Period home set in a truly unique waterside plot including a river meadow island. Cambridge and London are within easy reach. Tucked away at the end of a sought-after no-through lane on the edge of a charming village, Watermill House is a rare gema period home nestled within a breathtaking riverside setting of almost 10 acres, including a private water meadow island. With Cambridge and London easily accessible, this is countryside living without compromise, the well served village is just a short walk. From the moment you arrive, the magic of this home begins to unfold. A gravel driveway leads to the wisteria-draped front façade, where the house sits elegantly at the water's edge. Here, privacy and tranquillity reign, and the only sounds are birdsong and the gentle flow of the river.Inside, the house is filled with character and charm. There are four inviting reception rooms, including a study with parquet flooring and a wood-burning stove, a beautifully light sitting room with a walk-out bay window, and a vaulted ceiling garden room that invites the outside in. Many rooms enjoy uninterrupted river views or open directly onto the gardens, making this a home that truly connects with its surroundings.Upstairs, there are five generously sized double bedrooms, served by a stylish family bathroom. The principal suite enjoys its own ensuite and a picture window that perfectly frames the river open countryside beyond.Outside, the grounds are a haven of natural beautysweeping lawns, a wildflower meadow, a thriving orchard, and a productive kitchen garden all play their part. Two bridges, maintained by the Environment Agency, provide access first to a smaller island and then on to the main river meadow island, ideal for private picnics, wild swimming, or simply escaping the everyday.Mature trees, open countryside, and flowing water surround the property on all sides, offering a lifestyle that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustleyet with easy access to nearby towns, city connections, and excellent schools.Additional features include a secondary driveway, garage, workshop, and storeall contributing to the property's practical appeal.Seller Insight Set along the tranquil banks of the River Great Ouse, Watermill House is a distinguished Grade II listed home dating back to the early 18th century. Surrounded by approximately 10 acres of enchanting grounds, it offers a rare combination of period elegance, natural beauty, and privacy all within the heart of the sought-after Cambridgeshire village of Hemingford Grey.We knew it was special the moment we saw it, say the current owners, who have cherished the property for nearly three decades. The setting with its open space, character, and peaceful riverside location felt like the perfect place to raise a young family. It gave us the best of both worlds: a sense of complete seclusion and nature, yet just a short stroll to the village centre, and across the meadows to St Ives.Originally modernised in 1979 by an architect, the house cleverly blends its historic charm with stylish functionality. The River Room is one of our favourite spaces with its double-height ceiling and beautiful natural light, it's ideal for entertaining. The layout of the ground floor flows so well rooms interconnect seamlessly, making it perfect for hosting both intimate dinners and larger gatherings.The dining room offers a particularly cosy atmosphere with its exposed beams, impressive fireplace, and garden views through a large window. Step outside, and the magic of the grounds reveals itself: There's a patio just a few feet from the water perfect for al fresco dining. We've held many garden parties here, with plenty of room for guests and even parking.Beyond the formal gardens lie wildflower meadows, an orchard, a vegetable plot, and a walled garden with a workshop and a charming semi-derelict building an exciting project for someone looking to create a studio or home office, the owners suggest. Two islands, accessible by bridges, add a sense of adventure to the landscape.The river frontage is a true highlight, they add. It includes mooring with landing stage and fishing rights, and watching the kingfishers and otters has been an unforgettable part of living here. The views across the river toward St Ives are simply breathtaking.Located at the end of a quiet no-through lane, the home enjoys a peaceful setting without passing traffic. And the village itself is a treasure: Hemingford Grey has a wonderful community spirit, with a historic church, a sports centre, a fantastic pub, and The Manor one of the oldest continually inhabited houses in the country. There's even an annual regatta, believed to be the oldest inland one in the UK.Village Information The Hemingfords (Abbots and Grey) are situated along the banks of the River Great Ouse and are well-known as a very picturesque and sought-after Cambridgeshire village. Much of the villages are in a Conservation Area with many thatched cottages and barns and other architecturally important buildings such as the Grade I listed church with its spire being a landmark for miles around the Ouse valley. Hemingford Abbots has excellent facilities: across the road from the Axe & Compass pub is the purpose-built Village Hall and playing field. The playing field with open grassland is equipped with modern children's play equipment. The village shares many facilities with neighbouring Hemingford Grey: village shop, post office, primary school and sports pitches and the award winning Cock pub. Between the two villages there are a variety of clubs, societies and activities such as the annual Regatta and biennial Flower Festival. Transport The Hemingfords sit between the towns of Huntingdon and St Ives where a wider selection of shops, restaurants and leisure facilities are available. The newly modified A14 provides quick and easy access into Cambridge and links to the A1, M11 and the national motorway network. Huntingdon has a railway station, approx. 10 minutes' drive away, with fast trains into London King's Cross in approx. 50 minutes and links to the North via Peterborough whilst St Ives offers the Guided Busway service to the Cambridge Science Park and city centre. Education There is a good selection of primary schools including: Hemingford Grey Primary and Houghton Primary, both Ofsted rated: Good. There are also several well-regarded secondary schools in the neighbouring towns such as Hinchingbrooke school in Huntingdon and St Ivo Academy in St Ives. Independent schools in Cambridge and Kimbolton are also within easy reach.Agents Notes Tenure: Freehold Year Built: Early 18th Century EPC: Exempt Grade II Listed Local Authority: Huntingdonshire District Council Council Tax Band: HIMPORTANT NOTE TO PURCHASERS: We endeavour to make our sales particulars accurate and reliable, however, they do not constitute or form part of an offer or any contract and none is to be relied upon as statements of representation or fact. Any services, systems and appliances listed in this specification have not been tested by us and no guarantee as to their operating ability or efficiency is given. All measurements have been taken as a guide to prospective buyers only, and are not precise. Please be advised that some of the particulars may be awaiting vendor approval. If you require clarification or further information on any points, please contact us, especially if you are traveling some distance to view. Fixtures and fittings other than those mentioned are to be agreed with the seller.FCY240119
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