This palatial Grade I listed late Georgian house has been described as "one of the finest houses in the South of England" and boasts majestic views over the Devon coastline.
The magnificent Mamhead house which dominates the East Devon coastline has a rich and interesting history. The impressive late Georgian country house that today stands overlooking the dramatic scenery of the coast was built in 1833, replacing a much older house. First mentioned in the Domesday book of 1086, the majestic estate has subsequently passed through the hands of many prominent families including the Balles and the Lisburnes. Even William of Orange allegedly accommodated his supporters on the estate.
The imposing home was designed by celebrated English architect Anthony Salvin. An architect who was renowned for his expertise on medieval buildings and restored many castles and churches. A pupil of Nash, Salvin constructed the property for local MP Robert Newman—who had made his fortune in the shipping industry—as a marriage home. Newman’s family motto ‘Ubi amor ibi fides’ (where there is love there is trust) is excuisitely carved above the grand front door. Salvin designed the incredible property in Tudor style integrating classic architectural features and influences from the Renaissance period, all of which is accomplished by an astonishing level of craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The classically proportioned house has played host to a great many kings, queens and distinguished royals from around the world. Queen Adelaide even had her own private bedroom, now entitled the Queen’s Room. The beautiful building boasts a glorious facade constructed out of mellow Bath stone and is made up of ornate stone carvings and towering chimneys.
The romance of the place is unquestionable even from afar and only grows as we encounter the beautifully restored wood panelling, fine plaster work and beautiful stained glass—designed by Thomas Willement, heraldic artist to William IV— of the interiors. All whilst offering sensational coastal views and being securely nestled in its wooded surroundings.
The accommodation is extremely well laid out with the principal reception rooms running along the east side of the house. The property seems to have a natural flow as we are transported from beautiful room to beautiful room; some of the most impressive being the oak room, dining room, library and drawing rooms. The property also features a music room, summer dining room, sitting room, study, snooker room and snug and as always, the heart of the home is the arresting kitchen with a huge Aga and walnut work surfaces. The property also boasts two monumental statues, one of Cardinal Wolsey and the other of an unknown Catholic bishop who adorn the entrance hall at the bottom of the magnificent fan vaulted staircase. The vast property features 16 bedrooms and eight bathrooms as well as a gym and extensive cellars.
One of the most intriguing things about Mamhead though is the fact that it has its own Grade II listed castle on the grounds. Believed to be an architectural copy of Belsay Castle in Northumberland, the astonishing building is constructed of local red sandstone in the baronial Gothic style and was originally used as stabling and a brewery.
Set in magnificent, rolling landscape, the 164 acre grounds of Mamhead House are made up of lush landscaped gardens, extensive parklands and ancient woodland. It is rumoured that Capability Brown played an important part in the beautiful landscaping that remains today. The estate also benefits from a majestic sunken Italian Garden—with an original Bath stone and marble fountain, sundial and stone bench, all designed by Salvin and each Grade II listed—as well as a large and peaceful rectangular fish pond and an apple orchard.
Mamhead House sits in an exceptional position in an elevated, but sheltered position high in the Haldon Hills. It oozes a sense of peace and tranquility and resides in one of England’s most beautiful counties. The property benefits from being only 10 miles from the historic city of Exeter with trains to London from Exeter St David taking around 2h 20.
The guide price is £9,500,000. For further information please contact Strutt & Parker on +44 (0) 1392 215 631
