Enchanting fairytale homes straight out of a storybook
As Wicked hits the cinemas, we take a look at the whimsical properties on the market that turn fantasy into a reality
Ever dreamt about being King or Queen of your very own castle? Or perhaps a thatched cottage tucked away in the heart of the countryside is more your style? Many of the architectural elements we associate with our favourite fairy tales can be found in abundance in the diverse range of properties across the UK. The result is quirky and unique homes that are truly one of a kind. Here we take a look at some of the best on the market right now.
4 bedroom house in Hawkley Hurst, Hawkley, Liss, Hampshire GU33
As if its woodland setting within the South Downs National Park wasn’t magical enough, this property tells a fascinating tale with its characterful features. Hanger Court is a wing of the Grade II listed country mansion Hawkley Hurst, designed by the eminent Victorian architect Samuel Sanders. After World War II the estate was divided up into a series of properties with a mix of private and communal gardens. Traces of its history can be found throughout this spectacular home, the ground floor benefitting from high ceilings and an abundance of light from the large original windows. To make your way up to the first floor you ascend the charming circular stone staircase, which externally is the original turret. And as it happens, the top of the turret makes an incredibly useful storage cupboard.
4 bedroom castle, Tawstock, Barnstaple, Devon EX31
If you’ve ever fantasised of living in a castle lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale, this awe-inspiring Grade II listed property could make dreams a reality. With its distinctive circular motte-and-bailey design, the castle offers incredible panoramic views across the North Devon countryside from its more than 8 acres of private grounds. This film-esque setting continues to the interiors, resplendent with historic features. Most spectacular is the grand reception room, complete with ornate fireplace with an Esse Dragon wood burning stove and a King Arthur round table. Meanwhile the essentials of modern living have been thoughtfully incorporated, including underground high-speed fibre broadband, making working from the study in the turret a breeze.
4 bedroom house, Queens Road, London, SW14
Walk past this period coach house on a quiet residential street in East Sheen and you can’t help but be charmed by its whimsical exterior. Inside it is surprisingly spacious and scattered with delightful details, from the distinctive arched doors and windows to the statement fireplace. Unusually for the location it offers ample off-road parking behind a walled frontage with gates, with a beautiful landscaped garden that brings a sense of privacy. Close to historic Richmond and its multitude of green spaces and upscale shopping and dining, it offers a tranquil pace of life within easy reach of the centre of the capital.
9 bedroom house, Longton Road, Trentham, Staffordshire ST4
Trentham Ley has an impressive pedigree, having been constructed in 1910 by the Duke Of Sutherland as a home for his newly appointed archdeacon. Its legacy can be traced throughout the property, including its castellated exterior, high ceilings and original woodwork. Despite these period details it has been extensively refurbished to make it an efficient modern family home, with a new heating system that is economical to run. Set in 1.9 acres and flanked by an Open Championship golf course and rolling countryside, it brings the best of secluded living within close distance of Trentham’s many amenities.
4 bedroom house, Letcombe Regis, Wantage, Oxfordshire OX12
Picture your traditional fairytale witch and she might just live in a thatched cottage in the depths of the countryside. Back in the real world, these properties are some of the most desirable on the market. This impeccable example set on a quiet lane in the picturesque village of Letcombe Regis in Oxfordshire is a testament as to why, offering charm and character in spades. The Grade II listed property, thought to date back to the late 15th or early 16th century, had its thatch renewed last year. Its quaint aesthetic extends to the interiors, with its exposed wooden beams and brick fireplace adding to the cosy atmosphere.
14 bedroom castle, Leacett Lane, Kirkby Stephen Cumbria, CA17
Augill Castle currently operates as a successful boutique hotel, but could also make an impressive country house subject to permissions. From the exterior the impressive 19th-century Victorian Gothic folly makes quite the impression, set in 10 acres of ground with incredible views over the rolling English countryside. Step inside and you’ll have a fittingly grand greeting, the solid oak doors leading through to the magnificent hallway decorated with oak parquet flooring and Jocobean oak panelled walls dating back to the mid-19th century.
