Chesil Cliff House stands proudly on a dramatic clifftop in Croyde, North Devon, as one of the most talked-about modern homes in the United Kingdom. This striking white Art Deco-inspired lighthouse-style mansion captivates visitors and viewers alike with its bold design, panoramic ocean views, and incredible infinity pool that seems to merge with the Atlantic waves. Builders transformed a former 1950s property into this architectural marvel over more than a decade, turning ambitious dreams into reality despite enormous challenges that made the project famous through Channel 4’s Grand Designs. People often search for Chesil Cliff House because they want to learn about its fascinating history, understand its unique location advantages, explore its luxurious features, discover what happened during the build, and find out the latest updates on its sale and current ownership. This comprehensive guide delivers all that information and more. You will uncover why the home earned the nickname of the “saddest ever” Grand Designs property, how engineers anchored it securely against coastal erosion, what the surrounding beaches and nature reserves offer visitors today, and practical insights into the North Devon lifestyle that makes this area so special. Moreover, the story highlights lessons about perseverance, family resilience, and the realities of ambitious self-build projects in challenging environments. The Origins and Ambitious Vision Behind Chesil Cliff House Edward Short and his wife Hazel purchased the original 1950s house on the clifftop site around 2010 for approximately £1.4 million, drawn by the breathtaking location between Croyde and Saunton Sands. They envisioned replacing the old structure with a modern family The Universal Credit £1500 Loophole home inspired by a historic lighthouse that once stood nearby. Edward, who had experience in property development, planned an 18-month construction timeline and a budget of £1.8 million to create a dream home for their two daughters, Nicole and Lauren. The couple sought a slower pace of life away from London, where they could enjoy the sea, surfing culture, and natural beauty of North Devon. However, reality quickly diverged from the plan. Planners granted permission for the lighthouse-inspired design, which featured a prominent four-storey cylindrical tower, extensive glass walls, and clean white render. Workers demolished the existing house and began excavating deep into the cliffs to create stable foundations. Engineers drove piles into the underlying mudstone and granite layers to protect the structure from the relentless forces of coastal erosion and storm surges that characterize this exposed Atlantic coastline. Furthermore, the team incorporated triple-glazed floor-to-ceiling windows throughout to maximize light and frame uninterrupted views of the ocean, surfers riding waves at Down End Point, and dramatic sunsets. Transitioning from initial excitement to mounting difficulties, the project faced severe engineering hurdles due to the rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, difficult access for heavy machinery and materials, and escalating costs. Borrowers secured additional funding through a hedge fund loan of £500,000 and private investors contributing £2.5 million, while the family even held car boot sales to raise extra cash. Consequently, the build stretched far beyond the original timeline, turning into an 11- to 12-year ordeal that saw the property sit as an unfinished, rusting shell by the time Grand Designs featured it in 2019. Viewers across the nation watched Edward’s emotional journey, many describing the episode as the saddest in the show’s history because of the financial strain, personal sacrifices, and family pressures involved. Grand Designs Fame and the Emotional Toll of the Build When the Grand Designs episode aired in 2019, it captured the raw reality of self-building on a clifftop. Kevin McCloud visited the site multiple times, initially witnessing a grim situation of delays, debt, and despair. Edward openly shared his sleepless nights, mounting debts that reportedly reached £7 million at one point, and the immense stress the project placed on his marriage to Hazel. Moreover, the family temporarily lived in the smaller annexe they built first to help secure further loans, adding another layer of complexity to daily life amid construction chaos. Edward later reflected that the build became a nightmare from the moment the first spade hit the ground, yet he refused to give up because quitting would represent total failure. In a follow-up visit and at Grand Designs Live events, he emphasized how the ordeal tested every aspect of his life but also fostered growth and eventual redemption. Hazel and the daughters experienced significant disruption, with the daughters noting in later episodes that parental separation might have occurred regardless, though the house amplified tensions. Fortunately, Edward and Hazel divorced amicably, remained close friends, formed new relationships, and built a larger blended family. Edward retrained as a prison officer and moved to Bath for a fresh start, while expressing pride in completing the home against all odds. Kevin McCloud later spoke emotionally about the sale, highlighting themes of hubris, over-reaching, personal destruction, and ultimately redemption and growth. He noted that staring defeat in the face always leaves room for hope, praising the final structure as standing proud on the clifftop after years of struggle. This narrative resonates deeply with viewers because it illustrates the human side of grand architectural ambitions—how passion drives people forward even when costs spiral and relationships strain. Additionally, the episode sparked widespread public debate about planning permissions in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), coastal development risks, and the true expenses of luxury self-builds. Prime Location in Croyde: Why This Clifftop Spot Feels Magical Chesil Cliff House occupies an enviable position in Croyde, North Devon, perched directly on the cliff edge overlooking Saunton Sands and Croyde Bay. This stretch of coastline forms part of the North Devon Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and