The sprawling Devon country house that served as the long-time home of Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts has been officially listed on the market with an asking price of £2.75 million. The legendary musician, who passed away in 2021 at the age of 80, resided in the Grade II listed Halsdon House with his late wife Shirley for almost four decades, creating a private sanctuary away from the global spotlight of his rock and roll career.
A Serene Retreat Discovered by Chance
Charlie and Shirley Watts originally purchased the property near the picturesque village of Dolton in 1983, after serendipitously discovering it featured in Country Magazine. They cherished the estate as a tranquil escape during breaks from the band's intensive touring schedules, valuing its seclusion and rural charm. The couple lived there contentedly until Charlie's death, with Shirley passing away the following year, leaving their daughter Seraphina, now 57, to handle the sale.
Architectural Grandeur Meets Homely Comfort
Extending to over 8,500 square feet across three floors, Halsdon House is described by estate agents Savills as a fine example of a traditional Devon country house. It masterfully combines architectural grandeur with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, showcasing period features throughout including elegant sash windows, high ceilings, decorative plasterwork, and stately fireplaces. The property is set within extensive private grounds, offering an outstanding principal house of elegant proportions, a self-contained annexe, and an impressive collection of outbuildings.
Spacious and Flexible Interior Layout
The home's rooms are thoughtfully arranged around a sprawling entrance hall. On the ground floor, a drawing room, sitting room, and breakfast room adjoin the kitchen, which serves as the heart of the mansion, supported by a utility room and walk-in pantry. Additional ground-level spaces include a library-style sitting room, a practical boot room, and a cellar for storage. Across the upper floors, the house boasts a total of nine bedrooms. The principal bedroom suite enjoys far-reaching views, while further bedrooms, some with dual aspects and charming period details, provide ample accommodation for family or guests.
Versatile Annex and Outbuildings
A library room on the first floor offers flexibility as a study, reading room, or private sitting area. The second and third floors contain additional bedrooms, ideal for children, guests, or home offices. Attached to the main house but with independent access, a one-bedroom annexe provides valuable self-contained accommodation, comprising a sitting room, kitchen, bedroom, and en suite bathroom, perfectly suited for staff, extended family, or visitors. The estate also includes several outbuildings carefully laid out for agricultural and equestrian use, such as a substantial stable yard with multiple loose boxes, a tack room, and a feed room.
A Legacy of Privacy and Family Life
Savills' listing emphasises that the home is perfectly positioned for those seeking privacy and tranquillity, while remaining highly accessible to the thriving villages and market towns of mid-Devon. Previous profiles of Charlie Watts noted that his family were content to live their solitary human lives amidst a menagerie that included fifteen Arabian horses, eighteen dogs, and two cats, highlighting the property's role as a cherished family haven. This sale marks the end of an era for a home that provided decades of solace and joy to one of music's most iconic figures.
