Dairy conversion, near Claygate, Chessington and Surbiton in Surrey
Dairy conversion with two bedrooms situated on a small exclusive development with equestrian facilities, near the Surrey towns of Claygate, Chessington and Surbiton and within walking distance of a railway station with links to London
Formerly a milk yard on a working farmstead, Honeysuckle Cottage at Barwell Court Farm offers a rare opportunity to acquire a property of such charm together with a remarkable combination of superb character with modern amenities.
Nestled among fields, the property, converted in 1999, offers equestrian facilities and is situated on a small exclusive development at Barwell Court Farm.
The two double bedroom, two reception room, two bathroom house, features vaulted beamed ceilings, solid oak flooring and beautiful bespoke wooden double-glazed arched windows. The front of the property looks out onto a lovely courtyard garden with a water feature, communal pergola and barbecue area, lawns, flowerbeds and a converted granary.
It is a horse enthusiasts paradise with three sets of stables on the farm offering livery and a local pony club. Honeysuckle Cottage is deliberately aimed at those who want a country life style, yet maintain excellent links to London, shopping facilities, and schools.
"We're surrounded by rolling fields and you can't see a single car from any window in our house, just a perfect contrast to a day at work in London," says the owner. "It's such an easy journey into the city but when we drive up the lane to our home we realise how lucky we are."
The owners moved to Barwell Court Farm in 1999 when the property, along with eight others, was converted from barns and outbuildings into homes.
"This was the old dairy and the arched window in the front forms the original entrance" explains Giles. "The building dates back to the 1870s and it was just a shell when I first saw it but it's one of those places that as soon as we walked through the door we knew it would be our home."
Stepping inside, the lounge and master bedroom stand out for their vaulted ceilings but the couple are particularly fond of the large conservatory which they use as a dining room.
"You can step from the conservatory into the courtyard garden but it also leads into the kitchen so it's a lovely layout and a perfect summer place where you can sit and watch the sun going down in the evening," adds the owner. "I'm a bit of a cook and like entertaining around the table over dinner with friends. It comfortably seats fourteen and we've had some great parties and Christmases."
The master bedroom and en-suite also has access through french doors onto the garden, creating another favoured area of relaxation.
"The courtyard is very secluded and we're surrounded by fields and near an equestrian area which makes living here a horse enthusiasts' paradise. My wife rides but it's also a great place for walking and often on a Sunday, we take a walk through the woods to Claygate village and then enjoy lunch in one of the lovely pubs."
Being within walking distance of a train station, which links into London, is clearly a major advantage. The towns of Claygate, Chessington and Surbiton are only a few miles away with a range of amenities, schools and high street stores, including Waitrose and Marks & Spencer.
"I always imagine this house would appeal to young professionals or a retired couple looking for peace and quiet. There's a great sense of community here and the people are really fantastic. We've loved every moment of being here because it's perfect for those wanting the country lifestyle and while we're fairly remote, we're not isolated and you can get to civilisation easily!"
