luxury houses for sale Canterbury, United Kingdom

This fabulous unique barn style property was built by the current owners some 18 years ago, so it has never previously been on the market. Located on the edge of Blean village, it offers something for everyone. If you are looking for peace, tranquility and seclusion with wonderful rural views but do not want to be isolated, this lovely family home nestles in 2.99 acres of grounds, including a large paddock, at the end of a long drive overlooking orchards but remains within walking distance of all the village amenities. The paddock has access to water and is ideal if the family enjoy horses or want to develop the ‘good life’ and have chickens, sheep or even alpacas.  Should you want to work from home undisturbed by activities in the house, there is an excellent office/studio adjoining the detached pitched roof double garage. If education is a major priority the village includes a primary school rated Outstanding by Ofsted and nearby Canterbury includes excellent grammar schools, three first class private schools and three universities. While commuters can be in London within an hour as the fast train from Canterbury West station will whisk you to St Pancras in 54 minutes. The property is approached via electric wrought iron gates that lead to a vast gravel driveway where you can park numerous vehicles. It leads to the double garage and is bordered by lawns, trees and shrub beds and provides access to the paddock. As you sweep through the gates you can enjoy your first glimpse of the appealing exterior of the property with its traditional weatherboarding, oak framed windows and doors and impressive glass sided atrium style entrance. This has French doors that open into the entrance hall with three oak fronted cupboards and oak flooring with underfloor heating that flows throughout the property and doors to the simply stunning double height lounge/diner with a vaulted ceiling. This very large double aspect light and bright room includes Velux windows and two sets of five bi-fold doors to the rear decked terrace, a large dining area and a delightful seating area with a contemporary log burner adding to the warm and friendly appeal. There is also an oak staircase with an oak and glass bannister leading to a galleried balcony overlooking the room and the guest suite that is so impressive that family and friends will never want to leave. It includes a vast trapezoid window with stunning views over the garden and the countryside beyond as well as a luxurious ensuite bathroom with a bath and separate shower. Beyond the lounge area is a cloakroom and a very spacious study overlooking the front drive which provides easy access for business visitors, while double doors from the lounge area open into an excellent family room with five bi-fold doors to a paved patio and porcelain tiled flooring. It includes surround sound and home cinema facilities. At the other end of the lounge/diner there is access to an inner hall with stairs up to the principal suite, an understairs cupboard and a door to a corridor leading to two double bedrooms with ensuite showers and views over the orchard. This area could also make an excellent ‘annex’ for adult children or elderly relatives as the larger dual aspect bedroom could always be used as a sitting room. Also off the inner hall is the superb and well-equipped kitchen with attractive units and granite worktops housing a Miele five ring gas hob, two traditional ovens, a steam oven and a combi microwave. There are two fridges and two freezers, a wine fridge, dishwasher, pull out larders, bin stores and a charming bay window breakfast area with French doors to the rear terrace.  There is also an adjacent utility room with storage and space for a washing machine/dryer, and a door to the outside. The principal bedroom suite on the first floor includes a galleried landing with eaves storage, a dressing area with a plethora of fitted cupboards, a double bedroom with delightful views and a sumptuous bathroom with a spa bath, twin basins, a bidet and a double shower. Outside the double garage with automatic doors and attached office/studio includes large, boarded storage attics and the whole building could be converted into separate accommodation, subject to planning permission. There is an outdoor toilet, a discreetly hidden bin store and two brick built dog kennels with runs as well as lovely raised flower and herb beds and a secondary seating area adjacent to the orchard. The vast decked terrace is ideal for barbecues and al fresco dining and provides the opportunity to sit and enjoy the views over the garden with its large lawns, impressive trees, shrubs and hedging.

What the Owners Say: Waltham - once called Temple Waltham after the medieval Knights Templar – is a warm, supportive community with twelfth century church, recreation ground and busy village hall surrounded by a celebrated network of scenic lanes, bridleways and footpaths. The area has riding-stables, many other opportunities for outdoor pursuits, and farm shops and traditional country pubs dotted throughout the neighbouring hamlets - including the Timber Batts at the Compasses under a mile away. Nearby Wye, Canterbury and Ashford have a good range of schools, shops, cultural attractions, restaurants and other amenities. Transport links are excellent - with train stations at all three for fast access to the lively Kent coast towns and London, and fast road access to the Continent via the Port of Dover and the Eurotunnel at Folkestone. With its combination of quiet country living and proximity to towns, coast and Continent, and with its opportunities for further development within a historic setting, Walnut Tree Farm has the best of all worlds.

What the Owner Says: Living in Broad Oak has given me the perfect balance of rural calm and convenience with easy access to the city, coast and wider countryside. The house offers so much flexibility for guests and family, and the plot allows for so many potential uses. I’ve loved the privacy, either as a quiet oasis with my horses or a great venue for parties around the deck, bar and pool but now it is time for me to move on and give someone else the opportunity to enjoy this unique locale. The area is so convenient with local shops including a newsagents, coffee shop, butchers and Tesco Express and just down the road, Sturry features a pharmacy, post office, hairdresser and a convenience store plus the Kings Junior school, an Outstanding primary school, cricket club and a station where high speed trains to London take just over an hour. Fordwich sits on the river beyond, fantastic for walking or kayaking, and has two pub/restaurants including the Michelin Star Fordwich Arms. There is an extensive retail park not far away and it is only a short drive or bus ride to the centre of Canterbury with its wide variety of historic UNESCO heritage site buildings, high street stores and individual shops, numerous restaurants, bars and the cinema as well as the Marlowe and Gulbenkian theatres and two stations. There are also excellent grammar and private schools, three universities, a further education college and the Kent cricket ground. I also love how close I am to the sea, Whitstable’s vibrant harbour, independent eateries, and famous oysters are only a short drive away, while Herne Bay offers a classic promenade, wide beaches, and beautiful coastal walks whenever I want a change of pace.

