Sandy Down, Boldre, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41

An exceptional Arts & Crafts country house steeped in history, offering over 4,800 sq ft of elegant accommodation, a refurbished cottage and stunning grounds approaching two acres.


Description

Regularly enjoyed as a summer retreat for by former Prime Minister Herbert Asquith and later home to the Shackleton family of Antactic explorer fame, Hurstly is an exceptional Arts & Crafts 1880s residence set within the prestigious Sandy Down area of Boldre. Extending to over 4,800 sq ft, the main property combines period charm with elegant modern family living.

Set within grounds approaching two acres, the house is framed by mature gardens and features a striking wisteria-clad façade beneath a traditional clay-tiled roof. The estate also includes a beautifully refurbished detached two-bedroom cottage, currently generating income, and a bespoke architect-designed four-bay garage with adjoining garden store. Arranged over four floors, the accommodation showcases a wealth of original Arts & Crafts features.

A circular grand entrance vestibule opens into a grand long reception hall with wood panelling, herringbone flooring, stained-glass windows, an open fireplace and sweeping staircase. A cloakroom and substantial dry cellar complete the ground floor. The dual-aspect drawing room enjoys garden views to the south, original stone fireplace and a dining area set within a box bay window. The kitchen/breakfast room is fitted with handcrafted Shaker-style cabinetry, a central island, gas-fired Aga, Belfast sink and distinctive curved arched windows, with a utility room, larder and courtyard garden beyond.

On the first floor, the principal suite benefits from garden views, fitted wardrobes and a luxurious en-suite bathroom. Three further double bedrooms, one en-suite, are served by a family bathroom and separate WC. The second floor provides a spacious fifth en-suite bedroom with shower room and loft access.

Outside, a rhododendron-lined long, hedged driveway leads to the four-bay garage, while the grounds combine sweeping lawns, mature private woodland and meandering pathways, creating an exceptionally peaceful and private setting.

The detached two-bedroom cottage has been comprehensively refurbished and offers excellent ancillary accommodation, ideal for guests, multi-generational living or continued income generation.

Location

Hurstly occupies an enviable position within the prestigious Sandy Down area of Boldre, one of the New Forest's most desirable residential enclaves. Renowned for its peaceful woodland setting, attractive period properties and direct access to some of the region's most beautiful countryside, Sandy Down offers a rare combination of privacy, natural beauty and convenience.

The charming village of Boldre lies on the edge of the New Forest National Park and provides a strong sense of community, with a highly regarded primary school, village church and local amenities nearby. The historic Georgian market town of Lymington, approximately three miles away, offers an extensive range of independent boutiques, cafés, restaurants and supermarkets, together with its renowned sailing facilities, marinas and picturesque quay.

The surrounding New Forest provides thousands of acres of unspoilt heathland, ancient woodland and open countryside, ideal for walking, cycling, horse riding and outdoor pursuits. The nearby coastline offers excellent opportunities for sailing and watersports, with regular ferry services from Lymington to the Isle of Wight.

For commuters, the area is exceptionally well connected. Brockenhurst railway station, approximately four miles away, provides direct services to London Waterloo in around 90 minutes, while the M27 motorway offers convenient access to Southampton, Bournemouth, Winchester and the wider South Coast.

Combining the tranquillity of a rural New Forest setting with excellent transport links and easy access to both coast and countryside, Sandy Down remains one of the area's most sought-after locations for family living and country homes.

Square Footage: 5,917 sq ft