borders the UNESCO-designated Braunton Burrows Biosphere Reserve, one of the largest sand dune systems in the UK. Furthermore, nearby Baggy Point, managed by the National Trust, offers spectacular walking trails with views across the bay to Lundy Island on clear days. Visitors and residents love Croyde for its world-class surfing beaches. Saunton Sands stretches for miles with consistent waves ideal for beginners and experts alike, while Croyde Beach attracts surfers year-round thanks to its reliable breaks and vibrant local surf scene. The house itself enjoys direct proximity to these beaches, allowing owners to watch surfers carve waves from the comfort of the infinity pool or tower rooms. Moreover, the location benefits from mild maritime climate, dramatic cliffs, rocky coves, and abundant wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and rare dune plants in the biosphere reserve. The surrounding area thrives with tourism yet retains authentic charm. Nearby towns like Braunton provide shops, cafes, and amenities, while Ilfracombe offers a historic harbour, the famous Damien Hirst statue Verity, and seafood restaurants. Additionally, the South West Coast Path runs right past the property, providing hikers with endless scenic routes along the rugged coastline. Consequently, the home combines complete privacy on its three-acre plot with easy access to outdoor adventures, making it a dream setting for those who value nature, active lifestyles, and stunning seascapes. Architectural Design, Engineering Feats, and Unique Features of the Home The main house, now known as The Crest, spans approximately 6,500 square feet with five bedrooms, four reception rooms, a sauna, cellar, and multiple en-suite bathrooms. Its clean-lined Art Deco aesthetic features a prominent cylindrical four-storey tower reminiscent of the original lighthouse, capped by a storm room offering 360-degree panoramic sea views perfect for watching storms roll in or enjoying sunrise over the ocean. Builders wrapped the structure in white render and extensive glazing to create bright, airy interiors that blur the boundary between indoor and outdoor living. A standout feature is the infinity pool that appears to float above the cliffs, providing swimmers with the illusion of endless ocean ahead. Triple-glazed windows ensure comfort despite exposed position while framing views of waves crashing below. Engineers anchored the entire building on deep piles driven into the cliff to combat erosion, incorporating resilient materials suitable for salty air and high winds. The annexe, formerly The Eye and now Crest View, adds another 2,000 square feet with three bedrooms, its own infinity terrace or hot tub area, and independent access—ideal for guests or multi-generational living. Inside, the blank-canvas finish allows new owners to customize kitchens, bathrooms, and decor to personal taste. Spacious open-plan living areas flow seamlessly onto terraces, while the tower provides private retreats with dramatic vistas. The three-acre grounds include landscaped gardens, pathways, and ample parking, all designed to maximize privacy and capitalize on the natural topography. Moreover, the property’s innovative engineering not only secures it against coastal threats but also sets a benchmark for sustainable clifftop architecture that respects the environment while embracing modern luxury. The Sale Journey: From £10 Million Listing to Successful Completion After completion around 2022, the owners listed Chesil Cliff House and its annexe together via Knight Frank in July 2022 with a combined guide price of £10 million, positioning it as one of the most expensive coastal properties per square foot in the region. Potential buyers reportedly included high-profile names like Harry Styles, though no sale materialized initially. Price reductions followed: to £7.5 million, then £6.5 million for the main house, and eventually separate listings. Debt pressures led to receivers (Savills acting on behalf of joint receivers) relisting the main house at a knockdown £5.25 million in early 2024. After active marketing through 2024, the sale completed in October 2024 for approximately £4.35 million to an anonymous private buyer. Edward Short expressed relief and closure, noting he had mentally moved on but joked about buying lottery tickets in hopes of reclaiming the property one day. The new owners now enjoy this completed masterpiece that once symbolized struggle but now represents triumph and a fresh chapter. Nearby Attractions and Why North Devon Captivates Visitors Beyond the house itself, the area offers endless exploration. Walk the South West Coast Path to Baggy Point for cliff-top hikes and birdwatching. Explore Braunton Burrows’ dunes on guided tours to see rare flora and fauna protected by UNESCO status. Surf lessons at Croyde or Saunton cater to all levels, while family-friendly beaches provide safe swimming and rockpooling. Food lovers enjoy fresh seafood in local pubs and cafes, and cultural sites like Arlington Court or the Big Sheep attraction add variety. Furthermore, day trips to Exmoor National Park or Lundy Island by boat expand the adventure possibilities, ensuring the location delivers year-round appeal for nature enthusiasts, surfers, hikers, and families. Lessons from the Chesil Cliff House Saga for Future Self-Builders This project teaches valuable lessons about realistic budgeting, contingency planning for site-specific challenges like coastal conditions, the importance of experienced contractors, and the emotional toll of long builds. Edward’s perseverance shows that determination can overcome setbacks, while the amicable family outcome underscores the value of communication and support networks. Aspiring builders should consult local planning authorities early, factor in erosion risks, and prioritize sustainable features to create lasting homes that enhance rather than harm their surroundings. FAQs About Chesil Cliff House 1. What exactly is Chesil Cliff House and why is it famous? Chesil Cliff House, now rebranded as The Crest with annexe Crest View, is a luxury five-bedroom clifftop mansion in Croyde, North Devon, designed in a modern Art Deco lighthouse style. It gained worldwide fame through its 2019 Grand Designs episode, which documented a 12-year build filled with financial, engineering, and personal challenges that viewers called the saddest ever. The home’s spectacular location, infinity pool, panoramic views, and story of redemption after debt and divorce make it iconic in British property television and architecture discussions. 