A Castellated Country House in the Heart of Dartmoor, Devon
Yarner is a castellated country house in the heart of Dartmoor, Devon. The 247 acre estate is nestled within the Dartmoor National Park, with the grand country house set at the end of a kilometre-long drive winding through woodland and pasture.
The property was mentioned in the Domesday Book, the great survey of England completed in 1086 and commissioned by William the Conqueror. Yarner is also steeped in Tudor history as the site of a former hunting lodge frequented by King Henry VII, King Henry VIII, King Edward VI and Queen Mary.
Sold by Elizabeth I in 1578, the current Grade II-listed country house was built between 1630 and 1678 by Moses Stoneham.
The word ‘Yarner’ is derived from the Aquitaine French for “where the eagle’s soar”, referencing the local bird of prey in a region renowned for bird watching.
The French reference can also be seen in its unique architecture style, with its ivy-covered, chateau-like battlements and elevated position overlooking the hills of Dartmoor from its large lawned terrace.
Sold several times throughout its history, Yarner has been in the same family for the past 50 years and has been the backdrop for a number of ventures, including a decade-long stint as the Yarner Farm School for City Children, bussing children in from London to learn about nature and farm life, and to experience rural England, sometimes for the first time.
Recently, the property has been run as a luxury wedding and events venue, featuring fresh, contemporary interiors, and 7 bedroom suites.
The Victorian wing of the house was turned into the ‘Scandinavian Hall’ in the 1990s, and is the perfect pastel-hued setting for ceremonies at Yarner House. There’s also an African hut on the property, used for outdoor receptions.
At the end of the garden overlooking the stunning countryside and the Wray Valley below, is a charming summer house, and a large tennis court.
All photos belong to the listing agency.