What the Owners Say: Our house enjoys a wonderfully peaceful position on the edge of North Elham, one of the most picturesque villages in the Elham Valley. This is classic Kent countryside with rolling fields, woodland walks and a lovely local community, yet everyday amenities are conveniently close by. Nearby Elham and Lyminge offer a selection of independent cafés, a village store, a post office, pubs such as The Kings Arms, and essential services, while the larger centres of Canterbury and Folkestone provide extensive shopping, dining and cultural options as well as beaches within easy reach. For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding countryside is criss‑crossed with footpaths, bridleways and scenic routes through the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Families are well served by a choice of respected schools in the surrounding area. Local primary options include Lyminge Church of England Primary School and Elham Church of England Primary School, while secondary education is available at Folkestone Academy, The Harvey Grammar School for Boys, Folkestone School for Girls and a wide selection of highly regarded grammar and independent schools in Canterbury, including The King’s School, St Edmund’s and Kent College. Although Little Ox Road Farm enjoys a wonderfully rural setting, everyday amenities such as GP surgeries, leisure centres and supermarkets are all within a short drive, and we benefit from excellent access to fast train services to London via nearby stations at Sandling, Folkestone and Canterbury. High‑speed trains from Folkestone and Canterbury reach London St Pancras in around an hour, making the property perfectly suited to those who want countryside living without losing convenient links to the capital.

What the owners say: Although the setting offers complete peace and rural tranquillity, its convenience is exceptional. Canterbury’s vibrant city centre is just a five‑minute drive away, while Sturry station, with high‑speed services to London,  is only a minute’s stroll from the front door. It is the rare combination of countryside calm and effortless connectivity that has made living here such a pleasure. We have truly loved our time in this home, carefully refurbishing it over recent years so that the next owners can simply step inside, put the kettle on, and relax. One of the most significant upgrades was the installation of a new Norfolk reed thatched roof just five years ago, a beautiful, traditional feature with a lifespan of more than half a century. The annexe has been an outstanding asset. It has allowed family and friends to stay in comfort and privacy, while also providing a valuable source of income through holiday lets and long‑term tenants. Fordwich itself is a delight,  officially the smallest town in England, complete with its own historic town hall. The town is rich in character, with charming period buildings and the River Stour meandering through its centre. Two exceptional pubs, the Michelin‑starred Fordwich Arms and the George & Dragon, are both within an easy walk, perfect for evenings when you prefer to dine out without driving. Just a short walk away in neighbouring Sturry, you’ll find a Co‑op, pharmacy, post office, hairdresser, and highly regarded schools, including the King’s School Junior and Sturry Primary, rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A nearby bus stop and main road offer direct routes into Canterbury and onward to the Thanet towns. For lovers of the outdoors, the area is a haven. There are beautiful walks for dog owners, peaceful spots for fishing along the river, and the nearby Westbere Lakes, which offer opportunities for sailing as well as angling.

What the Owners Say: We have put a lot into making this wonderful family home and our children enjoyed their best summer days watching the harvest in the surrounding fields, but it is time to start a new chapter in our lives so we hope new owners can enjoy both the house, the views and the wonderful local area. Lower Hardres is a sought‑after village known for its peaceful atmosphere, attractive countryside surroundings and strong sense of community including an active village hall and an award-winning farm shop. The Duck is a highly regarded pub within an easy walk at the bottom of the hill, and we’ve often enjoyed the short cycle over to The Pig at Bridge for a superb meal prepared from their kitchen garden. Surrounding lanes, bridleways and paths make exploring the local countryside so simple and pleasurable, right from our front door. Nearby, Canterbury is only a five minute drive, providing an extensive range of shops, cafés, restaurants and cultural attractions, including its world‑famous cathedral and vibrant city centre. Alongside excellent local shops in villages like Bridge and Stelling Minnis, this allows us to choose from relaxed village living, high‑quality local amenities or our own rural retreat at any time without compromise. Families also benefit from an excellent selection of schools in the region. Canterbury is home to several highly regarded state and independent options, including grammar schools, specialist academies and the renowned Kings School. Primary schools in the surrounding villages like Bridge, Stelling Minnis or Stowting are well‑supported and praised for their welcoming environments. Transport links are another strong advantage, accessing the A2 within five minutes or the M2 offering straightforward routes towards the capital, the coast and wider Kent. Canterbury’s two stations provide regular rail services to London, as does nearby Ashford, with journey times to St Pancras in under an hour either way making regular commuting simple.

