If you are putting your nose to the grindstone to find your next perfect property, then perhaps Henwood Mill in Catherine De Barnes will fit the bill.

The period Grade II listed property is a former flour mill and still contains the original mill wheel and mechanism. Dating back more than 400 years, this charming family home also has a plethora of original and historic features, such as exposed beams.

With 3,432 sq ft of living space in the three-storey house, plus 2.5 acres of land that includes a wooded natural wildlife area, there is plenty of space for enjoying indoor comforts and outdoor family living.

This five-bedroom property sits on a quiet lane and is surrounded by countryside, seemingly miles from anywhere, but there is a local store at the end of the lane and Solihull town centre is just a short drive away.

Henwood Mill in Henwood Lane, Catherine De Barnes, Solihull.
Henwood Mill in Henwood Lane, Catherine De Barnes, Solihull.

Described as a “warm and welcoming” home, the lobby leads to a main reception room, which is currently used as a formal dining room, complete
with inglenook fireplace.

It is off this room where you’ll find the engine of the home – the mill room with wheel and mechanism. The mill is on two floors and the upper level is reached via a spiral staircase, and although used as a storage room at the moment, there is scope for these historic areas of the property to be transformed into an unusual extra living space.

Also off the dining room is a spacious sitting room with exposed beams and multi-fuel stove, which leads to an office/study.

The current owners, who have lived in the house for more than 20 years, have been sympathetic to the character of the property while carrying out refurbishments and decoration, altering the layout so that the kitchen flowed into the adjacent sitting room.

Henwood Mill in Henwood Lane, Catherine De Barnes, Solihull.
Henwood Mill in Henwood Lane, Catherine De Barnes, Solihull.

This cosy, yet light and airy family room has views over the garden and because it leads directly to the large kitchen/breakfast room, it is the ideal space for everyday living and entertaining.

The impressive kitchen complements the age and style of the mill. If you need plenty of space for your utensils and gadgets, you won’t be disappointed because there is a huge amount of storage in the bespoke solid oak units. You’ll also find black granite work tops, breakfast bar and double oven AGA and integrated appliances. Double French doors lead to the garden, making it the ideal place to enjoy breakfast or morning coffee.

The master bedroom on the first floor is another notable space – light and airy and commanding great views of the countryside. It blends the property’s history such as its exposed beams with modern additions, including built-in wardrobes. There is a large en-suite with “His and Hers” wash basins and fitted cupboards.

Henwood Mill in Henwood Lane, Catherine De Barnes, Solihull.
Henwood Mill in Henwood Lane, Catherine De Barnes, Solihull.

There are two further double bedrooms on the first floor – one with built-in wardrobes, a full height window that overlooks the garden and an en-suite bathroom, while the other has exposed beams. There’s also a family bathroom with corner shower.

Bedrooms four and five are located on the second floor. One is a double with vaulted ceiling and exposed timbers plus a washbasin, while the fifth, which is located above the mill, can be accessed via a spiral staircase and has a dressing area.

The second floor also houses a lounge area with exposed brick chimney breast, wall and ceiling timbers and seating area.

Lovers of charming gardens and outdoor space are spoiled for choice at Henwood Mill. Not only are there private mature, landscaped gardens, there is a sprawling wooded area that is a haven for wildlife.

Henwood Mill in Henwood Lane, Catherine De Barnes, Solihull.
Henwood Mill in Henwood Lane, Catherine De Barnes, Solihull.

The formal gardens include rose beds, block paved pathways and a patio area and pergola. For ultimate relaxation there is a thatched Breeze house in which to enjoy the garden views.

The grounds also house a detached triple garage – part of which is used as a workshop – with storage above. But if you have several vehicles, there is plenty of space to park them on the hard-standing area behind the electronically operated gates.

The selling agent is Fine & Country, telephone - 0121 746 6400. The guide price is £1,250,000