Equestrian property market looking stable

Properties featured were available at the time of writing this article: 09/04/24

Why equestrians choose to live in the South West

The South West has always been a popular place to live for the equestrians among us, with beautiful outriding and an abundance of unaffiliated and affiliated competitions held throughout the region.

The last couple of years have also seen larger scale events being held here, which have brought riders and spectators from further afield to our counties. These events include the prestigious Bicton International Horse Trials which are held in May and October and offer competition from BE90 all the way up to 4* level.

For the non-competitive equestrians, there is still plenty to do. From beach riding to hacking across our two National Parks – Exmoor and Dartmoor – there are plenty of ways to explore our beautiful landscape whilst spending time with your four-legged friends. With more than a quarter of the South West designated as AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) - Cornwall alone holding 12 separate sections totalling almost a third of the county and covering an area bigger than the whole of Dartmoor National Park – you can see why many people choose to live in the area.

South West Equestrian Property Market

The past 18 months has seen a reduction in the West Country property market with buyers from outside the area dropping; however, the number of purchasers from the South West has remained resilient, with buyers from the region taking the opportunity of the better balance between supply and demand.

In 2023, Stags sold over £77million worth of properties marketed as equestrian, from stable yards with paddocks, through to substantial homes with multiple facilities and direct outriding, demonstrating the breadth of property on offer and the scope of our expertise and knowledge in dealing with a diverse range of equestrian homes. Interestingly 61% of equestrian property purchases were cash buyers with 65% already originating from the West Country.

Going forward, with the settling down of mortgage and interest rates, buyer confidence is returning with the first part of 2024 already seeing several sales agreed and a continued demand as people appreciate spending more time outdoors, enjoying our historic countryside, open moorland, beautiful footpaths and stunning beaches.

Yene Park Barn, Burrington, Devon, EX37 9LJ - Guide £795,000

In a fine rural setting, a spacious barn conversion with extensive equestrian facilities, pasture and woodland. Set within 8.10 acres, the property has a range of useful, adaptable buildings, extensive stabling, all-weather arena, and horse walker.

Little Trevean, Rosudgeon, Cornwall, TR20 9PD - Guide £1,500,000

An established holiday cottage complex situated just inland from the South Cornish Coast between Perranuthnoe and Praa Sands. Set amidst 9.5 acres, the main residence has an adjoining cottage, three holiday cottages, stable block with tack room, paddocks, and outbuildings.

Hickory Lodge and Holly Cottage, Halstock, Dorset, BA22 9SF - Guide £2,000,000

A substantial, versatile home suitable for multi-generational living with adjoining outbuildings. This 42.53 acre property has paddocks, a timber agricultural building, and good proximity to bridleways.

If you are thinking of selling your equestrian property or would like to discuss how we can help you find your dream South West home, get in touch with one of our local experts to find out how we can help you on your journey.