Main Street, Welney, Wisbech, PE14 9RB

Property Ref: LR0644
NO ONWARD CHAIN Set within the peaceful fenland village of Welney, The Hives is a truly enchanting detached cottage, rich in character and surrounded by unspoilt natural beauty. Just moments from the picturesque Old Bedford River and the extraordinary Welney Wetland Reserve, this location is nothing short of captivating. Each winter, thousands of migrating swans and rare birdlife descend upon the Wash — with as many as 6,500 swans gracing the landscape on classic winter evenings. It’s a spectacle that draws photographers and nature lovers from across the UK, right to your doorstep.

Adding to the charm of village life, the home is also wonderfully close to the Lamb and Flag, a fantastic local pub renowned for its wholesome homecooked food, warm hospitality, and a roaring fireplace — the perfect spot to unwind after a walk along the river or an evening of wildlife watching.

Lovingly maintained over the years, this unique period home offers warmth, character, and generous proportions throughout. The 14ft kitchen flows into a separate dining room stretching over 13ft in length, featuring beautiful ceiling beams that echo the cottage’s heritage. The impressive 18ft sitting room offers a welcoming retreat, complete with exposed beams and patio doors that frame views of the private rear garden, filling the space with natural light.

Upstairs, three bedrooms create comfort for family living or guests, all served by a neatly presented main bathroom.

Occupying a generous plot, the exterior space adds even more appeal. With hardstanding and driveways to both sides, the property offers extensive parking for multiple vehicles — large or small — along with a detached garage. The rear garden is a particular delight: a raised patio leads down to a mature, well-manicured lawn bordered by established planting, creating a peaceful backdrop for relaxation or entertaining.

The Hives is a much-loved home that seamlessly blends period character with modern comfort, set in an exceptional rural setting with amenities and natural wonders close by. A viewing is essential to fully appreciate all it has to offer.

SERVICES:

• Gas Powered Central Heating
• Mains Water
• Drainage - Septic Tank
• Mains Electric 

LOCATION

Welney is a peaceful fenland village known for its wide-open landscapes, wildlife-rich wetlands, and strong sense of rural community. Sitting beside the Old Bedford River, it’s best known for the Welney Wetland Centre, where thousands of migrating swans arrive each winter — a spectacle that draws visitors from across the UK.

The village itself offers a friendly, close-knit atmosphere with everyday conveniences nearby. Welney has a well-loved local pub, The Lamb & Flag, serving hearty food and offering a cosy spot after river walks or wildlife watching. A small village hall hosts community events, clubs, and gatherings throughout the year.

For practical needs, residents typically use nearby towns such as Littleport, Downham Market, and March, where you’ll find supermarkets, GPs, pharmacies, dentists, and wider services. The closest medical practices include surgeries in Littleport and Downham Market, both within easy reach.

Welney also has St Mary’s Church, a charming historic building that remains a focal point for local services and village life. With its tranquil setting, strong community feel, and extraordinary natural surroundings, Welney offers a wonderfully relaxed rural lifestyle with essential amenities just a short drive away.

SCHOOLS

There are multiple primary and secondary schools nearby. Townley Primary School — approx 2.5 miles away.  Manea Community Primary School — approx. 3.5 miles.  Littleport Community Primary School — approx. 5 miles away.  Upwell Academy — approx. 5 miles away. Millfield Primary School — approx. 5.5 miles away. 

Secondary schools - Vista Academy Littleport — the closest secondary option at roughly 4.5 miles away.  Neale Wade Academy — about 6.5 miles away. Downham Market Academy — roughly 8.2 miles away.  Cromwell Community College (primary, secondary and sixth form school) — roughly 9.5 miles away.

COMMUTE

Littleport is the most convenient train station for Welney residents. It lies on the Fen Line and offers regular direct services to Ely, Cambridge and London in under one hour.

There are road links to the A10 and A142 to Ely, Cambridge, Newmarket and beyond.

Tenure: Freehold
Council Tax Band: C - Fenland District Council
EPC Rating: F

ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING REGULATIONS - We are required by law to conduct Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks on all parties involved in the sale or purchase of a property. We take the responsibility of this seriously in line with HMRC guidance, and in ensuring the accuracy and continuous monitoring of these checks. Our partner, Movebutler, will carry out the initial checks on our behalf. They will contact you once your offer has been accepted, to conclude, where possible, a biometric check with you electronically.

As an applicant, you will be charged a non-refundable fee of £30 (inclusive of VAT) per buyer for these checks. The fee covers data collection, manual checking, and monitoring. You will need to pay this amount directly to Movebutler and complete all Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks before your offer can be formally accepted. 

REFERRAL FEES - We may refer you to recommended providers of services such as Conveyancing, Financial Services, Insurance and Surveying. We may receive a commission payment fee or other benefit (known as a referral fee) for recommending their services. You are not under any obligation to use the services of the recommended provider

THESE PARTICULARS ARE ISSUED IN GOOD FAITH BUT DO NOT CONSTITUTE REPRESENTATIONS OF FACT OR FORM PART OF ANY OFFER OR CONTRACT. THE MATTERS REFERRED TO IN THESE PARTICULARS SHOULD BE INDEPENDENTLY VERIFIED BY PROSPECTIVE BUYERS. NEITHER Exp (UK) LIMITED NOR ANY OF ITS AGENTS HAS ANY AUTHORITY TO MAKE OR GIVE ANY REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY WHATEVER IN RELATION TO THIS PROPERTY.