Country Haven Plus Annexe With Planning For A Bungalow, Arthur Lane, Bolton, BL2

Historic Country Haven
Nestled in the serene, semi-rural village of Ainsworth between Bolton and Bury, Davenport Farm is a grand, Grade II-listed, stone-built property dating back to 1723.

Set within a sprawling, private plot, this detached, high-quality home effortlessly blends character and history with modern comforts.

With no onward chain and full planning permission to create a modern detached annexe, this estate offers boundless possibilities. Whether you're a lover of history, a green-thumbed gardener, or simply seeking luxurious, practical living, Davenport Farm welcomes you.

Classic Hallway Reveal
Approached through imposing iron gates, this distinguished estate offers two driveways with ample parking for guests and family in addition to a third entrance typically used for deliveries.

The front door, a solid and impressive feature, opens into a large central hallway that gives the first glimpse of the property's generous proportions. With its specially commissioned stained glass fuchsia design, mahogany flooring, and coving, the hallway is a testament to the home's craftsmanship and timeless elegance.

Grand Gallery Living
Spanning approximately 3,500 sq. ft., Davenport Farm's main house offers four spacious double bedrooms, three bathrooms, and three versatile reception rooms, each steeped in character and elegance. At the heart of the home lies the expansive two-story main lounge, a stunning blend of grandeur and warmth. This impressive space features vaulted ceilings, exposed beams crafted from the forked trunk of a very large oak tree dating back to before 1723, and a minstrel gallery that overlooks the room, perfect for a home office or quiet contemplation. The imposing log-burning fireplace, framed by original cast iron back panels, anchors the lounge, filling it with warmth during winter evenings as flames dance off the stone walls.

The gallery itself, often home to a baby grand piano, sets the stage for impromptu concerts, while beneath it, a cosy sitting area invites intimate gatherings. A raised library nook serves as a sanctuary for book lovers, adding to the lounge's allure. Rhodesian parquet flooring and quadruple glazing provide modern comfort, keeping the room snug in winter and cool in summer, while skylights flood the space with natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere that makes every moment spent here special.

Heart Of The Home
On the opposite side of the house, the heart of Davenport Farm is the open-plan kitchen, dining, and living room, a space that seamlessly combines timeless elegance with modern functionality. The country-style kitchen features a charming island, black granite countertops, and an electric Aga, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both everyday family meals and larger gatherings. Integrated appliances and recessed LED lighting enhance the kitchen's functionality, while quadruple-glazed windows flood the space with natural light. Underfloor heating ensures the area remains cosy, even on cooler days.

Adjacent to the kitchen is a practical utility room, equipped with everything a busy household needs, including space for a large fridge-freezer, plumbing for a washer and dryer, and ample storage.

A private patio, accessible through the kitchen, offers a serene spot to enjoy a peaceful morning coffee amidst the beauty of the garden.

Snug & Sophisticated
For moments of indulgence and intimate gatherings, Davenport Farm offers a range of elegantly appointed spaces. The smaller snug provides a cinematic experience like no other, featuring surround sound, a hidden picture TV that transforms into a painting when not in use, and an art nouveau fireplace, creating a cosy retreat for film nights or quiet relaxation.

Adjacent to the snug, the formal dining room seats eight comfortably, making it ideal for both intimate lunches and grand dinners. Soft carpeting and bespoke lighting enhance the dining experience, while discreet heating installed at skirting board level ensures comfort without distraction.

Restful Retreats
Upstairs, you'll find four spacious double bedrooms, including the master suite, which serves as a true oasis of tranquillity. This serene retreat features quadruple-glazed windows, a super king-sized bed, and a walk-in wardrobe.

Each morning, a nursing chair by the window offers a perfect view of the garden, where the scent of flowers drifts in during summer, enhancing the peaceful ambiance of this historic home.

The art deco en-suite bathroom adds a touch of luxury with its oversized bath, dual shower heads, and impeccable tilework.

The second double bedroom, adorned with charming bird-patterned wallpaper, reveals a hidden gem—a secret en-suite shower room concealed behind the fitted wardrobes. This cleverly designed space features a double shower with a glazed enclosure, a vanity sink unit with integrated storage, a back-to-wall WC, and a heated towel rail, all complemented by stylish part-tiled elevations.

