7 bedroom country house for sale

Set within the historic village of Beetham, Temple Bank is one of South Cumbria’s most distinguished private estates - a grand early‐19th‐century residence accompanied by a beautifully converted Bank Barn, two additional cottages and extensive landscaped grounds. Together, these buildings form a rare and remarkably versatile collection of period homes, each restored with care and unified by heritage, craftsmanship and setting. Built around 1816 for the Rev. Joseph Thexton, a prominent figure whose family shaped Beetham for generations, the main house stands on a site with even earlier origins. Its Georgian symmetry, dressed stone elevations and tall sash windows reflect the elegance of its era, while its story is woven deeply into the fabric of the village. Today, Temple Bank has been meticulously renewed from the roof down. Every window, system and interior space has been upgraded or redesigned, creating a home where timeless architecture meets quiet, contemporary refinement. Bespoke cabinetry, premium bathrooms, herringbone flooring and a cohesive, elegant palette elevate the property to a standard rarely achieved in period homes. Approached through private grounds and framed by mature trees, stone walls and landscaped terraces, the estate offers exceptional privacy and presence. Beyond the main residence, the grounds extend to include: Temple Bank Barn - a superb late‐18th/early‐19th‐century bank barn conversion, now operating as a successful holiday let with vaulted living spaces, terrace and flexible accommodation. Wayside - a beautifully renovated three‐bedroom stone cottage, ideal for live‐in staff, extended family or premium letting, complete with private garden, parking and views across the surrounding fields. Wood Lea - a neat and practical two‐bedroom cottage beside Wayside, offering further flexibility for staff, guests or additional income. A substantial stone‐built double garage/office building - constructed in traditional Westmorland stone, providing secure parking, storage and potential workspace. Together, these buildings create an estate of rare scale and adaptability - perfectly suited to multigenerational living, guest accommodation, professional staff, or premium holiday‐let income. Set within beautifully maintained grounds and positioned in one of the region’s most desirable villages, Temple Bank represents a unique opportunity to own a historic yet fully modernised private estate in the heart of South Cumbria. Temple Bank is not simply a home. It is a landmark residence - a place of heritage, beauty and enduring quality. Beetham itself boasts a wealth of local amenities and attractions, including the renowned Beetham Nurseries, which offers an excellent selection of gifts and plants alongside a popular caf. The village is also home to the Wheatsheaf pub, the Heron Theatre, and Heron Corn Mill, which regularly hosts a variety of craft activities. Additional highlights include the Tea Rooms, a well-stocked village shop, and much more. For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are both relaxing and invigorating walks right on the doorstep, with highlights such as the Fairy Steps and Dallam Deer Park. Just one mile away, the village of Milnthorpe provides an even wider range of amenities and social opportunities for all ages, including sports clubs, choirs, and fitness classes. The village also benefits from a Booths supermarket, two pubs, a Spar with petrol station, two doctors’ surgeries, two dental practices, a veterinary clinic, a selection of independent shops, and a variety of cafs and restaurantsMain ResidenceEntrance Hall (1.44m x 4.87m, 4'8" x 15'11")A grand entrance that immediately sets the tone. High ceilings, a sweeping staircase and beautifully restored architectural details create a sense of arrival. Natural light floods through newly installed windows, illuminating the herringbone flooring and the refined, modern palette that flows throughout the homeKitchen / Family Room (5.30m x 8.31m, 17'4" x 27'3")The kitchen at Temple Bank is a masterclass in modern luxury - the result of a complete redesign that blends bespoke craftsmanship with a beautifully balanced layout. It is both a showpiece and the true heart of the home. A striking central island forms the focal point of the room, offering generous preparation space, integrated storage and a natural gathering point for family and guests. The bespoke cabinetry, finished in a timeless shaker style, is paired with premium worktops and high‐end appliances, including an AGA, integrated refrigeration and a discreet dishwasher, all chosen to sit