Demesne House, Ebchester

**A remarkable Grade II* listed semi detached farmhouse dating back to c.1705, this substantial stone built home is steeped in history and brimming with character. With beautiful gardens, courtyard, garage and barns, and far reaching views towards the Derwent Valley, this is a truly special village residence.**

Believed to have been constructed C.1705, Demesne House is an exquisite Grade II* listed stone built farmhouse that effortlessly combines architectural heritage with the warmth and versatility required for modern family living. Approached via a spacious block paved driveway which sweeps around the side of the property and into a private courtyard secured behind a traditional five bar gate, the sense of arrival is both impressive and entirely fitting for a home of this standing. Within the courtyard sits a detached garage with power supply and inspection pit, ideal for car enthusiasts, alongside a substantial stone built storage barn offering significant potential, subject to the relevant consents.

The grounds are arranged into a number of distinct and thoughtfully positioned garden areas. To the front, a dry stone wall encloses an ornamental garden laid mainly to lawn with beautifully maintained border planting, creating a charming first impression. Beyond the courtyard are two further gardens, one laid to lawn and the other left intentionally wild, presenting an exciting opportunity for an allotment or kitchen garden. This particular garden has several well-established shrubs & an oak tree. To the rear, a block paved garden enjoys a stunning open outlook across the neighbouring field and towards the Derwent Valley, providing a peaceful setting that changes beautifully with the seasons. It is important to note that the field itself is not included within the title and is under separate ownership.

Stepping through the characterful timber front door, you are welcomed into an inner entrance where exposed stonework immediately sets the tone. A glazed door draws natural light from the vestibule into the generous inner hall, a wonderfully open space rich with original features including exposed stone walls, timber beams and lintels. A historic window has been retained as a striking architectural feature, complemented by a brick nook ideal for display. The dog leg staircase with quarter landing rises gracefully, lined with a beautiful timber balustrade and ornamental barley twist spindles, reinforcing the craftsmanship of the period.

From the hallway, the room known as the Tack Room offers exceptional flexibility. Currently arranged as a secondary reception space, it could equally serve as a ground floor bedroom, snug, office or hobby room. Two alcoves set within the exposed stone wall, historically former windows, provide further architectural interest, while a door opens directly onto the courtyard. There is also a useful understairs storage cupboard and a charming window seat. Throughout the home, traditional pine internal doors with latch fittings continue the authentic feel.

The principal living room is a captivating space where exposed stonework and beams frame a substantial inglenook fireplace housing a large log burner. An old shoe discovered within the property, historically placed as a good luck charm in keeping with longstanding European superstition, remains proudly displayed on the mantel. A deep window seat provides a perfect vantage point to enjoy views across the front garden.

From here, the kitchen offers a practical square layout with solid wood cabinetry, tiled flooring and space for dining. Freestanding appliances are included, and a well positioned window above the sink frames delightful views over open fields towards the Derwent Valley. Beyond the kitchen lies a useful utility room with plumbing for a washing machine and additional sink, together with a ground floor W.C. and generous storage cupboard. A timber door leads into a rear porch, ideal for coats and boots, before opening out through a stable door onto the rear garden.

The rear garden is a particularly special feature, with its low level wall allowing uninterrupted views of the adjacent grazing field. This low maintenance paved area flows beautifully into the adjoining dining room and garden room, which wrap around and embrace the outdoor space. Historically a cart shed and later incorporated into the main house, these rooms are defined by elegant curved doorways that add a rare architectural flourish seldom found in modern homes. The garden room is a peaceful retreat enhanced by established scarlet geraniums, while the adjoining dining room is far more than its name suggests. With its striking proportions and character detailing, it offers superb versatility as an additional reception room, entertaining space or even a ground floor bedroom depending on a purchaser's needs.

To the first floor, the landing provides access to three generously proportioned bedrooms and the family bathroom. The first bedroom is a striking space featuring beautiful vaulted ceilings and characterful windows, including a narrow loop hole design that speaks to the property's heritage. The bathroom, positioned off the landing, comprises a bath and separate shower and is currently fitted with a retro avocado suite. Whilst now ready for modernisation, it offers scope either for updating or for embracing its vintage character as a bold stylistic choice.

At the end of the landing are two further well proportioned bedrooms and a useful storage cupboard. The bedroom positioned to the rear enjoys low level windows framing lovely views across the field and includes a fitted sink basin with water supply, creating the potential for a dressing area. Fitted wardrobes provide additional practicality.

Externally, the detached garage features an up and over manual door and power supply, while the adjoining stone barns are divided into two sections, one a generous open space and the other retaining elements of its former stable use. Together they present exciting possibilities for a variety of uses, subject to the necessary listed building and planning consents. On gable wall of the barn is an extensive, well-established wisteria which covers the wall & is fabulous in full bloom.

Demesne House is officially listed as Grade II* under List Entry Number 1240412, first listed on 6 June 1951 as Demesne Farm Demesne House. Importantly, the dry stone walls to the front and the external barns are also included within the listing, something prospective purchasers should consider when contemplating any alterations. The listed status plays a vital role in preserving the aesthetic integrity of the property and the wider village setting.

The property benefits from gas mains central heating via a Worcester gas combination boiler, providing modern convenience within this historic setting. Situated within easy reach of the River Derwent and on the edge of beautiful countryside leading towards Northumberland, the location offers a wonderful balance of rural charm and everyday convenience, with a village school, church and store serving the local community. Scenic walks are quite literally on the doorstep, and the surrounding landscape provides an ever changing backdrop to daily life.

Homes of this calibre and historic significance are rarely offered to the market. Viewing is highly recommended to fully appreciate the character, setting and remarkable lifestyle opportunity that Demesne House presents.


Council Tax Band: E (Durham CC)
Tenure: Freehold
Restrictions: Listed building, Conservation area