Eastern promises

Suffolk, £1.45 million

When Sheila Kirk was driving down Pakenham Road, near Bury St Edmunds, she spotted something strange, but familiar—chimneys. But not just any chimneys, no, these were for sure chimneys in the vernacular of Philip Webb, one of the ‘fathers’ of the Arts-and-Crafts Movement, and Ms Kirk had ‘discovered’ one of his previously unknown buildings. That very property, Manor Farm, is now on the market, with five bedrooms and some six acres of land. Originally built to be the farm manager’s house by the Greene family of Suffolk, the property is listed Grade II* and is a wonderful example of Webb’s design and ideas. Situated on the outskirts of both Pakenham and Thurston, the property is in a convenient location, as well as retaining its rural appeal. Bedfords (01284 769999)

Suffolk, £1.1 million

Few phrases inspire as much joy as ‘newly thatched’ and Mayhews Farm near Old Newton is exactly that. With five bedrooms, four bathrooms and four reception rooms, this colourful farmhouse is a characterful family home with exceptional interiors and a host of original features throughout. Extra space has been added in recent years with the newly appointed garden room, which provides excellent views of the surrounding grounds and countryside, and a well-appointed kitchen flows directly into the new space, providing lots of room for entertaining. Outside, the 1.4 acres of gardens and grounds are a delight and include a range of outbuildings such as an office, greenhouse and workshop, as well as lawned areas, well-stocked borders, two natural ponds with decked seating areas and a variety of mature trees.

Strutt & Parker (01473 220433)