Main image: Brackley, Northamptonshire £12,000 per week
Abbey Lodge is a uniquely historical house in a desirable location. The house has a rich history, and dates predominantly from the 15th and 16th centuries. More recently, the property has been extensively and sympathetically improved and modernised by the current owner. As a result, this is modern living amongst period charm. There are a wealth of period features including open fireplaces, exposed timbers, flagstone and oak floors, mullion windows, leaded lights, oak staircase, panelling, oak doors, window seats and deep window boards. As a result of its provenance the property has generous ceiling heights and offers a feeling of space and light throughout. Originally the house would have been accessed from the south, but today the current owner decided to reverse the approach and the entrance to the house to allow for parking and turning to the rear elevation. Inside, the spacious 16m long vaulted kitchen/breakfast/family room showcases impressive exposed timbers, a 4 oven Aga, entertaining area, mezzanine study area, and office cupboard. Beyond is a useful pantry. The drawing room positioned in the heart of the house again has generous ceiling height and an impressive stone carved fireplace. There is a generous utility room with extensive built-in base units and storage cupboards. From here access is given to the home office/cinema room/gym with kitchenette and bathroom with delightful hand-made mezzanine seating and desk area. To the outside are landscaped level gardens to the rear of the property with box topiary and gravelled paths. The open fronted stone entertaining barn with wood burning stove is ideal for a long summer night's entertaining. Attached is a useful workshop and storage over, and there is a further area of garden and orchard. The shared driveway leads to the rear and a gravelled parking and turning area. In all about 0.9 acres. (Sothebys International Realty)