The History of Seafield House in Westward Ho!
Seafield House is believed to have been built around 1885 as a summer residence for Brinsley de Courcy Nixon, a wealthy London banker and former political candidate originally from Ireland. It is considered one of the oldest surviving buildings in Westward Ho! and has occupied its prominent position above the coast for well over a century.
Over the years, the house has been used as a private residence and guest accommodation. As its condition gradually deteriorated and the building became less accessible, stories and rumours surrounding Seafield House grew.
Its distinctive appearance, empty rooms and position overlooking the sea led to it becoming widely known as the Westward Ho! haunted house. Local history tours and community events have previously explored the house’s past, adding further to its reputation as one of the village’s most intriguing landmarks.
Whether you believe the ghost stories or not, there is no denying that Seafield House has captured the imagination of generations of Westward Ho! residents and visitors.
Restoring a Westward Ho! Landmark
The aim of the project is not to erase the building’s history, but to give it a future.
Braddicks Seafield House will be carefully restored to retain its overall Victorian character while introducing the space, comfort and facilities expected from a modern luxury holiday home.
The proposed transformation includes:
- Luxury accommodation sleeping up to 18 guests
- A distinctive interior inspired by the history of the house
- The restoration of original and traditional features where possible
- Contemporary design introduced sensitively throughout
- Two new extensions designed to make the most of the coastal setting
- Generous spaces for families and groups to stay together
- Views across the sea and surrounding North Devon coastline
The result will combine the atmosphere and architectural character of Seafield House with a fresh, contemporary approach to coastal living. Plans for the restoration and conversion have previously attracted considerable local attention, with early designs offering a glimpse of how the landmark could be brought back into use.
A House Shaped by Its Coastal Location
Seafield House occupies a remarkable position on the edge of Westward Ho!, with views along the rugged coastline and across Bideford Bay.
The new extensions have been designed to capture these views from both inside and outside the property, creating a stronger connection between the house and the landscape surrounding it.
Large windows, carefully positioned living areas and outdoor spaces will allow future guests to experience the changing light, sea and weather that make this part of North Devon so special.
The design will be contemporary where it needs to be, but the house’s Victorian appearance and unmistakable silhouette will remain at the heart of the project.
Can You Visit Braddicks Seafield House?
Seafield House is not currently open as a general visitor attraction, and access to the property is limited while the restoration project progresses.
One of the few opportunities to experience the house more closely may be available to couples celebrating their wedding at The Pier House
By prior arrangement, couples may be able to use Seafield House as a location for part of their wedding photography. Its atmospheric rooms, distinctive architecture and extraordinary coastal setting can provide a backdrop unlike almost anywhere else in North Devon.
Availability is limited and access must be agreed with the Pier House wedding team in advance.
Is Seafield House Really Haunted?
Seafield House has long been known locally as Westward Ho!’s haunted house, but many of the stories surrounding it form part of local folklore rather than documented history.
Its age, isolated clifftop setting and periods when the building appeared empty have undoubtedly helped the rumours to grow.
For some people, it will always be the haunted house. For others, it is an important Victorian building and a memorable part of the Westward Ho! skyline.
Whatever your view, the mystery surrounding Seafield House is now part of its story, and something the restoration will celebrate rather than hide.
Follow the Restoration of Braddicks Seafield House
Restoring a historic property of this scale takes time, care and a willingness to expect the unexpected.
This page will be updated as work progresses, sharing news, photographs and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the transformation.
Braddicks Seafield House has watched over Westward Ho! for more than a century. Its next chapter is only just beginning.