seamlessly within the design. Warm herringbone flooring runs throughout, adding texture and continuity while anchoring the space with a sense of heritage. Soft, layered lighting - including elegant pendants above the island - creates a welcoming atmosphere from early mornings to evening entertaining. Large windows and a superb ceiling lantern draw in natural light and frame views of the gardens, while the open‐plan layout flows effortlessly into a relaxed family area. This thoughtful connection between cooking, dining and living makes the kitchen not only visually impressive but genuinely practical for everyday life. Every element has been considered, refined and executed to the highest standard, resulting in a kitchen that feels both luxurious and deeply inviting - a true centrepiece of Temple BankLiving Room (4.07m x 5.92m, 13'4" x 19'5")A beautifully proportioned reception room with tall sash windows, a feature fireplace and views across the gardens. Elegant yet inviting, this is a space designed for both quiet evenings and sophisticated entertainingLiving Room (3.24m x 3.52m, 10'7" x 11'6")The perfect snug area leading from the formal living room with multi fuel stove - perfect for cosy nights and intimate gatheringsDining Room (4.06m x 5.92m, 13'3" x 19'5")A statement room with generous dimensions and a refined atmosphere. Restored period features blend seamlessly with contemporary lighting and a luxurious finish, creating the perfect setting for hostingBoot Room / Utility (4.03m x 2.31m, 13'2" x 7'6")A practical yet elegant space with high‐quality cabinetry and generous storage. Perfect for country living, with direct access to the gardens and parking areas. The space also includes a wonderful hidden home for the dogs!Guest Bedroom (3.51m x 4.91m, 11'6" x 16'1")Accessed by its own staircase leading directly from the kitchen, this self‐contained suite offers privacy and flexibility within the main house. Historically part of the staff accommodation, it now provides an independent space ideal for guests, older children, or live‐in help. The bedroom is well‐proportioned and practical, with integrated storage and a calm, comfortable feel. Its separation from the main bedroom floor gives it a sense of independence, making it perfectly suited to longer stays or multigenerational livingEn-Suite (1.65m x 2.87m, 5'4" x 9'4")Adjoining the bedroom is a modern en‐suite with a walk‐in shower, vanity unit, and quality fittings. The design is simple, efficient, and finished to the same high standard found throughout Temple Bank, offering convenience and comfort in a private settingLanding (2.56m x 2.47m, 8'4" x 8'1")The first‐floor landing at Temple Bank is a beautiful space in its own right - wide, bright and designed to showcase the home’s period proportions. It forms a natural pause point between the principal rooms, with generous circulation space that enhances the sense of scale and elegance throughout the upper floor. At its heart is a striking Westmorland window, a hallmark of the region’s architectural heritage. This distinctive feature draws soft natural light across the landing, illuminating the staircase below and framing a timeless view of the groundsPrincipal Bedroom (3.85m x 4.65m, 12'7" x 15'3")The principal bedroom is a beautifully curated sanctuary - spacious, serene and finished with refined elegance. Soft, layered tones create a calming atmosphere, while the generous proportions and tall windows draw in natural light and offer peaceful views across the gardens. Every detail has been considered, from the superb fireplace to the quality of the flooring, creating a room that feels both luxurious and deeply restfulEn-Suite (3.51m x 1.39m, 11'6" x 4'6")The suite flows into a stunning en‐suite bathroom, designed and finished to boutique‐hotel standards. A walk‐in rainfall shower, contemporary tiling and premium brassware sit alongside a sleek vanity and soft, ambient lighting. The craftsmanship is exceptional, with clean lines, flawless installation and a palette that blends warmth with modern sophistication. It is a space designed for indulgence - elegant, understated and effortlessly stylishBedroom 2 (3.06m x 4.60m, 10'0" x 15'1")Each of the additional bedrooms has been thoughtfully designed to offer comfort, style and versatility. Generous in size and beautifully finished, they feature soft neutral dcor, high‐quality flooring and excellent natural light. These rooms lend themselves perfectly to family living, guest accommodation or flexible use such as dressing rooms, nurseries or hobby spaces. The cohesive design ensures every bedroom feels part of the home’s overall