Lock Keepers Cottage, Nottinghamshire, NG16

Through the gate. Over the bridge. Up the driveway…

There are homes that impress, and then there are places that make you exhale.

Lock Keepers Cottage belongs firmly in the latter.

Don’t let the name fool you. Originally dating back to around 1800, this is far more than a traditional cottage. It is a substantial Georgian home occupying one of the most remarkable settings you’ll find. Surrounded by canals and embraced by beautiful countryside, yet amongst everyday amenities, it offers a lifestyle that is becoming increasingly difficult to find.

Approached via a gated entrance, crossing a charming bridge before arriving at the house itself, the journey immediately sets the tone. It feels as though you’ve left the outside world behind. The pace slows, the soundtrack becomes birdsong and gently passing narrowboats, and life suddenly feels a little less hurried.

Stepping inside, the accommodation has been thoughtfully arranged to make the very most of its idyllic surroundings. To the front of the house are two beautifully proportioned reception rooms, each enjoying delightful views across the formal gardens towards the canal beyond. Filled with natural light, they are elegant yet welcoming spaces, equally suited to quiet evenings by the fire or entertaining family and friends.

To the rear lies the heart of the home. The generous kitchen diner has been designed with modern family life in mind, centred around a characterful log-burning stove that creates warmth and atmosphere throughout the seasons. Expansive bi-fold doors open directly onto the terrace, seamlessly connecting inside with out and framing yet more picturesque views across the canal. Whether it’s breakfast with the doors open on a summer morning or cosy winter evenings gathered around the fire, this is a room designed to be lived in.

The first floor continues the home’s generous proportions. The principal bedroom enjoys its own en-suite toilet, while two further double bedrooms provide excellent accommodation for family or guests. Completing the floor is a beautifully appointed four-piece family bathroom, offering the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Separate from the main residence, the Old Stables provide an exceptional one-bedroom annexe that is every bit as impressive as the house itself.

Beautifully converted, the accommodation includes a kitchenette, comfortable sitting room and light-filled conservatory on the ground floor. Rising from the centre of the building is a bespoke spiral staircase leading to a stunning bedroom suite, where a freestanding bath creates a luxurious boutique hotel feel. French doors open onto a private balcony overlooking the canal, offering an idyllic place to enjoy your morning coffee or unwind as the sun sets over the water.

Whether used for multi-generational living, independent accommodation for older children, visiting guests, a home office or as a holiday let, the flexibility offered by the annexe is exceptional.

Outside, the grounds extend to approaching half an acre and have been thoughtfully designed to offer a variety of spaces to enjoy throughout the day. Formal gardens provide an elegant approach to the front, whilst wraparound terraces create the perfect setting for outdoor dining and entertaining. A charming outdoor snug offers yet another place to relax, surrounded by nature and accompanied only by the gentle movement of the water nearby.

Beyond the landscaped gardens lies an additional parcel of land, currently rented from the Canal & River Trust, providing further outdoor space with the exciting potential for future purchase, subject to the necessary agreements.

It is, however, the setting that truly elevates Lock Keepers Cottage into something extraordinary.

Despite being just moments from shops, schools and excellent transport links, once you pass through the gate and make your way over the bridge, the outside world seems to disappear. Surrounded by three canals and miles of beautiful countryside, this is a place where morning walks begin from your doorstep, wildlife becomes part of everyday life, and the pace of living naturally slows.

Homes can be renovated. Extensions can be built. But settings like this are almost impossible to recreate. Lock Keepers Cottage is far more than a beautiful period home. It is an escape from the world.