EX-STREAMLY APPEALING

WANDERING down a single track lane surrounded by rolling countryside and leafy woodland it would be hard not to imagine the idyllic lifestyle that awaits anyone who moves to this quiet and hidden little valley.

Stroll down the slope and tucked away within the dell and foliage is a magical country cottage that promises a classic escape to the country from the outside and certainly delivers this on the inside.

The first glimpse of the cottage is an exposed stone wall and chimney and a white-washed facade.

Through the gate and any potential buyer should stop and take in the views of the pretty landscaped garden first.

Charming meandering stone steps lead you down to a hidden stone bridge over a sparkling mountain stream; imagine waking up to the sound of running water every day – and not because you left the bathroom tap on!

The current owners have worked hard on this outside space to create an oasis of calm flanked by terraces of shrubs and a sloping hillside of small trees.

It all looks very natural and organic down to clever design.

Arguably the best spot in the garden is the island of lawn that overlooks the stream, who wouldn’t feel calm relaxing in this sheltered spot surrounded by all facets of nature?

There’s also a wildlife pond, two greenhouses and a garden store to discover.

It’s not all cute at this property though. Opposite the cottage, across the country lane there is a paddock with a shelter and a log store, so the horse will be happy. And yes, the paddock is pretty much hidden from view too.

Back over the lane to the cute porch and the anticipation of what awaits inside builds; the cottage delivers on the expectation of classic country cottage interior design but modern additions means it’s a comfortable as well as stylish home.

Whether you like country cottage styling or not, there are certain elements that are “must-haves” to achieve the look.

Of course, the cottage assists with its period structure and features, so ceiling beams, flagstone floors and an incredible inglenook fireplace in the dining room set a perfect country cottage stage.

The current owners have then added their decor to the performance to produce a visually pleasing and cohesive scheme.

The front porch leads into the dining room that can boast the best fireplace in the property, an impressive inglenook with open, roaring fire. The structure is so large you could easily stand within it.

The current owners are using this room for dining with the room next door allocated as the lounge, although they could easily be altered to suit the next owner.

From the dining room, step into the kitchen which is a space that has country style but with a more modern twist.

The units are bespoke to be built into the unique spaces available, integrated appliances and topped with black granite, but maybe you were expecting a solid wood country kitchen?

The choice of a Shaker style in a clotted cream shade with rustic hands certainly provides rural charm.

The range cooker screams classic country and the addition of a slate floor visually connects this space to the rest of the house.

Add the ceiling beam and wooden door to the garden and this room oozes character but with modern convenience.

The lounge is a generous space with charming original features and double doors flowing into the garden room.

The dramatic flagstone floor and solid beams have been softened by soft furnishings including rugs, throws and cushions.

The introduction of a warm colour palette and multiple patterns and tactile faux fur and wool provide visual warmth to add to the actual warmth radiating from the log burner.

The cosy space leads into the garden room that could have been a disappointment in its design, but the current owners have clearly put thought into this bonus space too.

The multi-paned wrap-around windows give the room a period feel more like an orangery than a modern conservatory, and proved a special spot to feel surrounded by the glorious garden even on a rainy day.

Upstairs and there are two bedrooms and a bathroom to complete the accommodation. Both bedrooms are surprisingly spacious for a cottage, with the ceiling semi-elevated into the roof space to provide additional head space.

Both rooms have original floorboards, beams and cute windows to provide the character while the pretty floral patterns, soft colours and tactile fabrics provide the interiors charm.

The decor in the family bathroom has been chosen to continue the

country style but also optimise the space.

So the bath is built-in with feature wood panelling that continues around the room, as does the tiling, and this helps to make the space visually flow rather than hard and noticeable edges.

The soft pastel colour palette and use of natural materials such as wood continues but an accent of country heather brings depth and warmth.

The oversized mirror assists in the dispersal of light from the window, which is located at the end of the bath.

Even whilst having a relax in the bubbles views of the garden and its wildlife are instantly accessible.