An exceptional village house of considerable character and distinction, offering beautifully balanced family accommodation, outstanding gardens and excellent accessibility to Stamford, Peterborough and London.

Situation

Occupying a delightful position within the historic village of Water Newton, this remarkable Grade II listed former coaching inn enjoys an enviable setting amidst some of Cambridgeshire's most attractive countryside. Set beside the River Nene, Water Newton is a picturesque village steeped in history, renowned as the site of Durobrivae, an important Roman garrison town established in the 1st century AD and internationally recognised for the discovery of the Water Newton Treasure, the earliest known collection of Christian silver from the Roman Empire.

The village enjoys a thriving community atmosphere and is surrounded by an extensive network of footpaths and bridleways that meander through woodland, open countryside and along the riverbank. The land is owned and managed by the Nene Park Trust, providing miles of scenic walking routes connecting to Ferry Meadows and the wider Nene Valley.

The historic market town of Stamford lies approximately 8 miles to the north-west and offers an exceptional range of independent shops, restaurants, cafés, leisure facilities and highly regarded schools. Peterborough station, approximately 11 miles away, provides regular rail services to London King's Cross in around one hour, making the property ideally suited to both family life and commuting.

The Property

Believed to date from the mid-18th century, this handsome former coaching inn presents beautifully proportioned accommodation extending across three floors. Constructed of coursed limestone rubble beneath traditional Collyweston stone slate roofs, the property retains a wealth of architectural character and period detailing, seamlessly combined with the comforts of modern family living.

Approached through an attractive open porch, the front door opens into a welcoming reception hall where original flagstone flooring and an impressive staircase immediately establish the home's rich heritage. High ceilings, generous proportions and an abundance of natural light are recurring themes throughout.

To one side of the hall lies the impressive drawing room, a wonderfully light space centred around an attractive fireplace with wood-burning stove and framed by tall sash windows. Opposite, the dining room provides an elegant setting for formal entertaining, featuring exposed timber flooring and a striking inglenook fireplace with wood burner.

At the heart of the house is the characterful kitchen and breakfast room, fitted with bespoke cabinetry and complemented by beautiful reclaimed timber flooring and historic courthouse doors. A concealed doorway leads to a cosy family snug, creating a wonderfully versatile retreat. Beyond the kitchen is a practical secondary kitchen with vaulted ceiling, together with a utility room and cloakroom.

The principal staircase rises to a spacious first-floor landing leading to the principal bedroom suite, complete with dressing room and en suite bathroom. Two further double bedrooms and a family bathroom are also situated on this floor.

The staircase continues to the second floor, where two additional double bedrooms share a well-appointed shower room, creating ideal accommodation for older children, guests or extended family.

An attached double garage, part of which has been converted into a gym, provides excellent ancillary space, while extensive parking is available within the grounds.

Gardens and Grounds

The gardens are a particular feature of the property and have been thoughtfully designed to create a series of interconnected outdoor rooms, offering year-round interest and exceptional privacy. Parts of the garden were designed by award-winning garden designers Adam Frost and Peter Eustance, showcasing a wonderful combination of formal structure and relaxed planting.

To the front, an elegant knot garden provides an impressive introduction to the house, while pathways lead through mature lawns and established trees to a stunning sunken garden with an ornamental pond, water feature and colourful herbaceous borders.

A substantial Scandinavian-style barbecue hut creates a unique entertaining space, while beyond lies a productive kitchen garden with raised beds, potting sheds and a chicken enclosure.

The principal courtyard garden forms a natural extension of the house and provides an outstanding setting for outdoor dining and entertaining, featuring a pergola, water feature, lawned areas and a dedicated barbecue terrace.

Summary

This is an exceptional village house of considerable character and distinction, offering beautifully balanced family accommodation, outstanding gardens and excellent accessibility to Stamford, Peterborough and London. Rarely do properties combine such architectural integrity, versatile living space and enchanting grounds in such a desirable village setting.

Services

Mains water and electricity. Private drainage. Oil-fired central heating.

Tenure - Freehold.

EPC - Exempt.

Council - Tax Band G.

Local Authority - Huntingdonshire District Council.

Viewing - Strictly by appointment with Woodford & Co.