Ivy Cottage Main Road, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford

Some homes are bricks and mortar.

Others have stories in the walls, whispers in the woodwork, and soul in every nook.

Ivy Cottage is the latter.

Tucked just off the A51, you'd never know this incredible former blacksmith's even existed – and yet, here it is. Sitting quietly on just over 0.8 acres, it's a haven of privacy, personality, and pure countryside charm with dream connections to Stafford, Lichfield, Rugeley, Stone and Stoke.

Let's begin at the 'front' – although with a property this old, it's more accurate to say "one of the entrances." The grand porch welcomes you over the threshold and immediately hints at the home's history and soul. Thick stone walls. Odd angles. Beautifully wonky charm.

From the hall, a glimpse of the kitchen-diner awaits – a rustic country space that's as warm and welcoming as they come. A Belfast sink, solid worktops, and that classic Aga provide the perfect backdrop for slow Sunday breakfasts or baking marathons. A central dining table makes everyday mealtimes a family affair, while the pew-style bench offers a cosy spot for friends to chat over tea and toast.

A discreet utility room keeps the laundry and life admin tucked neatly away, and a handy downstairs WC adds practicality without compromise.

We also have our first of many reception rooms – a versatile lounge space currently styled for everyday living but equally suited as a playroom, formal sitting room, or home library. Think open fires, thick rugs, and room to stretch out.

Next up: there is a cute pantry, which is nestled between the kitchen and a second reception room.

Through again and into the formal dining room, where a gorgeous fireplace steals the show. Imagine festive dinners here, the fire crackling, candles flickering, and a view out over the garden… it's straight from a storybook.

And just off the dining room – the snug. Perhaps our favourite space. With its low ceiling, soft light, and feature fireplace, it's made for late-night chats, movie marathons, or curling up with a book and a glass of red while jazz hums gently in the background.

Upstairs, the charm continues.

The first two bedrooms, both good-sized doubles, sit peacefully at the rear end of the house. Vaulted ceilings and exposed beams make them feel light, lofty, and full of character. One has a built-in cupboard for easy storage, but both are full of potential.

Further along, the third double – currently set up as a guest bedroom and home office – is a lovely, flexible space, with plenty of light and a calm feel.

Opposite is the main family bathroom – and it's a beauty. A freestanding roll-top bath, separate shower enclosure, and stylish finishes make it feel more boutique hotel than family home. You won't be bumping elbows in here.

And finally, the master suite. Oh wow. This room has that something special. The angular walls, elegant lines and a feature door, reminiscent of times gone by, make it both spacious and cosy. A built-in cupboard, stylish en-suite, and room for a super-king bed plus a reading nook – it's the kind of room that makes you exhale. Peaceful. Private. Perfect.

But wait... there's more.

Step outside into a garden that unfolds like a secret. The immediate garden is bursting with colour – mature shrubs, flowering borders, and even a tranquil water fountain. It's the kind of space you can imagine summer BBQs, kids racing barefoot across the lawn, or simply enjoying your morning coffee with the birds.

Beyond that? A double garage and workshop, ideal for creatives or tinkerers. A wood store, ripe for reimagining. And then – the orchard. Fruit trees are ready to offer up apples for crumble, plums for jam, or pears for poaching.

And just when you think it couldn't get better… You reach the stables. Currently, storage, but what could they be?

A home office, Airbnb, yoga studio, crafting retreat? You decide.

And then – the grand finale.

The garden just keeps going... all the way to the canal. Yes, you read that right. The bottom of your garden backs onto the Canal. So if kayaking, wild swimming, or waterside walks are your thing, this is the dream.

Top it all off with a brilliant local school in Colwich, the Wolseley Arms pub, and the Wolseley Wildlife Centre just around the corner.

This isn't just a property.

It's a lifestyle. A feeling. A chance to live a life less ordinary.

Book your viewing today and fall in love with Ivy Cottage – because homes like this don't come around often... and they never stick around for long.

Agents note:

What3Words: ///clumped.provide.remodel

MATERIAL INFORMATION

Tenure Type: Freehold

Council Tax Band: D

Construction Type: Traditional 

Sources of Heating: Gas central heating

Sources of Electricity supply: Mains

Sources of Water Supply: Mains

Primary Arrangement for Sewerage: Mains

Broadband Connection: 50

Mobile Signal/Coverage: Signal strength (0-4) EE: 3, Three: 0, O2: 4, Vodafone: 3

Parking: Driveway

Building Safety: N/A

Listed Property: N/A

Restrictions: N/A

Private Rights of Way: N/A

Public Rights of Way:

Flooded in the Last 5 Years: No

Sources of Risk: N/A

Flood Defences: N/A

Planning Permission/Development Proposals: N/A

Entrance Location: N/A

Accessibility Measures: N/A

Located on a Coalfield: N/A

Other Mining Related Activities: N/A