Fordwich Road, Sturry, Canterbury, Kent

You'll feel the wow factor immediately as this exquisite five-bedroom 1920s thatched home comes into view. Set behind an elegant frontage in historic Fordwich, it sits within a generous wrap-around garden, approached by an impressive in-and-out driveway with a detached double garage and extensive parking. The first impression is one of timeless charm and quiet grandeur. The owners have preserved the property's period character while enhancing it with thoughtful craftsmanship, from bespoke wood doors to distinctive brickwork. At the heart of the home is a stunning light-filled orangery with a dramatic skylight, ceramic flooring, underfloor heating, and seamless access to a private patio and raised deck. It also connects directly to the chic two-storey one-bedroom annexe (8a), a highly successful holiday let with five years of continuous bookings. From the orangery, double glass doors lead to the beamed dining room and adjoining sitting room, both featuring a shared brick fireplace with a large log burner and glazed doors opening to a covered loggia, ideal for relaxed entertaining. The vast kitchen/breakfast room is a showpiece with handcrafted oak cabinetry, a range cooker set within a brick surround, integrated appliances, and an atrium-style skylight. The ground floor also includes an inviting entrance hall, a study/fifth bedroom, a traditional bathroom with slipper bath, and two double bedrooms, including a generous en-suite. Upstairs, a well-proportioned double bedroom accompanies the luxurious main suite, complete with a contemporary bathroom overlooking the garden, perfect as a private retreat.

The self-contained annexe is a standout, offering an open-plan lounge/diner with porcelain flooring, a stylish kitchen, cloakroom, and an exceptional first-floor bedroom with wash basin, slipper bath, and balcony overlooking the gardens, ideal for guests, adult children, staff, or continued income generation.

What the Owner says:

Despite its peaceful rural setting, the location is exceptionally convenient. Canterbury is just a five-minute drive away, and Sturry statio, with high-speed London service, is only a minute’s walk from the front door. It’s a rare blend of countryside calm and effortless connectivity. The owners have refurbished the home with care, including a new Norfolk reed thatched roof installed five years ago, offering traditional beauty and a lifespan of over fifty years. The annexe has been invaluable, providing comfortable space for visiting family and friends as well as reliable income from holiday lets and long-term tenants. Fordwich, officially England’s smallest town, is full of charm, with historic buildings, the River Stour, and two excellent pubs, the Michelin-starred Fordwich Arms and the George & Dragon, just a short walk away. Nearby Sturry offers everyday essentials, including a Co-op, pharmacy, post office, hairdresser, and highly regarded schools such as King’s School Junior and Sturry Primary (Outstanding). Bus routes and main roads provide easy access into Canterbury and towards Thanet. For outdoor lovers, the area is ideal, with scenic walks, peaceful river fishing spots, and Westbere Lakes close by for sailing and angling.