Exceptional lifestyle property in an enviable setting in over 18 acres and adjoining the edge of a National Landscape (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty)
Originally established as a dairy farm, the estate centres on an elegant Victorian farmhouse together with an impressive collection of traditional brick with slate and pantile outbuildings dating from the mid-19th century, several of which have since been thoughtfully converted for residential and commercial use.
Extending to just over 18 acres, the property has evolved into a well-established and highly versatile rural estate, combining private family living with a range of income-generating enterprises including livery potential, holiday or residential lettings, and secure classic car storage facilities. The flexibility of the estate is reflected in both the arrangement of the accommodation and the adaptability of the extensive outbuildings.
The principal farmhouse is a handsome Victorian residence, accompanied by an attached annexe, readily incorporated into the main house through connecting doors if desired. At the heart of the home lies an impressive kitchen and breakfast room, featuring a traditional pantry, electric Aga, central island with breakfast bar, granite work surfaces and a comprehensive range of integrated appliances including a wine fridge. Adjoining are a practical utility room, boot room and dog kennel with external run. The kitchen flows seamlessly into a substantial conservatory enjoying east, south and west-facing aspects, with bifold doors allowing flexibility between the spaces; both rooms benefit from underfloor heating.
The principal reception rooms are beautifully interconnected, creating exceptional spaces for entertaining and family living. These include a superb drawing room with an open fireplace and door opening onto the terrace, an elegant dining room with further open fire, and a more intimate sitting room centred around a wood-burning stove.
The first floor provides four bedrooms and three contemporary bath/shower rooms, with the smaller bedroom currently arranged as a study. Occupying the entirety of the second floor is a highly versatile principal suite or guest accommodation, complete with dressing area and bathroom, exposed roof trusses, roof lights and far-reaching views.
The Granary
Converted in 2006 from a traditional granary building, The Granary is an exceptional detached residence extending to almost 2,900 sq ft. Finished to a high specification throughout, it enjoys its own driveway, garage with EV charging point, landscaped gardens and sheltered courtyard.
The focal point of the house is a dramatic open-plan kitchen, dining and living space with vaulted ceiling, floor-to-ceiling glazing and French doors opening onto the courtyard garden. Further accommodation includes two reception rooms, one with fireplace and garden access, the other with woodburner and outside access, together with a large utility room.
On the first floor are three generously proportioned en suite bedrooms, including a particularly impressive principal suite with triple-aspect views across open countryside. One bathroom incorporates an integrated waterproof television and infinity mirror. Previously operated as an award-winning 5* Gold holiday let, The Granary is currently let.
Stables Cottage - Annexe
Attached to the farmhouse, Stables Cottage is an attractive two-storey cottage with independent access, as well as doors to the main house and garden, along with a patio garden and allocated parking. The accommodation includes a fitted kitchen/breakfast room, sitting room with wood-burning stove, cloakroom, two first-floor bedrooms and a bathroom. Suitable for staff accommodation.
Electric gates open onto a sweeping driveway leading through the paddocks to the farmhouse and principal buildings across the estate. The gardens surround the house and feature paved terraces, mature trees, established borders and a striking curved brick wall. Beyond, the land extends to just over 18 acres, including grazing paddocks, woodland with private walks, a pond and a range of equestrian and ancillary outbuildings.
A modern agricultural-style barn has been converted into a secure, classic car storage facility with capacity for approximately forty vehicles, incorporating dehumidification systems and vehicle lifts. Opposite is an additional building comprising office accommodation with kitchenette and WC, together with a dedicated valeting bay equipped with inspection lighting, lift and mezzanine storage, and garaging.
The stable yard includes six loose boxes, one of which has been adapted as a pellet store, with convenient access to the paddocks beyond. Former dairy buildings provide extensive ancillary accommodation including garaging, workshop and office space, together with a gardener’s WC and a polytunnel structure.
View payable Stamp Duty for this property
Cheese Vat Farm is one of those rare country properties that effortlessly combines lifestyle and versatility. I was particularly struck by the balance between the beautifully presented farmhouse, the exceptional range of ancillary accommodation and the income-generating potential, all set within glorious countryside on the edge of the Howardian Hills. It is an estate that offers as much for family living as it does for business or leisure pursuits.
Ed StoyleProperty agent