Ivy Cottage Sheen | Buxton | Derbyshire | SK17 0ES
SELLER INSIGHT
Having lived in Bath for many years, it was the rural location which drew us to Ivy Cottage,” say the current owners of this stunning property in the sought-after village of Sheen, which is known for its picturesque properties designed by renowned Victorian architect William Butterfield. “Sheen sits atop a ridge between two valleys, and this house in particular offers exceptional uninterrupted views over the Dove Valley from the garden and across to the Manifold Valley in the other direction.” Ivy Cottage itself is an attractive house which has been lovingly refurbished by the owners to create a unique family home rooted in its breathtaking surroundings. The lounge has been redesigned into the perfect all-year-round living space, with an inset woodburner and bespoke bookcases for cosy winter evenings, and patio doors for indoor-outdoor entertaining in summer. A linked sitting room opens up the space to make the most of the view as it changes throughout the seasons. This also serves to connect the house to an art studio converted from the old piggery – a flexible space which could equally be used as a home office or gym. Further, the owners have combined the kitchen and dining room to create a large modern living and entertaining space, which is now the hub of the home. Outside, the gardens have been landscaped to include patio seating areas taking in the gorgeous views, vegetable boxes in the adjoining field to provide fresh produce from garden to table, and a wildflower meadow. Truly embracing the country lifestyle, the owners have “three runner ducks and five hens who spend their day in the fields, usually along with three sheep (loaned by our neighbouring farmer) who are our grass mowers!”
Now, this is the ideal home for everyday life and entertaining alike, with plenty of space to accommodate large parties both indoors and out. The owners say “Over the years we have hosted a large number of family occasions here, including our daughter’s wedding in 2013. The front of the house, garden and patios and our two fields are all south facing so there is always somewhere sunny to sit, from morning coffee right through to drinks on the top patio at sunset.” The guest bedrooms with en suite bathrooms are invaluable for the “yearly rota” of friends coming to stay, too.
There is plenty to do in the local area for residents and guests alike, from long country walks along miles of public footpaths, ending up back at Ivy Cottage for food; to exhibitions and events at Chatsworth House and theatre, music and festivals at Buxton Opera House. For days out with the grandchildren there is a large leisure centre in nearby Matlock for swimming; Alton Towers within 30 minutes’ drive, and Peak Wildlife Park within 20 minutes. Day to day, the village of Sheen itself has much to offer in terms of both community and convenience. “We love the location of the village and its welcoming atmosphere,” the owners say. “We shall take with us fond memories of many village celebrations to commemorate special national events such as jubilees and royal weddings, which have been a fantastic way of getting to know our neighbours. Some families in the village have been farming in the area for generations, while others have moved here to enjoy a slower pace away from city life, so there is a varied and friendly community here.” Excellent internet connection in the village, currently being upgraded to superfast broadband, means that young professionals can easily work from home, while good schooling in the area has attracted more families with school-age children to the village. The house is within the catchment area for Manifold CofE Primary School in Warslow, to which school transport is provided, with transport also available to the Middle and High Schools in Leek. There is also a good CofE primary school in the neighbouring village of Hartington, from where school buses operate to wellregarded secondary schools in Ashbourne (Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School) and Bakewell (Lady Manners), as well as Buxton Community School.
Ivy Cottage itself is set down a short track off the main road through the village, so enjoys peace and quiet whilst remaining connected to village life. Sheen boasts an active church – which is Grade II listed and known for its unusual green copper spire - and adjacent village hall hosting weekly activities including yoga classes as well as special occasions such as those mentioned above. There are two farm shops selling local produce in Sheen, while the neighbouring village of Hartington is within walking distance for two pubs, a hotel, four shops including the renowned ‘Village Stores’, a Post Office and Tea Room. The market towns of Buxton, Ashbourne, Bakewell and Leek are about equidistant from the village, all within 10 miles, with trains from Buxton to Manchester taking 1 hour. The Buxton–Ashbourne bus service stops in Hartington approximately every hour throughout the working day.
“When we leave, our outstanding memory of Ivy Cottage will be the ever-changing landscape of hills and dales which have been the inspiration for much of Terry’s creative art and photography”.*
* These comments are the personal views of the current owner and are included as an insight into life at the property. They have not been independently verified, should not be relied on without verification and do not necessarily reflect the views of the agent.
Step inside Ivy Cottage
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Sheen, Staffordshire, Ivy Cottage offers a harmonious blend of traditional charm and contemporary comfort. Sheen is surrounded by the tranquil Dove and Manifold Valleys, making this idyllic property a haven for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. Its rural location is a mere 6-minute drive from the village of Hartington and 22 minutes from Buxton.
The cottage’s exterior is a testament to its timeless appeal, featuring beautifully maintained stone walls and timber frame doors. The surrounding gardens, meticulously landscaped, create a serene ambience that complements the property’s rustic charm.
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a series of inviting living spaces. The living room, with its cosy fireplace and solid oak flooring, is the perfect place to relax and unwind. French doors lead out to the garden, allowing for seamless indoor-outdoor living. A snug room featuring stone tiled flooring and plantation shutters offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The glass ceiling window in this room provides a flood of natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. The snug also serves as an interroom to the studio. For those seeking a creative space, the art studio boasts whitepainted stone walls and provides a versatile and inspiring environment.
The modern kitchen, equipped with dual-aspect windows, stone countertops, and a striking Everhot cooker, is a chef’s dream. The adjacent dining area, with its exposed beams, provides a welcoming space for entertaining guests. A convenient and practical utility room is a great extension of the kitchen.
Upstairs, the bedrooms offer a peaceful retreat from the living areas. Three of the bedrooms are carpeted and feature en-suite facilities and built-in wardrobes, ensuring privacy and convenience. The master bedroom, with its striking wooden beams, has a luxurious en-suite shower room, while the fourth bedroom currently serves as a home study. The family bathroom, with its tiled walls, heated towel rail and vaulted ceiling, provides a spa-like experience.
Step outside Ivy Cottage
Beyond its interior and exterior appeal, Ivy Cottage offers a truly exceptional lifestyle. The property’s location within the picturesque village of Sheen provides easy access to the surrounding countryside and offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking and cycling.
Ivy Cottage is more than just a property; it’s a lifestyle. With its charming character and idyllic location, this home is an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil and stylish retreat. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax or a creative space to inspire your passions, Ivy Cottage offers everything you need and more.
Agents notes: All measurements are approximate and for general guidance only and whilst every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy, they must not be relied on. The fixtures, fittings and appliances referred to have not been tested and therefore no guarantee can be given that they are in working order. Internal photographs are reproduced for general information and it must not be inferred that any item shown is included with the property. For a free valuation, contact the numbers listed on the brochure. Copyright © 2024 Fine &
Tenure: Freehold Council Tax Band: F
Fine & Country
17-19 Market Sreet, Chapel-en-le-Frith SK23 0HP
01298 808 082 | highpeak@fineandcountry.com