Ellinge Cottage is set in one of the most sublime rural locations in South East Kent – surrounded by farmland and hidden valleys - all in an AONB. Situated away from busy roads there is real tranquillity here– yet the property is well placed for access to major roads and nearby towns.

Approached over a short lane the driveway meanders through the lightly wooded gardens to arrive at a parking and turning area in front of the house. Kentish vernacular in style, the house has traditional white weather boarded elevations. The front door leads into a generous reception hall with a high ceilings and an elegant staircase, from here a door leads to the gracious drawing room – a lovely room full of charm. Adjoining is the equally charming dining room with a fireplace to one end. A door from here leads into the conservatory that runs the width of the dining room and kitchen.

Adjoining the dining room is the well fitted kitchen with a range of wall and floor cupboards with granite work tops over. An arch way leads into a cosy snug with an open fire. A large utility room leads off the kitchen giving access to the indoor swimming pool,

The pool house has ample space around the pool to entertain family and friends. There is a changing area to the rear with working sauna. Double doors lead to a private raised terrace.

Off the utility is a large (22’x21’) store room which could be put to a variety of uses, eg family/games room etc, with a door into a store room housing the boiler, separate pool heater and filtration equipment.

Two staircases access the first floor. The principal bedroom is reached off the main stairs. It is a very generous suite with a newly fitted bathroom and dressing room. There are three further bedrooms and a family bathroom. There is also an occasional fifth bedroom.

This property has 3.4 acres of land.

Outside

The gardens are an absolute delight with wide lawns surrounded by specimen trees giving high levels of privacy and the feeling of a series of “rooms”. A gazebo overlooks the lawn.

To one corner is a large outbuilding (in need of restoration), with potential for multiple uses including secondary accommodation (subject to any necessary consents). A fenced and level paddock runs alongside the garden.

Situation

The property is situated to the north-west of Alkham village in undulating downland designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The village is about 3 miles from the A2, giving quick access to Canterbury and the M20 is also readily accessible.

Ashford, Canterbury and Folkestone offer a wide range of facilities, and there are good schools in both the independent and state sectors. The High Speed rail service connects Folkestone Central to London St Pancras from 53 minutes.

Directions

From the A2 heading towards Dover: Continue on the A2 until you reach the turning for Lydden and Temple Ewell (note that you will then to take the right turn at the second set of traffic lights). Continue down Lydden Hill and take the right turning onto Swanton Lane, located just before you enter Lydden village. After 2 miles turn left towards Swingfield (with the Commanderie then seen about 200 meters distant). Just after a right hand bend, turn left towards Everden and Alkham, and follow that lane down and up until the first sign for Ellinge Cottage (ignore as steep) take the next turning sharply back on yourself after executing a U turn.