High Peak, Derbyshire

TUNSTEAD HOUSE

KEY FEATURES

Steeped In History

The Grade II listed Tunstead House was built in the early 19th century and has been altered and extended since. The prominent house now stands proudly as a part of the area’s rich history.

The house is situated amidst the beautiful and hilly landscapes of Kinder Scout, near the Kinder Reservoir in the Peak District National Park. It used to be a farmhouse and has served as a guest house in the past. Nowadays, it is a private residence and an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts to enjoy the serene atmosphere. The interior layout lends itself to a multi-generational family or generating income with self-contained accommodations.

Meticulous care was taken to restore the house’s distinctive and grand gritstone exterior and stone roof. Decorative elements include stone chimney stacks and gables, while the doorway features a curved arch and fanlight. Windows with secondary glazing flank the entrance, adding to the property’s charm.

The rear of the house extension created a modern family space within a historic building. The garden room adds an additional living space via a glazed link. Enhancing the property’s functionality it provides views of the beautifully landscaped garden and countryside views, all while respecting the building’s heritage.

Approaching The House

The house is approached via a shared private driveway which leads to a large cobbled yard exclusive to the house and provides parking for multiple vehicles together with access to the large double garage and barn.

Step Inside

The grand entrance hall sets the tone with its original stone flooring and bespoke wallpapered walls. A carpeted staircase adds a touch of elegance, leading you further into the heart of the home.

Living Spaces

The sitting room embodies quintessential country living. Original flooring complements a sash window boasting breathtaking countryside views. A wood burner with a stone mantle creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, while a single feature wall adorned with tasteful wallpaper adds a touch of personality. The stately drawing room, perfect for entertaining, features rich flooring and a charming log burner. A double aspect with a sash window to the front and an additional window adorned with stone mullions allows natural light to flood the space.

The Kitchen & Beyond

The kitchen is a culinary dream, offering a large open-plan space encompassing a dining area. Original stone floors create a rustic charm, while an oil-fired AGA stove adds a touch of warmth and character. A large central island provides ample worktop space for even the most ambitious chef.

The boot room boasts terracotta tile flooring, wood-panelled walls, and a unique wine rack crafted from terracotta water pipes. A large cellar provides excellent storage potential.

SELLER INSIGHT

Tunstead House was in need of some love and attention when we first came to view it,” say the current owners of this historic home in the Kinder Valley. “The track up to the house was rough stone and mud, but as soon as we saw the views from every side of the house, we could see through the challenges to envisage our dream home. We then walked a couple of fields up from the house and our minds were made up! In the 20 years since, we have made extensive improvements to the property, including redecorating throughout; new log burners in three rooms; new roofs to the outbuildings; new windows; re-pointing; bringing the croft area back into use; re-purposing some of the bedrooms to create a dressing room, gym and en suite bathroom; and most importantly , our garden room, which opens up the views at the rear of the property.”

“Building the garden room and landscaping the rear garden made a massi ve difference and created a very private area to enjoy,” continue the owners. “We have never tired of sitting in the hot tub on the deck above the garden room in the near dark sky conditions, star gazing with a glass of bubbly no matter the weather. The house sits at a height of 580M and is south facing, so enjoys the sun all day. A favourite spot in the morning is to read the paper sitting on the bench at the front of the house, while the deck area above the garden and the patio by the garden room are great spots for meals with friends in the late evening sunshine.”

Indeed, this has always been the ideal property for everyday life and entert aining alike. “Tunstead House is a ‘landmark property’ with a rich history, which is even included on the Ordnance Survey map for the area,” the owners say. “Tunstead used to be known as the party house for the valley, having been a guest house and honorary clubhouse for the Members of the Rucksack Club. Continuing in this tradition, each Christm as we host a party for circa 40 friends and neighbours, and we have had a number of smaller gatherings with private chefs including a Kitchen Heaven & Hell, Spanish themed eveni ng and birthdays in the garden.”