What the owners say: Living on Hicks Forstal Road in Hoath offers a rare blend of tranquillity, heritage, and convenience, the kind of setting that feels deeply rural yet remains effortlessly connected to the wider world. It is a location chosen for its peace, its privacy, and its timeless Kentish charm. Nestled within the rolling countryside just outside Canterbury, Hicks Forstal Road is a place where mornings begin with birdsong, open skies, and the gentle quiet of village life. The surrounding landscape is quintessentially English: tree‑lined lanes, open farmland, and a sense of space that is increasingly hard to find. It is the perfect environment for those seeking a refined rural lifestyle without sacrificing modern convenience. Despite its serene setting, the location is exceptionally well connected. The nearby A28 and A299 provide swift access to Canterbury, Herne Bay, Whitstable, and the wider Kent coast, while Canterbury’s two stations offer high‑speed rail links to London,  ideal for commuters or those who enjoy regular city visits. These travel links make the area feel both secluded and accessible, a balance that is increasingly sought after. Hoath itself is a welcoming village with a strong sense of community. Everyday essentials are within easy reach, with local shops, farm stores, and larger supermarkets just a short drive away. Canterbury’s vibrant centre, with its boutiques, restaurants, cultural venues, and historic cathedral, offers a wealth of choice for dining, shopping, and leisure. The surrounding area also provides excellent schooling options, both state and independent, making it a highly desirable location for families. For those who appreciate the outdoors, the opportunities are endless. Country walks begin the moment you step outside your door, with footpaths weaving through fields, woodland, and nature reserves. The coastline is close enough for spontaneous trips to the beach, seafood lunches in Whitstable, or sunset strolls along Herne Bay’s promenade. This is a place where life moves at a gentler pace, yet remains rich with possibility. Hicks Forstal Road is more than an address, it is a lifestyle. A place where you can enjoy the privacy of rural living, the convenience of excellent local amenities, and the cultural richness of Canterbury, all from the comfort of a beautifully situated home.

What the owner says: We have loved living at Stone cottage, we feel we took on a tired cottage in need of love and we have given it a new lease of life, ready for the new owners to take to the next level if they wish. Woolage Green is a charming rural hamlet nestled within the rolling Kent countryside, offering an idyllic balance of tranquillity and accessibility. Surrounded by woodland walks, open fields, and a close‑knit community atmosphere, it provides a serene backdrop for country living while remaining exceptionally well connected. Everyday amenities are conveniently close, including The Two Sawyers pub just a short walk down the lane. The neighbouring villages offer essentials such as local shops, including the excellent Barham Village Store and Post Office, while the larger centres of Canterbury, Folkestone and Dover provide comprehensive shopping, dining, and leisure facilities. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the surrounding countryside offers an abundance of walking routes, bridleways, and scenic woodland paths, making it an ideal location for nature lovers, dog owners, and equestrian enthusiasts. We are also not far from the coast at Deal with its pier and beach as well as excellent boutique shops and restaurants.  Travel connections are another key advantage of Woolage Green. Aylesham and Snowdown stations provide direct rail links to Canterbury and Dover, with onward connections to London. The A2 is easily accessible, offering swift road travel towards both the capital and the coast. The area is served by a selection of well‑regarded local schools, including both popular village primaries and a variety of secondary options including the renowned King’s School at Canterbury within easy reach.  Woolage Green offers a rare combination: the peace and privacy of rural living, the warmth of a small community, and the convenience of excellent schools, amenities, and transport links close at hand.

If your dream is to live in a fascinating and characterful property on the edge of a charming and popular village with stunning rural views, this fabulously quirky six bedroom residence could be top of your list. Historically a seed merchant’s premises and previously a bed and breakfast with an antique shop, it was originally built in the Georgian era and still retains some wonderful period features. However it has been stunningly but sensitively updated by the current owners as a spacious family home and includes the option to create part of the property as a separate annexe for family members or as a holiday let. As soon as you see the interesting front facade with its original ground and first floor external doors where the sacks of seed used to be delivered and stored as well as the bay and multi-pane sash windows and traditional slate roof you will be eager to see what the inside has to offer. The primary front door opens into an entrance hall with a period staircase to the first floor and access to the versatile ground floor accommodation. This includes an impressive 28ft kitchen and breakfast area and features herringbone oak parquet flooring and a wide central archway creating a delightful open plan feel. Family and friends can sit round a table enjoying a meal in the charming breakfast area with its large bay window and original half height fitted cupboards flanking a lovely open fire with an attractive surround and mantlepiece. While the contemporary kitchen includes an inset range cooker with an induction hob,  very smart shaker dark blue style units with marble resin worktops housing an integrated fridge freezer and dishwasher as well as a peninsular breakfast bar and lovely views over the rear garden and the surrounding countryside. There is also a large cellar where you can store your favourite wines and steps down to a spacious fitted boot room with storage units and wide French doors to the rear terrace. A charming snug is just the place for the family to relax in front of an open fire while the adjacent study with the original shop window and fitted book shelves providing a delightful working environment. A separate front door opens to a secondary staircase that leads to a large landing on the first floor as well as a to a utility room with the original vast barn doors to the street that can also be accessed from the snug. It includes units housing an induction hob, oven and dishwasher as well as stand-alone laundry facilities and a control systems cupboard. This side of the house also features a library with shelving and steps down to the superb barn conversion with underfloor heating, a cloakroom and a wonderful triple aspect, lounge/diner with a high vaulted ceiling and crossbeams that is nearly 40ft long. It leads to the impressive games room that is large enough for a full size snooker table while still leaving space to incorporate a bar and seating or a well-equipped gym. It would be possible to adapt this whole area to create a separate single storey annexe, however the first floor landing also includes stairs to the second floor where you will find three charming air conditioned double bedrooms. These have vaulted and beamed ceilings and en suite facilities including one with an integral bathroom, another with a shower room and the third has a cloakroom.  So it would be easy to create an alternative three storey annexe for holiday lets or adult children, while still leaving the vast lounge/diner and games room available for the whole family. There is an impressive multi-pane sash window on the main staircase half landing providing excellent countryside views. The first floor features a fabulous luxury family bath/shower room with a central copper and brass slipper bath, a double shower, large fitted cupboards and an original fireplace. There are three double bedrooms including one with an ensuite shower and an original fireplace while a brick archway leads to the master suite that has a fitted walk in wardrobe, en suite shower room and rural views. The beautifully landscaped south facing rear garden is a delight with a large decked terrace for outdoor entertaining and a gate flanked by charming olive trees leading to pathways bordered by a lawn and impressive shrub beds, while at the end of the garden is the Wingham river bordered by fields.

