Kentisbury Grange, a Grade II former gentleman’s residence, stands as a testament to historical elegance and social significance in North Devon. Built-in 1894 by Mr. Oliver Openshaw, a Lancashire cotton merchant, the Grange and Coach House are exemplary of the era’s architectural style, blending Regency understatement with Victorian Gothic features. This unique combination has earned the property high praise from English Heritage for its exceptional standard, particularly notable in the North Devon region.
While the Openshaw family’s history remains partially veiled in mystery, it is known that Mrs. Oliver Openshaw resided in the Grange until possibly as late as 1957. The Coach House holds a poignant piece of history, having served as a dormitory and schoolroom for children evacuated from Plymouth during the 1940s bombings.