ENJOY LEISURE ACTIVITIES

Having outdoor space is still a high priority for homebuyers and enjoying a garden or a few acres for your hobbies or leisure pursuits can also add to your happiness.

- BY GILLIAN ADAMS

A survey by The Greener Communities Fund in 2023 of 2,000 UK adults found that people who spend more time outside are healthier, happier, more energetic, and more productive than those who do not.

There are many properties that include options for leisure facilities such as tennis courts, swimming pools or equestrian pursuits. Alternatively some homes are located close to areas that have excellent walking and riding, or are close to the coast for watersports.

Here are our top picks for homes with or close to leisure activities in the region.

1 Noss Mayo, Noss Mayo, Devon. Guide £1,250,000

Extensively rebuilt and remodelled to exacting standards approximately 20 years ago, this idyllic waterside cottage is located on The Point in Noss Mayo affording it outstanding panoramic estuary views. It has a generous garage and external off-road area which allows parking for two cars, plus storage of watersports and sporting equipment.

The garden gate accessed from Passage Road opposite the cottage opens up to the delightful cottage garden which adjoins the River Yealm. From the garden, steps lead down to the property's private quay and outhaul moorings (subject to permission of the harbour master). Previously, the current owner has had permission for two outhaul moorings.

The property boasts a luxurious Shaker-style kitchen with a stylish black Aga and a window seat overlooking the estuary beyond. There's a cloakroom and ground floor room which could make a fantastic bedroom or office. Steps lead up to the spacious sitting/dining room with wood-burning stove and bespoke French doors leading out to the water facing terrace. A stylish summer house with wood-burning stove opens out onto this area making it a fabulous space for alfresco dining. There is also a utility/laundry room. On the first floor are three bedrooms, the master with en suite and estuary views, and a family bathroom.