aesthetic - refined, calm and invitingBedroom 3 (3.24m x 3.50m, 10'7" x 11'5")Bedroom 4 (2.55m x 3.35m, 8'4" x 10'11")Family Bathroom (3.49m x 1.96m, 11'5" x 6'5")The main bathroom is a standout feature of the upper floor - a luxurious, spa‐inspired space that has been completely reimagined as part of the renovation. A freestanding bath forms the centrepiece, positioned to create a sense of calm and retreat. The room is finished with contemporary tiling, premium fittings and a beautifully crafted vanity, all chosen to balance modern luxury with timeless elegance. Soft lighting, high‐quality brassware and meticulous installation elevate the space further, creating a bathroom that feels indulgent yet practical for everyday useAttic Room 1 (4.13m x 5.66m, 13'6" x 18'6")The upper floor of Temple Bank retains the charm and character of its original purpose - once the staff accommodation of the early 19th‐century household - yet today it has been beautifully reimagined to suit modern living. These attic rooms are fully carpeted, warm and inviting, with integrated storage built neatly into the eaves to maximise space and practicality. Full of natural light and quiet separation from the main living areas, this floor offers exceptional versatility. It is ideal for teenagers seeking their own retreat, a dedicated home office suite, creative studio space or additional guest accommodation. The blend of heritage proportions and contemporary comfort makes these rooms a valuable and flexible part of the home, ready to adapt to the needs of modern family lifeAttic Room 2 (2.71m x 5.80m, 8'10" x 19'0")Property HeritageTemple Bank carries a distinguished heritage that enriches its already remarkable presence. Built in the early 19th century - with records suggesting construction around 1816 - the house was commissioned by the Rev. Joseph Thexton shortly after he became vicar of Beetham in 1811. Thexton chose this elevated site for its outlook and prominence, and the home remained in the Thexton family for over a century, passing through generations until the early 20th century. Archaeological and map evidence indicates that an earlier building stood on this site long before Temple Bank was constructed, adding further depth to its story. In the 1920s, the estate transferred into church ownership, though it was never formally used as a vicarage. After a period of extensive repairs, the church sold the property in 1949, marking the beginning of its modern chapter as a private residence. Within the grounds stands a beautifully preserved late‐18th or early‐19th‐century bank barn - a rare surviving example of early agricultural architecture in the region. With original stabling and early domestic features, it predates the main house and reflects the estate’s evolution from working farmland to refined country home. Today, Temple Bank extends to approximately 0.67 acres and represents the perfect blend of heritage and contemporary luxury - a home of character, craftsmanship and enduring significanceCellar (5.12m x 3.22m, 16'9" x 10'6")The property benefits from a substantial cellar beneath the main house - a rare and valuable space that reflects the building’s early‐19th‐century origins. Accessed from the ground floor, the cellar offers excellent storage and practical utility, with generous headroom and multiple sections that make it highly functional for modern living. Cool, dry and naturally insulated by the stone construction, it is ideal for storing wine, provisions, outdoor equipment or seasonal items. The layout also lends itself to further use, whether as a dedicated hobby area, workshop space or simply as an organised extension of the home’s storage capacityCellar (4.32m x 2.65m, 14'2" x 8'8")Temple Bank BarnTemple Bank Barn forms part of the Temple Bank estate - a beautifully restored late‐18th/early‐19th‐century bank barn that predates the main house and stands as one of the region’s finest examples of early agricultural architecture. Now fully converted and operating as a successful holiday let, it combines heritage character with contemporary design, offering exceptional flexibility for lifestyle use, multigenerational living or premium rental income. Originally built as a working bank barn, the building retains its distinctive proportions and robust stone construction, while the conversion has introduced light, space and modern comfort. The result is a home that feels authentic yet refined - a rare blend of history and practicalityKitchen / Living Area (11.82m x 6.10m, 38'9" x 20'0")The first floor is the heart of Temple Bank Barn - a spectacular open‐plan living area that showcases the