Property description
Tucked away in a discreet corner of idyllic Hampshire countryside enjoying the most secluded and tranquil of settings is this delightful period farmhouse, occupying a slightly elevated position affording extensive views over its stunning grounds extending to 18 acres.
Owners Comments
“Having retired to Hammonds Farm twenty years ago we have enjoyed by far the most tranquil of all settings in our sixty years of varied home ownership.”
“Hidden as we are in a quiet corner of Hampshire, with deer in the surrounding fields, the early morning view towards the River Blackwater has been a constant delight. Our passion for sailing has been very well served by the proximity of Hammonds Farm to the Solent.”
Introduction
Believed to have been built before 1840, Hammonds Farm blends the picturesque rural lifestyle with the perfect commutability being just approximately one mile from the M27 and the associated road, rail and air links of Southampton. Sympathetically restored and extended in the early 1980’s, this charming home has been beautifully maintained, retaining much of its traditional elegance including exposed timbers and feature fireplaces yet offers a homely ambience despite its spacious accommodation which extends to 3400 sq ft.
Its blend of formal and informal, versatile reception rooms and 5 substantial bedrooms are supplemented by a self contained annex and an impressive array of outbuildings and barns extending to 4800 sqft which provide appeal to a wide range of prospective purchasers including the equestrian enthusiast.
The formal gardens have been enhanced by the addition of a swimming pool and terrace complemented by kitchen and changing room facilities converted from the original dairy.
Situated at the head of a private country lane in the small hamlet of Ower, Hammonds Farm's privacy and seclusion make it a true rare gem.
Description
Upon entering the solid wood front door a welcoming homely charm is immediately apparent typified by traditional wooden board flooring, exposed beams and feature fireplaces. There is a delightful social flow to the layout of the house through both informal and formal spaces providing a very cosy but particularly spacious living arrangement. The dining room is centred upon a Victorian style cast iron fireplace with wooden surround and is from where the principle rooms radiate. The attractive farmhouse kitchen is immediately adjacent and offers a host of country styled cream eye and base level units with the focal point of the aga which is supplemented by a gas hob and electric double oven. Other integrated appliances include a dishwasher, waste disposer, water softener and instant boiling hot water tap and there is generous space to accommodate a large farmhouse table or central island, making this an ideal informal dining venue. Ancillary spaces include a large pantry, a laundry/utility room housing further storage and plumbing for appliances and a downstairs W/C. There is also access to the external covered storage and car port. An inner hallway provides access to the study, additional cloakroom and the dry cellar, ideal for wine and other storage. Accessed from the hall is the delightful and traditional sitting room which is centred upon the impressive inglenook brick fireplace with slate hearth hosting a woodburning stove and also enjoys an ideal aspect to take advantage of the stunning far reaching views across the beautifully maintained grounds via patio doors. Although there is much character and charm associated with the room it is particularly bright, enhanced by much natural light afforded via its dual aspect as there are also twin windows overlooking the impeccably maintained formal gardens. The remaining rooms are contrasting with the winter cosines of the snug and its woodburning stove and the summer light and views of the Victorian style conservatory.
This balance of period charm and character coupled with the practicality of layout and well proportioned space is sustained on the first floor with 5 well sized bedrooms served by a family bathroom, a grand ensuite bathroom and wash hand basins to 3 further bedrooms. All of the rooms feature wonderful views from each of their aspects, none more so than the master bedroom from its small bay window. There is built in bedroom furniture to the rooms with the fifth bedroom currently serving as a sizeable study/office. The landing hosts a useful walk in airing cupboard and culminates in a lockable door to the annex, which is self contained via a separate staircase and comprises a shower room, kitchenette, lounge and bedroom providing ideal dual occupancy or potential income return.
Outside
The impressive grounds totalling approximately 18 acres comprise beautifully tended formal gardens of lawns and pretty well stocked borders, a swimming pool, terrace, array of well maintained outbuildings, and extensive rolling paddocks leading to the river and light woodland bordered from the house by a ha ha wall. The property is approached from the lane via a large pavioured courtyard fronting the triple car port and the farmhouse. The formal gardens are well screened and the swimming pool area is a wonderful entertainment and leisure venue heated by an efficient air source pump and complemented by a kitchenette and changing room within the old converted dairy. The outbuildings include, a store, workshop, Victorian barn, large storage barn and stables of 6 loose boxes with field gate access to the paddocks. There is additionally a productive growing area with greenhouse and fruit cage.
Location
The exclusive setting of Hammonds Farm in Ower can only be described as stunning. Private yet convenient to excellent commuter road, rail and air links. Approximately 5 miles from the local market town of Romsey, the neighbouring village of Wellow is well served with traditional village amenities including a post office, convenience store, a choice of butchers, pharmacy and public house, Excellent local schooling for children of all ages is available and the extensive recreational facilities of the beautiful New Forest are just yards away.
Agents Notes
The property is served by oil fired central heating with the benefit of calor gas and electric cooking. The lane is privately owned with unfettered access to Hammonds Farm. Land drainage has been undertaken.
Directions
Privately owned, Shelley Lane is accessed from the A36 on the right hand side after the Ower roundabout heading towards Salisbury. At the head of the lane, bear right and Hammonds Farm can be found at the end of the lane.
Property Features :
- Elegant period farmhouse of 3400 sqft
- 18 acres of beautiful Hampshire Countryside
- Tranquil setting yet perfectly convenient for commuter access
- Impressive array of outbuildings and garaging
- Attached self contained first floor annex