This 17th century cottage in a hidden Devon valley offers everything you need for a self-sufficient lifestyle - and it is for sale for £675k.

The Orchard Cottage, in Lower Newbuildings near Sandford, dates back to the late 1600s, and is Grade II-listed for its enchanting period features.

As part of a three-cottage community, Orchard Cottage is set in large gardens prepared for growing food and herbs, and is unique in its appearance.

A historical water reed thatched roof tops the cottage, which used to form part of the farmhouse estate in Lower Newbuildings.

On the ground floor, the cottage contains a sitting room with an original stone and slate fireplace, as well as beams and panelling.

orchard cottage
The sitting room contains an original slate and stone fireplace. (Strutt & Parker)

There is also a kitchen with a utility room, a cloakroom, and a study that looks out over the garden.

The first floor has four bedrooms, reached via three separate staircases, as well as a family bathroom.

orchard cottage
The kitchen is fully modernised but retains its rustic charm. (Strutt & Parker)

Outdoors, the property includes a private gated lane leading to grounds of approximately an acre, including a garage and workshop, kitchen gardens, a herb garden, a vegetable garden with polytunnel, fruit bushes and an orchard of pear and apple trees.

The lawn also has areas of wildflowers and meadow, several outbuildings and mature walnut and oak trees, and there are several nearby wells.

Orchard Cottage is being marketed by Strutt & Parker, who have it listed at a price of £675k.

orchard cottage
The cottage looks out over its own grounds, which include an orchard and a vegetable garden. (Strutt & Parker)

Tom Folland of Strutt & Parker Exeter said: “This Grade II thatched cottage is thought to date from the late 17th century. The home has been sensitively renovated by the current owners to cater to modern living, whilst still retaining those much sought-after characterful features, including exposed timber beams and original fireplaces.

“The cottage’s setting is enchanting, thanks to the glorious gardens and far-reaching countryside views. The rear garden enjoys full sun all day and has mature trees, wildflowers and areas of meadow, whilst there’s also a productive kitchen garden and an orchard with damson, crab apple, pear and apple trees.”