5 bedroom country house for sale

Why we love Vanners Farm

Vanners Farm is a large mid 18th century farmhouse set back from a quiet lane near the village of Enborne to the West of Newbury.  Although not listed, the house is characterised by its unspoilt period detailing and historic charm. The front of the house is lime plastered with terracotta tile windowsills and over lintels and a lavender lined path leading to the original front door. The main access for the house is via a gravel driveway which runs into a gravelled forecourt providing ample parking at the side of the house. This side of the house is composed of exposed Flemish bond brick with a door leading into a smart boot room with herringbone brick floor and separate WC. 

The Georgian proportions and square layout flows particularly across both floors. The house has been extensively and beautifully restored by the current owners from a near derelict state to preserve its features whilst creating a very comfortable and timelessly tasteful space with exposed beams, new oak floors, and sash windows extending throughout.

The boot room leads into a wonderfully generous kitchen with electric aga and French windows facing onto a stone terrace. The space is perfect for hosting family and friends and has the added bonus of a marble topped pantry which provides storage and a hideaway for stray culinary clutter. There is also a door leading under the stairs to a useful wine cellar. The kitchen leads through into a cosy sitting room with original large open fire and brickwork as well as a long light filled drawing room with wood burner.

The panelled staircase leads up to a very spoiling Principal suite complete with soaring beams, large walk-in shower, copper roll top free-standing bathtub as well as a separate dressing room. A further double bedroom with en-suite shower room is located across the hall next to another bedroom and a family bathroom.

The Outbuildings

Further guest accommodation is located in the smart wood panelled guest house with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and its own sitting room. Currently arranged as two suites and a separate staff apartment.

The house also comes with extensive outbuildings including an impressive 17th century tithe barn, newly restored and housing ample storage and a fully equipped gym, as well as a stable block and a piggery.

Plenty of Outside Space

The house sits in 5.15 acres of gardens and grounds including meadow and a well-stocked cutting garden and vegetable patch with potting shed. The plot is bordered by mature trees with views of the local woods and farmland. A newly established spring fed pond will add significantly to the diversity of the grounds.

West Berkshire so near and yet so far away when you want it to be

This part of West Berkshire is on the edge of an AONB and can be characterised by its rolling wooded countryside, pretty brick houses, and oak tree lined lanes. 

The area has been home to writers and creatives past and present including novelist Richard Adams who was born at nearby Wash Common and went on to spend much of his life here. The authors passion for wildlife and the British countryside is evident his most famous work Watership Down which is based on the local landscape. 

A primary school, a local pub, and an 11th century church are located a short walk away in the village of Enborne which also benefits from an equestrian centre and ancient meadowland at Averys Pightle nature reserve. There are plenty of wonderful pubs and eateries nearby including The newly opened Malverleys farm shop and restaurant has added a further sophistication to the area which also includes the Queens Arms at East Garston, The Jack Russell in Faccombe, and the award-winning Woodspeen. Distinguished butchers Vicars Game near Yattendon is popular for supplying high quality local produce. 

A wider range of leisure and shopping facilities is available in Newbury including cafes and restaurants, a cinema, the renowned Watermill Theatre and Newbury racecourse, with easy access to walks along the Kennet and Avon canal.

Getting On

It is also perfectly placed for a wide choice of great schools. Nearby Enborne C.E. Primary School was recently rated Outstanding. There is a choice of St. Bartholomews or Park House in Newbury. Private schools in the area include Cheam, St Gabriel's, Horris Hill, Brockhurst and Marlston House, Elstree, Farleigh, Marlborough College, Downe House and Bradfield College.

Getting Out

The area is extremely well connected with a fast train service from Newbury into London Paddington taking as little as 42 minutes, and the A34 and M4 are easily accessible providing excellent links to London and the national road network. 

Newbury 3.5 miles (London Paddington from 42 mins) | M4 (J13) 9.7 miles

(Distances and time approximate)