With urban property prices reaching an all time high there has been a peaked interest in people seeking to move to the country; buyers get much more space for their money and the allure of the slower pace of life is resulting in many people leaving the hustle and bustle of city life for good.
United Kingdom’s Sotheby’s International Realty currently has listed some of the best country piles available today. The enviable factor that all of these properties have in common is that although they have the space, peace, and the countryside way of life, they are within commuter distance to London meaning you can enjoy the best of both worlds. You reap the benefits that come with escaping the city, yet still be close enough to enjoy the bountiful fruits London has to offer.
Queens Drive, Oakshotte, Surrey
This spectacular home is located on Queens Drive in the heart of the prestigious Crown Estate. Located on a 1.5-acre plot, the home has magnificent proportions and has been finished to exceptionally high standards with a minimalist, sleek, modern design.
The abundance of space means it comes with a list of enviable features including its own steam room, spa, jacuzzi, tennis court, and both an indoor and an outdoor swimming pool. All of these benefits and the property is only 37 minutes away from London by train. This home is perfect for those with large families, or for those who love to host and entertain, the perfect place for a country retreat.
Birch Grove, Buckinghamshire
Although often country houses are associated with tradition, this conversion at Birch Grove is the height of modernity. Vast windows flood the home with natural light and a sense of serenity and the owners enjoy total privacy, as the home is accessed via its own private drive. Recently renovated, this property offers the new owners a chance to bring their dream designs to life.
One of the home’s most impressive features is it is net-zero. Although all around you are spoiled by extensive green open spaces, the home is 23 miles from central London making it possible to commute.
East Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire
This staggering Grade-I home set on 80 private acres is an homage to old-world grandeur and the height of high-class living. Surrounded by the famously beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, the property accommodates an activity-rich lifestyle with a top-of-the-range tennis court, an outdoor swimming pool, and 80 acres of beautiful British countryside with plentiful natural habitats for British wildlife. The land includes private park, farmland, and woodland.
Banbury, Oxfordshire
Adderbury House is a property of such staggering beauty, it has to be seen to be believed. The stunning Grade II-listed house is over three centuries old, having been built in 1722 for the 2nd Earl of Rochester. The property is a unique architectural blend of Georgian and Baroque styles and despite its grand age, the home has been meticulously renovated with modern features, while still honouring its rich heritage.
The property comes with two additional cottages within its grounds perfect as guest houses, or for those who have live-in staff. The immaculately manicured grounds boast glorious views of the Oxfordshire countryside and there are a range of exceptional schools located close by, making it the perfect family home.
Appleby Castle, Cumbria
Nestled in the idyllic countryside that inspired some of Britain’s most celebrated authors from Beatrix Potter, to William Wordsworth, on the edge of the Lake District you will find Appleby Castle. The castle which dates back to the Norman Period, with its initial building taking place in 1100, is so steeped in history and was almost completely destroyed during the English Civil War. Owned by the Kings of England and Scotland, tucked in the breathtaking landscape of the Lake District, Appleby Castle is a unique relic from mediaeval England. With its grand wood-paneled rooms, stunning staircases, vast basement, and walled gardens, you will feel as if you are royalty living in such an incredible space.
With its abundance of space and extensive grounds, the property presents an opportunity to be run as a business, or indeed a private home. The current owner has spent 25 years meticulously renovating the historic gem, which is currently being run as a hotel and events business.
Weybridge, Surrey
This picturesque family home in Weybridge , Surrey , looks as if it has been lifted from the pages of a story book with its inviting appeal and beautifully crafted facade. Residents can relax with total peace of mind as the home benefits from complete privacy surrounded by manicured grounds and is enclosed in its own private woodland.
Internally a paired back, tranquil colour palette has rich wooden accents, large fireplaces, and sun-drenched rooms, thanks to the abundance of windows. The home has been beautifully designed and feels as if it is a universe away from the world – however thanks to its proximity to London – you can still work in the city in the day and be home to recline by dinner time.
From modern masterpieces to timeless traditional homes, United Kingdom’s Sotheby’s International Realty successfully offers the best of countryside living no matter what style, or way of life you are seeking. Fresh air, plenty of space, and utter peace and quiet can become an everyday reality, thanks to the availability of these incredible homes. While many of them are ready to move in, there is always ample opportunity for lovers of design to transform these exceptional homes into their dream of country living.