“Leaving here, we shall miss the location, the views, the peace and quiet and t he community,” continue the owners. “Before arriving at Tunstead in 2004, we had moved 11 times with work. This was by far the most welcoming community we had ever fo und, with a collection of like-minded business owners and senior managers making our transition extremely simple. The property is part of a sociable hillside community of some 15 house s in the Kinder Valley, where most of our neighbours, like us, moved here from the city seeking a calmer country lifestyle. This place provides a haven from work, where we can swi tch off and relax in a private, peaceful environment, whilst still having easy access to London and other big cities. The Kinder Valley and the surrounding hills have a unique way of de -stressing say after a tough week. A walk up to sit on the rocks on Mount Famine very quickly washes away the stress of a busy day in London or a challenging week in the office.”

Beautiful countryside is all around here in Kinder. “With borrowed views a cross National Trust land carefully maintained by the local farmer, the property enjoys easy access to the hills for walking and mountain biking as well as horse trekking on the numerous bridal paths,” the owners say. “The footpath to the Kinder Scout walking route passes the front of the property, though at a height of 580 m above sea level, just 200m down from Kinder’s peak, only the more committed walkers are intrepid enough to come this far! We love being surrounded by sheep and cattle, watching the spring lambs finding their fe et in the front field each year.”

Yet, the convenience of local amenities and travel is not far away. “The village is well served with two shops, a chemist, a butcher selling local produce and three pubs, one of which, The Pack Horse, is aiming for Michelin guide listing. Our local pub, The Sp ortsman, is just a mile’s walk from the house and has been our Friday night meeting place for friends to gather for some 20 years. There is also a primary school, Pilates and yoga classes, as well as an active art community. Saturday afternoons spent at the cricket ground watching the village team are idyllic. Beyond the village, Chatsworth Estate is circa 20 m iles away and we have been Friends members for 15 years, attending the world-renowned country show and horse trials each year, as well as the Christmas Markets and regular visits to the gardens and events. Buxton spa town is just 11 miles away with both the newly refurbished Crescent Spa hotel, Opera House and annual festival, which is well worth a visit. Manchester is some 18 miles away with good train services from Glossop providing access to Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and excellent restaurants and bars, as well as the famous football clubs. Cheshire, with its reputation for being a haven for footballers, is within easy reach with high-end eateries and beautiful villages to visit. Rail services to Lond on from Macclesfield take 1 hour 40 minutes with an excellent service.”

* These comments are the personal views of the current owner and are included as an insight into life at the property. They have not been independently verified, should not be relied on without verification and do not necessarily reflect the views of the agent.

Bedrooms & Bathrooms

The first-floor guest bedroom provides a tranquil haven with its stripped wood flooring and timber frame window with delightful countryside views. A modern guest shower room features sleek tile flooring and a spacious shower enclosure.

The dressing room, currently configured with carpet flooring and built-in wardrobes, presents a versatile space. A stone mullion window offers delightful Kinder Low views. This room could be easily transformed into a comfortable additional bedroom if desired.

The main suite is a luxurious sanctuary. The bedroom boasts stripped wood flooring and a striking antique cast iron fireplace with a stone mantle. Decorative panelling adds a touch of grandeur, while a spacious boudoir with a wood floor connects seamlessly to the en-suite.

Unwind in the elegant en-suite featuring stripped wood flooring, a sash window, and a cast iron fireplace with a stone mantle. A walk-in shower and freestanding bath complete this luxurious haven also with magnificent views.

Further Exploration

The carpeted landing leads to the second floor, offering a spacious loft room with a dramatic A-frame vaulted ceiling adorned with exposed beams. Striking eaves storage, Velux windows, and a timber window with hillside views and carpet flooring complete this versatile space.

The second-floor landing provides access to a handy WC with tile flooring and a shower room showcasing wood flooring and mosaic tile walls.

Active Pursuits

An impressive gym room on the second floor boasts a laminate floor, an A-frame vaulted ceiling with exposed beams, a timber door with cottage pane glass leading to a fire escape, and additional eaves storage. This room has been thoughtfully designed with a reinforced floor to one side to accommodate the weight of gym equipment, while Velux windows provide ample natural light for your workouts.

