Unique period barn conversion with wonderful outlook and significant attached barns.

Description

Caswell Barns is recognised as an excellent example of a traditional Hertfordshire farm and as such, the recently converted Grade II listed barn that forms the main house has been carefully and sympathetically renovated to ensure that many of the period features are retained, whilst introducing all the modern fittings one expects today.

The property offers a most fantastic sitting/dining room, which boasts a significant vaulted beamed ceiling, fabulous ceramic tiled flooring and windows which offer delightful views over the grounds and ponds. A contemporary steel, oak and glass floating staircase rises to the first floor where the glass walled main bedroom suite overlooks the sitting room. Underfloor heating runs throughout the main ground floor living space.

From the lovely hallway, with its feature brick flooring, the kitchen/breakfast room, two further bedrooms and the family bathroom can be found. The kitchen is superbly fitted with bespoke contemporary units incorporating a large central island and slab oak ‘farmhouse’ table. There are integrated appliances such as hob, oven and microwave, as well as a fridge and freezer and dishwasher. Twin sets of doors lead out to the central courtyard whilst a door leads to a generous laundry room with additional built in storage including a dog bed. The cloakroom and utilities are directly accessed from the laundry room.

Caswell Barns is approached via electronic gates and over a tarmac driveway that leads down to a private block paved courtyard where the detached double garage and summerhouse can be found with West facing views over the cress beds.

At the top of the driveway and attached to the main barn is a range of original barns, which offer numerous possibilities. The largest of the barns was granted planning as a design office in 2006 and was substantially restored at the time, including re-roofing and insulating before the project was paused.

There is a large open fronted cart barn, which has double barn doors at the rear that provide access to the land for garden machinery, and three further barns which could be converted subject to the usual planning consent. Electrical provision for a fast charging point has been made within the cart barn.

The grounds to Caswell Barns are truly special and are predominantly made up of the old historic watercress beds. Today, they represent a wonderful habitat for wildlife, whist being a tranquil haven for those who relish a quiet and peaceful waterside setting. There are areas of garden, which allow for a wonderful treelined walk around the full extent of the gardens and down to the River Lea, whilst a spectacular array of trees adorn the grounds.

Brief History
Caswell Barn was, in fact, the name of the original neighbouring farmhouse, now known as Castle Farm, which was built circa 1620 for a wealthy farmer who owned land that extended to over two hundred acres. John Brocket and Thomas Nash were just two of the more well-known occupants and over time, the house was occupied by traditional farm tenants, farm labourers and middle-ranking yeomen. The local watercress beds were established in 1879 and stretched from Batford to Castle Farm.

The current owners have resided at Castle Farm since 1967 and have lovingly cared for the grounds which surround the farm. Whilst Caswell Barn is being separated from Castle Farm, the owners still plan to reside at the house, which is a wonderful testament to the property and all it stands for.

Easements, Wayleaves and Rights of Way
The property is offered for sale subject to any public or private rights of way and all easements and wayleaves, referred to in these particulars or not.

Location

Mileages approx:
Harpenden town centre and mainline station 2 miles - St Pancras International from 22 minutes, Wheathampstead village 1.4 miles, St Albans 6.4 miles, M1 Junction 9 - 6 miles, London Luton Airport 6.5 miles, central London 27.8 miles.

The property lies just 2 miles to the north east of Harpenden and is set above the River Lea. Caswell Barn is 1.4 miles from the village of Wheathampstead, which offers a range of shops, pubs and a Tesco Express.

Both Harpenden and St Albans provide an excellent range of shops and supermarkets, a fast rail service to London and a choice of quality schools for all age groups, private and state and the closest being the renowned Katherine Warrington School for secondary education.

Recreationally, there is lots to do in the surrounding area with an extensive network of public footpaths and bridleways, which meander through the local countryside.

Leisure facilities are in abundance locally, including several challenging golf courses, sports centres and numerous sports clubs.

Square Footage: 2,258 sq ft