Sue Field explores Derbyshire; one of the best places for smallholder living in the UK…

Once you look at The Coach House, Edlaston, set in 5.5 acres in the Derbyshire Dales, you will understand why this property stands out.

Edlaston is a small community, approximately three miles from Ashbourne, where good schools and all the necessary amenities are plentiful. It is mentioned in the Domesday Book as Dulverstune and has an impressive part 14th Century Church.

Ashbourne is a delightful market town with cobbled streets, historic buildings and many independent shops. There are a number of interesting places to visit in the surrounding area, the most popular of which are the Dovedale Stepping Stones which are a firm favourite with children although you may need to pack a few towels!! Dovedale is managed by the National Trust and is a National Nature Reserve.

Check out the famous annual Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football Match and the traditional country and agricultural show for fun family days out. Whilst this is undoubtedly a beautiful part of England, with famous towns such as Matlock and Bakewell amongst many villages and towns that are a delight for a day out, Derbyshire has its dark side. A walk from Ravenstor YHA, tells the dark history of mills in the Derbyshire Dales, some of which were positively satanic, both in appearance and for the conditions that workers were forced to endure. Fortunately life in the 21st Century is not as harsh, and life at The Coach House, where a life of self-sufficiency could be possible, seems idyllic!

FEATURED PROPERTY: THE COACH HOUSE IN ELDLASTON
Retaining many original features which have been sympathetically enhanced by the present owners, the house also has bespoke oak double glazing. The house exudes character with gothic arch doorways, exposed beams and brickwork. There are three double bedrooms, the master has its own ensuite with shower room, and a luxurious beautifully fitted family bathroom with a sunken bath as well as a separate electric shower unit.

Rarely will you see such an imaginative kitchen which is on two levels with the dining area separated by the inspired use of renovated original horse stall partitions. Many such partitions were destroyed when coach houses fell into disrepair and the beauty of these in such a setting would doubtless be a talking point at supper parties. There is also a full range of bespoke wooden wall and base units with granite worktops, integral appliances and an oil fired range. The main reception area has a multi fuel burner set within a brick fireplace. Stairs lead up to the first floor from this room with a useful under stair cupboard.

Outside the current owners have used the property for predominantly equestrian purposes and for anybody with horses or ponies, this part of the world has many bridleways amidst wonderful countryside. However, the three stables and manege, placed in an L shape and on a concrete base, would lend themselves to a variety of uses and there is also a feedstore and a modern agricultural barn as well as a brick-built office, two bay cart lodge and garage.

A children’s play area, vegetable garden, formal lawned area and summerhouse surround the house as well as a small orchard and a chicken enclosure. Plenty of potential for a number of enterprises, subject of course to any necessary planning permissions. Set in the rolling countryside of Derbyshire, the property is secluded but still close to all the amenities you would need as well as good road links to Derby, Stoke on Trent and Birmingham.

On the market with Rural Scene with a guide price of £850,000 this property will tempt you to make that move. At the very least take a look at the link www.ruralscene.co.uk and dream!

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