About Scorlinch Farm and Clyst St Lawrence
Meet Hannah & David
Hannah and David bought Scorlinch in 2011 knowing they were taking on a significant project and also a career change: David becoming a full-time farmer and Hannah handling much of the planning and administration. When they arrived, the farmhouse and farm were derelict and two years of rebuilding had to happen before moving into the house. With that completed in 2013, they turned their hands to the land. They are gradually transforming the outbuildings into a liveable space. They now have a pedigree Poll Dorset flock of sheep and a thriving turkey and egg business. In 2018, they launched the amazing converted milking parlour with a swim spa, hot tub and steam room/sauna, which also provided the opportunity for great wet weather plans for guests.
David and Hannah are committed to a carbon neutral set up and have tried to ensure the least environmental impact from their farm, creating a place where nature can thrive. They are surrounded by organically farmed land. The house runs off biomass for heating, solar for much of its electricity and its water system is off the water grid. There is very little light pollution at Scorlinch, so the stars are fantastic on a clear night and the wildlife is amazing: at night you see bats and if you are lucky then you might see the owls. There is also very little noise beyond that of nature. There is an abundance of flora and fauna, and also some less common sightings: Peregrine falcons, deer, foxes, badgers and stoats to name a few. The willow they have planted and the tidying up of hedgerows means they are attracting a good number of insects and you can spot some beautiful butterflies at certain times of year.
The History of Clyst St Lawrence and Scorlinch Farm
In the beautiful East Devon countryside, about eight miles northeast of Exeter, is our charming little village of Clyst St Lawrence. With a population of just 105 people as of the 2001 census, this quiet parish may be small, but its history is anything but.
Scorlinch Farm: A Slice of History
At the heart of this farming tradition lies Scorlinch Farm, a significant part of the village’s story. Originally known as Schorelench, the farm is believed to date back to the 1400s. While the exact date isn’t set in stone, the Millennium village map marks its origins around 1420, hinting at a rich and long-standing history.
For centuries, Scorlinch Farm has been more than just a working farm; it has been a home and a symbol of the village’s agricultural roots. The farmhouse, with its characterful architecture, reflects the passage of time and the generations that have lived and worked there. It’s a living piece of history that ties the present-day village to its medieval past.
What’s in a Name?
The village takes its name from the River Clyst, which winds its way through the area. The name “Clyst” comes from an ancient word meaning “wash” or “cleanse,” a nod to the river’s importance in daily life. As for “St Lawrence”? That part comes from the village’s patron saint, adding a spiritual touch to its name.
A Medieval Beginning
Clyst St Lawrence has roots that go way back, over 900 years, in fact. It even gets a mention in the Domesday Book of 1086, which was essentially England’s first great survey. Back then, life revolved around farming, and the village has kept that rural character ever since.
The Heart of the Village: The Church of St Lawrence
The village’s pride and joy is undoubtedly its parish church, dedicated to St Lawrence. Parts of the church date back as far as 1203, making it a real treasure trove of history. One of the standout features is the original granite font, which has been used for baptisms for over 800 years.
Most of the church we see today, though, was built in the 15th century. It’s a lovely, simple building, but there’s plenty to catch the eye. The west tower, for instance, houses a rare medieval statue of the Madonna and Child, one of the few you’ll find in Devon. Inside, there’s a beautiful 16th-century rood screen, as well as some intricate carvings and medieval roof bosses (those little decorative knobs you see on ceilings).
Life in the Village
Clyst St Lawrence has always been a small, tight-knit community. Back in 1901, just over 100 people lived here, and that number hasn’t changed much since. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows everyone, and life moves at a gentler pace.
Keeping the Past Alive
Today, Clyst St Lawrence is a lovely blend of past and present. The Church of St Lawrence remains a central part of village life, hosting everything from Sunday services to community events. And thanks to efforts to preserve its historic buildings and traditions, the village’s story is being kept alive for future generations to enjoy.
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