Steeped in history, King Charles Cottage, built as two dewllings, is thought to date back to the 16th century. It is widely believed that the cottage acquired its name as a result of providing King Charles II with overnight refuge while fleeing from Cromwell's army after the Battle of Worcester in 1651. More detailed information of the fascinating history of the cottage is available on request from the Agents.

With its timber-frame and painted brick infills, this quintessentially English cottage nestles in the picturesque Ems Valley with the medieval parish church adjacent. Period characteristics include casement windows, exposed beams and posts, and vintage inglenook fireplaces. The ground floor comprises a two zoned sitting room with timber post open divide, and a dining room providing the perfect setting to entertain family and friends. The kitchen/breakfast room has modern, wall and base level cabinetry with an adjoining larder and ample space for informal dining, along with an external door which opens to the garden.

The cottage has two separate stairways to the first-floor accommodation, reflecting its past existence as two adjoining dwellings. One staircase rises to a principal bedroom with walk-in wardrobe, an adjacent bedroom, and a family bathroom, whilst at the other side of the house, stairs lead from the sitting room up to a third bedroom and shower room.

Further accommodation could be available in the detached garage, which has an upper floor and a cloakroom, offering options for use as a studio, home office, or a further living space, subject to the necessary planning consents. The current owners recently commissioned an experienced firm of Architects and Planners to create a plan to enlarge the accommodation by incorporating the garage. This would create a spacious family home, combining a modern wing with the original 16th Century building. Copies of these plans are available on request.

Outside

A row of hedging and trees at the front boundary provides privacy, with a timber five-bar gate marking the entrance to the driveway which leads to the garage and the frontage of the cottage.

Climbing plants adorn the front elevation with an outlook over an area of lawn with hedging across to the neighbouring medieval parish church. Secluded grassed garden areas to the side and rear of the cottage offer many tranquil spots to sit and enjoy the stunning vistas to the countryside beyond the post-and-rail boundary. There are specimen trees in the grounds and attractive borders contain a pleasing selection of shrubs and perennial plants, whilst low walls create partition features, and steps rise to a paved terrace offering opportunities for outdoor dining and relaxation.

Situation

Situated in the South Downs National Park, the property lies in the tiny hamlet of Racton with its medieval parish church and striking monument, built as a folly by the 2nd Earl of Halifax. King Charles Cottage is surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside and offers wonderful opportunities for cycling, horse riding and walking. Traditional English pubs in the area include The Barley Mow at Walderton and The Hare and Hounds Stoughton.

Nearby Stansted House, an Edwardian mansion set in 1800 acres of parkland, is well known for its annual garden show, outdoor theatre and concerts, afternoon cream teas, garden centre and farm shop. To the south is the harbourside market town of Emsworth with a range of individual shops and restaurants. For water sports enthusiasts the harbour waters of The Solent have a number of sailing clubs, including Chichester, Bosham and Itchenor. Bathing and windsurfing maybe enjoyed from the blue flag sandy beach at West Wittering and other areas along the coast. To the south east, the cathedral city of Chichester offers shopping, leisure and cultural activities including the renowned Festival and Minerva Theatres and Pallant House Gallery. The Goodwood Estate is well known for its horse racing events calendar, and the annual Festival of Speed and Revival Meetings at its historic motor circuit. It also boasts two golf courses, a spa and small airfield.

There are excellent state and independent schools in the area and links to the A3 (M) provide access north to London and south to the A27.