Some of us have always dreamt of approaching home down a long drive, greeted at the end by a beautiful country house, complete with lovely equestrian facilities of course. To satisfy this desire, take a look at our pick of properties, each with their own long sweeping approach.
1. The Old Farmhouse
County: Lincolnshire
For you: this six-bedroom property is approached through electric iron gates with a block-paved driveway providing ample hardstanding for a number of vehicles. Enjoy uninterrupted views and a master bedroom with a floor-to-ceiling glazed bay window.
For the horses: there is a range of timber stables and a tack room with light power and a water supply. In all 7.66 acres.
Price: £1.25m
Agent: Fine & Country
Tel: 01476 584164
Visit: www.fineandcountry.com
2. Top Farm
County: Warwickshire
For you: in open countryside and approached via a private drive, this six-bedroom house has a farmhouse-style kitchen with an oil-fired Aga.
For the horses: while not currently used for equestrian purposes, the modern farm buildings have the potential to provide American barn-style stabling. There is a bridleway adjacent to the property with miles of quiet country lanes for hacking. Set in 53½ acres.
Price: £1.75m
Agent: Godfery-Payton
Tel: 01926 492511
Visit: www.godfrey-payton.co.uk
3. Priors Field
County: Surrey
For you: approached via a sweeping gravel drive, this Queen Ann-style home has six bedrooms and a home cinema. An annexe features a games room, pool house, sauna, kitchenette and two bedrooms.
For the horses: existing facilities include a refurbished building with two cottages and three stables. Other extensive outbuildings include a floodlit indoor arena and nine loose boxes, all of which are in need of some repair.
Price: £6.9m
Agent: Savills
Tel: 01737 230200
Visit: www.savills.co.uk
4. Edwins Hall
County: Essex
For you: : this eight-bedroom Grade II listed Tudor manor house is accessed through electronic gates onto a gravel driveway that forks off and leads to the yard. Get fit with the tennis court, indoor swimming pool and gym.
For the horses: courtyard stabling with a hay barn and feed room, storage barn and floodlit arena. Set in 10 acres.
Price: £2.95m
Agent: Zoe Napier Country & Equestrian
Tel: 01621 840333
Visit: www.inthecountryside.com
For Horse & Hound’s fabulous 11-page equestrian property special, pick up this week’s magazine (28 May 2015)