What the Owners Say: We purchased this house a few years ago as we thought the location was ideal and, because the front entrance is at first floor level and not at street level, it is very quiet and peaceful. As we moved here during ‘Lockdown’ we had the opportunity to spend a great deal of time creating the amazing property you see today. We thought it would be our ‘forever’ home and designed it with that in mind. Unfortunately business commitments mean we have to move but we hope new owners will enjoy everything this place has to offer, whether as a permanent home or a weekend and holiday retreat. It is a wonderful base for exploring the delights of the city but it is also not far from the surrounding countryside for access to a rural environment for lovely walks or a trip to a country pub. But it is great to be able to stroll down the road to the shops, pubs and eateries as well as meeting friends and family for a coffee or a visit to the theatre without needing to take the car. At the same time if you want to get to London, it is only about a 12 minute walk to Canterbury West station for the fast train to St Pancras that takes less than an hour and it is not far from the A2 for Dover and Folkestone providing trips to the Continent. As well as the cathedral Canterbury has a wide variety of other historic and interesting attractions to see including the Canterbury Norman Castle,  St Augustine’s Abbey, Canterbury Heritage Museum, the Westgate, The Beaney House and the Canterbury Roman Museum. The city also has a wide variety of high street stores, individual shops and plenty of restaurants and bars as well as two mainline stations and various sports clubs including golf and the Kent Country cricket ground. It is home to two theatres, three universities and numerous state schools including three excellent grammar schools and a number of private schools such as the famous Kings School.

What the Owners Say: This has been a wonderful home for the past 12 years and it will be a sad wrench to leave but I feel it is time to move nearer to my children. I love the surroundings, the peace and quiet and the charm of the cottage and its gorgeous garden. Over the years we have sensitively modernised the property but still retained all the features that give it such a special character. Although it is surrounded by countryside it is not isolated as there are other properties nearby and Chartham village is only half a mile away. It includes a good primary school, recreation ground, two convenience stores, post office and hairdresser as well as the Local and Artichoke pubs, the station where trains to London take around an hour and a half and the Chartham Vinery. While Chilham with its castle, picturesque village square, farm shop, primary school, station, pubs and eateries is less than two miles away. The historic city of Canterbury is nearby and includes a plethora of ancient buildings, lovely pubs, restaurants, a cinema complex and two theatres as well as a variety of high street stores and independent shops, recreational facilities such as a golf course and sports centre and two mainline stations including Canterbury West with the high speed train that will get you to London in under an hour. It also has excellent grammar schools as well as top class public schools and three universities. While there is easy road access London or Folkestone and Dover for trips to the Continent.

I really liked the light and airy atmosphere of the house when I first opened the front door and then walking through and seeing the river and the views over to Solly’s that almost seem as though the park was actually in the back garden, I knew this was the place for me. I also like the kitchen because everything is easily to hand as it was originally designed by a previous owner Audrey Eyton – author of the F-plan diet. While when I close the curtains to the conservatory in the evenings, I find the sitting area very warm and cosy. As I thought I would be living here for the foreseeable future, I have had the flat roofs over the conservatory and the kitchen replaced but sadly I am having to move for health reasons. The location is also wonderful as I can stroll to the city centre om just a few minutes and meet friends and family for a coffee or visit the nearby Marlowe theatre without needing to take the car or even get on a bus. At the same time if you want to get to London the fast train from Canterbury West will transport you to St Pancras in under an hour and it is not far from the A2 for Dover and Folkestone for trips to the Continent. As well as the cathedral there are a wide variety of other historic and interesting attractions to see including the Canterbury Norman Castle, St Augustine’s Abbey, Canterbury Heritage Museum, the Westgate, The Beaney House and the Canterbury Roman Museum. The city also has a wide variety of high street stores, individual shops and plenty of restaurants and bars as well as two mainline stations and there is an excellent doctor nearby. The city is also home to two theatres, three universities and numerous state schools, including three excellent grammar schools and a number of private schools.

“We moved here 12 years ago and love everything about Stable Stones. We have enjoyed putting our own stamp on the property while still retaining its original character. The location is perfect with countryside all around us, yet only two and a half miles from Canterbury city centre. With only eight properties in this quiet hamlet, we’ve enjoyed the tranquil setting and watching the Spring lambs frolicking around in the nearby field while walking our dog. We’re sure the new owners of Stable Stones will enjoy living here as much as we have. Bridge is a lovely little village with two pubs, one having a Michelin Star restaurant and the renowned Pig Hotel. There is also a small supermarket, a chemist as well as a good primary school, a medical centre, dentist and hairdresser. Bridge is also well located for transport links to London via the motorway network or the High Speed train to St Pancras. “Canterbury is a UNESCO world heritage city and has some beautiful historic buildings plus a variety of high street stores, individual shops and a great selection of pubs and restaurants and is also home to the excellent Marlowe Theatre where we’ve seen many shows”.

