Durford Wood, Petersfield, Hampshire, GU31

Beautifully presented country house in the prestigious Durford Wood Estate in the South Downs near the town of Petersfield; set in about 300 acres, the estate is known for its established country houses and communal woodlands, offering private rural living with excellent access to the A3 and Petersfield.

Believed to have been built in 1928 for the surgeon to King George V, Durford Manor is understood to have been designed by the distinguished Arts & Crafts architect Gerald Unsworth. The house is an impressive example of neo-Georgian country architecture, characterised by its parapet roof, arched pediment porch, elegantly curved window heads and distinctive circular date stone. Durford Manor is without doubt one of the finest houses in Durford Wood.

Inside, the property offers generously proportioned accommodation, with many of the principal rooms enjoying a southerly aspect and attractive views across the extensive grounds towards the South Downs. Particularly noteworthy are the exceptional reception/dining hall, flooded with natural light, and the elegant staircase rising to a galleried landing. The impressive relocation of the principal bedroom on the second floor also benefits the house hugely. The current owners have also constructed a smart self-contained annexe within the house that also has its own access from the garaging and parking areas.

The current owners have undertaken a comprehensive renovation internally to the house following on from the substantial extension by the previous owners. French doors open directly onto the south-west facing gardens, seamlessly connecting the indoor and outdoor spaces. Beyond the pool complex are a triple garage and adjoining plant room, completing this impressive addition to the property.

Durford Manor enjoys excellent transport links, with the A3 approximately 2.2 miles away, providing convenient access to London, the south coast, the M25 and the international airports at Heathrow and Gatwick. Southampton Airport is also easily reached, lying around 28 miles to the south west.

The area is particularly well served by an excellent selection of schools, including Bedales at Steep, Churcher’s College in Petersfield and Liphook, and Highfield and Brookham School also in nearby Liphook.

A wealth of sporting and leisure opportunities are available nearby, including polo at Cowdray, horse racing at Goodwood and Fontwell, and sailing from Chichester and Bosham. The surrounding countryside offers miles of scenic walking and riding routes, while golfers are well catered for with courses at Petersfield, Liphook amongst others. Cultural attractions are equally impressive, with the renowned Chichester Festival Theatre situated approximately 19 miles away.

(All times and distances are approximate)