Foxhouses Cottage, Long Lane, Preston

If you are dreaming of your next country home with no onward chain, then this hidden gem on the edge of Scorton may be just what you are looking for. Fox House Cottage is a traditional detached property that immediately captures the eye, a true 'Chocolate Box Cottage' set in a semi-rural location in the heart of Lancashire. Approached along a private lane serving just three other homes, the setting is peaceful and picturesque, with fantastic views stretching towards the Trough of Bowland.

This attractive family home offers four bedrooms and flexible living accommodation, all set within around 1.6 acres of gardens and paddock. In the past, planning approval was granted for a side extension that would have added a principal bedroom with dressing area and en suite. Although this has since lapsed, it is understood that a re-application could be made, offering new owners the chance to expand further if desired.

Inside, the house has been thoughtfully improved over recent years to combine traditional character with modern comforts, including a 'Hive' Smart central heating thermostat. The entrance porch leads into a snug, an informal and inviting TV room complete with 'Karndean' flooring and underfloor heating, which continues through into the dining kitchen. The kitchen really is the heart of the home. Designed by Carl Josef in a timeless Shaker style, it offers a wide range of cabinetry in neutral tones, finished with granite worktops and an oak wood block island top. The central island itself is moveable, mounted on casters for flexibility. There is also an electric Rangemaster with five hob rings, two ovens and a separate grill, and an LG American fridge freezer, a Blanco Belfast sink with Quooker boiling water tap, and an integrated 'Siemans' dishwasher. Large windows to two elevations, along with two Velux roof lights and French doors onto the garden, flood the space with light. A utility room lies just off the kitchen with additional storage, sink, a 'Zanussi' washing machine and 'Beko' condensing tumble dryer, along with a WC. The dining area of the kitchen has a relaxed and social feel, perfect for entertaining family and friends while enjoying views over the gardens.

The living room reflects the character of the original cottage, with exposed beams adding a sense of history and a freestanding log burner bringing warmth and cosiness. Windows frame views across the gardens, while French doors open into the conservatory, a lovely space from which to enjoy the outlook over the garden and surrounding fells.

On the first floor there are four bedrooms. The main bedroom enjoys far-reaching views across the countryside and has the benefit of its own en suite shower room. The remaining bedrooms are of varying sizes, with one currently fitted out as a walk-in dressing room. The family bathroom includes a three-piece suite with bath and shower over, WC and wash basin, together with a handy storage cupboard. As mentioned, previous plans for an additional first-floor extension over the kitchen would provide a further bedroom suite with dressing area and en suite if reapproved, which would enjoy fabulous views from this aspect of the house.

Externally, Fox House Cottage does not disappoint. The property is entered via the private lane into a spacious driveway, with further access to a large fenced and gated gravelled parking area able to accommodate several vehicles. From here, the paddock and outbuilding are easily reached. The gardens surrounding the cottage are beautifully stocked and maintained by the current owners, offering an abundance of lawned areas, patios, and mature borders that provide colour and interest throughout the seasons. An orchard produces gooseberries, plums, apples and damsons, with a thriving rhubarb patch adding to the productive feel.

Beyond the gardens lies the paddock, extending to around 1.6 acres and enjoying far-reaching views over the fells. This land would be an ideal facility for those with ponies or simply for those wanting open green space. An outbuilding provides stabling and storage, while a timber summer house makes the most of the panoramic views and offers a tranquil retreat, perfect for long summer evenings or as a cosy shelter in the cooler months. There is also a reconstructed wooden pod, currently used as a den and office, which is well insulated and welcoming. This versatile space could be used as a home office (benefitting from its own independent internet connection), a games room, a teenage retreat, or even an adult entertaining space with bar and leisure area - the possibilities are endless, and it adds a further layer of appeal to the property.

Fox House Cottage is much more than just a home; it is a lifestyle. The location allows for a true sense of peace, with an abundance of wildlife including woodpeckers and deer, and thanks to minimal light pollution, evenings regularly bring clear views of the stars, planets, the Northern Lights and even the International Space Station. As the sun sets, the heather on Harrisend Fell glows purple in the golden hour, creating a remarkable sense of calm and beauty. Practical benefits are also in place, with the whole house having been rewired, new energy efficient windows and doors fitted, and two separate ultrafast B4RN connections ensuring modern connectivity.

The nearby village of Scorton is just a short drive away and offers a range of amenities including a shop, café, garden centre, restaurant, pub, primary school and places of worship. The location is highly accessible, with the A6 and M6 close by, making Lancaster and Preston an easy commute.

Fox House Cottage is the perfect blend of character, comfort, and countryside living, with space to enjoy the good life while still remaining connected and convenient.




Council Tax Band: F (Wyre Borough Council)
Tenure: Freehold