We moved here from the Maldives some 20 years ago and it has been a truly special family home and we shall be sad to leave but it is time for us to downsize. In recent years we have considerably extended the property and upgraded the inside to include the porcelain floor tiling, the beautiful wood staircase and doors, the kitchen, dining area and sitting room as well as installing new bathrooms. We have always felt that the location is ideal as we live at the end of a cul-de-sac so it is very quiet and peaceful as well as being safe for children and animals. Having the additional land is wonderful for a family as the kids can enjoy plenty of space and the fields can be used for livestock such as sheep, goats, chickens or even alpacas as well as ponies. Even though we are in a rural environment, we are also close to the A2 for London, Canterbury and Dover and just over two miles to Canterbury West station with the high speed train that can whisk you to St Pancras in less than an hour. We are also not far from the coast at Whitstable or the Thanet towns for a day on the beach while nearby Rough Common includes a convenience store and a post office. The historic city of Canterbury includes some impressive UNESCO heritage site buildings, a variety of high street stores and individual shops as well as a plethora of restaurants, pubs and three theatres including the Marlowe where you can regularly see West End shows. There are three universities in the city as well as excellent grammar schools and top class private schools, while nearby Blean primary school is rated Outstanding by Ofsted.

What the Owners Say: We bought this superb property some 23 years ago as we absolutely loved the location with wonderful views, a quiet and peaceful environment yet close enough to the village amenities not to feel isolated. Over the years we have completely renovated and refurbished the property to become a gorgeous family home and have wonderful memories of our life here, however we now plan to downsize and have a property ready to move into. As well as the opportunity to create an annexe, if a new family have equine interests, they could turn part of the rear garden back into a paddock and build stables. As we literally abut the edge of the Minnis it is possible to ride out of our gate straight onto the Minnis and enjoy a hack without ever having to go on the road. The Minnis is also a great place for a walk with the dog and there are excellent opportunities for cycling around the neighbourhood, while golfing enthusiasts have many courses to choose from such as Echinghill, Sene Valley, Canterbury and Broome Park. Stelling Minnis is a friendly village with a local pub, an historic windmill, a post office and a village store for any immediate needs as well as a village hall that hosts a variety of activities including discos and regular film nights. It is also accessible to good schools with an excellent village primary school and a nearby bus stop with buses that take children to secondary, grammar and private schools and other activities in Canterbury. The historic city of Canterbury includes a plethora of UNESCO world heritage historic buildings, high street stores and individual shops, the Marlowe and Gulbenkian theatres, a cinema complex, excellent bars and restaurants as well as two mainline stations with the high speed train from Canterbury West whisking you to London in under an hour. As well as the schools there are three universities and a further education college. While sporting aficionados can watch cricket at the Spitfire county cricket ground of enjoy other facilities at the Kingsmead Leisure Centre and the Polo Farm Sports club. The Channel Tunnel and Dover are easily accessible for trips to the Continent while Hythe is delightful with its pavement cafes, individual shops and seafront.

There could be few more idyllic places to enjoy the rural dream than the simply beautiful Grade II Listed Park Gate, nestling in the midst of 5.75 acres of glorious gardens, grounds and paddocks, surrounded by farmland in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With its origins in the Tudor period the house oozes charm and character with its plethora of exposed beams, impressive fireplaces with open fires and wood floors. There is also a detached cottage, an impressive Victorian stable block and an excellent all weather tennis court. Turning into the circular carriage driveway that flows around the level central lawn, past the stables and the cottage, you can enjoy your first glance at the superb black and white exterior of the house with its Kent peg tiled roof, high chimneys, leaded light windows and wisteria covered oak and studded front door. This opens into the characterful reception hall with its brick and beamed walls, beamed ceiling and a vast inglenook fireplace with a large log burner that keeps the area delightfully warm. There is a gorgeous drawing room that has an equally impressive inglenook fireplace, feature brick and beamed walls, leaded light windows with views over the garden and a row of central vertical beams that are open to the other end of the room with a second fireplace. In the newer part of the property there is a light and bright dual aspect formal dining room with a high ceiling, a fireplace and steps up to the modern kitchen/breakfast room. This includes engineered oak flooring, lime washed pine units housing a gas hob, double oven, American fridge freezer and dishwasher, a large larder and a utility cupboard with laundry appliances. While the large breakfast area features a charming bay window and access to the spacious dual aspect study with built in cupboards and bookshelves as well as an open fire. An inner hall includes a cloakroom, stairs to the upper floor and an understairs cupboard. A corridor with brick tiled flooring provides an excellent space for coats and boots and includes a door to the cellar. This was reinforced as an air raid shelter but is now where you can store your vintage wines. There is access to the garden and a door to a very useful garden/plant room that had once been an office as the external door meant business visitors did not need to venture into the private part of the home. The easy-to-manage stairs lead to a fascinating landing and corridor with exposed beams and provides access to six double bedrooms. These include one with an en suite shower, built in cupboard and a box bay window and an adjoining room with another box bay window, a fireplace with original delft tiles, fitted wardrobes and an ensuite/Jack and Jill bathroom that is also accessible from the corridor as the family bathroom. There is an interesting bedroom with a feature brick fireplace and brick recesses in the dressing area that also includes a washbasin and it is where Winston Churchill slept when he was a guest. There is also the spacious dual aspect main bedroom that includes a delightful brick fireplace and a lobby with access to a large part boarded attic, an ensuite bathroom with a bath, separate shower and bidet and a stunning oak panelled fitted dressing room that probably dates from the 1920s.  On the second floor there is the large attic space and two vaulted ceiling rooms that make great games/playrooms or could be a ‘hideaway’ for teenage children looking for a bit of independence. The detached annexe cottage would make an ideal home for family members, staff or could be used to generate income as a country holiday let. The front door opens into the entrance hall with open tread stairs to the first floor, understairs storage and access to the ground floor accommodation. This includes a large lounge, a fitted kitchen, cloakroom and a conservatory while upstairs there is a large double bedroom with a wall of fitted cupboards and a bathroom. The stable block includes three internal stables and four stalls and a large attached double garage. The gardens are another special feature of this property and include swathes of undulating lawns that wrap around the house interspersed with very impressive trees and shrub beds including rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and magnolias. There is topiary hedging, brick garden storage sheds, a charming pond with an ornate waterfall and the central level lawn that is ideal as a badminton court or a croquet lawn. This is bordered by a stunning rose garden with a circular thatched gazebo and a patio area. There is also a parterre herb garden surrounded by high hedging providing privacy at one end of the garden, while at the other end a pathway leads up to the tennis court with a thatched pavilion and this higher ground provides delightful views over the surrounding countryside and includes additional mature trees and a large wild garden area. While the two large paddocks are ideal for horses or other livestock.

