North Marden, Chichester, West Sussex

The Old Farmhouse is a wonderfully proportioned, handsome Grade II Listed property, set in a beautiful rural position just eight miles from Chichester. The property features generous accommodation with high ceilings and picture windows, (some with original shutters), which pay tribute to the beautiful surrounding views.

The main reception room is the 28ft dining and family room, which has a fireplace with a wood burning stove and ample space for both a seating area and a large family dining table. The ground floor also has a useful study with fireplace and an impressive, light and airy drawing room with a dual aspect, overlooking the southerly-facing rear grounds.

The recently extended and modernised kitchen/breakfast room is another dual aspect room which also overlooks the rear gardens, with full height windows and French doors opening onto the glorious southerly facing terrace.

Fitted with Harvey Jones cabinetry, oak and granite worktops and a dual fuel Aga range cooker, the kitchen itself is well designed with plenty of storage, and enjoys enviable views to the countryside. The utility room is also well fitted with a stable door to the side and picture window overlooking the paddock, and a door leading to the downstairs cloakroom.

Upstairs there are four well-presented double bedrooms, two with period fireplaces, and all having views from every window. The generous principal bedroom has fitted storage and a largeen suite bathroom with shower cubicle and bath tub. The first floor family bathroom completes the accommodation.

At the front of the property, the walled garden gives way to a pathway leading to the front door, adding to the pleasing symmetry of the house. To the side is a gravel driveway with parking space for several vehicles and access to the detached double carport, which has a workshop and store at its rear.

The far-reaching garden surrounds the property with the rear aspect being predominantly south westerly facing. Outbuildings include a double stable block incorporating a tack room towards the end of the garden. The paddock lies to the west and is enclosed by post and rail fencing, ideal for exercising horses or grazing animals. The area closer to the house features paved terracing and borders with numerous mature shrubs and specimen trees.

Tucked away in the tranquil, rural setting of the South Downs, the small village of North Marden is renowned for its late 12th century church, noted for its distinctive apse. Within walking distance, the lovely Royal Oak at Hooksway brings the community together.

With direct access to the South Downs National Park, there are excellent outdoor activities for walking, riding and cycling, along with opportunities for bird watching.

Nearby, sought after Compton offers a village store with post office and tea room, and there are many traditional popular country pubs, and charming villages in the area.

Both Petersfield and the cathedral city of Chichester are easily accessible, offering a comprehensive range of shopping, leisure and cultural facilities, including the renowned Festival Theatre and Pallant House Art Gallery. Goodwood Estate is nearby with its motor and horse racing events calendar, golf academy and health club, and the coastline to the south offers a wealth of water sports and sailing opportunities.

For commuters the train service from Petersfield offers journeys to London Waterloo in just 1 hour 2 minutes whilst the Chichester to London Victoria service takes 1 hour 34 minutes.

Compton & Up Marden CE Primary School is a well-regarded, small downland school set in an idyllic location, whilst excellent independent schooling is available at Westbourne House, Bedales and Portsmouth Grammar School.