An ideal retreat in the country

AN 18th century country house with river frontage on 55 acres in a secluded wooded valley in Co Waterford would make an ideal rural retreat, especially for someone keen on horses. Sapperton House, in Tallow, Co Waterford, which is currently used as a stud farm, is for sale by private treaty through Michael H Daniels & Co, and has a guide price of £585,000.

The south-facing house has three reception rooms and four bedrooms. There is also an attractive staff cottage in the stable yard. Part of the farm fronts on to the River Bride, about a mile from where it meets the River Blackwater.

Limestone steps lead to double entrance doors to the house, which has been converted into a comfortable modern home. A large drawingroom and a diningroom open off a grand reception hall and staircase hall. The 23 ft long drawingroom, decorated in light, bright colours, has a marble fireplace with a fitted cast-iron sold-fuel burner. The diningroom, painted a bold terracotta red, has a polished wooden floor. Both rooms have moulded cornices. There is a study at this level, and a huge kitchen/ breakfastroom measuring 26 ft by 16.5 ft. It has fitted oak units, an oil-fired Aga, ample work surfaces and power points, and a tiled floor.

There are four large bedrooms upstairs. The main bedroom includes an en suite bathroom, as well as a walk-in linen room and wardrobe. Two of the other three bedrooms have fireplaces, and there is also a family bathroom at this level.

Outside, the walled and gated stud farm includes original stables, stores, a double barn and 15 loose boxes. The staff cottage, built in a converted coachhouse, has two bedrooms, a large kitchen/livingroom and bathroom; the stables and stores could also be converted for further accommodation.

The property includes an area of natural wetland and a lake, and provides a habitat for wildlife, including otter, swan and heron. There are also abundant snipe, duck and pheasant.

The River Bride is noted for its trout, salmon and coarse fishing. The property could support a small shoot. There are golf courses nearby at Lismore, Midleton and Dungarvan.

Sapperton House is three miles from the village of Tallow in Waterford and 29 miles from Cork city.