2. Where is Chesil Cliff House located precisely and what makes the setting special? The property sits on a three-acre clifftop plot in Croyde, North Devon, overlooking Saunton Sands, Croyde Beach, and the Atlantic Ocean, within the North Devon Coast AONB and adjacent to Braunton Burrows UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and National Trust’s Baggy Point. This prime spot delivers unparalleled sea views, direct beach access proximity, surfing opportunities, coastal walks, and wildlife viewing, combining privacy with easy access to vibrant surf culture and natural wonders that attract visitors globally. 3. How long did the construction of Chesil Cliff House actually take and what were the main challenges? Planned for 18 months starting around 2011-2012 after demolition of the 1950s house, the build extended to 11-12 years and completed around 2022. Key challenges included excavating into unstable cliffs, installing deep pile foundations for erosion protection, severe weather delays, difficult site access for materials, skyrocketing costs due to complex engineering, funding shortages requiring multiple loans and investor involvement, and the overall scale of the ambitious lighthouse-inspired design in an exposed coastal environment. 4. What are the main features and layout of the main house and annexe? The main 6,500 sq ft house offers five bedrooms (many en-suite), four reception rooms, a four-storey tower with a 360-degree storm room, infinity pool, sauna, cellar, and extensive triple-glazed glass walls for ocean views throughout. The 2,000 sq ft annexe provides three bedrooms, bathrooms, and an infinity terrace or hot tub area with independent access. Both structures feature white render, Art Deco curves, terraces, and blank-canvas interiors ready for personalization, all on landscaped grounds with privacy-focused design. 5. How much did Chesil Cliff House cost to build and sell for ultimately? The original budget was £1.8 million, but costs ballooned significantly beyond £6 million amid overruns, leading to reported debts up to £7 million. It listed initially at £10 million combined in 2022, underwent successive reductions, and sold via receivers in October 2024 for approximately £4.35 million—well below later asking prices of £5.25 million—marking the end of the financial saga for the original owner. 6. What happened to the original owners Edward and Hazel Short after the Grand Designs episode? The intense stress from the prolonged build and debts contributed to the breakdown of their marriage after 20 years, though they divorced Aldi Pay Rise amicably and remain best friends and part of a larger blended family. Edward retrained as a prison officer, relocated to Bath, and has expressed relief at the sale while jokingly hoping to repurchase the home someday. Hazel moved on with a new partner, and the family overall reports greater happiness post-project. 7. Can visitors stay at or tour Chesil Cliff House now that it has sold? No, Chesil Cliff House is now a private residential home owned by an anonymous buyer who completed the purchase in October 2024. It is not available for holiday rentals, public tours, or visits. However, enthusiasts can admire the exterior from public coastal paths or beaches below, and explore the surrounding Croyde and Saunton Benjamin Guinness areas through local accommodations, surf schools, and walking trails that offer similar stunning views. 8. Why is the property sometimes still referred to as Chesil Cliff House despite the name change? The original name Chesil Cliff House derives from its clifftop location and lighthouse theme (possibly referencing Chesil-like pebble beaches or historical lighthouse associations in the area). Media, fans of Grand Designs, and online discussions continue using the famous original name for recognition, even though estate agents marketed it as The Crest (main house) and Crest View (annexe) during sales. 9. What engineering solutions protect Chesil Cliff House from coastal erosion and weather? Engineers installed deep piles anchored firmly into the cliff’s mudstone and granite bedrock to stabilize the structure against erosion, landslides, and Balfour Beatty storm surges. Triple glazing on all sea-facing windows withstands high winds and salt spray, while the elevated position, robust white render, and curved design minimize wind resistance. The site-specific adaptations reflect careful planning to ensure longevity in one of Britain’s most exposed coastal locations. 10. What makes North Devon around Croyde an ideal place to live or visit beyond just the house? North Devon combines golden sandy beaches perfect for surfing and family days out, extensive coastal walking paths, protected dune ecosystems teeming with wildlife, historic villages with great pubs and seafood, proximity to Exmoor for moorland adventures, and a laid-back surf culture that attracts people of all ages. The mild climate, community spirit, and mix of outdoor activities, nature reserves, and cultural sites create a high quality of life that draws permanent residents, second-home owners, and tourists year-round, enhancing the appeal of properties like Chesil Cliff House. In conclusion, Chesil Cliff House exemplifies both the rewards and risks of pursuing extraordinary dreams in spectacular locations. Its transformation Unlocking the Universal Credit from a troubled project to a sold coastal icon inspires anyone interested in architecture, self-building, or Devon living. Whether you admire it from afar on a coastal walk or study its story for personal projects, the home continues to spark conversation about ambition, resilience, and the timeless allure of the British coastline. For the latest property news or travel tips to North Devon, explore local tourism sites and follow updates on similar luxury coastal homes. 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