Lower Ensden Road, Old Wives Lees, Canterbury

This property offers a rare opportunity to acquire a well located farm and well proportioned house, located on the fringe of the National Landscape.

Lot 1: Lower Ensden Farmhouse -

Description - Occupying an exceptionally secluded and enviable position within the Kent Downs, Lower Ensden Farmhouse is a rare opportunity to acquire a substantial detached Grade II Listed farmhouse together with a collection of attractive outbuildings, set within grounds of approximately 3.38 acres and enjoying fantastic views across the surrounding countryside. The wonderfully peaceful setting is undoubtedly one of the property's greatest attractions. Surrounded by the rolling landscape of the Kent Downs, the house enjoys far-reaching and unspoilt views, yet remains conveniently positioned for Canterbury, Faversham and the surrounding villages. Properties in such a beautiful and secluded location are rarely available, making this an exciting opportunity for those looking to create something truly special.

The farmhouse itself is now in need of modernisation and offers considerable scope for improvement, subject to the necessary consents. With its generous proportions, period features, attractive outbuildings and exceptional setting, the property provides the opportunity to create a wonderful family home whilst retaining the character and charm of the existing Grade II Listed building.

The accommodation currently comprises an entrance hall, sitting room with a magnificent Inglenook fireplace, drawing room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room and downstairs cloakroom. On the first floor, the landing leads to five bedrooms, with the principal bedroom benefiting from an en-suite bathroom, together with a family bathroom and separate WC. A useful cellar, with doors leading directly out to the garden completes the accommodation.

The property is approached via a gravel drive to the front providing plenty of parking. The various attractive outbuildings offer useful ancillary space and further potential, while the grounds extend to approximately 3.38 acres.

In all, Lower Ensden Farmhouse offers a rare combination of privacy, breath-taking countryside, generous accommodation and outstanding period character, together with the exciting opportunity to modernise and improve an important historic property and create a truly exceptional family home in one of Kent's most beautiful rural settings.

Location - Lower Ensden Farmhouse occupies a wonderful rural position within the Kent Downs, approximately midway between the villages of Old Wives Lees and Selling. Old Wives Lees lies on the historic Old Pilgrims Way on the Chartham Downs and is surrounded by beautiful countryside, orchards and an excellent choice of footpaths and country walks.

Despite its tranquil rural setting, the property is conveniently located for Canterbury, approximately 6 miles away. The cathedral city provides an extensive range of cultural, recreational and sporting facilities, together with a particularly strong selection of educational establishments. Canterbury has a number of highly regarded independent schools, including King's School, St Edmund's School and Kent College, alongside well-regarded state schools, grammar schools and sixth-form, making the area particularly attractive to families.

The picturesque medieval village of Chilham lies 1.5 miles away and has a magnificent castle, the village features 2 traditional pubs, village stores & railway connections to London. Faversham, approximately 5.5 miles away, and Selling, approximately 2 miles, provide rail services to London Victoria, with journey times of around 80 minutes. Chilham, approximately 1.5 miles away, also provides a rail service to London. For faster commuting, Canterbury West offers High Speed services to London St Pancras in less than an hour. Ashford International, approximately 11 miles away, provides High Speed services to London St Pancras in around 38 minutes, together with international services to the Continent. Road connections are also excellent, with access to the M2 motorway at Junction 6, approximately 4 miles away.

Council Tax - Band 'G' according to the website of the Valuation Office Agency

Lot 2: Lower Ensden Farm -

Description - In all, the land extends to approximately 270.67 acres (109.54 hectares), a large proportion of which lies within a ring fence, with only one off lying field. Access is provided from Lower Ensden Road and New Forest Lane. The land is classified Grade II and III by DEFRA with freely draining, lime rich loamy soils. The land may be suitable for alternative agricultural, horticultural or equestrian uses, subject to obtaining any necessary consents. Some of the land is also suitable for viticultural use.

Services - Mains water and electric are connected to the Farmhouse. Heating is provided via an oil central heating system and there is a private drainage system serving the property.

We are not aware of any services being connected to the land. Buyers should rely on their own investigations.

Rights Of Way And Easements - The land is sold subject to all existing covenants, wayleaves, easements and rights of way, whether public or private, specifically mentioned or not. The land is bordered to the Southeast by footpath KT|AE|8, and has bridleway KT|AE| 6 running through the Northern land parcel. A plan is available on request.

Plan - Please see the plan contained in these particulars. The boundaries on this plan are indicative only and the land will be sold in accordance with the Registered Title. Plans are reproduced from the Ordnance Survey under Licence Number ES025698. The acreages quoted are for guidance purposes only and are given without responsibility. Any intending purchaser should not rely upon the statements or representations as fact and must satisfy themselves by inspection or otherwise as to the area being sold.

Tenure And Possession - Freehold with vacant possession on completion.

Method Of Sale - The land is to be offered by private treaty as a whole or in two separate lots. The seller reserves the right to take the land to informal tender, formal tender or auction should they so desire.

Purchaser Identification - In accordance with Money Laundering Regulations, we are now required to obtain proof of identification and funds for any interested parties.

Planning - The land falls outside any settlement confines. The land is within a Nitrate Vulnerable Zone. The farmhouse is Grade II listed.

Countryside Stewardship - There is a Countryside Stewardship agreement in place for the land. Details are available from the agent on request.

Exchange Of Contracts And Completion - A 10% deposit will be payable on exchange of contracts with the balance of the purchase price payable upon completion.

Sporting Rights - In so far as they are owned, these are included in the sale.

Local Authorities - Canterbury City Council and Ashford Borough Council