The remaining two westerly bedrooms each offer their own unique charm, making them perfect for a variety of uses. Both rooms feature whimsical low beams and high ceilings, creating a playful and airy atmosphere. Each bedroom is equipped with its own vanity wash basin unit, enhancing convenience and functionality. Despite the presence of these vanity units, there is still ample space available for the addition of en-suite bathrooms, should you wish to further enhance the rooms. One of these bedrooms also includes a cosy reading nook with a window seat, ideal for curling up with a book. Together, these rooms provide ample space, character, and privacy, blending delightful features with practical design.

Bathroom Bliss
The bedrooms are complemented by an elegant five-piece bathroom that blends luxury and practicality. This beautifully appointed space features a sumptuous freestanding bath, perfect for a relaxing soak, and a corner shower for a quick refresh. Additional amenities include a bidet, a WC, and a classic pedestal sink. The bathroom's traditional radiator adds both warmth and charm, while the part-tiled elevations enhance its refined aesthetic. Timber flooring contributes a touch of warmth and sophistication, and there is ample space for a stylish console table, offering both decorative and practical use. This thoughtfully designed bathroom ensures comfort and convenience for all who use it.

The property seamlessly combines historic charm with modern amenities. Quadruple glazing enhances energy efficiency and peace, while a 40KW bio-gas heating system and Mega flow hot water cylinder ensure year-round comfort. Security and convenience are addressed with two alarm systems, CCTV, and EV charging capability, while a private sewage treatment plant manages waste effectively.

Inviting Extensions
Beyond the main house, Davenport Farm is a sanctuary of both charm and practicality, boasting an array of outbuildings that enhance its appeal.

The orangery/summer house, in particular, is a highly valued feature, frequently used in summer as a prime entertaining space. It opens onto the patio and seamlessly connects to the stunning gardens, with many friends and family remarking on its beauty and functionality.

The garden's history was highlighted when it was opened to the public under the National Garden Scheme (NGS), showcasing its long-standing allure.

Grand Grounds & Gardens

The true jewel of Davenport Farm is its gardens—an enduring passion project for over 30 years. These gardens feature mature perennial beds, secret paths, a wisteria walkway, and two serene ponds. From March to October, the garden offers a sensory feast, complemented by an automatic watering system that ensures the intricate plantings flourish. Whether strolling through lush foliage, relaxing on one of the granddad seats, or hosting friends on the patio, you'll find peace and beauty at every turn.

For families, the private playground with its soft rubber ground is a delightful feature, while the extensive fruit and vegetable garden supports a nearly self-sufficient lifestyle.

From enjoying sunny days to savouring the evening fragrances from the orangery, Davenport Farm promises a lifestyle that is both luxurious and tranquil.

Out & About
Davenport Farm is a unique property that harmoniously blends historical elegance with modern practicality. Situated within walking distance to two public houses, two excellent Italian restaurants, three churches, and one shop, it offers the best of both worlds.

The village itself is easily accessible, with a right of way leading into it from the south side of the garden. For more amenities, the nearby Ainsworth village shop is just a short distance away, and both Bury and Bolton are conveniently reachable, with Harwood just a short drive away.

The surrounding fields contribute to the serene, rural atmosphere of Davenport Farm. To the rear, you'll find open fields filled with horses, enhancing the tranquil setting. A walk from the property leads to Lowercroft Reservoirs, a trio of picturesque lakes popular with dog walkers and joggers, offering a perfect escape into nature.

A right turn along the lane brings you to Harwood within ten minutes, ideal for a round of golf or a weekly shop at Morrisons. A left turn delivers you into Bury town center in 15 minutes, perfect for shopping at its world-famous market.

The pretty village of Ainsworth is only a five-minute walk away, offering the delightful Casalingo Italian restaurant, a couple of welcoming country inns, a Post Office, and a dentist. Commuters will appreciate the great transport links, with the M62 easily accessible from Bury and major motorway connections north and south via Bolton.

Entertainment options abound with cinemas in Bury and Bolton, and a wealth of sights and activities in the surrounding towns.

Families are well served by excellent local schools, including Canon Slade in Bolton, Bury Grammar, Turton High, and the distinguished Bolton School, all within a short drive.

Expansive Options
A double tandem garage provides ample space for vehicles or additional storage needs, while a detached annex awaits your vision. With full planning permission already granted, this space can be transformed into a one-bedroom guest house, home office, or studio, according to your needs.

In summary, Davenport Farm is a rural retreat offering luxurious living with all the conveniences of local amenities. It's an exceptional home that provides a rich tapestry of stories, spaces, and possibilities, making it ideal for hosting gatherings, tending to a beautiful garden, and enjoying peaceful semi-rural life with easy access to urban conveniences.