Sandy Down, Boldre, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41

A distinguished Arts and Crafts residence, once a summer retreat for Prime Minister Herbert Asquith and former home of the Shackleton family. Situated in the sought-after enclave of Sandy Down, Boldre extending to over 4,800 sq ft, the property showcases a striking façade adorned with mature wisteria and climbing plants, all beneath a traditional clay-tiled roof with characterful turned chimneys. Positioned within grounds approaching two acres, the estate also includes an immaculately refurbished two-bedroom guest cottage which currently generates a healthy income and a bespoke architect-designed four-bay garage with an adjoining garden store.

The superb accommodation is arranged over four floors and entered through a striking circular vestibule that opens into the main hall with an elegant open fireplace, sweeping staircase, wood panelling, herringbone flooring and stained glass windows. A panelled cloakroom WC and a sizable dry cellar is accessed from the hall.

The dual-aspect drawing room is a superb entertaining space, with a curved bay overlooking the gardens, a stone-surround fireplace with bench seating and a box bay forming a bright dining area. The kitchen/breakfast room is the true heart of the home: Shaker-style cabinetry, a central island with Butchers block, traditional gas Aga, Belfast sink and decorative curved windows. A rear lobby gives access to a utility / laundry room and opens onto a private courtyard garden.

Upstairs, the first-floor landing doubles as a wood panelled study area with built-in shelving. The principal suite enjoys garden views from a curved bay with fitted wardrobes and a luxurious en-suite featuring a freestanding bath, walk-in shower and twin basins. A further three double bedrooms, one with en-suite facilities are served by an independent bathroom with separate WC. The second floor provides a spacious additional bedroom with Velux balcony windows, a through shower room and loft access.

A rhododendron-lined driveway leads to the architect-designed four bay garage, with display doors and adjoining garden store.

The impressive detached two-bedroom cottage/annex has been recently refurbished, offering a fitted kitchen, bright sitting/dining room, two double bedrooms and a shower room. A decked veranda enjoys views over the garden, while a fenced kitchen garden lies to the front. Paths meander from the south lawn through mature woodland, linking to Hurstly Lane.

Sandy Down, within the parish of Boldre, is one of the most desirable addresses in the New Forest. The property sits midway between the Georgian market town of Lymington—renowned for its yachting, weekly market and Isle of Wight ferry—and the well-connected village of Brockenhurst, which provides a mainline rail service to London Waterloo in around 1 hour 40 minutes