Darwen, Lancashire

WATERHOUSE

Waterhouse is a Victorian property built in 1897 which was originally occupied by the local water bailiff. The property has been renovated fully to an impressive standard throughout whilst remaining sympathetic to its history, charm and character.

KEY FEATURES

Waterhouse is now a capable family home with versatile living space which appeals to all age groups. The property has living accommodation on the lower ground floor with a superb dining kitchen opening into a large lounge/ diner. To the ground floor are three reception rooms, one of which is currently used as a generous fourth double bedroom. On the first floor there are three bedrooms and a family bathroom. The house has gardens to the rear with superb long distance views and a small croft extending to approximately 1/3 of an acre. There is a driveway and a double garage. A superb rural location but within easy reach of local amenities.

Internally the property briefly comprises:- Ground floor, entrance vestibule with original Victorian tiled flooring, shower room and a further three reception rooms, currently being used as a snug, study and lounge.

To the lower ground floor is an outstanding country style dining kitchen with handmade units, exposed stone walls and an oil fired Aga in keeping with the era. There is also an extended lounge/diner with sliding doors to the rear.

To the first floor are three double bedrooms and an immaculate heritage suite bathroom.

SELLER INSIGHT

Waterhouse is a traditional, refurbished stone cottage, originally built in 1897 alongside Darwen Tower as residence for the Water Bailiff. Previously known as The Waterman’s Cottage - and to some of the locals it still is - we just loved the size, character, and period charm that’s prevalent throughout. There are wonderful walks direct from the front door which is great for when we want to take the dogs out on nice days to enjoy the surrounding countryside. It’s a truly unique property with the most stunning views,” say the owners.

“The property stands alone, high up the side of the hill along a private lane, so it’s very quiet and peaceful here. The location feels rural whilst still being close enough to all amenities and the commuting network which was vital for us. We’re positioned at a junction between wide-open moorland, an ancient woodland, and multiple reservoirs, the nearest of which was decommissioned and now serves as a wildlife reserve. You’re always assured of a friendly welcome at the local pub which is home to the ‘Residents of Sunnyhurst Association’, an active and welcoming community, who organise various events and charity fundraisers through the year.”

“Without a doubt the most special aspect of the property are the views which are stunning year-round. The large windows in the lounge/diner are a wonderful feature as they allow for an almost daily show of spectacular sunsets over the opposing valley hill, as well as a blending of outside and inside spaces. This makes entertaining guests a breeze, particularly in warm summer months. The kitchen / open-plan family room is the heart of the house and where the majority of our time is spent. The rooms are kept warm in the winter by the AGA and log burner which are always a big draw for visiting guests.”

“We’ve lived here for 6 years now and have made a number of changes suitable for modern lifestyles but still in keeping with the character and age of the property. We added solar panels for energy efficiency and updated the kitchen with new units. The work continued outside too as we landscaped the space in order to make it more functional and usable; being in the garden is now a joy and the layout allows for numerous different functional spaces, including entertaining guests, growing our own vegetables, and relaxing.”*

* 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.

Outside

To the rear there are low maintenance gardens with slate and stone chipped seating areas, a terraced area outside the kitchen and an elevated decked area. The garden looks over open fields beyond the garden and to one side is a small croft area extending to approximately 1/3 of an acre.

To the Front - Front enclosed garden area with private driveway which provides off road parking and access to the garage.

Summerhouse - with outstanding panoramic views over Darwen Golf Club, Sunnyhurst Woods and towards the Yorkshire three peaks currently being used as a home-gym.

Two Storey Double Garage - Up and over doors, lighting and power, overhead storage and two storage rooms below.

Situated in close proximity to major network links such as the M65 to Bury and Manchester as well as being approximately five minutes away from Darwen railway station, providing routes to a number of destinations. Popular schools, amenities and healthcare services are also easily accessible. The property itself sits on a private lane which provides access to only a handful of houses.

Council Tax Band: E

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 24.04.2023

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 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

EMMA BALDWIN PROPERTY CONSULTANT

JULIE JACKSON SENIOR PROPERTY CONSULTANT

JASON PRESTON HEAD OF SALES