listing

One cannot over-emphasise the vantage point of this property and just how stunning the location is, with its sweeping views across the North Pennines. Thought to be 1300 feet above sea level, even Heathcliff would have been blown away by these Wuthering Heights. Eight miles west of Barnard Castle, it is in an AONB, (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), and will have you spellbound from the moment you set foot on the grounds. Clever development of a viewing balcony in the master bedroom and the adaptation of a large window on the south side, make the view and the peace, a joy to behold. Nature lovers will have found their sanctuary here, as Bowes Moor is a SSSI, (Site of Special Scientific Interest). It is in an extensive area of moorland which supports significant breeding populations of a number of wading birds. The Pennine Way passes through the area, the landscape of which has changed very little since Roman Times. Many Roman artifacts have been found here including a Roman aqueduct and, being sparsely populated, is one of the few places in the country where it is enjoyed by astronomers for its dark skys.

Fourteen years ago, the current owners took on the property and have completed an impressive transformation to an elegant home with a landscaped garden. The property has an extraordinary amount of quality garage and shed storage and copious off-road parking space, making it ideal for running a business involving multiple vehicles. There is, in addition, a large stone-built barn, which has planning permission for a three-bedroom house, electricity and water supply. The barn comes with the property and may form a useful or integral part of a business. For example, a cafe/gift shop that supports the main business.

The house still has its colossal cellar, once used for storing barrels of beer, but now, fully heated, could be a spa, a recreation room or further dry storage. Proximity to the A66 provides instantaneous access to central trunk roads, London rail links and International Airports. Supported by good broadband connections and mobile coverage, this property is an ideal work-from-home location.

Renovations have shown close attention to warmth and insulation. The heating and water is run on an efficient Biomass Boiler system which is simultaneously economical and easy to run. The boiler only requires filling once a week, and only two deliveries of biomass pellets are required per year. There are three wood burners and an estimated 5 years' supply of logs already at the property. Water is run from a bore hole which is regularly serviced, offering a clean and plentiful supply of beautiful water.

In an era where we live under the threat of pandemic infections and shrinking habitats, this property may inspire you. The clean air, unpolluted dark skies, a deeper connection to the countryside, the ability to grow your own food and keep hens may satisfy your inner call for a healthy lifestyle. Or perhaps you yearn to run your own business. Perhaps you would like to start up a carrosserie, be an agricultural machinery specialist, start an observatory, a management training centre, a health farm or garden centre. This property lends itself well to a number of such outcomes, and sitting on 1.58 acres has plenty of flexibility, ample parking space and easy links to major roads and suppliers.

This is a unique opportunity and an inspiring one on all sorts of levels. Viewing is essential. Please call 01833 523521 for a viewing or 07545 707801 for further information from our local expert.