Once a fisherman's cottage, this charming abode nestles by the estuary in the pretty fishing village of Appledore. Beaches at Westward Ho! and Northam (2 miles) and the bustling town of Bideford (4 miles) are within easy reach. The narrow, winding streets of Appledore abound with curiosities and charisma. Browse the independent shops, galleries, pubs and eateries, and visit the brilliant North Devon Maritime Museum. Savour sublime local seafood and imbibe the salty wonders of estuarine living at its best.
The house's interior has a joyful Mediterranean feel, with azure tones and nautical treasures, tiled tables and easy, breezy décor, fabrics and furnishings. The three ground-floor bedrooms and shower room exemplify simple seaside chic, with a pared back, elegant brio that's a breath of fresh air. Down an open-tread staircase with low head clearance, the lounge/diner is a delight, with its woodburner, mid-century accents, comfy corner sofa and wide picture window onto the estuary and Instow. The kitchen is sleek, streamlined and yet wonderfully quirky, with its old painted beams and rustic tiling. The rear, 6m terrace is stunning, with views that are hard to match for many miles around. Take care with children and dogs near the waist-high sea wall.
Further abroad, there's a feast of fun and adventure. Just across the estuary, (a 20-mile drive away by car), is the marvellous Braunton Burrows, a vital haven for dune wildlife. Clovelly (14 miles) is a unique and protected fishing village, alive with echoes of an idyllic past – the walk there from Bucks Mills (5 miles) is exquisite. Hartland Point (19 miles) and Peninsular are rugged wonderlands, with a dramatic clifftop lighthouse and spectacular views. The beaches at Croyde (22 miles) and Bude (28 miles) are bliss.