Whether you have a large or extended family or have inter-generational requirements, this unique and very spacious country residence with plenty of flexible accommodation could be the answer. With its origins believed to be in the 1600s, it has been considerably extended since that time and nestles in 1.47 acres of delightful grounds surrounded by orchards and rolling countryside in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is currently configured to include five reception rooms, two studies, an office, five double bedrooms, a kitchen and breakfast area, a conservatory, a gym and a snooker room as well as a two bedroomed integral annexe that features a lounge, sunroom and kitchen and dining area but this can also be incorporated into the main living accommodation. The property is accessed via two sets of gates to the extensive gravel driveways, flanked by large lawns interspersed with shrubs and trees, providing plenty of off-road parking. The oak front door opens into a spacious porch with tiled flooring that continues into the characterful entrance hall. This forms part of the original building and includes an impressive inglenook fireplace with a Bressummer beam and a Vermont log burner as well as exposed brickwork and some original ceiling, wall and vertical beams. Wood features strongly in this updated property with the bespoke main staircase, the flooring in the dining/sitting room, hall and study being 200-year-old French oak lifted from an historic army barracks, while the upstairs corridor flooring is European oak and the modern exposed ceiling beams in many of the rooms are made of Oregon pine. The L-shaped lounge includes charming, beamed features and two sets of French doors, one leading to an impressive conservatory with granite flooring, half height wall panelling and the other to a fascinating walled garden. While at least a dozen guests can sit down to enjoy a meal in the spacious dual aspect dining/sitting room with its brick pillar, central beam and brick fireplace. A large dual aspect country style kitchen and breakfast area provides a warm and friendly family atmosphere. It includes a four-oven oil-fired AGA with an electric hob, an electric oven and attractive German oak units with granite worktops housing a built in American style fridge freezer and microwave as well as stand-alone appliances, while the spacious and light breakfast area includes Velux roof windows and a cross beam and plenty of room for a large table and chairs. The kitchen gives access to a rear boot room with a separate sink and from there to a snug with bi-fold doors overlooking the side patio area. Stairs lead up to a snooker room with a full-size oak table and from there one can access the gym from the other side. Also leading off the kitchen is an inner hall with a cloakroom, access to the utility and machine room and to the annexe. The ground floor annexe consists of a double bedroom, access to a shower room and a contemporary kitchen/diner with an Everhot electric stove and fitted units as well as a spacious lounge and delightful garden room with five bi-fold doors to walled patio.  This facility would make an excellent home for an elderly relative. However, there is also a private staircase that leads up to a double bedroom with a seating area and delightful views as well as an ensuite bathroom, airing and storage cupboards that could also be incorporated making it a substantial independent space for adult family members. On the first floor, as well as the snooker room, there is a large gym with a cloakroom, a family bathroom, a separate shower room and another cloakroom as well as five double bedrooms with wonderful countryside views. These include two large doubles with dressing areas and fitted cupboards as well as the stunning main bedroom with a dual aspect seating area, a delightful ensuite bathroom with a corner Jacuzzi bath and stairs up to a galleried mezzanine level which offers a shower room and a large double bedroom with vertical beams and superb views to wake up to in the morning. While on the second floor there are two partially vaulted double rooms divided by an open archway that are currently in use as a study and an office. However, because they have easy access to the first-floor bathroom, these rooms could become a bedroom and sitting room for an au pair or nanny or a ‘hideaway’ for teenagers looking for a bit of privacy and independence. So you have the opportunity to follow the sun all day; and there are a number of outdoor seating areas including, on one side of the house, a vast rose granite terrace with a slate table and benches. This is backed by high hedging providing privacy and security and has access to the integral garage with an inspection pit and leads either to the front driveway or to the double carport and the discreetly hidden oil tank and bin area to the rear. There is a large pitched roof dog kennel in fenced run, and a small greenhouse. The main garden area includes crazy paved pathways and a large attractive terrace with a mixture of gravel, brick and paved areas enclosed by a brick wall that leads to vast areas of level lawn that could always include a tennis or badminton court and/or a swimming pool. Currently the lawns are interspersed with a variety of fruit trees, high hedges with flower and shrub borders, and a rose corral with a charming otter-inspired water feature. There are spacious buildings housing a garden store, a fully equipped workshop and a separate study/hobby room that have lighting, electrics and water so could always be used as an office, studio or even a beauty salon. There is also a summerhouse with wooden flooring and a patio with a stone table and seating, a polytunnel and vegetable beds plus a charming brick built octagonal shaped building that also has wooden flooring and lighting, electrics and heating so would make a delightful office for anyone working from home who needs peace and quiet.

