Windmill, Bishop Auckland, Durham, DL14

Etherley House is an exceptional energy efficient and highly individual smallholding, centred around a striking modern detached farmhouse that has been comprehensively reimagined to an exacting, design-led standard. The current owners have invested significantly, sparing no expense to create a bespoke residence of real distinction combining refined contemporary luxury with outstanding lifestyle versatility. The result is a rare offering, equally suited as a prestigious family home or a high-quality business or lifestyle venture.

Set within approximately two acres of landscaped grounds, together with an additional five-acre paddock, the property occupies a tranquil rural position with uninterrupted panoramic views across rolling countryside. Privacy, calm, and a strong sense of seclusion define the setting, while accessibility to Bishop Auckland ensures everyday convenience without compromise.

A particularly valuable and highly unusual feature is the inclusion of a detached stone-built former chapel (approx. 1,042 sq ft), offering exceptional scope for conversion into ancillary accommodation, a studio, professional workspace, wellness facility, or income-generating use, subject to planning. Rich in architectural character and natural light, this building represents a genuinely rare opportunity to add significant lifestyle and long-term value.

The land has been thoughtfully arranged and previously used for equestrian purposes, comprising three well-proportioned paddocks of approximately one acre in total immediately surrounding the house, an additional one-acre field suitable for haymaking or grazing, and a further five acres (approximately) of land located opposite the property, within a single ring-fenced holding divided into two enclosures. Together, the acreage offers excellent flexibility for equestrian, agricultural, or lifestyle use while remaining manageable and well defined.

The farmhouse itself extends to approximately 2,050 sq ft of exquisitely appointed accommodation and is set behind a handsome stone boundary wall with a neatly landscaped frontage. Internally, the home delivers immediate impact, with a beautifully composed reception porch leading into an elegant central hallway that provides the architectural spine of the house.

The heart of the home is an outstanding open-plan dining kitchen and living space, designed for both refined everyday living and entertaining. High ceilings, premium cabinetry, marble-effect quartz worktops, a substantial central island, professional-grade appliances, and natural stone flooring create a space of real presence and quality, flowing seamlessly into a sun-filled garden room and onward to the landscaped gardens beyond.

Complementing the kitchen is a high-spec laundry room, finished to the same exacting standard, offering extensive storage and practicality without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. The principal living room is equally impressive, featuring vaulted ceilings, a substantial stone fireplace with wood-burning stove, and generous glazing that frames countryside views while filling the space with light.

The ground floor also benefits from a versatile study or guest bedroom, a beautifully finished shower room, and a luxurious ground-floor master suite complete with dressing room and elegant en-suite bathroom—ideal for refined single-level living or high-quality guest accommodation.

Upstairs, the first floor provides two further bedrooms, all finished to a consistently high standard, alongside a striking four-piece family bathroom with vaulted ceilings, freestanding bath, walk-in rainfall shower, and statement lighting delivering a spa-like experience rarely found in properties of this type.

Externally, the immediate gardens are landscaped with lawns, established planting, and multiple paved seating areas ideal for outdoor entertaining. A substantial detached stable and garage block (approx. 988 sq ft) provides three stables, a large tack room, and a double garage, complemented by gated gravel parking and additional storage buildings.

The property has undergone extensive renovation and upgrading, including major works to the kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room, and garden room (signed off March 2023), full double glazing (2023), a slate roof upgrade (2022), complete electrical rewire (2022), and the installation of a 6kW solar panel system in 2025. Further investment includes substantial upgrades to the garage and stable block in 2025, ensuring longevity and functionality throughout.

In summary, Etherley House represents a rare opportunity to acquire a meticulously upgraded countryside residence that blends architectural character, contemporary luxury, extensive acreage, and exceptional versatility. With its reimagined farmhouse, valuable outbuildings, and unique chapel conversion potential, this is a property of genuine distinction ready for immediate occupation and offering long-term appeal. Early viewing is strongly recommended to fully appreciate the scale, quality, and opportunity on offer.