If you’re searching for a smallholding for sale in Devon, you’re far from alone. Demand for rural homes with land has surged in recent years, with buyers looking for a lifestyle that blends space, nature, privacy and the opportunity to live more sustainably.
As a Devon buying agent specialising in rural and lifestyle property, I see first-hand how the county continues to attract people looking for smallholdings, equestrian properties, hobby farms and homes with land. And nowhere offers more variety — or charm — than Devon.
Whether you’re dreaming of a couple of acres for chickens and veg beds, or a more substantial smallholding for livestock or rewilding, here’s why the regions ofDartmoor, West Devon and Torridge are some of the best places in the UK to start your search.
1. Devon Offers the Perfect Landscape for Smallholding Life
Each part of Devon brings something unique for buyers looking for land:
Dartmoor Smallholdings
The Dartmoor area is perfect for those wanting dramatic views, open space and a real sense of wilderness. Properties around Chagford, Widecombe, Ashburton, Bovey Tracey and Okehampton often come with outbuildings, paddocks and generous gardens — ideal for anyone wanting a more self-sufficient lifestyle.
West Devon Rural Property
West Devon offers some of the most picturesque countryside in the county. Around Tavistock, Lydford, Bridestowe and the Tamar Valley, you’ll find smallholdings with rich pasture, traditional barns, and mature orchards — perfect for small-scale livestock, small farms or multi-generational living.
Torridge Smallholdings
If you’re looking for larger acreage and better value, Torridge is one of Devon’s best-kept secrets. Areas around Great Torrington, Holsworthy and the rural hamlets towards the Cornish border offer privacy, big skies and more space for your budget.
If you’re searching online for smallholdings for sale in Torridge or Devon property with land, this area should be on your radar.
2. A Lifestyle Rooted in Space, Nature and Freedom
People buying smallholdings in Devon are usually looking for:
- Space for animals (chickens, sheep, goats, alpacas, horses)
- Vegetable growing, orchards and polytunnels
- Workshops, studios or home-based businesses
- A quieter pace of life
- Privacy and long views
- Access to footpaths, bridleways and open countryside
Smallholdings in Devon allow you to create the lifestyle you want — whether practical, sustainable, creative or simply peaceful.
3. A Supportive Rural Community
One of the biggest surprises for newcomers is the strength of Devon’s rural community. From Dartmoor’s farming heritage to the villages of West Devon and Torridge, you’ll find:
- Helpful neighbours
- Livestock markets
- Tool-share groups
- Local produce networks
- Artisan food producers
- Community-led sustainability projects
When clients move into their new smallholding, they’re often welcomed warmly — something that makes settling in much easier.
4. The Reality: Hard Work, But Hugely Rewarding
Smallholding life does come with mud, weather and early mornings. But for many buyers, it’s exactly this physical, purposeful lifestyle that they’re looking for. Most people say they feel healthier, calmer and more content after making the move. The sense of freedom is unmatched.
5. Why a Buying Agent Makes a Huge Difference
The rural and smallholding market in Devon is competitive, and many of the best opportunities never reach the open market.
As a buying agent specialising in Devon, I:
- Source off-market smallholdings before they are advertised
- Advise on realistic values and negotiating strategy
- Help assess land quality, access, buildings and planning potential
- Connect you with local surveyors, agricultural consultants and planners
- Save you time by filtering out unsuitable properties
- View on your behalf and provide honest, expert feedback
- Reduce the risk of costly mistakes — especially for buyers new to rural life
Most clients tell me they wouldn’t have found (or secured) their home without help.
Thinking of Buying a Smallholding in Devon?
Whether you’re exploring options in Dartmoor, West Devon or Torridge, I help clients find the right property — even in a competitive and fast-moving market.
If you’re serious about looking for a smallholding, equestrian property, or home with land in Devon, I’d be delighted to help.
Just get in touch, and we can begin your search.
