A High-Risk Property with a Stunning View
A dramatic dream home perched on the edge of a 100-metre cliff in Devon has been listed for £1.4 million, creating a stark contrast between its breathtaking vistas and its precarious position near one of Britain's most notorious landslide hotspots. Upcott House, a five-bedroom detached property on Old Beer Road in Seaton, is being marketed as a 'rare opportunity' in a highly sought-after part of East Devon, yet its price has already seen a significant drop due to the ongoing threat of coastal erosion.
Price Plunge and Perilous Past
The property's journey on the market has been anything but stable. Initially listed for £1.75 million in October, the asking price was slashed by £350,000 in just one month. This dramatic reduction reflects the severe erosion challenges plaguing this stretch of coastline. Property records show the house was previously bought for £840,000 in January 2007, meaning the current owners had initially aimed to more than double their investment.
This is not an isolated case. Other homes along the same cliff line have been branded 'unsellable' by experts, with some being withdrawn from the market entirely despite substantial price cuts. The history of the area is littered with collapses; in 2012, half the road sheared away without warning, and a massive landslip in 2014 wiped out a 100ft section of land.
A 'Rare Opportunity' Amidst the Risk
Despite the clear dangers, the estate agent's listing from Knight Frank paints a picture of an idyllic family home. It describes Upcott House as 'a truly spacious five-bedroom family home brimming with character and timeless charm.' The marketing emphasises its 'generous proportions and high ceilings', complemented by large windows that frame the far-reaching sea views.
The gardens are said to create a private haven that blends into the coastal landscape, with 'sun-drenched patios' offering perfect spots for al fresco dining while watching the ever-changing light on the sea. The property is explicitly billed as a 'rare opportunity to secure a distinctive coastal residence' in one of East Devon's most desirable locations.
Council Intervention and an Uncertain Future
Recognising the severe threat, the East Devon District Council has launched a £1.4 million project to shore up the coastal defences at Seaton Hole. This involved placing 6,500 tonnes of rock, delivered by sea, to stabilise the area. The work, aimed at protecting 41 homes and a care home from cliff falls and sea damage, was expected to be completed within the same month the property was listed.
Council leader Cllr Paul Arnott stated, 'Acting now to reinforce the cliffs and sea defences isn't just about protecting property—it's about preserving this beautiful coastline for generations to come.' For potential buyers of Upcott House, the decision now rests on whether the dream of panoramic sea views is worth the very real and documented risk of living on the edge.
