Nestled within the picturesque green fields of North Devon hides the village of Shebbear…
Driving through the peaceful country lanes, towards the village, is the perfect antidote to the stresses of everyday life.
Traffic jams, noisy towns and busy shopping centres become a distant memory as the calming effect of the countryside works its magic.
Peace and tranquillity is here in abundance, but there’s also lots of activity right on your doorstep.
The bustling towns of Holsworthy, Okehampton, Bideford, Great Torrington and Hatherleigh are close by if you need to indulge in some retail therapy, and on certain days of the week they boast some fabulous farmers markets where you can buy fresh bread, organic fruit and veg, or for those with a sweet tooth - some handmade fudge.
The dramatic North Devon coastline waits with a variety of activities to suit everyone from the thrills of surfing, to the simple joy of sitting on the prom with a bag of chips.
However busy your day, your new home in Shebbear will be your haven.
At the centre of the village lies the church of St Michael, with its rich history and a warm welcome.
Reverend Martin Warren, has been in the parish for six years and takes pleasure from being involved in such an active community.
Shebbear has an array of clubs from the Women’s Institute and the Shebbear Shooters (a rifle club), to horse riding and belly dancing!
Underneath the calm exterior is a community on the go.
“We have an active community here and there’s nothing I like more than to see someone who has grown up in the village go on to get married in this church. It’s normally quite an emotional day for us all!” Rev. Martin Warren
Break time at Shebbear Community School and the playground quickly fills with a flurry of blue jumpers and the sound of laughter, as the children play.
Visit at lunchtime on a Thursday and you will find the children serving lunch to some of the more senior members of the community, who were once pupils here too.
Sally Strange, head teacher, is proud of everything that goes on in this busy school and can’t wait to welcome you and your children.
There is also Little Bears Pre-School, where the youngest residents of Shebbear come to play and learn; an excellent place to start your child’s education. And the famous Shebbear College is found on the outskirts of the village, offering a private school education to both day and boarding pupils.
Sally Strange, head teacher of Shebbear Community School: “We look forward to welcoming your children to our school and giving them an excellent education.”
Enjoy a drink in your new local…
At the heart of every village is a pub, and Shebbear is no exception with good food, good beer and good company. Whatever you look for in a pub, The Devil’s Stone Inn will not disappoint.
Stone floors and a roaring log fire make the atmosphere warm and inviting, especially after a shooting or fishing trip which Landlord, Steve Hurst, will be happy to organise.
The pub is named after the Devil Stone which lays on the village green. According to legend, the stone fell out of the pocket of the Devil as he fell from Heaven to Hell and every year on the 5th November the church bell ringers turn it to keep the devil away.
Pull up a stool, while Steve pulls you a pint, and relax in your new local.
Landlord Steve Hurst from the Devil’s Stone Inn: “If you’re looking for a nice drink, with good company and a log fire – we are just the place for you, and we’ll make you feel right at home.”
Once you move into the village the first people you are likely to meet are Anne and Keith in the local stores. If you plan to pick up a pint of milk and the morning paper, you’ll probably find yourself coming away with much more!
There is a wide selection of goods on offer; particular favourites include the beautifully cooked ham, deliciously creamy stilton and the fabulous selection of locally-baked pies – the wine selection is good too!
Anne and Keith Horwell from South View Stores: “A visit to our shop also gives you the chance to stop for a chat with the other customers and it’s just a minute’s walk away – perfect if you’ve run out of milk!”
Midas Homes is thrilled to be building their award winning new homes in Shebbear. Not only will you be able to enjoy all the benefits of a fabulous new home, but you’ll also be part of Shebbear’s vibrant community.
Some useful websites
Shebbear Community School
www.shebbear.ik.org
Shebbear Village
www.shebbearvillage.co.uk
Devil’s Stone Inn
www.devilsstoneinn.com
Please click here for more information on the local area.