This coastal Georgian farmhouse is “steeped in local history”, with folklore connections to smugglers, shipwrecks and sheriffs. 

Maer Farmhouse, in the coastal hamlet of Maer in Bude, is a Grade II listed home which was originally built in the 16th century. 

The local lore of the house tells of a tunnel under the house leading to Northcott Mouth which smugglers would have used - the underground chamber, which could have also been used as a priest hole, now being inaccessible. 

In the early 18th century, the house was home to the High Sheriff of Cornwall, probably Samuel Phillips, who died in office in 1726 and was replaced by his son John. 

As well as historical significance, the house is of architectural interest, particularly the doors to the reception rooms, which are thought to be from the shipwreck of the Barque Bencoolen, which ran aground in 1862. 

Entering the property, there is a classic Doric open porch, featuring fluted columns and an entablature with a modillion frieze. 

On the ground floor are the two reception rooms, comprising a sitting room with plaster ceiling mouldings from the early 1700s and a multi-paned sash window, and a cosy living room with a wood-burner, fireplace, and French doors. 

Also on this level is the kitchen, with slate flagstone flooring and granite work surfaces, plus a rear porch and a utility room. 

Leading upstairs is a staircase with “characterful” newels and stick balusters, while the half-landing features a multi-paned round-headed window. 

Upstairs, there is a study, a bathroom, a separate WC, and four bedrooms, two with countryside views and one with views towards Maer Lake. 

The south-facing gardens, which span 0.48 of an acre, are filled with mature trees and shrubs, including a cherry tree and other fruit trees. 

There is also a kitchen garden with a soft fruit cage and a greenhouse, colourful flowerbeds and a “wide expanse” of lawn, while the driveway leads to a double garage. 

The current owners commented: “This is a delightful house to live in especially with a family. 

“The house itself has a special atmosphere which many people mention when they visit, maybe due to its long history.

“It is so convenient being so close to the beaches, cliff walks, the lake where there are often sightings of rare birds and within easy walking distance of the town. 

“In the summer the garden is a peaceful oasis and a sun trap.”

The property is being sold by estate agent Webbers for a guide price of £925,000.

The agent said: “Steeped in local history and intrigue, Maer Farmhouse is an imposing grade II listed 4 bedroom Georgian home, dating back to the early 17th century.

“Located in the tiny coastal hamlet of Maer, within an easy walk of the sandy beach at Crooklets and the coastal path offering stunning cliff top walks."