Nuthampstead Road, Barkway, Royston, SG8

Set in excess of four acres of exquisitely landscaped grounds, Howletts Farm presents a rare and distinguished country estate, offering an exceptional blend of elegance, versatility and rural tranquillity. Approached via electric gates and a sweeping, tree-lined driveway, the sense of arrival is both impressive and inviting, culminating at a striking and substantial farmhouse of considerable character.

The principal residence extends to approximately 4,305 sq ft and showcases a wealth of refined accommodation, thoughtfully arranged to suit both family living and formal entertaining. A series of beautifully proportioned reception rooms provide flexibility and flow, complemented by a magnificent orangery that enjoys uninterrupted views across the impeccably maintained gardens. The home further benefits from a selection of well-appointed en-suite bedrooms, while a dramatic dual-height staircase forms a stunning focal point at its heart, enhancing the sense of space and grandeur throughout.

Beyond the main house, the estate continues to impress with two detached cottages, collectively offering an additional 4,360 sq ft of accommodation. These properties present an outstanding opportunity for multi-generational living, guest accommodation, or the potential for supplementary income through holiday letting or long-term rental.

Further enhancing the appeal are two substantial barns, extending to approximately 4,865 sq ft, providing extensive storage or the ideal setting for hobbyists, collectors, or those seeking a semi-commercial or light industrial use (subject to the necessary consents).

The grounds are a particular highlight, combining formal lawns, mature trees and established hedgerows with more naturalistic elements, including 2 picturesque ponds with 1I for wild swimming. The overall setting offers both privacy and a deep connection to the surrounding countryside.

A property of this calibre and versatility is seldom available, and early viewing is strongly recommended to fully appreciate the lifestyle opportunity on offer

Seller Insight
“When we first came to Howletts Farm, it was the setting that completely won us over,” says the owner of this unique country home. “It’s incredibly peaceful, surrounded by open countryside, and yet you still feel connected. After 23 years here, it has truly become a very special place for us.”

Built around 55 years ago, the house has been carefully maintained and improved over time. “It was very well engineered when it was built, and structurally it’s always been solid,” they explain. “When we moved in, we enlarged and refitted the kitchen, installed a new oak staircase and completely redecorated throughout.” The kitchen features a large electric AGA alongside a separate gas hob and oven, while the bathrooms and shower rooms have all been updated. “The house has evolved to suit modern living,” the owner continues. “We have fibre Wi-Fi connected directly to the house, with coverage extended throughout. We also added an orangery, which is a wonderful space overlooking the gardens.”

In addition to the main house, there are two further properties. “Kiev Cottage is a charming two-bedroom home, and the Honey House offers great potential,” they explain. “We’ve secured full planning permission to enhance it, so there’s a real opportunity for further development.” A large barn with three-phase electricity adds flexibility, along with a Tesla charging point and additional outdoor sockets. “You can enter via electric gates or approach along a long drive from Gas Lane, with views across the gardens and wildflower areas,” they say. “It always feels like arriving somewhere special.”

Set within approximately 4.03 acres, the grounds are a standout feature. “My wife has created a beautiful formal garden,” they say. “There’s a long decorative pond and a natural swimming pond, and the garden is full of colour through the seasons.” The main house enjoys a south-facing aspect, with countryside views in every direction. “It’s incredibly private and not overlooked.”

Despite its peaceful setting, the location is well connected. “Royston is about 15 minutes away, with fast trains into London in around 35 minutes, and Cambridge is within easy reach.” The owners add, “Barkway is a friendly village with a great sense of community, there’s a good primary school, and the Tally Ho pub is just a short walk away.”

“We’ll miss the space and calm most of all,” they reflect. “It’s been a wonderful place to call home.”

Village Information
Barkway is a well-regarded and attractive village in North Hertfordshire, characterised by a variety of predominantly period homes set along charming village lanes. The village benefits from a strong sense of community and offers excellent local amenities such as the primary school with nursery provision and a playgroup held in the village hall, a sizeable playground and football pitches with a recently built community space making it particularly appealing to families.

Despite its rural setting, Barkway is well connected. The nearby towns of Royston (approximately 4.2 miles) and Buntingford (around 5.7 miles) provide a good range of shopping, leisure and educational facilities, while the larger market town of Bishop’s Stortford and Cambridge, between 16-18 miles away, offers more extensive amenities. Royston mainline railway station provides regular services to London King’s Cross, with additional rail connections to London Liverpool Street available from Audley End, Bishop’s Stortford and Ware. For road users, the A10 lies approximately 2 miles to the west, offering convenient links to the City and the M25 London Orbital Motorway and the A505 approximately 4 miles to the north connects west to the A1 and east to the M11.

Agents Notes
Tenure: Freehold
Year Built: 1980s
EPC: D
Local Authority: North Hertfordshire
Council Tax Band: H

Important information for potential purchasers
We endeavour to make our particulars accurate and reliable, however, they do not constitute or form part of an offer or any contract and none is to be relied upon as statements of representation or fact. The services, systems and appliances listed in this specification have not been tested by us and no guarantee as to their operating ability or efficiency is given. All photographs and measurements have been taken as a guide only and are not precise. Floor plans where included are not to scale and accuracy is not guaranteed. If you require clarification or further information on any points, please contact us, especially if you are travelling some distance to view. Fixtures and fittings other than those mentioned are to be agreed with the seller.

Buyers information

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