I visited a beautiful UK seaside village where all 80 homes are owned by one man. I have never visited anywhere like it. The village is Clovelly, a picturesque fishing village perched on a 400-foot cliff in north Devon. To enter, visitors must pay £10.90 for adults and £6.25 for children aged seven to 16. This fee does not go to the owner but is used for the upkeep and maintenance of the village.
A Village Owned by One Man
The entire village is owned by the Honourable John Rous, a 75-year-old who inherited it from his mother, Countess Mary Rous, in 1983. He is the sole landowner and operates every property in Clovelly. Everyone who lives or works in the village rents their home or shop directly from Mr Rous. Prospective tenants are interviewed to ensure they fit the community, maintaining a harmonious atmosphere.
Unique Entry Fee and Community Spirit
Unlike other UK villages, Clovelly charges an entry fee. The money is redistributed for village upkeep, not personal profit. The car-free village has around 250 residents living in 80 cottages and welcomes about 150,000 tourists annually. Locals are friendly and welcoming, with no strange looks or hostility. The village's steep, cobbled streets prohibit vehicles, ensuring clean air and a quiet atmosphere.
During my visit, I strolled down The Hobby Drive and onto the cobbled High Street. I felt welcome immediately. Locals smiled and were happy to chat. The Red Lion Hotel, an 18th-century four-star inn, and the Bay Tree Cafe both offered excellent service with smiling staff. Residents were eager to recommend other locals and places to explore.
Strong Sense of Community
All homes in Clovelly are occupied by full-time renters, so there are no empty holiday rentals or abandoned hotels. The cobbled streets wind down to a serene ancient harbour with sweeping views over Bideford Bay. Clovelly is truly unique and one of the happiest places I have ever visited.