Broadfields is located in the rural hamlet of Rhodes Minnis, which is ideally situated on the North Downs in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  This veritable Tardis of a Kent country property nestles in 1.13 acres of grounds surrounded by farmland and includes stables, a paddock, a swimming pool and a spacious traditional oak framed car barn incorporating two parking bays with a first floor apartment.  It is approached through a five bar gate that opens onto a large gravel driveway where you can park numerous vehicles, surrounded by a spacious lawn with mature trees and colourful shrubs At first glance the property looks like a charming and traditional country home with its delightful weatherboard exterior, solid timber bay windows and an oak framed kent peg tiled porch. However, once you walk through the attractive stained glass front door you can appreciate that this property has even more to offer including a view straight through the house to the end of the garden. The hall includes engineered oak flooring, the original staircase and understairs cupboard and access to the main ground floor accommodation including a glass lobby leading to the awe inspiring light and bright dual aspect kitchen/dining/family area with porcelain tiled flooring. The wonderful kitchen area was created by Neptune kitchens and features solid wood soft closing units in the traditional Georgian style with Silestone worktops. They house an induction hob, two ovens, a dishwasher, fridge freezer, pull out shelving and a larder cupboard as well as a sink with a Quooker tap while the preparation area includes a second sink. The very large central island also has pull-out trays and integral maple chopping boards. The family area features a charming contemporary corner log burner while a dozen guests can enjoy sitting down to a meal in the spacious dining area that has a vast lantern skylight and full height windows as well as three bifold doors leading to the Indian sandstone terrace.                                                 As well as access from the hall there is also a sliding oak barn door that opens to the delightful living room from the kitchen. This also has engineered oak flooring, a stone surround electric fire, a lovely bay window and French doors to the side garden. The snug has an electric fire and a bay window as well as fitted cupboards and shelving so could make an excellent study for anyone working from home and would provide easy access for business visitors. There is a spacious fitted utility room with laundry facilities and French doors to the garden as well as a downstairs cloakroom. On the first floor there is a galleried landing leading to an office, a family bathroom with a bath, separate waterfall shower and a vanity basin as well as four double bedrooms, all with delightful views. These include one with fitted cupboards and drawers, another with a fireplace and the principal suite with dressing area, fitted handmade wood wardrobes as well as a contemporary en suite shower room. Outside there are delightful surprises including the charming veranda style seating area by the back door, the swimming pool complex that includes a relaxing pool house with a sauna and seating area and the spacious terrace for al fresco dining and entertaining. There are also two stables, a workshop and other useful outbuildings as well as a greenhouse and the approximately one acre fenced paddock. The oak framed double car barn includes a laundry room and a store room as well as a door to the separate apartment. This opens into a spacious hall with access to the wet room and oak stairs with a glass balustrade leading to the delightful contemporary vaulted ceiling studio apartment. It includes two wonderful Velux balcony windows that provide stunning views over the surrounding paddock, a kitchenette with a sink and a built in island with shelving, eaves storage and walk-in wardrobes.

This fascinating period home has been in our family since the 1970s so I have spent many happy years here but I now feel it is time to move nearer to my children. While the property could do with some updating it has all the basics to create a unique and characterful family home with the added advantage of having the annex that could be extended further by incorporating the garage, subject to the necessary permissions. Fordwich is famous for being the smallest town in England with its own town hall and attractive historic buildings as well as having the river Stour running through the centre. The house is just opposite the Michelin Star Fordwich Arms so you don’t have to go very far for that special celebratory meal,  while the olde worlde George and Dragon pub is just the place for a family Sunday lunch. It is not far to the adjacent village of Sturry where you will find a pharmacy, post office, hairdresser and a convenience store as well as the famous Kings School Junior school and the Sturry primary school, graded Outstanding by Ofsted. There is also the mainline station where the high speed train can whisk you to London in just over an hour. There is an extensive retail park not far away and it is only a short drive or bus ride to the centre of Canterbury with its wide variety of historic UNESCO heritage site buildings, high street stores and individual shops, numerous restaurants, bars and the cinema as well as the Marlowe and Gulbenkian theatres and two stations. There are also excellent grammar and private schools, three universities, a further education college and the Kent cricket ground. For anyone who enjoys outdoor pursuits there is Canterbury golf club and plenty of places to go for walks with the dog. There is the Sturry cricket club and fishing available on the river Stour while the nearby Westbere Lakes offers sailing opportunities as well as fishing and air rifle shooting takes place at the Greenfields Shooting grounds in Sturry. Other sporting activities are available at the Polo Farm Club and the Kingsmead Leisure Centre.

