelter.
Extending to approximately 6 acres, the grounds include two delightful paddocks, ideal for equestrian or smallholding interests. The first paddock is accessed separately via a five-bar gate from the driveway and leads through to the second paddock. The second paddock can also be accessed via the side of the property, where, just before entering, there is a useful open barn providing excellent storage or shelter.
Middle Nethercleave perfectly combines historic charm with rural lifestyle appeal, offering land suitable for equestrian or smallholding interests whilst remaining accessible to the amenities and transport links of Umberleigh and the wider North Devon area. A truly exceptional period home where history, character and countryside living come together in one remarkable setting.
AGENTS NOTE: Images are provided as a guide only. Some photographs may have been digitally enhanced or edited using AI-assisted technology for marketing purposes.
A feel for the area
Connected for everyday life
10%of homes in the postcode can access 100+ Mbps broadband.
Available speed bands
- 30+ Mbps
- 10%
- 100+ Mbps
- 10%
- 300+ Mbps
- 10%
- 1,000+ Mbps
- 10%
Getting about
0.2 milesto Umberleigh Rail Station
Approximate straight-line distance · DfT NaPTAN · 13 Sept 2026Background air quality
- Fine particles · PM₂.₅
- 4.7 µg/m³ · Meets the WHO guideline
- Nitrogen dioxide · NO₂
- 2.5 µg/m³ · Meets the WHO guideline
Annual background levels. For scale: the WHO 2021 guideline is 5 µg/m³ for PM₂.₅ and 10 for NO₂; the UK legal limit is 20 and 40. Lower is better; this is a 1 km model, not a reading at the door.
Defra · 2024 annual model · 1 km areaLocal information is approximate. Distances are straight-line estimates from the available location. Broadband describes postcode coverage, not the speed or service available at this home; check the address with a provider. Air quality is a modelled annual background estimate.
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The information provided in this listing is for general information purposes only and does not constitute property particulars. We make no warranties or guarantees, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.
Property details are provided by the listing agent, developer, or other third parties, and we have no control over the content provided. Prospective buyers or tenants should make their own enquiries and verify all information directly with the agent or relevant party.
Information relating to Energy Performance Certificates, Home Reports, or other statutory documents should be obtained directly from the selling agent or developer where applicable.

