Looking to buy in this area of the South West will give you a rare opportunity to discover some real gems.
Of course before the search can get underway, it’s a good idea to learn more about this unique corner of South Devon, and understand why it’s becoming such a popular place to own a property.
Our team has pulled together a handy guide to the South Hams area, including information on the towns and villages that our agency represents.
Why South Hams?
The South Hams area offers homebuyers a mix of impressive coastlines, quiet bays and rural countryside, making it one of the best places to live for those who enjoy exploring some of the world’s most beautiful locations.
The schools in the area are part of the Westcountry Schools Trust, a collection of 19 primary schools and 7 secondary schools. The aim is to better connect the community together, whilst aiding the natural transitions in your child’s journey through education. You can learn more about the Trust here.
Much of the rural and coastal landscapes, which connect Torbay to Plymouth, are designated as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Those looking to enjoy a warm community spirit and plenty of outdoor activities find lots to do in South Hams, all year round.
Ivybridge
Named after the medieval bridge that spans across the River Erme, Ivybridge is a laid back alternative to bustling seaside destinations. The area is surrounded by stunning countryside and open moorland, with easy access to Dartmoor National Park and plenty of scenic walking routes. The town itself is home to small independent retailers and cosy pubs and welcoming restaurants offering wonderful home cooked meals
The town’s transport links also make it the perfect location for those looking to commute into the city of Plymouth (15 mins) or Exeter (40 mins) as it’s just off the A38 dual carriageway.
If you’re looking for more active pursuits, there are plenty of walking routes around the area such as Ivybridge woods or Ivybridge Western Beacon, a firm favourite with locals and their furry friends.
Ivybridge is also home to some excellent schools, for both primary and secondary education. Woodlands, Stowford, The Erme & Manor Primary School are popular choices for primary education, whilst Ivybridge Community College, which received an Ofsted rating Good in 2020, is there to guide those next steps into further education and off into adulthood. A little further afield is South Dartmoor Community College and Kingsbridge Community College along with Plymouth College and Mount Kelly in Tavistock, private boarding schools for boys and girls ag
Ermington
The little village of Ermington is a rural delight. Only two miles from the town of Ivybridge, Ermington residents enjoy a slower paced and quiet village lifestyle compared to its neighbour. With a lovely community atmosphere, this countryside community is home to two fabulous pubs – The Crooked Spire and The First & Last Bistro – both offering their own unique taste of local traditions and delicacy. If you’re considering schooling in the area, Ermington offers an excellent start to their education at their Ofted rated Outstanding Primary School, so you know your children will be in safe hands when it comes to their early years education.
Modbury
A charming village nestled amongst rolling hills, Modbury’s vibrant community is known for its friendliness and conscientious approach to saving the environment. In 2007, ahead of the rest of the UK, Modbury banned the use of plastic carrier bags, becoming one of the first in the world to do so. Take a walk through the high street to discover independent shops, galleries and quaint local eateries, or meander through the streets to discover hidden courtyards and beautiful Georgian architecture. Just over 15 minutes to Mothecombe Beach and Ayrmer Cove, Modbury is a gorgeous mix of coastal and countryside living.
South Brent
On the southern edge of Dartmoor, South Brent is just 5 miles northeast of Ivybridge and situated just off the A38. The village is a colourful collection of houses, tucked away amongst lush countryside and quiet waterways. Quite the postcard retreat, South Brent offers residents and visitors plenty of opportunities to get outside and explore the surrounding landscape. You’ll find Bronze Age treasures and an abundance of wildlife right on your doorstep. A great place to live if you’re looking to combine an active lifestyle with a slower pace of life.
Noss Mayo/ Newton Ferrers
Despite having a population of only 500 residents, Noss Mayo has quite the colourful history! Its proximity to the Yealm estuary once made it a smuggler’s haunt, although nowadays it’s more of a birdwatcher’s paradise! There’s a regular ferry service to the nearby village of Newton Ferrers, and if you’re an avid sailor or angler, this stunning landscape makes both of these a popular pastime for many. If you’d prefer to stay with both feet firmly on dry land, Noss Mayo is also an inspiring place for painters and artists.
If you’re looking for a peaceful life, the beautiful village of Noss Mayo is ideal. Local food is a delight, and pubs such as The Ship Inn & The Swan Inn are a firm favourite with local residents, especially in the summer when you can sit outside in the sunshine and enjoy a nice cold drink whilst watching the boats moor in.
Across Newton Creek, and on the Yealm estuary lies Newton Ferrers, a village surrounded by water, woodland and wildlife. In an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Newton Ferrers is a hidden gem in the South Ham district, and is perfect for those looking for a lifestyle of peaceful tranquillity in a quiet and friendly seaside village.
Kingston
Kingston is a civil parish and small scattered village three miles south west of Modbury and about a mile from the mouth of the River Erme at Wonwell. It’s becoming a popular place to live because of its proximity to local beaches and its charming village lifestyle. Locals and holiday home owners both live in the village, enjoying the local 16th century country pub called ‘The Dolphin Inn’, serving up a variety of delicious hearty meals and a fabulous place to meet in the winter months, with a lit fireplace, and a warm and welcoming space for all visitors.
Wembury
If you’re keen to enjoy life by the tides, the village of Wembury might just be for you. It’s a fantastic location for rock pooling and coastal activities, including surfing thanks to its peninsula. Education about the marine environment is part of life there, and the area is preserved and moderated by the local community and the National Trust. A smaller village, Wembury is only 7 miles from Plymouth, giving residents an excellent balance of tranquillity as well as access to all the necessary amenities.
Plymouth
A bustling port, Plymouth is well known for its maritime history. Home to some of Devonshire’s most famous landmarks such as the iconic lighthouse at Hoe Park, Drake’s Island and Royal William Yard, a collection of Royal Navy buildings from the 1800s which became the focus of a regeneration project in the early 2000s.
Now a vibrant community of shops and homes, this stunning “hub” is a direct representation of the city’s ability to reach into the past, and pull it into the 21st Century. There’s so much to do in Plymouth, it’s difficult to know where to start! There certainly is something for everyone, and with a ferry point right in the harbour, cheeky trips over to France and Spain just got easier! Bon voyage!
We hope our local guide has given you a little taste of what these lovely towns and villages have to offer in the South Hams. If you think there’s a location that sounds perfect for your next move, please do get in touch with us to discuss the area in more detail and to find your dream home with Helen Moore Property.