Wray
Lancaster, Lancashire, LA2 8QTDescription
Located in the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this lovely 17th Century Grade II listed property nestles in a peaceful wooded river valley surrounded by quiet upland pasture.
Smeer Hall offers all the joys of a rural lifestyle with peace and privacy but is just minutes from the unspoilt village of Wray, a vibrant community in the heart of the Lune Valley with easy access to the university city of Lancaster, the M6 motorway and beyond to Leeds and Manchester. There are rail links from nearby Wennington and Lancaster for regular Mainline services.
For those looking for a work - from - home lifestyle, the property is well equipped with hyper - fast B4RN fibre broadband providing excellent connectivity.
There is excellent walking country from the doorstep; leaving the valley and as the ground rises, uninterrupted views of the Lakeland hills and the Yorkshire Dales unfold, delighting the eye.
A beautiful private access through ancient bluebell woods leads to this historic home. Running alongside the lane is Huntsgill Beck, with its two waterfalls and small pool, home to Dippers and waterfowl.
Smeer Hall is a charming, atmospheric home which has been sensitively upgraded over the years always having been afforded respect for its history and fascinating original features.
It is surrounded by approximately 7.06 acres of beautiful grounds comprising woodland, grazing and gardens. Tucked away beyond vegetable and soft fruit gardens is a small orchard of plum, apple and greengage. Flower borders humming with butterflies and bees surround a lawn for games of croquet, outdoor play and relaxation. The wildlife pond is in a natural, tranquil setting bordering Huntsgill Beck. The British Trust for Ornithology places nest boxes here as rare bird species thrive undisturbed in the woods of this unique property. A charming greenhouse sits centrally within the gardens and workshop and storage areas are located in the former stables.
For families looking for a move to the country, Smeer Hall is well placed.
The excellent local primary school enjoys a respected reputation throughout the area, and the property sits within the catchment area of two prestigious Lancaster Grammar Schools, the Queen Elizabeth School at Kirkby Lonsdale and renowned independent schools such as Sedbergh, Casterton and Giggleswick.
This makes Smeer Hall an ideal location for families seeking excellent education for their children.
Smeer Hall has a long history; nowadays it is a warm, atmospheric home with its unique historic character, peace and privacy remaining intact.
Entering the property, the hallway has plenty of space for coats and boots. Beyond, the kitchen is bright and spacious and of a traditional layout, has ample storage and is set around a woodburning stove, adding a cosy feel. With direct access to the garden through French windows, this room is a delight throughout the changing seasons.
The principal living areas are rich in period atmosphere. One sitting room centres around a magnificent cast iron range, now featuring a log burning stove which is framed by an original inglenook beam. The original flagged floor reflects the rural character of this older part of the house with its 17th century panelling and mullion windows. This room is perfect for entertaining, dining and relaxing around the fire.
A walk–in pantry and adjoining laundry room are entered through carved doors and offer further functionality.
The second reception room is equally welcoming, set around a woodburning stove, and with 18th century oak panelling, an oak spice cupboard and window seat.
The Courtroom, once reputedly a Forest Court, is now a spacious study, ideal for working from home, away from household noise and distraction with room for an easy chair and bookshelves too.
Upstairs, the bedrooms offer a peaceful retreat, accessed by a choice of stairs.
The main bedroom is a generous double with built – in wardrobes, dual – aspect windows, one being leaded and with its original window seat.
There are 2 further bedrooms on the first floor, and two house bathrooms with views over the garden and glimpses of the river beyond.
The second floor provides two additional bedrooms and a superb loft room, ideal for storage.
A large gravelled parking area sits conveniently beside the house with a turning circle for easy access. There is great appeal and value in the fact that the barn has not been developed. Detached, stone - built and with a stone – flagged roof, it provides excellent storage space, with original byres and fascinating evidence of its rural history. There is clear potential for conversion or alternative uses, subject to the necessary planning consents.
The land and at Smeer Hall extends to just over 7 acres of woodland and pasture. The land is enclosed by well - maintained boundaries and its natural, secluded woodland setting provides a rare degree of privacy.
Whether you are looking for a forever family home, a country retreat, or a lifestyle property with potential, Smeer Hall offers timeless appeal and modern comfort in a truly idyllic setting.