Friars Gate, Crowborough, TN6

This was a house that really took my breath away when I was first invited out by the current vendors. The property nestles on a plot of just under 1 acre on the edge of majestic ancient woodland offering a stunning backdrop to the beautiful main residence and additional out buildings, all set among mature gardens. The vendors have have been meticulous in their presentation to make sure that their pride and joy is showcased for potential buyers. To this end the owners have been kind enough to provide a folder of seasonal pictures highlighting the fabulous gardens in all their glory (this can be accessed at  foresters.neara.me PLEASE COPY THIS LINK INTO YOUR TOOL BAR TO VIEW)

 
The description below is in the vendors own words and I for one feel that it provides a great insight into the lifestyle afforded by this forever home.

So why not read on, look at the amazing pictures and then immerse yourself in the virtual tour before booking your personal tour of the property?


Foresters, Ashdown Forest

After searching for more than a year, we found our dream cottage in Ashdown Forest. Foresters sits in the Five Hundred Acre Wood, which inspired A.A. Milne’s Hundred Acre Wood, the magical setting of Winnie the Pooh. We only need to step out of our garden directly into the Forest to experience the magic of the wildlife and nature. There are mushrooms and chestnuts to be foraged, deer, pheasants, owls and birds of prey to observe, and our Labrador swims in a picturesque lake which can be reached in a 10-minute stroll through the luscious woods. Foresters has ancient commoners’ rights, entitling us to grazing animals and wood cutting in Ashdown Forest. There is enough wood in the forest to keep our home warm every winter with our two 12kW wood burners. 

 
We have spent 13 years at Foresters, tending and improving our grounds to combine a beautiful country garden with a self-sufficient lifestyle. The country garden changes colour throughout the seasons with a wide variety of plants, herbs, berries, bushes and trees. The mature magnolia tree blossoms through the spring and summer. The pond, with its cascading water feature, is well-stocked with goldfish, newts, dragonflies, water lilies, iris, and gunnera. The well is used for watering the whole
property, with five access points spread across the grounds. We planted a herb garden in front of the kitchen for easy access, however, behind the house, there are further herbs such as two varieties of mint, rhubarb, strawberries, gooseberries, black and red currants, blueberries, raspberries, an apple tree, a fig tree, rosemary, lemon balm, and a bay leaf. There are plenty of cosy corners to sit and relax in, including a gazebo for entertainment. Pass through the large hedge to our chickens, with a bespoke coop large enough for 12 chickens and a roofed run for rainy days. The run and coop are fox-proof and connected by a shed, which has a separate entrance to the run. The hedgerow also provides blackberries, hawthorn, and wild hops. All the gardens have been treated organically and are chemical-free. The chicken litter and garden cuttings make up a large compost area, ideal for the fruit and vegetables. Moving down, you will find the kitchen garden, which comprises a greenhouse with three rainwater butts, well water, five raised beds, a large polytunnel, five fruit trees, and an elderberry tree.

Our sandstone main building features a spacious modern 6m x 6m living kitchen, designed to merge indoor comfort with outdoor beauty. In the summer months, the area completely opens up to the country garden. The kitchen island is positioned perfectly for engaging with guests while preparing meals, ensuring the cook can remain part of the conversation. The kitchen boasts granite and stainless-steel countertops, along with two Miele ovens and an under-counter water filter. As the seasons change, the ambiance within transforms into a cosy haven during the winter, courtesy of a large, efficient wood burner that ensures warmth and comfort throughout the colder months. When we need a cosy retreat, we cuddle up in the 200-year-old lounge, a space rich in history and warmth. The snug provides a serene haven for reading or indulging in music, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and leisure. The house has solid oak flooring throughout and solid oak stairs leading to the bedroom above the kitchen. Oak doors are also featured throughout the property.

The Studio is a separate building that serves as a multi-functional space tailored to fit a variety of needs. We use it as a yoga studio, providing a tranquil retreat for meditation and exercise. Additionally, it houses two separate rooms, one as an office
with 900kbps broadband, as well as an art room.

The Annex is the third building on the property, featuring its own open-plan kitchen, bedroom, and shower room, delivering a self-contained living experience. Currently undergoing renovation, this space is being enhanced to further elevate its comfort
and functionality. Upon completion, The Annex will offer an updated and modern living space, ideal for guests, extended family, or potentially as a rental opportunity, adding versatility and value to the property.

Technology:
     - The property is equipped with 900kbps fiber broadband.
     - The main building and studio are connected with 2 LAN cables.
     - 2016 Grant Pro 25/36 oil boiler, Unvented system Central heating
     controlled with a HIVE smart thermostat.
     - The Studio is equipped with energy-saving far infrared panels for heating,
     controlled with a smart thermostat. 

     Further major improvements to the property

• 2014 New water supply pipe
• 11/2015 New unvented central heating system and oil boiler
• 02/2017 All radiators renewed; cast iron in old part of house and designer radiators in modern part of house
• 05/2021 New Insulated central heating cylinder 
• 03/2023 New sewage treatment plant

LOCATION 

Foresters is beautifully positioned surrounded by the breath-taking Ashdown Forest and opposite Hundred Acre Wood the inspiration behind A.A Milne's Winnie The Pooh books. Although located in a rural setting, Crowborough town centre is only a short distance away which offers a comprehensive range of shopping and leisure facilities including a Waitrose supermarket. Tunbridge Wells is approximately 9.5 miles distant with a further range of shopping and recreational facilities. The area is well served with a range of mainline stations at Crowborough,  Eridge  and at Tunbridge Wells providing frequent services into London. There are a wide range of favoured schools both private and state within the area. Foresters has direct access onto the Ashdown Forest, with 6.500 acres of rolling heathland, woodland and countryside.