A cliff-edge home boasting sweeping views of the Devon coast has hit the market for £1.4million despite sitting just metres from one of Britain’s most notorious landslide danger zones.
Upcott House, a five-bed detached property perched on a 100-metre cliff off Old Beer Road in Seaton, is billed as a ‘rare opportunity’ in one of East Devon’s most coveted postcodes.
But its price has already plunged by £350,000 in a month after going up for sale at £1.75million in October.
The dramatic reduction comes as the stretch of coastline has been repeatedly battered by erosion.
Homes on the same cliff line have previously been branded ‘unsellable’, with some pulled from the market entirely despite hefty cuts.
Seaton’s cliffs have a long history of collapse. In 2012, half the road sheared away without warning.
Two years later, a huge landslip wiped out a 100ft section of land. The area has continued to deteriorate, prompting East Devon District Council to launch a £1.4million project to shore up Seaton Hole with 6,500 tonnes of rock delivered by sea.
Property records show Upcott House was previously bought for £840,000 in January 2007 and the owners had initially tried to more double its price.
Upcott House, a five-bed detached property perched on a 100-metre cliff off Old Beer Road in Seaton
The property is billed as a ‘rare opportunity’ in one of East Devon’s most coveted postcodes
Its listing from Knight Frank states: ‘Upcott is a truly spacious five-bedroom family home brimming with character and timeless charm, offering a rare combination of period elegance and modern practicality.
‘Designed with flexibility in mind, the layout flows naturally and provides an inviting setting for both relaxed everyday living and entertaining on a larger scale.
‘Throughout the house, generous proportions and high ceilings create a wonderful sense of space, complemented by large windows that draw in natural light and frame the far-reaching sea views.
The gardens are said to create ‘a private haven that flows seamlessly into the coastal landscape.’
The listing added: ‘Several sun-drenched patios offer idyllic spots for al fresco dining, morning coffee, or evening drinks while watching the ever-changing light on the sea.
‘With its elevated position, the property enjoys sweeping coastal and countryside views, providing a backdrop of serenity in every season.
‘Upcott House is a rare opportunity to secure a distinctive coastal residence in one of East Devon’s most desirable locations – a house that offers space, versatility, and a lifestyle enriched by gardens, sea views, and timeless character.’
The home is on the same road as three cliff-top houses that was previously reported had become ‘virtually worthless’ despite the stunning sea views after a huge landslip left them on the brink of a 100ft drop.
The property owners expressed fears they would never be able to sell their homes after a landslip took a bite out of the coast road.
Its price has already plunged by £350,000 in a month after going up for sale at £1.75million in October as the stretch of coastline has been repeatedly battered by erosion
Property records show Upcott House was previously bought for £840,000 in January 2007 and the owners had initially tried to more double its price
Homes on the same cliff line have previously been branded ‘unsellable’, with some pulled from the market entirely despite hefty cuts
The recently announced improvements are aimed at strengthening the coastal defences between Seaton Hole and West Walk, reducing erosion risks and shielding 41 homes, including a care home, from cliff falls and sea damage.
The work is expected to be completed this month, with sections of Seaton Hole beach closed periodically for public safety.
Council leader Cllr Paul Arnott, said: ‘Seaton Hole has suffered from repeated erosion and landslides over time.
‘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.’
