Arlington, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31

The Old School, Arlington, Barnstaple – A Characterful Country Retreat with Exceptional Modern Upgrades

The Old School is a truly remarkable four-bedroom semi-detached period residence, rich in history and full of character. Originally constructed in 1874, as proudly displayed by its original date stone, this former Victorian schoolhouse was meticulously and sympathetically converted into a private home around 2003. The result is a beautifully preserved property that elegantly blends timeless architectural charm with the high-quality finish and comforts expected of modern living.

Set within a highly sought-after rural location in Arlington, this striking home offers spacious and versatile accommodation across three floors. From its exposed timber trusses and stone fireplaces to the striking Gothic-style arched windows, original features abound and have been lovingly retained to celebrate the building’s heritage.

Impeccably Maintained & Thoughtfully Upgraded

The current vendors have meticulously maintained the property and, between 2022 and 2023, undertook a comprehensive programme of improvements. These include a full re-roof, complete re-wiring and re-plumbing, and the installation of bespoke stone-mullioned double-glazed windows that respect the building’s character while offering excellent energy performance. A newly installed log burner in the living room adds to the cosy, rustic feel, while all-new carpets throughout, a sleek contemporary kitchen, and stylish bathrooms bring a modern and luxurious edge to this elegant period home.

Ground Floor

On arrival, a welcoming entrance porch opens into a generous hallway that sets the tone for the rest of the home – warm, elegant, and full of character. Leading directly from the hallway is a truly exceptional open-plan kitchen and dining area, designed for modern family life and entertaining. This dual-aspect room has been tastefully upgraded with a new high-spec kitchen featuring a central breakfast island, an electric Aga, and bespoke cabinetry, all complemented by an adjoining orangery that floods the space with natural light.

A boot room, ideal for countryside living, offers practical space for outdoor gear, and beyond this lies a separate utility room housing the oil-fired boiler and further storage.

The ground floor also boasts a large, dual-aspect living room complete with a newly installed wood-burning stove on a slate hearth – perfect for cosy evenings in. French doors open onto a private rear courtyard, while a three-piece suite shower room adds flexibility for ground-floor living. Completing the ground floor is a bright garden room/conservatory, offering serene views across the front gardens – the perfect place to relax and enjoy the tranquil setting.

First & Second Floors

The first floor is home to two beautifully presented double bedrooms. The principal suite is an impressive space with a walk-in wardrobe, a newly fitted modern en-suite shower room, and breath-taking views across the surrounding countryside. Bedroom two is another generously sized double room, complete with fitted wardrobes and served by a contemporary family bathroom, both of which have been finished to a very high standard.

Rising to the second floor, you will find two further double bedrooms – both enjoying excellent proportions and flooded with natural light via Velux windows. These rooms offer wonderful flexibility, whether used as guest suites, children’s bedrooms, or dedicated home offices or studios.

External Features – Space, Views & Potential

Externally, The Old School continues to impress. A sweeping private driveway provides ample parking and leads to a detached double garage, which is fitted with solar panels generating a healthy income of approximately £1,500 per annum. Above the garage, a large room offers excellent potential for conversion, subject to the necessary planning permissions – ideal for use as a home office, gym, or annexe accommodation.

In addition to this is an impressive oak-framed double garage with a separate wood store – a beautifully crafted structure offering further sheltered parking and storage.

The south-facing gardens are a true feature of the property – thoughtfully landscaped, immaculately kept, and offering a stunning private setting with uninterrupted views over the rolling North Devon countryside. Whether you’re entertaining guests, gardening, or enjoying a peaceful morning coffee, the outdoor space is as inviting and versatile as the interior.

In Summary:

The Old School is a rare opportunity to own a unique piece of Devon’s architectural heritage, thoughtfully restored and substantially improved for 21st-century living. The extensive list of upgrades completed by the current owners ensures that this home not only retains its historic charm but also meets modern expectations for comfort, style, and efficiency.

Its expansive layout, generous plot, character features, and countryside setting make it ideal for families, multi-generational living, or those seeking a rural escape with flexibility and further potential.