WHILE some think of barn conversions as the poor country cousins of the property world and others believe they're a passing fad that didn't pass quickly enough, there is a third more positive view of them: that they're likely a mysterious present wrapped in brown paper.

Invariably rather plain, they are more often than not stunning within, the result of being given a blank canvas with which to create the home of your dreams.

And so it is with Stables Cottage, which may not set many hearts racing at first glance, but is a stunner from the moment you walk through its large rustic arched doors with traditional style bell and are greeted by the unique iron feature staircase and balcony-style landing facing you.

This bright and welcoming entrance leads off to the other ground floor rooms in a natural flow perfect for family life.

Stables Cottage - F&C

Stables Cottage - F&C

They comprise the lounge with traditional log burner inset in a natural brick central double-sided fireplace (which it shares with the entrance hall) and patio doors to the gardens; the quirky-shaped dining room with double doors opening to the rear patio area and an exposed wood feature beam; the kitchen with an abundance of traditional-style cupboards, a Belfast sink, exposed brick surrounding the Aga and a large central island unit. to The kitchen which benefits from a light flooding in through the patio doors and large windows with window seat also has a pantry and plenty of space for a large dining table. The family/living room off the kitchen is currently home to a sofa and pool table, making it great for keeping an eye on children whilst you're busy in the kitchen without them getting under your feet, then there's the large utility room which offers access into the holiday cottage when needed.

Stables Cottage - F&C

Stables Cottage - F&C

Last, but certainly not least, is an extremely versatile space which is currently used as a recreation/games room, but would be the perfect gym or playroom and could even be separated from the rest of the house to use as home office thanks to the addition of a store cupboard, cloakroom and double doors offering direct access from outside.

An added feature is a small cellar, accessed from the sitting room, which is perfect for the wine connoisseur who only wants the best conditions for their bottles!

Upstairs are five bedrooms plus the family bathroom which is in two tiers, having a walk-in shower cubical and wc on the second level and a large rectangle Jacuzzi bath – with mood lighting above in the abstract shaped ceiling – on the first. The bedrooms include the large master suite with a spacious en-suite shower room and a second bedroom with an en-suite which is home to a P-shaped bath with waterfall shower over.

Stables Cottage is set in 4.67 acres of garden and grounds, which include a purpose-built ménage ready for horses, a fully stocked pond with a

bridge and lily pads, a patio area just outside of the lounge and recreations room, a kitchen garden, large block paved driveway and a garage block with space for four vehicles and useful loft storage space above.

Stables Cottage - F&C

Stables Cottage - F&C

Attached to the main residence is an annex. While this would make the perfect holiday cottage, it could also be incorporated into the main house as the utility rooms of both properties are interleading, but can be locked to separate the homes.

The accommodation in the holiday cottage comprises a ground floor entrance hall, shower room, boot room, lounge with feature beams and fireplace, kitchen with a green Aga and space for a dining room table, utility room which provides access to a rear patio area and a good-sized bedroom which could instead be used as a dining room or home office.

Upstairs are the master bedroom with an en-suite shower room and a good-sized second bedroom.

Stables Cottage is located in the idyllic village of Pickhill, near Thirsk, and is on the market at offers over £1,25m. If you're looking for a home that offers a wealth of beautiful family-friendly accommodation, a business opportunity and plenty of land, Stables Cottage could be your dream home.

For more information or to arrange a viewing, please contact Fine & Country on 01904 571 195 or 01845 524488.