Old Street Barn: Equestrian Dream or Fixer-Upper Adventure?
Old Street Barn, nestled in the picturesque Gloucestershire countryside, is the talking point among equestrian enthusiasts and renovation romantics alike. If there were a "House of the Season" award, it would likely win it hands (or hooves) down. Think of it as a charming fixer-upper with a dash of rural fantasy and a dollop of equestrian potential!Majestic Location with Urban Accessibility
Tucked away near the quaint village of Lydney, Old Street Barn is strategically placed to offer dual benefits: the peace of country living and the perks of city proximities. A quick jaunt of 18 miles south lands you in Gloucester, and just 12 miles north ushers you into Chepstow, providing easy access to the M4 and a straight shot to central Bristol within 45 minutes. The property is surrounded by the Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean, both part of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Talk about a nature lover's dream!Equestrian Facilities and Challenges
For those whose hearts gallop alongside their equine companions, the 13.5-acre property offers ample charm. The facilities include five stables and a capacious tack room nestled in an L-shaped yard and three additional pony stables nearby. A 20x40m manège (or arena for the uninitiated) awaits its TLC, providing a possible canvas for training and practice. Currently, the land is managed naturally, temporarily occupied by pigs, but could be easily transformed into paddocks for horses. Talk about real-life animal farm vibes!Other Amenities: Not Just For Horses
Old Street Barn isn't just for horseplay, though. It boasts living amenities that make it a blend of work and relaxation space. Think summer house or office space for those Zoom meetings with bucolic backdrops, two greenhouses for your secret green thumb aspirations, and a secure courtyard terrace ready to house a clatter of chickens. The garden space allows for idyllic afternoon picnics or the occasional friendly cricket match.Interior Insights: Country Charm is In
Once inside, the property continues to impress. A classic country-style kitchen awaits the family culinary genius, equipped with a traditional Aga, an additional double oven, and a stovetop. The open-plan dining and living area flows effortlessly, adorned with a log burner prettily tucked into a stone and wood-detail fireplace, adding a rustic charm. French doors swing open to the garden, offering an inviting transition from indoor charm to outdoor excitement. The property also offers a self-contained annexe, outfitted with modern amenities including a natural stone wet room, underfloor heating, and a cozy kitchen/dining/living room space. A perfect retreat within a retreat!Market Magic or Restoration Realities?
Listed with Fine & Country for a cool guide price of £875,000, this property represents an investment of dreamy proportions. However, be prepared! It demands dedication for restoration and TLC, particularly for the manège. Yet, think of it less as a chore and more as an investment in your dream equestrian home. The natural land management presently in place enhances the property's basis for sustainable practices—a plus for environmentally conscious equestrians.Conclusion: Will You Take the Reins?
Old Street Barn is more than a handsome property—it is a potential lifestyle encapsulated by nature, equestrian facilities, and peace, all under one imaginary roof. Whether you're aiming to jump into a full-fledged equestrian business or merely seeking a picturesque place to enjoy horse riding, the opportunities here are as expansive as the open fields. Yet, the question remains: are you ready to grab the reins and transform this charming fixer-upper into your ultimate equestrian haven?If this idyllic property captured your heart and hammered home the appeal of rural equestrian living, gallop over to Fine & Country for further details. For those who think nature is neigh-s-s-s-y (too bad), rest assured, Old Street Barn is located where you can find horse-fueled excitement right at your doorstep!
Source: This article featured elements inspired by reports from Horse & Hound.
