This former sailors’ base dates back hundreds of years and sits on the waterfront in the most historic part of the town.

The Mission House, in Bayard’s Cove, has been standing since the 1700s, and by 1860 was known as The Seamen’s Institute, a place for sailors to stay when they were between voyages.

the mission house
The views out over the river. (Savills )

Being on the waterfront, the property has unobstructed views over the River Dart towards Kingswear, as does the adjoining cottage which comes with the main house.

On the ground floor of the Mission House, a marble-tiled entrance hall leads to an open-plan kitchen and dining room, which has nine-foot high ceilings, a stone fire surround and a sash window overlooking the river, as well as a movable kitchen island and an Aga oven.

mission house
The living area in the main house. (Savills)

Also on this level, there is a utility room, a wine-tasting area, and a sweeping staircase leading to the first floor.

Upstairs, there is a drawing room, which features an open fire with a marble surround, a library, a study/cinema room and a glass porch leading outside.

mission house
The house has four bedrooms with views out over the river. (Savills)

Across the second and third floors are four double bedrooms, one with an en-suite bathroom, and a family bathroom.

The adjoining cottage, known as Bayard Mews Cottage, is made up of an open-plan living space, a kitchen, a mezzanine seating area with a balcony overlooking the river, two double bedrooms and a bathroom.

the mission house
The kitchen contains an Aga cooker. (Savills )

Outside, the rear of the properties have a private terrace, a stone archway, a double garage, and rare trees such as an Orange Barked Myrtle and a Red Acer.

The property is being sold by Savills for a guide price of £3,650,000.

Tom Bedford of Savills Devon commented: “The Mission House is a rare gem in Dartmouth, occupying a fantastic waterfront spot on the cobbles of Bayards Cove, which means step-free access and a level walk to and from town.

“It is a beautiful home, inside and out, blending period features with contemporary comforts, and of course, stunning views.

“The adjoining guest cottage is a fantastic addition, while the property also benefits from a superb double garage and storeroom, perfect for housing a boat, paddle boards or kayaks.”