It has always been said that location is the most important factor when considering somewhere to live and this stunning country residence is in a superb position. It nestles in 0.9676 of an acre of grounds surrounded by acres of common land known as The Minnis in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, in a sought after area between Bossingham and Stelling Minnis and only a few miles from the City of Canterbury. The property was built in the 1920s but has been extended over the years and updated by the current owners to an extremely high level. No expense has been spared in creating an extremely luxurious home with every modern convenience, while still retaining many original and period features. It is approached through tall wrought iron gates flanked by an imposing pair of brick pillars and a castellated brick wall that continues around the perimeter of the grounds on three sides. There is a spacious gravelled driveway bordered by charming shrub beds and where you can park a number of vehicles. It leads to the large double garage and the front entrances. With its impressive chimneystacks, differing roof lines, multi-pane casement windows and Georgian style front door this property will make a great impression even before you cross the threshold. The main front door provides access to a porch with a built in cupboard and a multi-pane glazed door that opens into the delightful reception hall. This has engineered oak flooring, a coved ceiling that is a feature in many of the rooms, the original staircase and an understairs cupboard. There is also a cloakroom and a charming fireplace with an ornate mantlepiece and an open fire that creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The hall leads to much of the ground floor accommodation including an arched multi-pane door to the simply magnificent dining room. Potential guests will be queuing up to have the opportunity to enjoy a meal in this superb room that has been extended in the style of a Victorian orangery, providing wonderful views over the professionally designed garden. With its marble flooring, stunning fireplace with original Delft tiles, a marble hearth and an open fire plus a Swarovski crystal wallcovering, it is a truly unforgettable room. As well as access from the hall there is also an arched multi-pane glazed door from the dining room into the equally delightful and elegant Georgian style, dual aspect sitting room. This light and bright room includes an archway to a bay window and three sets of French doors to the garden as well as herringbone parquet flooring, ornate panelling above the picture rails and two ceiling roses. There is also an illuminated display cabinet and a beautiful marble fireplace with a granite hearth and a modern wood burner as a charming focal point. The breath-taking triple aspect kitchen/breakfast room will gladden the heart of anyone who enjoys catering. Created by the renowned kitchen designers, Potts of Maidstone, it includes Travertine flooring, a fascinating built in circular breakfast table and a plethora of hand-crafted units with quartz worktops featuring a vast array of professional standard appliances. There is a large Wolf built in oven, a steam oven and a warming drawer as well as a microwave, coffee machine and a Sub-Zero stainless steel full height freezer, fridge and wine cooler. You will also find a double sink with a Quooker tap, two dishwashers and a pull out chopping board, while a spacious central island includes a Miele induction hob and a discreetly hidden extractor. There is also an adjacent utility room with laundry facilities. The attractive study with views over the garden has been expertly fitted by Hammonds and can be accessed from the dining room. There is also a door to the study from a secondary hallway that has an independent front entrance and a separate staircase to the first floor, enabling part of the house to become a separate annexe if required for family members. Off the hallway you will also find an office area with built in shelving, a guest double bedroom and a luxurious Jack and Jill bathroom with a trendy stand-alone square ended bath, a large walk-in shower and a contemporary vanity basin. At the end of the hall there is the impressive dual aspect games room that is big enough to easily house the antique 1920s snooker table. It has a large bay window and French doors to a private patio as well as built in shelving and an external door to the garden, an adjacent cloakroom, workshop and access to the garage. The secondary staircase leads up to a corridor with a spacious area, large built in storage cupboards and a door to the main landing. This wing of the property has access to a three double bedrooms including one with French doors to a Juliette balcony and a dressing room that could be converted into an ensuite, another with a box bay window and the third incorporates a modern ensuite bathroom. There is also a contemporary bathroom that services the other two bedrooms. As you walk up the main staircase you can see a charming stained glass window on the wall. This staircase is open to the spacious main landing that is large enough to have a seating area and storage cupboards. It leads to a corridor with remote control access to the boarded attic, three bedrooms and a superb family bathroom. This has slate flooring, marble tiles, a Jacuzzi bath and separate shower, a vanity basin and bidet as well as an airing cupboard. There is a single bedroom that would make an excellent nursery and two doubles including the simply stunning and spacious dual aspect main suite. It has a superb marble fireplace with an ornate mantlepiece, Hammond design bedroom furniture and wardrobes in the dressing room and French doors that open onto a charming balcony with a glass and chrome balustrade and views over the garden. However the piece de resistance has to be the multi-shaped light and bright sumptuous ensuite with its stand-alone oval bath and claw feet, separate shower, marble skirting and marble topped vanity basin. While the house is stunning, equal honours have to go to the beautiful gardens. Created by an RHS horticulture designer, it has been carefully constructed to incorporate many of the existing mature and specimen trees and shrubs such as the impressive monkey puzzle and picea trees as well as rhododendrons and magnolias. It includes formal and informal elements as well as entertainment areas and the plantings have been designed to provide interest all year round. A vast L-shaped, herringbone block paved terrace provides a delightful area for outdoor entertaining. It is bordered on one side by a French parterre incorporating three modern fountains and, on the other, by sweeping lawns flanked by pleached lime trees and shrub beds that lead to a multi-tiered hedge focal point. The informal area of the garden includes vast lawn areas interspersed with curved shrub beds and trees and is just the place for adults, children and pets to enjoy. There is also an original perimeter gate, an upmarket Alitex greenhouse, a tractor garage and a gate that goes straight out onto the Minnis as well as a beech hedge that discreetly hides the large vegetable beds.