West Hougham, Dover, Kent, CT15

Orchard House is an exquisite Edwardian residence set within approximately 1.3 acres of beautifully maintained grounds in the picturesque hamlet of West Hougham, nestled between Folkestone and Dover. Surrounded by rolling farmland and tranquil woodlands, this stunning home offers a peaceful retreat while remaining conveniently close to local amenities and transport links.

Originally built with timeless craftsmanship, the house has been thoughtfully and meticulously maintained by its current owners, preserving its historic charm while introducing high-quality modern enhancements. The exterior is an attractive combination of rendered brick and cedar weatherboarding, giving the property a classic yet refined appearance. Every window is a double-glazed sash style, complete with bespoke internal wooden shutters, ensuring energy efficiency while maintaining the character of the home. The interior is equally impressive, with solid oak doors throughout, beamed ceilings, and a tasteful blend of tiled and wooden flooring.

Stepping through the traditional gated entrance porch, the welcoming hallway sets the tone for the rest of the house. The sitting room is perfectly positioned to take in wonderful countryside views and features an open fireplace, making it a delightful space for both formal and relaxed family gatherings. The heart of the home is the expansive kitchen and family room, a bright and airy space designed for modern living. This beautifully finished area includes a Lacanche range cooker, wooden cabinetry, and a central island, complemented by a log burner that adds warmth and character. Bifold doors open onto the patio and views across the stunning garden to the grounds beyond.

A truly unique feature of the property is the snug and study/breakfast room, which are divided by a striking double-sided fireplace, creating a cosy yet versatile living space. The ground floor also benefits from a well-equipped utility room and a stylishly designed wet room, with a large walk in shower – perfect for after days outside or long dog walks.

The first floor is home to five generously proportioned double bedrooms, each tastefully decorated and filled with natural light. Three of the bedrooms have their own en-suite bathrooms, finished to an exceptional standard with floor-to-ceiling tiling, large walk-in showers, and contemporary fixtures. A beautifully appointed family bathroom serves the remaining two bedrooms.

Outside, the formal gardens wrap around the front and side of the property, providing a picturesque setting with mature trees, manicured lawns, and thoughtfully designed seating areas. A wooden garden gazebo offers the perfect spot to relax and take in the stunning surroundings, while the hand-crafted oak entrance porch, built using traditional doweled fixings rather than screws, adds to the property's unique character.

Adding to the appeal, Orchard House features three highly successful holiday lets, carefully designed to provide a unique and luxurious countryside retreat. The beautifully converted barn is a spacious yet cosy escape, clad in chestnut for both longevity and low maintenance. Inside, it offers a stylish blend of rustic charm and modern comforts, an open-plan kitchen and living area, a king-sized bedroom and twin room. French doors from the main bedroom and living space open to a south facing raised decking area overlooking rolling countryside.

The two hand-crafted shepherds' huts, also chestnut-clad, offer an intimate getaway, complete with wood burning stoves, elegant interiors, and their own private decking areas to enjoy the stunning landscape. Both currently set up with private hot tubs, allowing guests to fully embrace the rural setting under the stars. An outdoor shower and sauna are shared between the huts, powered by solar and featuring power showers.

Nestled in the peaceful village of West Hougham, this exceptional property enjoys the perfect balance of seclusion and accessibility. The historic towns of Dover and Folkestone, along with the stunning Kent coastline, are just a short drive away, while high-speed rail links provide easy access to London and France.

Orchard House is well-connected for families, with school bus services running from the village to a range of local schools in Dover and Capel-le-Ferne, making the morning routine simple and stress-free. For those who enjoy cycling or walking, the property also sits directly on Sustrans National Cycle Route 17, offering safe and scenic access through the countryside, whether for commuting, leisure, or weekend adventures.

With its combination of Edwardian charm, modern efficiency, a thriving holiday let business, and truly breathtaking surroundings, Orchard House is an extraordinary opportunity for those seeking a unique and versatile home in the heart of the Kent countryside. Whether as a cherished family home or an investment opportunity with established holiday lets, this remarkable property offers something truly special in an idyllic countryside setting.