building’s architectural heritage. Vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and a feature stone wall create a dramatic backdrop, softened by natural light from arched windows and double doors leading to the terrace. A superb bi-fold window perfectly frames views over the neighbouring fields. The bespoke kitchen combines craftsmanship with functionality, featuring painted cabinetry, premium appliances and a central island peninsular designed for sociable cooking, dining and entertaining. The adjoining dining area flows naturally into the living space, where comfortable seating and ambient lighting make it perfect for relaxing or hostingCloakroom (2.08m x 1.52m, 6'9" x 4'11")A guest cloakroom is discreetly positioned near the staircase, maintaining convenience without interrupting the open flow of the roomGames Room (4.59m x 6.07m, 15'0" x 19'10")Above the main living area, a striking mezzanine level adds a further dimension to the barn’s design. This versatile space currently serves as a games room, complete with exposed beams, glass balustrades and a commanding view over the vaulted living area below. It’s equally suited to use as a home office, studio, or additional guest accommodation - a flexible, characterful space that enhances the barn’s appealBedroom 1 (2.95m x 4.35m, 9'8" x 14'3")A well‐proportioned double bedroom positioned on the ground floor, offering comfort, privacy and a calm sense of retreat. The layout is practical and uncluttered, with ample space for storage and easy access to the adjoining shower room. Its location makes it ideal for guests, family members or longer‐stay visitors, providing independence within the barn’s overall designEn-Suite (1.93m x 1.81m, 6'3" x 5'11")Directly accessed from the bedroom, this modern shower room is finished to a high standard, with a walk‐in shower, contemporary fittings and a well‐planned layout that maximises comfort and usability. It provides the convenience of a private bathroom, enhancing the appeal of the ground‐floor accommodation for guests or multigenerational livingBedroom 2 (4.23m x 2.86m, 13'10" x 9'4")The second ground‐floor bedroom mirrors the proportions and versatility of the first, offering another generous double room with its own dedicated shower room. Its position within the barn makes it perfectly suited to visiting couples, older children or as a flexible sleeping arrangement for holiday‐let guestsEn-Suite (2.17m x 1.49m, 7'1" x 4'10")Serving Bedroom 2, this private shower room provides modern convenience with a walk‐in shower, fitted vanity and quality fixtures. The design is simple, efficient and consistent with the barn’s overall standard of finish, ensuring comfort and ease of use for guestsUtilities Room (1.89m x 1.40m, 6'2" x 4'7")Laundry Room (4.12m x 2.82m, 13'6" x 9'3")A valuable and well‐equipped space designed to support longer stays and holiday‐let operation. The laundry room offers dedicated space for appliances, storage and housekeeping essentials, keeping the main living areas free from clutter. Its practical layout also offers space for a workshop and additional storageOfficeSeparate from the main residences the stone built office offers the perfect space for home working, a hobby space or additional social area. Views over the gardens and original stonework, original beams and a vaulted ceiling create a calming place to work or relax alongside the log burnerDouble Garage (6.02m x 7.19m, 19'9" x 23'7")A substantial, stone‐built double garage designed to complement the architecture of Temple Bank and its surrounding buildings. Constructed in traditional Westmorland stone with a slate roof, the structure blends seamlessly with the historic character of the estate while offering modern functionality. The garage provides secure parking for two large vehicles, with generous proportions. The interior is bright and well‐finished, with power, lighting, electric vehicle charging points and ample space for storage, tools or bicycles. A wide automated door ensures easy access, while the gravel forecourt allows comfortable manoeuvring and additional parkingExternallyTemple Bank stands proudly within its own private grounds, enclosed by traditional Westmorland stone walls and mature trees that frame the property beautifully. The approach is both impressive and discreet - a pair of solid gates open onto a sweeping gravel driveway, bordered by established planting and leading to the main house, barn and double garage. The setting immediately conveys a sense of heritage, privacy and permanence. The house itself is built from finely dressed local stone, its symmetrical Georgian faade softened