An exceptional Victorian family home of considerable character, set within beautifully maintained gardens and complemented by a charming detached holiday cottage.
The Laurels is a handsome and substantial period residence dating to circa 1850 and believed to have been designed by the renowned Victorian architect William Butterfield. Occupying a delightful setting within a conservation area and surrounded by beautiful countryside, the property has evolved sympathetically over the years through a series of carefully considered extensions, including an impressive oak-framed addition. The result is a beautifully balanced family home combining architectural heritage with modern comfort and practicality.
The welcoming reception hall provides an elegant introduction to the house, with a guest cloakroom and access to the principal reception rooms. The sitting room is a wonderfully inviting space featuring exposed timber flooring, dual-aspect windows and an attractive stone fireplace. Equally appealing is the cosy snug, centred around a wood-burning stove with bespoke alcove storage, creating the perfect retreat for quieter evenings.
Undoubtedly the heart of the home is the stunning open-plan kitchen and dining room. Enhanced by the oak-framed extension, this exceptional space is flooded with natural light and enjoys lovely views across the gardens and surrounding countryside. The kitchen is beautifully appointed with bespoke cabinetry, granite work surfaces, a central island unit and an electric Aga, complemented by a Quooker boiling water tap and a useful walk-in pantry. Underfloor heating adds further comfort, making this a practical and sociable space for everyday family life and entertaining alike.
Beyond the kitchen is a well-equipped boot room with extensive storage, alongside a utility room, study and adjoining workshop/store, all thoughtfully designed to support modern living.
The first floor accommodation is arranged around a central landing and includes an impressive principal bedroom suite enjoying dual-aspect views across the surrounding landscape. The suite benefits from a generous walk-in dressing room and a beautifully appointed en suite bathroom, refurbished in recent years. Three more double bedrooms are served by a family bathroom, whilst a further bedroom is currently used as a dedicated home office, which provides an ideal environment for those working remotely.
A notable highlight of this property is the charming detached cottage, currently operated as a thriving holiday let. It also offers versatile potential as an annexe, ideal for teenagers or elderly relatives. Rich in character, the cottage boasts a welcoming sitting room with a log-burning stove and a striking vaulted open-apex ceiling, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The accommodation includes a well-appointed kitchen and dining area, a comfortable double bedroom, and a modern shower room. Outside, a private, sun-drenched courtyard provides an idyllic outdoor space, perfect for guests to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
The Laurels is approached via a gravelled driveway flanked by mature planting and attractive apple trees. The south-west facing gardens have been beautifully maintained and provide a wonderful setting for the house, comprising manicured lawns, established borders and a variety of seating areas positioned to enjoy the sunshine throughout the day. Beyond the gardens, open countryside provides a picturesque backdrop and enhances the property's sense of privacy and tranquillity.
Combining period elegance, architectural pedigree and versatile accommodation, The Laurels presents a rare opportunity to acquire a distinguished family home with the added benefit of an established income-generating cottage, all within an idyllic rural setting.
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What I love most about The Laurels is the way the house blends period character with modern family living. The oak-framed kitchen extension is a truly exceptional space; flooded with natural light and enjoying wonderful views across the gardens and countryside.
Ed StoyleProperty agent