Redlap House is a historic coastal estate in South Devon offering 31 acres of private land and its own secluded sandy cove. Anchored by an updated 18th century residence, the property blends heritage, luxury, and rare coastal privacy. Listed for approximately A$20 million, it stands as one of the most unique seaside estates currently on the market.

A Private Slice of the British Coastline

Set above the sweeping waters of Start Bay, just outside Dartmouth, Redlap House offers something almost unheard of in modern England. It provides complete control over its own stretch of coastline. Spanning more than 31 acres, the estate unfolds from manicured gardens into woodland and down to a secluded sandy cove tucked beneath rugged cliffs.

What makes this property especially rare is its privacy. There are no public footpaths crossing the land, meaning the beach can only be accessed from within the estate or by boat. In a country where coastal access is often shared, this level of exclusivity is extraordinary.

The surrounding area is often called the British Riviera due to its mild climate and striking beaches. Nearby Blackpool Sands adds to the appeal, with its clear waters and cinematic scenery that has even served as a filming location for the movie The Roses, starring Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch.

A House Shaped by Centuries

At the heart of the estate sits Redlap House itself, a residence with origins in the late 18th century. Thought to have been built for the governor of Dartmouth, the home carries a deep sense of history that still shapes its atmosphere today.

Over the years, the property has attracted notable figures. In the 1930s, it was owned by actor and theatre manager Cyril Maude, whose circle included poet John Masefield. There are even stories that King George V visited during his time as Prince of Wales.

Local lore adds an extra layer of intrigue. Tales of smuggling persist, with rumours of hidden walls and a secret tunnel leading from the house to the cove below. While never proven, these stories contribute to the estate’s enduring mystique.

Elegant Living with Coastal Views

The main residence spans approximately 8,500 square feet and offers six bedrooms alongside a mix of formal and informal living spaces. The design takes full advantage of its setting, with large sash and French windows framing uninterrupted views across the bay.

Inside, the layout balances grandeur with comfort. Reception rooms feature open fireplaces and refined proportions, while more relaxed spaces cater to everyday living. A study positioned to overlook the valley and sea provides one of the most captivating vantage points in the home.

One of the standout features is the 34 foot artist’s studio. With vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light, it is a space that seems to draw the surrounding landscape indoors, making it ideal for creative pursuits or quiet reflection.

A Self-Contained Leisure Retreat

Beyond the main house, the estate includes a substantial leisure complex measuring around 7,300 square feet. This separate building enhances the property’s versatility, offering both luxury and privacy for guests.

At its centre is a 65 foot indoor swimming pool set beneath a dramatic ceiling. Spa facilities provide a wellness focused escape, while additional guest accommodation allows the complex to function independently from the main residence.

This arrangement makes the estate equally suited to hosting visitors or creating a private retreat within the grounds.

Gardens, Woodland, and Wild Coast

The grounds of Redlap House are as carefully considered as the residence itself. Formal gardens near the house transition into more natural landscapes, creating a sense of progression from cultivated elegance to untamed beauty.

A stream runs through the valley, guiding the eye toward the sea. Woodland paths wind through the estate, while terraced cliff gardens take advantage of the sheltered coastal microclimate to support a variety of plant life.

The private cove remains the defining feature. Sheltered beneath steep cliffs, it offers a quiet and intimate connection to the sea. Whether used for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the shifting light across the water, it embodies the essence of coastal living.

Wildlife also plays a significant role in the estate’s character. The surrounding land provides a habitat for species such as peregrine falcons and cirl buntings, adding to the sense of living within a natural sanctuary.

Life on the South Hams Coast

Living at Redlap House means being immersed in one of England’s most beautiful coastal regions. The nearby village of Stoke Fleming offers everyday conveniences, while Dartmouth provides a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and maritime heritage.

Dartmouth’s history stretches back centuries, from its role in medieval trade to its importance in naval operations. It is also home to the annual Dartmouth Royal Regatta, a highlight of the local calendar.

The surrounding coastline offers endless opportunities for outdoor activity. Walking routes connect to the South West Coast Path, while nearby beaches such as Blackpool Sands and Slapton Sands provide further exploration.

Despite its secluded feel, the estate remains accessible. Totnes railway station offers direct connections to London, and regional airports provide both domestic and international travel options.

A Property That Defies Description

Redlap House is more than a luxury listing. It is an experience shaped by history, landscape, and a rare sense of seclusion. From its private beach to its centuries old residence, every aspect of the estate reflects a careful balance between human design and natural beauty.

Properties of this kind are increasingly scarce, particularly along England’s coastline where access and development have limited privacy. Redlap House stands apart by offering not just a home, but an entire coastal world.

Listed at £10 million, or approximately A$20 million, it represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of the South Devon shoreline that remains untouched, deeply personal, and undeniably extraordinary.

Written By: Lydia Kelly

Published: 7th April 2026