by climbing wisteria and framed by tall sash windows that flood the interior with light. Every elevation reflects the craftsmanship of its early‐19th‐century origins, while the restoration has preserved its architectural integrity and timeless elegance. To the rear, a broad stone terrace extends across the width of the house, providing a perfect space for outdoor dining and entertaining. Beyond, the gardens unfold in tiers - a series of stone‐walled lawns and borders planted with mature shrubs, specimen trees and seasonal colour. The design balances formality with natural beauty, creating a tranquil outlook from every principal room. The walled courtyard offers a sheltered seating area with paved terraces, ideal for summer gatherings or quiet relaxation. The combination of cobbled surfaces, stone steps and climbing plants gives the space a distinctly Westmorland character, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. A detached stone‐built double garage sits within the grounds, designed to complement the architecture of the main house. Its generous proportions provide secure parking and storage, while the gravel forecourt allows ample space for additional vehicles. The gardens extend to approximately two‐thirds of an acre, bordered by mature trees and hedging that ensure complete privacy. From the upper terrace, views stretch across the village and surrounding countrysideUseful InformationTemple Bank and Temple Bank Barn Heating - Mains Gas. Sewerage - Mains. Windows - Handmade Double Glazed Accoya. The property has been fully renovated to include a new roof and has been fully re-wired with new plumbing throughout. The property has been fully lime pointed. Radon - new trap installed within the garage. Wood Lea Full interior renovation to include a full re-wire, new plumbing, kitchens, bathroom and lime pointing. Wayside Full interior renovation to include a full re-wire, new plumbing, kitchens, bathroom and lime pointing. Anti-Money Laundering Regulations In compliance with Government legislation, all purchasers are required to undergo identification checks under the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Regulations once an offer on a property has been accepted. These checks are mandatory, and the purchase process cannot proceed until they are successfully completed. Failure to complete these checks will prevent the purchase from progressing. A specialist third-party company / compliance partner will carry out these checks. Cost: - 42.00 (inc. VAT) for a single purchaser, or 36.00 (inc. VAT) per person for couple or group purchases (including contributions from gift-givers), provided all payments are made in a single transaction. - The charge for purchases under a company name is 120.00 (inc. VAT). The fee is non-refundable and must be paid before a Memorandum of Sale is issued. The cost includes obtaining relevant data, manual verifications, and monitoring as requiredWayside CottagePositioned at the entrance to the Temple Bank estate, this charming three‐bedroom stone cottage has been fully renovated to an excellent standard, combining traditional character with modern comfort. Thoughtfully restored and beautifully presented, it currently provides ideal accommodation for live‐in staff, offering independence and privacy while remaining closely connected to the main house. The cottage features well‐proportioned living spaces and three comfortable bedrooms, each finished with the same attention to detail found throughout the estate. To the rear is a private garden and parking area, enjoying peaceful views across the surrounding fields - a tranquil setting that enhances the sense of space and rural charm. Beyond staff accommodation, the cottage also presents a valuable opportunity for additional income, whether as a long‐term rental or a high‐quality holiday let. Its self‐contained layout, attractive setting and high standard of finish make it a versatile and desirable asset within the wider Temple Bank estateWood Lea CottageWood Lea is a neat and well‐kept two‐bedroom cottage positioned beside Wayside, offering practical and comfortable accommodation within the estate. The property provides straightforward, well‐proportioned living space and works perfectly for live‐in staff, visiting family, or as a useful rental opportunity for additional income. With its own garden area and parking, Wood Lea enjoys a pleasant outlook towards the surrounding fields and benefits from a quiet, tucked‐away position. Simple, functional and easy to maintain, it adds valuable flexibility to the estate without demanding the same level of attention as the larger properties