A Room with a View

The true pièce de résistance of this property is undoubtedly the magnificent garden room extension. Constructed with a striking glass and stone wall, this light-filled haven offers breath taking panoramic views of the surrounding landscaped gardens and rolling countryside. Underfloor heating and LPG gas fire ensure comfort year-round, while travertine floor tiles add a touch of luxury. A captivating feature fireplace provides a focal point for relaxation and entertaining.

The Cottage Retreat

Beyond the kitchen, a delightful surprise awaits. A charming cottage, expertly linked into the main residence, offers a tranquil haven. It lends itself to versatility in accommodation to the residence and offers a captivating blend of period character also with modern conveniences.

Ascend the stairs and discover two beautifully appointed bedrooms. Relax in the sumptuous carpeted haven, complete with a charming timber window framed by plantation shutters. An en-suite bathroom features a luxurious Victorian shower bath, alongside stylish tile flooring. A further enchanting bedroom boasts plush carpets and a timber window adorned with plantation shutters.

The bathroom features stunning tile flooring, a freestanding bath, and a walk-in shower. A striking ceiling beam adds a touch of rustic charm, while half-wall wood panelling creates a sense of warmth and character.

The Study & Dining Rooms

The study has plush carpets and a warming log burner creating a cosy atmosphere. Built-in bookshelves provide ample storage for your favourite novels, while a stone lintel and hearth add a touch of rustic charm.

The modern dining room boasts laminate flooring and a timber window adorned with elegant plantation shutters. A characterful gas fireplace takes centre stage, perfect for hosting intimate gatherings.

Modern Amenities

The cottage boasts a utility room and a separate WC, both featuring practical laminate flooring for easy maintenance.

Gardens and Breathtaking Views

The property is just as impressive on the outside as it is on the inside. The private landscaped garden is the perfect place to entertain your friends and family, and the views are stunning. You can enjoy a 360-degree visual pleasure of the rolling hillside landscape while relaxing in the hot tub. On one side of the property, a cobblestone road separates two smaller potting and wood/coal sheds from the multi-purpose garages and barn. The garage roof is equipped with solar panels that feed directly into the grid and generate significant FiT income each year. On the other side of the property, you’ll find an open lawned garden that’s bordered by a dry stone wall. This area includes a summer house and provides elevated views.

This exceptional property offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history, marrying period charm with modern convenience. Surrounded by breathtaking countryside, it provides the perfect sanctuary for those seeking a tranquil escape. The property will appeal to a wide range of discerning buyers. Contact our office today to arrange a viewing and discover your idyllic Peak District retreat.

Council Tax Band: G

Tenure: Freehold

Agents notes: All measurements are approximate and for general guidance only and whilst every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy, they must not be relied on. The fixtures, fittings and appliances referred to have not been tested and therefore no guarantee can be given that they are in working order. Internal photographs are reproduced for general information and it must not be inferred that any item shown is included with the property. For a free valuation, contact the numbers listed on the brochure. Printed 04.04.2024

FINE & COUNTRY

Fine & Country is a global network of estate agencies specialising in the marketing, sale and rental of luxury residential property. With offices in over 300 locations, spanning Europe, Australia, Africa and Asia, we combine widespread exposure of the international marketplace with the local expertise and knowledge of carefully selected independent property professionals.

Fine & Country appreciates the most exclusive properties require a more compelling, sophisticated and intelligent presentation – leading to a common, yet uniquely exercised and successful strategy emphasising the lifestyle qualities of the property.

This unique approach to luxury homes marketing delivers high quality, intelligent and creative concepts for property promotion combined with the latest technology and marketing techniques.

We understand moving home is one of the most important decisions you make; your home is both a financial and emotional investment. With Fine & Country you benefit from the local knowledge, experience, expertise and contacts of a well trained, educated and courteous team of professionals, working to make the sale or purchase of your property as stress free as possible.

THE FINE & COUNTRY FOUNDATION

The production of these particulars has generated a £10 donation to the Fine & Country Foundation, charity no. 1160989, striving to relieve homelessness.

Visit fineandcountry.com/uk/foundation

Fine & Country

17-19 Market Sreet, Chapel-en-le-Frith SK23 0HP

01298 808 082 | highpeak@fineandcountry.com