A remarkable wing of a historic five bedroom county house set within around 0.64 acres.
A substantial and enchanting wing of a distinguished country house, Barrie House occupies a place of exceptional literary significance as the former summer home of J. M. Barrie, author of Peter Pan. Rich in history, character and architectural interest, the property is complemented by a self-contained one bedroom annexe, delightful gardens and a double garage.
Between 1901 and 1908, J. M. Barrie and his wife, the actress Mary Ansell, lived at what was then known as Black Lake Cottage. It was here, amidst the surrounding woodland and beside Black Lake, that Barrie was inspired to write the stories of Peter Pan, while spending time with the Llewelyn Davies boys. The original house, now known as Lobswood Manor, was divided into three residences in the late 1970s, with Barrie House forming the front portion and retaining a wealth of original features and an enduring sense of charm.
The front door opens into an entrance lobby adorned with oak panelling, leading through to the main hall with staircase, exposed timbers and a strong sense of period character.
The sitting room, enjoying a front aspect, enjoys an impressive inglenook feature fireplace with an attractive carved timber beam above, believed to originate from a 16th century ship. The dining room is equally atmospheric, centred around a stone fireplace with timber mantel and recessed bookshelves, and provides access through to the kitchen.
The open plan kitchen is well appointed, fitted with an AGA, an extensive range of units and space for a dishwasher and single oven. This opens seamlessly into a vaulted breakfast and family room, flooded with natural light from skylight windows and enjoying views over the garden, with double doors providing direct access outside. A useful utility room offers space for a washing machine and tumble dryer.
Stairs lead down to a heated cellar, providing valuable additional storage. The main house offers four double bedrooms, all with en suite bath or shower rooms, including a ground floor bedroom suite ideally suited to guests.
The self-contained annexe, which could be effortlessly re incorporated into the main house via original oak double doors currently concealed behind a stud partition, benefits from its own private entrance. The accommodation comprises a kitchen, shower room, dual aspect bedroom and a sitting/dining room with double doors opening onto a charming private garden with terrace, lawn and mature borders, together with a gate providing access into the main garden.
Outside, the rear garden is a particular delight, mainly laid to lawn and bordered by well stocked planted beds, mature rhododendrons and established planting, offering a high degree of privacy and seclusion. A useful garden shed is discreetly positioned within the grounds.
A double garage with boarded loft provides excellent storage and there is driveway parking for a number of vehicles
Barrie House represents a rare opportunity to acquire a home of genuine historic and literary importance, combining period elegance, versatile accommodation and beautifully established gardens in an exceptional setting.
View payable Stamp Duty for this property
I love the history and character of this house, along with the flexibility of having a separate annexe.
Helen PackProperty agent