Ottery St Mary, a charming town in Devon, England, is known for its rich history, stunning countryside, and strong community spirit. Nestled on the River Otter, it offers a delightful blend of rural charm and accessibility to nearby cities. The town features traditional architecture, scenic parks, and a variety of local amenities, making it an attractive destination for families, retirees, and professionals alike. This guide explores the best residential areas in Ottery St Mary, highlighting their distinctive features, housing options, and affordability.
Table of Contents
Downtown Ottery
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The heart of Ottery St Mary, the downtown area is bustling with local shops, cafes, and essential services. It's perfect for those who enjoy being in the center of community activities and have easy access to amenities.
Characteristics of the Downtown Ottery
* Culture: Rich heritage with festivals and local events
* Transportation: Excellent bus services, pedestrian-friendly
* Services: Grocery stores, medical facilities, libraries, and fitness centers
* Environment: Vibrant with a close-knit community feel
Housing Options in the Downtown Ottery
Victorian homes, modern apartments, and townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Downtown Ottery
* Buying: £250,000 – £400,000
* Renting: £900 – £1,300/month
The Heath
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A beautiful residential area located on the outskirts of Ottery, The Heath features spacious homes with generous gardens. It's ideal for families looking for a quiet suburban lifestyle while being close to town amenities.
Characteristics of the The Heath
* Culture: Family-oriented community with parks and schools
* Transportation: Easy access to main roads and bus routes
* Services: Nearby schools, playgrounds, and community centers
* Environment: Peaceful and well-established residential area
Housing Options in the The Heath
Detached and semi-detached family homes
Average Home Prices in the The Heath
* Buying: £300,000 – £500,000
* Renting: £1,000 – £1,500/month
Mill Street
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Mill Street is known for its picturesque scenery along the River Otter, providing a serene environment. This area is perfect for nature lovers and those who appreciate scenic views.
Characteristics of the Mill Street
* Culture: Outdoor activities, walking paths, and nature observation
* Transportation: Good access to local transport links
* Services: Closer to nature reserves and parks
* Environment: Tranquil with a strong connection to nature
Housing Options in the Mill Street
Cottages, riverside homes, and character properties
Average Home Prices in the Mill Street
* Buying: £275,000 – £450,000
* Renting: £800 – £1,200/month
Clyst St Mary
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Located a short distance from the town center, Clyst St Mary offers a suburban feel with a mix of modern developments and traditional homes. It's an excellent option for commuters due to quick access to major roads.
Characteristics of the Clyst St Mary
* Culture: Community events and nearby local businesses
* Transportation: Convenient access to the M5 and public transport
* Services: Shops, schools, and recreational facilities
* Environment: Family-friendly with a blend of urban and rural lifestyle
Housing Options in the Clyst St Mary
New build estates, family homes, and bungalows
Average Home Prices in the Clyst St Mary
* Buying: £280,000 – £450,000
* Renting: £850 – £1,250/month
Devonshire Road
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This residential road offers a mix of large family homes and bungalows set in a quiet, friendly environment. It's ideal for those seeking a peaceful neighborhood with good amenities nearby.
Characteristics of the Devonshire Road
* Culture: Community-oriented atmosphere with neighborhood activities
* Transportation: Good access to bus routes and cycle paths
* Services: Local shops, schools, and health services within reach
* Environment: Quiet and residential with good community links
Housing Options in the Devonshire Road
Spacious family homes, bungalows
Average Home Prices in the Devonshire Road
* Buying: £320,000 – £480,000
* Renting: £950 – £1,400/month
Fairmile
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Fairmile is an appealing residential area close to the countryside, known for its scenic views and parks. It’s perfect for those who wish to enjoy a rural atmosphere while remaining close to town.
Characteristics of the Fairmile
* Culture: Relaxed, scenic views, and outdoor recreation
* Transportation: Well-connected by bus routes and cycle lanes
* Services: Parks, community centers, and storage facilities
* Environment: Rural charm with a vibrant community feel
Housing Options in the Fairmile
Country-style homes, refurbished farmhouses
Average Home Prices in the Fairmile
* Buying: £350,000 – £550,000
* Renting: £1,000 – £1,600/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Ottery St Mary:
The best residential areas in Ottery St Mary include Downtown Ottery, The Heath, Mill Street, Clyst St Mary, Devonshire Road, and Fairmile.
The Heath is particularly family-friendly, offering spacious homes and nearby schools and parks.
Ottery St Mary has good bus services and easy access to the M5 for commuters, making it well-connected to Exeter and surrounding areas.
Average home prices range from £250,000 to £550,000, depending on the area and type of property.
Yes, Ottery St Mary offers a peaceful environment, local amenities, and a strong community, making it ideal for retirees.
Mill Street and Fairmile are great for outdoor activities due to their proximity to parks and nature trails.
Average rental prices range from £800 to £1,600 per month, depending on the property type and location.
Yes, Ottery St Mary has several schools, both primary and secondary, providing good educational options for families.
Downtown Ottery features grocery stores, cafes, medical facilities, libraries, and more, catering to daily needs.
Yes, Ottery St Mary hosts various community events, including festivals, markets, and local celebrations, fostering a strong community spirit.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Ottery St Mary:
Ottery St Mary provides a delightful mix of countryside charm and accessible living, making it an excellent choice for potential residents. From the vibrant community in Downtown Ottery to the tranquil surroundings of Mill Street and Fairmile, there are options catering to diverse lifestyles. Families will appreciate the educational facilities and parks available in areas like The Heath and Clyst St Mary, while those seeking peaceful retreats can find solace in the scenic views offered by Fairmile. Ultimately, choosing the right area will depend on personal preferences for amenities, lifestyle, and budget, but Ottery St Mary stands out as a welcoming and fulfilling community to call home.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in property. I combine technology and analysis to help you discover the best places to live.