Manor Lane, Fawkham, Longfield, Kent, DA3 8ND

*** GUIDE PRICE £850,000 - £900,000 *** 

Centre Stable Cottage is a truly distinctive four-bedroom home, forming part of the historic stable buildings associated with the former Fawkham Manor estate. Believed to date from the Victorian era, the property retains the character and charm of its origins, with an attractive flint and brick exterior and an enchanting position within a secluded, cobbled courtyard of just three homes, tucked away within the former Fawkham Manor Hospital grounds.

Approached via a private road, the cottage offers a rare opportunity to enjoy the tranquillity of a semi-rural setting, surrounded by established gardens and mature greenery, whilst remaining conveniently placed for village amenities and excellent transport connections. The combination of period character, versatile accommodation and a wonderfully private setting makes this an especially appealing home for those seeking something a little out of the ordinary.

The property shares a courtyard with two other dwellings and offers parking for three vehicles, allowing space for the neighbour to access their own parking. 

The accommodation has been thoughtfully arranged to provide a comfortable balance of open-plan living, separate entertaining space and flexible bedroom accommodation. At its heart is an inviting kitchen, breakfast and sitting room, creating a sociable environment for everyday life and relaxed entertaining. The kitchen is well equipped with a range of fitted units, generous work surfaces and an island with breakfast bar, while the adjoining sitting area provides a welcoming place to unwind. The room's attractive proportions and vaulted ceiling enhance the sense of space and character, with doors opening out towards the garden and allowing the house to connect naturally with its surroundings.

A separate dining room provides a more formal setting for dinner parties and family gatherings, with a log-burning stove adding warmth and atmosphere during the cooler months. This is a versatile reception space which can be enjoyed throughout the year, whether hosting friends or spending a quiet evening at home.

The ground floor also benefits from a particularly appealing master bedroom suite, offering a peaceful retreat away from the main living areas. A separate dressing room provides useful storage and leads through to the en-suite bathroom, creating a comfortable and private arrangement. A further shower room serves the ground floor, while an additional room offers flexibility as a fourth bedroom, home office or study, depending on individual requirements.

The first floor provides two further bedrooms, both enjoying their own character and outlook, making them ideal for family members, guests or alternative working arrangements. Together, the accommodation offers a versatile layout suited to a variety of lifestyles, with the advantage of a ground-floor master suite.

One of the property's most compelling features is its delightful garden setting. The established grounds provide a wonderful sense of privacy and seclusion, with mature trees, established planting, colourful borders and areas of lawn creating an attractive backdrop to the house. The gardens have a natural, settled character, offering something to appreciate in every season and a genuine feeling of being immersed in greenery.

There are spaces to sit and enjoy the surroundings, entertain outdoors or simply relax away from the pace of everyday life. A patio provides an ideal setting for al fresco dining during the warmer months, while the mature planting and leafy boundaries help create a peaceful, sheltered environment. The greenhouse will appeal to keen gardeners, and the garden's established nature gives it a charm that would be difficult to recreate quickly.

The sense of retreat here is particularly special. Set within a small private courtyard and approached via a private road, the cottage enjoys a tucked-away position away from the bustle of passing traffic. The surrounding trees and established gardens create a wonderfully tranquil atmosphere, with birdsong and the changing seasons contributing to the feeling of a secluded country home. It is a place to slow down, enjoy the outdoors and feel a world away from the demands of modern life, while remaining within easy reach of everyday conveniences.

The property also benefits from an attached garage, with access from both the front and rear, together with parking within the courtyard. In addition, a substantial outbuilding provides useful ancillary space and potential for a variety of future uses, subject to its condition and any necessary planning permissions.

The property is serviced by mains electricity, an oil tank for central heating and a cesspool, shared with its two neighbours. This cesspool is emptied once a year at a cost of approximately £45 per property. 

Fawkham is a charming rural parish in the Kent countryside, prized for its leafy surroundings, village atmosphere and access to open countryside. Centre Stable Cottage enjoys a particularly distinctive position within the former Fawkham Manor Hospital grounds, combining the character of a historic estate setting with the peace and privacy of a small residential enclave.

The surrounding area offers a wealth of opportunities for walking, cycling and enjoying the countryside, with nearby lanes, footpaths and bridleways providing an appealing escape into the landscape. The neighbouring villages offer a welcoming community atmosphere, while the wider area provides a choice of country pubs, leisure facilities and golf courses. The property is also conveniently positioned for the surrounding villages of Hartley, New Ash Green and Longfield, offering a good balance between rural living and everyday practicality.

Longfield village is within easy reach and provides a useful range of day-to-day amenities, including supermarkets, independent shops, cafés, eateries, a post office, medical facilities and other essential services. The village's mainline railway station provides regular services to London Victoria, making it a practical option for commuters and those who require access to the capital. Further rail connections are available from nearby stations, while Ebbsfleet International offers high-speed services towards London St Pancras and connections for international travel.

For road users, the property is well placed for access to the A2, M25 and M20, providing routes towards London, the Kent coast and the wider South East. Bluewater shopping and leisure destination is also within convenient driving distance, offering an extensive choice of shops, restaurants, entertainment and family facilities.

Families are well served by a selection of schools in the surrounding villages and wider North Kent area, including primary and secondary options, alongside a choice of independent schooling within the region. As with all school admissions, prospective purchasers are advised to confirm catchment areas and availability directly with the relevant schools and local authority.

In summary, this gorgeous home offers a rare blend of period character, flexible accommodation and beautiful established gardens, all set within a private and peaceful corner of Fawkham. For those seeking a home with individuality, a strong sense of history and a genuine feeling of retreat, yet with village amenities and wider transport connections close at hand, this is a property with much to commend it.

Tenure: Freehold

Council Tax Band: