19th Century farmhouse for the 21st century dweller - Thursday 26 June 2008
Yon wild mossy mountains sae lofty and wide, That nurse in their bosom the youth o' the Clyde, Where the grouse lead their coveys thro' the heather to feed, And the shepherd tends his flock as he pipes on his reed.
So Robert Burns described the Dumfries and Galloway countryside and it is within this wonderful natural setting that Knockaughley Farmhouse sits.
Beginning life as a working farmhouse in the 1880s, the ebb and flow of changing commercial fortunes and social habits has, over time, transformed this property into the wonderful example it now represents of modern countryside living.
Knockaughley's simple yet bold Victorian stone and slate structure has been re-fitted with modern roofing, glazing and facings throughout, to plant it firmly in the 21st century, leaving the new owners with nothing to do but unpack. However, the work has been carried out sympathetically, ensuring the building retains the character and warmth that its age so naturally bestows upon it.
The heartbeat to the property is provided by the large open plan kitchen and dining room, which plays host to the homely Rayburn range cooker. The lounge is heated by a Morso multi fuel stove housed in a double wooden mantelpiece that reaches majestically up to the picture rail and is both a stunning and unique centrepiece to the room.
The farmhouses ranges over 3 levels, with two large double bedrooms and the main bathroom on the upstairs floor leading down to the lounge and a further two double bedrooms. On this level a shower room has also been cleverly incorporated to provide for the needs of children or guests. Downstairs again is the kitchen, utility room and back porch.
Outside, thoughtfully landscaped gardens surround the property, leading into a parkland area and a paddock beyond. There is also a detached garage block offering excellent work, storage and carport options.
In all, Knockaughley Farmhouse comes with 11 acres of land and while its full scale farming days may be behind it, the ground would satisfy the interests and desires of hobby farmers and equestrian enthusiasts alike. Viewers with young families will also delight in the space, which offers a playground beyond all comparison.
The rural setting is a large part of Knockaughley's charm, although the nearby village of Moniaive ensures it is not one of isolation. This thriving local community provides all of the required amenities and its menagerie of annual food, comedy, art and cultural festivals have seen it labelled as one of the most vibrant villages in Britain.
Slightly further afield - 19 miles - Dumfries is the closest major commercial centre, while there are excellent links to Edinburgh and Glasgow to the north and Carlisle to the south.
Knockaughley Farmhouse epitomises the best of modern day country living, without sacrificing the heritage or character that has seen it stand tall for the last 125 years.
Homes at Broom Farm Steadings are offered for sale by DMH Baird Lumsden, The Mill, Bridge of Allan, Stirling FK9 4JS. Tel: 01786 833800. Fax: 01786 834382. Web: www.dmhbl.co.uk. email: stirling@dmhbl.co.uk.
Offers over £425,000
