Cross Tree Road, Wicken, MK19

*** Open House, Saturday 10th January 2026 12 - 2pm **
By Appointment Only. Register You Interest Today

Chelton Brown are delighted to present to the market a truly rare opportunity to become the next custodian of this remarkable three-bedroom, 17th-century Grade II listed cottage, beautifully positioned in the heart of the sought-after village of Wicken, Northamptonshire.

Originally constructed as a reading room for the local community — a place where villagers would gather to educate themselves — the property proudly retains the name “The Reading Room”, serving as a charming reminder of its rich and fascinating past.

Upon arrival, you are immediately struck by the idyllic rural setting and the cottage’s attractive frontage, which enjoys open views across the field directly opposite. A private driveway leads down to generous parking and a double garage, offering practicality alongside the home’s historic appeal.

Stepping inside, you are welcomed into the first of two reception rooms, a warm and inviting space featuring French doors opening directly onto the garden, along with a beautiful inglenook fireplace, now enhanced by a feature log burner. From here, an internal hallway reveals one of the home’s most striking features — a stunning Tudor staircase, where centuries of craftsmanship and history are embedded into every timber.

Off the hallway lies the second reception room and the kitchen. The second reception room is an impressive and spacious area, boasting a large window framing picturesque countryside views and a further inglenook fireplace, this time with an open fire at its heart — perfect for cosy evenings.

The kitchen is timeless in both style and function, featuring a traditional Belfast sink, an impressive range oven, and a charming butcher’s block. Ample storage and worktop space make this an excellent area for preparing meals for family and friends. A door leads directly onto the patio, making summer entertaining effortless. Beyond the kitchen, a small rear hall provides access to a convenient ground-floor WC and a boiler/utility room.

Ascending the staircase, you arrive at a generous landing showcasing beautiful original floorboards. From here, there is access to three bedrooms and the family bathroom.

The principal bedroom sits at the front of the property, enjoying views over the field opposite and featuring a striking sandstone fireplace. Concealed behind one of the bedroom cupboards is a hidden staircase — a delightful surprise — leading up to a substantial attic room. Measuring over 11 metres in length, this versatile space offers enormous potential for a variety of uses, subject to the necessary consents.

Bedroom two is uniquely arranged, comprising two distinct areas — one within the original house and the other set within the eaves of a later rear addition. Bedroom three, also located at the front of the property, is rich in character, with exposed timber beams throughout. The family bathroom is the most contemporary room in the house, fitted with a modern three-piece suite.

Externally, the property continues to impress with its large rear garden, offering an excellent opportunity for a keen gardener to create a truly idyllic cottage garden — the perfect backdrop for entertaining and relaxing on warm summer days.

For added peace of mind, the thatch roof was renewed in 2016 and further repaired in 2024, all timber within the property has been treated, and the oil tank was replaced circa 2005.

The Village of Wicken
Wicken is a charming and highly regarded Northamptonshire village, surrounded by rolling countryside and offering a peaceful rural lifestyle while remaining well connected. The village is known for its strong sense of community, historic character, and proximity to beautiful walking routes and open landscapes. Despite its tranquil setting, Wicken benefits from easy access to nearby market towns such as Towcester and Buckingham, with further transport links to Milton Keynes and Northampton providing rail services to London and beyond. The area is well suited to families and professionals alike, with reputable schools, local pubs, and amenities close by.

In summary, this exceptional and character-filled home offers a rare blend of history, charm, and potential. It is now ready for the next family to make their mark and continue its story.