Homes in Faraway Forests
It was announced recently that Sam Mendes, the director behind blockbusters such as Skyfall and American Beauty, is set to direct a new adaptation of Enid Blytons The Faraway Tree. A family favourite since its publication in 1939, the book tells the story of a group of children and their fantastical treetop friends. Set within an enchanted forest - the story evokes the magical mystery of these wooded spaces, which represent some of the most beautiful landscapes in Britain and beyond. We have put together a selection of properties which benefit from a forest setting homes from which children can conjure up adventures to match those written by Blyton. Green Plat is a cottage set within the Ashdown Forest, the inspiration behind Winnie the Poohs One Hundred Acre Wood. The cottagewas originally a single story foresters cottage, but has been extensively renovated. Oak is a central component and the recent addition by the current owner of engineered oak flooring in the garden room and sitting room contributes to the forest feel of the home. Downstairs the property includes a beamed entrance hall, a garden room with French doors out to the terrace, a kitchen with bespoke oak units, and a sitting room with a brick fireplace. Upstairs are four bedrooms, including a master bedroom which overlooks the garden. While the idyllic surrounding forest offers peace and seclusion, a train to London Bridge station from nearby Cowden (six miles) takes just 50 minutes. The property is on the market for 925,000 with our Tunbridge Wells office (Tel.: 01892 521700). For more information please click here.  Wigoedd, situated near Pentraeth on the island of Anglesey, is a five bedroom farmhouse set in two acres of stunning gardens, of which parts are laid with paths to allow for woodland walks. The island location, combined with the surrounding woodland and orchard, gives the property a secluded and enchanted feel. The Grade-II house has an attractive Georgian faade, and includes a slate roof with high chimney stacks. The property has been fully restored over the last 30 years by the current owner, but has retained much of its character with elegant 12 paned horned sash windows, window shutters, exposed ceiling timbers and period doors and fireplaces. The property is on the market for 595,000 with our Chester office (tel.: 01244 328361). For more information please click here.  The Cottage, located next to the village church in the quaint village of Shedfield in Hampshire, dates back to the 1800s and was originally constructed as a gardeners cottage. The propertys secluded garden benefits from a wide range of exotic plants and trees sourced from around the world, which provide an array of colours. The pond at the bottom of the garden, which includes a duck house, is frequented by Mallard ducks, frogs, and dragonflies. A sheltered woodland area with a water feature, ferns, and grasses offers further sanctuary for wildlife. An additional feature of the garden is a childrens treehouse and play area linked to an old oak tree. The five bedroom cottage includes an entrance hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen and a music room. There is planning consent for a double garage. The property is on the market for 699,950 with our Winchester office (tel.: 01962 844299). For more information please click here.  Upperfold House is situated at the end of a tree lined drive in deepest West Sussex. In addition to the main five bedroom house there is also a separate two bedroom cottage. The 21 acres of grounds include substantial woodland, giving the house a feeling of complete seclusion. Planning permission has been granted for a swimming pool, two bay garage, tennis court and a 2,500 sq ft Sussex barn to be constructed in the grounds. The accommodation, which extends to over 7,800 sq ft has been refurbished to high standards, yet maintains original Tudor features. Notable features include high ceilings and oak flooring throughout, and the large drawing room with elegant windows overlooking the landscaped grounds. The gardens include a croquet lawn and some magnificent mature trees including oak, cedar, maple, azaleas and rhododendrons. The property is on the market for 4,950,000 with our Midhurst office (Tel: 01730 812357). For more information please click here.