Whether it’s the promise of peace, the desire for space, or a love of nature and unspoiled landscapes, a move to the British countryside offers an opportunity to experience a lifestyle characterised by idyllic views, rolling hills and quaint villages. And you can still be just a short drive from central London. 

Make the move with UK Sotheby’s International Realty and every stage of your milestone journey will be seamless. With an exceptional collection of countryside properties and a team of highly skilled, experienced area specialists, the luxury real estate company will guide and support you through every step of the home-buying process.

From modern country mansions to rustic restored barns in sought-after villages, all within commuter distance of the capital, a countryside property offers the best of both worlds. Here are some of the most extraordinary country estates on the market right now. 

Ombersley Court, Worcestershire 

Set within 90 acres of pristinely manicured grounds and surrounded by verdant green landscapes, this property stands grandly in the Worcestershire countryside with ample space for large families and guests. Originally built in 1730 for the first Lord Sandys, and with notable visitors such as the Duke of Wellington, this restored Georgian manor house is steeped in history and character. 

A long tree-lined driveway leads to a 19th-century portico, from which the house opens up into a Grand Hall with double-height ceilings and splendid cornicing. Beyond the hall, a series of spacious reception rooms have been designed to make the most of original period features, such as oak-pannelled walls, marbled floors and ornate fireplaces. Meanwhile, the original library is home to carved oak bookshelves and exceptional vistas across the grounds to the Malvern Hills, and an extensive cellar spans the entire footprint of the property – both perfect for collectors.

Upstairs, each of the six bedrooms is complete with a luxurious en suite bathroom, while the second floor offers self-contained accommodation with its own large reception room, kitchen and six further bedrooms, ideal for guests or staff. The property also comes with an impressive Grade II-listed stable block with an open courtyard, while a four-bedroom detached cottage is available by separate negotiation.

Listed for £13.5m, sothebysrealty.co.uk

Winslow House, Weybridge

This six-bedroom family home is situated within one of England’s most exclusive private estates, St George’s Hill in Weybridge. Home to a championship golf course and a renowned tennis and squash club, as well as 24-hour private security, the estate promises a premier living experience and friendly neighbourhood community, with convenient access to London Waterloo. 

This particular gated residence, Winslow House, boasts a beautifully landscaped plot with elegant architecture and vast leisure facilities, perfect for large families looking for space and privacy. Inside, interiors are fresh and modern, with neutral colour palettes and high ceilings throughout, alongside features including underfloor heating and air conditioning. 

Highlights include a large drawing room that opens onto the rear terrace, and a bespoke contemporary kitchen, complete with a generous island and integrated appliances. A covered loggia provides an elegant outdoor space for year-round entertaining, while the indoor pool, positioned beneath a sky lantern and ornamental planting, offers a calming oasis. Back inside, each bedroom comes with fitted wardrobes and en suites, while the main bedroom is complete with its own balcony and dressing room.

Listed for £10m, sothebysrealty.co.uk

Threshing Barn, The Cotswolds

Nestled in the famed Cotswolds countryside, this five-bedroom property was once an agricultural threshing barn and has been beautifully converted into an elegant family home. Set within one and a half acres of grounds on the edge of the village of Stratton, it offers a peaceful space within easy reach of local shops, schools and transport. 

Having undergone extensive refurbishment, the original stone walls and exposed beams remain to retain the authenticity, history, and charming rustic character of the property. The generous kitchen area and breakfast room form the hub of the house, with a welcoming central island, glazed walk-in pantry and bespoke cabinetry, while reception rooms offer the perfect space for both family time and entertaining. 

There is also a study and gym while each bedroom is dressed in an elegant natural palette for a sense of calm. The garden is a private haven, boasting luscious lawns and mature plants, as well as an outdoor pavilion for summertime hosting. A self-contained annex sits adjacent to the main barn, providing additional accommodation for guests and extended family, or operating as an independent cottage.

Listed for £3.5m, sothebysrealty.co.uk

Millwood House, Weybridge

Another impressive property located within Weybridge’s St George’s Hill, Millwood House spreads out over 13,400 square feet of land. A modern mansion set behind grand iron gates and combining classic English architecture with cutting-edge design, this property is striking and palatial inside and out. 

Unfolding across two floors, the house hosts eight spacious bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and multiple entertaining spaces. From the vast kitchen complete with hand-finished cabinetry and bespoke detailing, to the formal drawing and dining rooms for glamorous dinner parties, and the entertainment lounge and feature bar, every detail is considered and elevated. Soaring ceilings and marble floors throughout create an open, flowing atmosphere, complemented by intelligent mood lighting and audio-visual systems for performance-led, modern living. 

The master bedroom has its own living room, dual dressing rooms and a bathroom clad in striking marble, while a further five guest bedrooms and two self-contained guest/staff apartments offer flexible accommodation. Also worth spotlighting is the fully-equipped gym, sauna and steam room, as well as the 12 metre indoor swimming pool with sliding doors that open onto the stunning landscaped gardens.

Listed for £15.5m, sothebysrealty.co.uk 

Cotswold Club Equestrian, The Cotswolds

A truly extraordinary listing, Cotswold Club Equestrian is an 80-acre equestrian estate with Olympic-standard facilities, located in the Gloucestershire countryside. Created for riders, whether taken on for private enjoyment, professional sport or a commercial venture, the estate is complete with immaculate paddocks, professionally designed training grounds and an American-style stable block fitted with 36 Monarch stables.

The abundant space allows for vast opportunities: there is an indoor arena on the estate to account for all weather conditions, as well as a dressage arena, a separate jumping arena, fenced paddocks, and a cantering track. A tack and locker room lined with bespoke cabinetry and a dedicated laundry and boot room complete the space. 

Beyond the stable and arena, the estate includes an exclusive club room with a log-burning stove, bar and seating area. There are also two staff flats on site, each equipped with fitted kitchens, bedrooms and separate entrances for privacy. 

Listed for £4.5m, sothebysrealty.co.uk

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