Ottery St. Mary

What does Ottery St. Mary offer?

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of East Devon, Ottery St. Mary is a charming, historic town offering a quintessential experience of rural England. Boasting an array of enchanting, thatched cottages and winding streets, this delightful destination provides the perfect escape for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Steeped in history, Ottery St. Mary has retained much of its old-world charm, attracting visitors from near and far to experience its captivating atmosphere. At the heart of the town, the magnificent Church of St. Mary stands as a testament to the area's rich heritage. Modelled after the Exeter Cathedral, this splendid structure features an array of stunning architectural elements, including intricate stone carvings and beautiful stained glass windows. Ottery St. Mary also plays host to the annual Tar Barrels event, a unique, thrilling spectacle that has become an integral part of the town's identity. For those seeking outdoor pursuits, the surrounding countryside provides a wealth of opportunities for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. With so much to offer, Ottery St. Mary truly is a hidden gem in the Devon landscape, just waiting to be discovered.

Properties in Ottery St. Mary

Here are just few of our favourite profiles in this area

Showing 65 to 72 of 4189 properties in Ottery St. Mary

Top attractions in Ottery St. Mary

1. Ottery St. Mary Parish Church: This stunning medieval church, dedicated to St. Mary, boasts a rich history and captivating architectural features, such as the impressive rood screen and ornate carvings. Visitors can admire the beautiful stained glass windows and explore the vibrant history of the church, which dates back to the 14th century.

2. Cadhay House: A historic Tudor manor house with picturesque gardens, Cadhay House offers guided tours to explore the rich history and stunning architecture of this splendid estate. The beautiful gardens provide the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic, while the house itself showcases period furnishings and artwork.

3. The Tumbling Weir: A unique sight to behold, the Tumbling Weir is a circular waterfall located next to the River Otter. Constructed in the 18th century, this intriguing engineering marvel serves as a testament to the region's industrial heritage. Visitors can enjoy the tranquillity of the surrounding area while observing the mesmerising flow of water.

4. Ottery St. Mary Tar Barrels: An annual event held on November 5th, the Tar Barrels festival is a thrilling spectacle that draws crowds from far and wide. Locals carry flaming tar barrels through the streets, a tradition that has been upheld for centuries. This exciting and energetic event provides a unique experience for both residents and visitors alike.

5. The Otter Estuary Nature Reserve: Offering a serene escape into nature, this beautiful reserve is home to an array of wildlife, including various bird species, otters, and stunning flora. Visitors can wander along the peaceful walking trails and enjoy birdwatching opportunities, while taking in the picturesque views of the estuary and surrounding countryside.

Types of properties in Ottery St. Mary

1569

Detached

856

Terraced

847

Semi-detached

553

Bungalow

329

Apartment

28

Maisonette

Best areas to live in Ottery St. Mary

1. Franklea Close: A quiet and well-maintained cul-de-sac, boasting stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The properties here are spacious and elegantly designed, perfect for families and professionals alike.

2. Paternoster Row: A charming street lined with picturesque thatched cottages and period properties, offering a true taste of the traditional English countryside. The nearby River Otter and lovely walking trails make this an idyllic location.

3. Slade Close: A sought-after residential area with a mix of detached and semi-detached homes, situated close to the town centre and local amenities. The close proximity to King's School makes it a popular choice for families.

4. Winters Lane: Known for its characterful period properties and stunning views, Winters Lane is perfect for those looking for a peaceful rural setting while remaining close to local amenities.

5. Ridgeway: A desirable location featuring a mixture of modern and traditional property styles, all with generous gardens and ample parking. Its elevated position provides breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside.

6. Strawberry Lane: A popular choice for families, Strawberry Lane is a quiet and leafy residential area with a range of well-presented homes. It is within easy reach of both the town centre and excellent local schools.

7. Longdogs Lane: This attractive, tree-lined street is home to a selection of spacious family homes, with the added benefit of being within walking distance to the town centre and its amenities.

8. Bendarroch Road: A prestigious address in Ottery St. Mary, Bendarroch Road offers a selection of large, executive-style homes set among beautifully landscaped gardens. The area is known for its peaceful atmosphere and convenient location.

9. Elmfield Road: A popular residential street with a mix of detached and semi-detached properties, Elmfield Road is ideally situated close to local schools, making it perfect for families.

10. Gosford Lane: This quaint and picturesque lane is home to a selection of charming thatched cottages and period properties, all set within a peaceful and rural setting, yet within easy reach of Ottery St. Mary town centre.

Best things about living in Ottery St. Mary

1. Picturesque Scenery: Ottery St. Mary is surrounded by the stunning landscapes of East Devon's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The rolling hills, lush woodlands, and serene riverbanks offer the perfect setting for a peaceful and fulfilling life.

2. Rich History and Heritage: Ottery St. Mary boasts a wealth of historical gems, including the magnificent St. Mary's Church, which dates back to the 14th century. The town is steeped in history and local legends, providing a captivating backdrop for everyday life.

3. Strong Community Spirit: The close-knit community in Ottery St. Mary is one of its most endearing traits. With a variety of local clubs, societies, and events throughout the year, there’s always an opportunity to connect with neighbours and make lasting friendships.

4. Tar Barrels Festival: One of the most unique events in the region, Ottery St. Mary's annual Tar Barrels Festival takes place each November. This thrilling spectacle involves participants carrying flaming tar barrels through the streets, drawing visitors from far and wide to witness the unforgettable tradition.

5. Access to Local Amenities: Despite its rural charm, Ottery St. Mary offers excellent access to modern conveniences. The town centre is home to an array of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, while the nearby city of Exeter provides additional shopping, leisure, and cultural opportunities.

Drawbacks to living in Ottery St. Mary

1. Limited Employment Opportunities: Ottery St. Mary is a picturesque small town, but its size and rural location mean that job opportunities within the town are somewhat limited. Those seeking a wide range of career options may need to look towards larger nearby cities, such as Exeter, for employment.

2. Limited Public Transportation: Ottery St. Mary offers some public transport links, such as local buses, but service frequency and connectivity can be limited. For those who rely on public transport, this might pose an inconvenience when travelling to surrounding areas or commuting to work.

3. Lack of Entertainment and Shopping Options: As a small town, Ottery St. Mary does not have a vast array of entertainment venues, such as cinemas or large shopping centres. Residents often need to travel to nearby cities for a wider variety of leisure activities and retail options.

4. Distance from Major Cities: Ottery St. Mary's rural location means that it is somewhat removed from major cities, such as London or Bristol. For those who enjoy the buzz of city life or require regular access to the amenities and opportunities offered by urban centres, the town's location may be a drawback.

5. Limited School Options: While there are a few primary schools and a secondary school in Ottery St. Mary, the range of educational options is limited compared to larger towns and cities. Those with specific educational requirements or preferences may need to consider alternatives in nearby areas.

Make better property decisions with Chimnie

Data technology & local insight to give you an edge

Chimnie

Chimnie helps you make better property decisions.

© 2024 Little Chimney Ltd. All rights reserved.