Dartmouth's Paradise Point restored to greater glory

Paradise Point was once known as Ravensbury and was the home of Dartmouth yachtsman, photographer and scientific shell collector Vernon MacAndrew whose blue plaque was recently added to that of engineer and calculating prodigy George Parker Bidder.

Built in 1850 to replace Paradise Fort, it is now the home of Chris and Julie Jelf is Grade II listed with five bedrooms and gardens offering stunning views of Dartmouth, Kingswear and the surrounds.

The house boast a snug, bar, cinema room, a drawing room, a wraparound orangery and a comprehensive basement wine cellar.

There is also access to a jetty and a brand new boat house is nearing completion.

With parking in the area at a premium there are six spaces on the private driveway.

Chris thinks Vernon and George would have approved of the restoration: “I think it's a wonderful property and Vernon's given us the opportunity and real privilege to showcase the house..

“I thought the photographs he produced of the property when there was no other property around it was pretty special.

Back in 2023 the house was on the market for £7.75 million but the couple now plan to retire there.

The Jelfs moved in 18 years ago and at that time it had been split in two with an elderly couple living in the other half.

When the gentleman passed away his partner offered to sell the other half to the Jelfs who turned it back into one property.

The house had its ups and downs over the years with periods of under investment, something that the Jelfs have been able to put right.

Chris explains about the transformation: “I think we've got the biggest mortgage in Devon, it has been expensive but it's been a real joy to see the house coming back to its former glory.

“We're only passing through aren't we so we are its custodians.”