The Cottages, Fingest, RG9

A beautifully presented three-bedroom period cottage in the heart of Fingest, combining plenty of original character with a wonderfully relaxed, contemporary interior and quite exceptional views across the surrounding countryside.

The house has been thoughtfully extended and updated, with the real centrepiece being the fabulous open-plan kitchen, dining and living space across the rear. A large glazed roof and extensive windows make this an incredibly light room, while bi-fold doors open directly towards the fields beyond. The outlook is really special and forms a backdrop to everyday life here, whether sitting around the dining table, cooking or simply enjoying the view.

The kitchen has a relaxed, individual feel, with timber worktops, open shelving, a Belfast-style sink and a large central island with breakfast bar seating. Original timber floorboards, exposed brickwork and beams add warmth and character and help the newer part of the house sit naturally alongside the original cottage. The property also benefits from an air-source heat pump and underfloor heating, providing an efficient and practical heating system without reliance on oil.

Away from the open-plan space is a separate sitting room, a cosy retreat with exposed beams and a log-burning stove set within a substantial fireplace. There is also a cloakroom on the ground floor.

Upstairs are three bedrooms, with the main bedroom and second bedroom both good-sized doubles and a smaller third bedroom. The family bathroom is another particularly attractive room, with a freestanding bath, separate walk-in shower and stone basin, as well as lovely views across the fields.

The cottage garden is just as appealing as the house itself. Established planting, mature shrubs and trees create a wonderfully informal feel, with areas to sit outside and enjoy the surroundings. There is also a large garden shed, providing plenty of useful outside storage.

The setting is difficult to beat. Fingest is one of the prettiest villages in the Hambleden Valley, surrounded by rolling Chiltern countryside and miles of footpaths and bridleways. Despite its wonderfully rural feel, it is surprisingly accessible, with easy access to the M40 and Marlow and Henley-on-Thames both within easy reach. Local school minibus services also operate in the area, making the village a more practical option for families than its rural setting might initially suggest.

A really charming country cottage with approximately 1,060 sq ft of accommodation, where the combination of character, beautifully considered interiors, modern heating and those far-reaching rural views makes it something rather special.