Old Hale Way, Hitchin, SG5 1XJ

The Property

Laila Laraman is delighted to present this 1930s detached property, extended in the 1970s to double the accommodation available. The current owner has lived here since 1989, and there are many years of memories within these walls, from fun and parties, to time together as a family. It’s a home for the long term, with loads of space whether you need it today or in the future.

The property also offers the opportunity to add value. There’s potential to refurbish and reconfigure, as well as to enlarge again (stp). Planning permission was previously granted to extend above the garage, and the garden is plenty long enough for a rear extension.

The current layout includes both separate rooms and open-plan spaces. The lounge at the front is a great size for congregating, yet cosy for quiet relaxation. Wall panelling and wood beams add character, the feature fireplace gives warmth, and two windows – one a bow window – bring in natural light.

There are two other separate areas on the ground floor, one set up as an office, the other used as storage/a boot room as it’s connected to the garage. Both are flexible for working, hobbies or playtime, or perhaps to see clients if converted into a salon or a treatment room.

The open-plan spaces are at the back of the house. The central space is divided into sitting and dining, and the kitchen/breakfast room is adjoining. The kitchen has lots of storage and surfacing, a sink and drainer, an integrated oven, and gaps for further appliances such as a range and a fridge/freezer. The utility follows on from the breakfast area, and this has more storage, plus gaps for a washing machine and a tumble dryer.

To the first floor are four bedrooms, three of which are large doubles. Bedroom one is particularly big, and also benefits from an en suite wet room. There’s a staircase down to the sitting/dining room, and there could be the option to section the bedroom suite and some living space into an annexe area. Bedroom three is used as a dressing room, with a wall of built-in wardrobes, and bedroom four has built-in over stairs storage. Lastly is the family bathroom, fitted with a four-piece suite.

The Plot

The plot approaches 0.3 acres, with the rear garden especially expansive. Kids and dogs will be in their element out here! The lawn is a very long 150ft, and there’s an extensive patio at the back of the house. The patio faces west for evening sun, and part of it is under cover to protect from rain and provide shade, perfect for all seasons. It’s also super private and hidden from view. An area at the end of the garden would make a great allotment for growing your own fruit and veg.

At the front of the plot is ample parking. Multiple cars will fit on the driveway, and at least three will fit in the garage. The garage has barn doors both front and back, so you can bring bulky items all the way through to the garden. The rear half is set up as a workshop, with power to plug in tools, and lighting to tinker away until late.

The Position

Old Hale Way is in the northwestern quarter of Hitchin, just a 15-minute stroll into town. Here you’ll find something for everyone, foodies especially. There are numerous cafés, restaurants, pubs and bars, and markets are held regularly. The town centre has retail and cultural offerings too, and hosts an array of events throughout the year.

The address is also within short walking distance of much of the town’s sports facilities. The property backs onto St Michaels playing field, with King George’s Park beyond. Football, rugby, netball and badminton clubs are on the doorstep, as is the swimming centre. All ages are able to stay active with ease, and the town is surrounded by scenic countryside for long weekend wanders.

The nearest schools to the property are Strathmore for primary and The Priory for secondary, both rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted. Hitchin has Kingshott School for independent education, and North Hertfordshire College for further education. Extracurricular activities are in abundance.

For commuters, you’re only a 6-minute drive or a 7-minute cycle from the station. Services into London take as little as 29 minutes, and you can be in Cambridge in just over half an hour. Hitchin is set along the A1(M) for local and national travel by road.