To call one’s home the River Haven requires something that, in the olden days, would reference a man’s anatomy. But we are a forward-thinking publication, at least online, so nowadays we shall simply call the decision brave. There are a lot of rivers in this country, and there are a lot of nice houses next to them.
But then, look at this.
Now, if you are going to call your home The River Haven, a haven by the river it better well be. But I think this property, so named, and for sale with Hamptons for £3.3 million, fits the bill. It can be found on a very private road in Thames Ditton.
The property was purchased as a bungalow by the current owners in 2008 and, ever since, have turned it into one of the nicest London(ish) homes I’ve ever seen.
I like the New England clapboard styling, and how the façade of the house is drawn towards the river, through the well-planted garden, down to the 55ft private jetty. What better way to get into town and do your groceries than by boat!
Inside, the property is finished to an exceptionally high standard. It is one of the few that I have seen where not only would I buy the house, but also everything in it — particularly the pool table in the kitchen/sitting room, which occupies most of the ground floor. It also has a bar.
One bedroom can be found on the ground floor, with the other two on the first floor. The master suite faces out towards the river, with enormous windows, and also benefits from a split mezzanine that is currently used as a study (also with exceptional views out over the Thames).
Outside, the well proportioned and planted garden leads down to the river, and is stocked with a mix of exotic and native trees, as well as lawned areas. There are plenty of places to sit an enjoy the view, both from the house (I count at least two balconies/verandas) and from the garden. I have already planned so many parties at this place in my head.
It was a bold call from the current owners, but I think the River Haven qualifies.
20 wonderful homes, from clifftop cottages to cosy medieval dwellings, as seen in Country Life
Take a look at some of the best homes to come to the market via Country Life in recent days.
A 400-year-old fantasy house with moat, four-poster beds and a 'magic' swimming pool that converts into a ballroom
The majestic Ludstone Hall is one of Shropshire's greatest privately-owned country estates — and it's now looking for a new owner.
Credit: Fine and Country
A gorgeous Elizabethan manor with all the modern trimmings that may have been home to Anne Boleyn
Wymondley Bury is a 10-bedroom home where history meets comfort in Hertfordshire.
Stability, confidence — and lots of new homes: Property experts on what Labour's General Election win mean for the housing market
Britain woke up on Friday to change of government. Plenty of change is expected across the board, but what will
-
How to buy a house at auctionBuying at auction can mean you secure your dream property for a bargain price, but preparation is the key
-
The homes of two 1980s TV icons are both up for sale at the same timeThe houses where Bob Monkhouse and Sir Terry Wogan spent decades of their lives are currently on the market. Annabel Dixon takes a look.
-
Living on the edge? A lighthouse for sale on a clifftop on one of the most remote islands in BritainBressay Lighthouse was built by the father and uncle of the 'Treasure Island' author.
-
Alan Titchmarsh is selling his Hampshire home (and the garden that comes with it): Exclusive pictures and interviewAfter many happy years in Hampshire, the writer, broadcaster and national treasure Alan Titchmarsh is selling up and looking to move. He spoke to Penny Churchill about his years at Manor Farm House.
-
A Lake District escape with views that will make you feel like the king of all you can seeMellguards's many guest rooms and dual staircases make this property perfect for people who love to host, but tire of their guests quickly.
-
One of Yorkshire's great houses, burnt to the ground three generations ago, is back on its feet and on the market for the sixth time in a millenniumPenny Churchill looks at Riseborough Hall, a great house, rich with fascinating history and beautifully apportioned, which burnt to the ground but rose again.
-
Seven magnificent homes from Cumbria to Devon, as seen in Country LifeOur regular look at the best homes to come to the market via Country Life in the past few weeks takes in a breathtaking Lake District house and a superb home in Northamptonshire.
-
'Unquestionably one of the most distinctive and stylish homes in the Cotswolds' is for sale, just across a field from Soho HouseWith a staircase upcycled from a Spitfire machine gun factory and , and suspended lights came from a Dutch cargo ship. Every element in this room — and indeed throughout the house — tells a story Annabel Dixon peeks inside.
