Space abounds at this Victorian vicarage on the fringes of Beadnell, one of Northumberland’s most charming seaside villages. Today, it’s an impressive four-bedroom home where groups of family and friends will never feel on top of one another, flanked by its very own woodland grove and garden – an enclosed, wonderfully private garden space where youngsters might safely tear around before everyone gathers for a barbecue in the sheltered, walled courtyard.
The history of the house echoes throughout architectural details and antiques, from the high ceilings to the grand fireplaces. The Old Vicarage is in the ownership of the descendants of the 18th century landowner and High Sheriff of Northumberland John Wood (who expanded Beadnell Harbour), whose family has been associated with this area of Northumberland for over 900 years. You’ll also spot the Wood family crest above the entrance of The Craster Arms, if you pop into the local pub for a drink by the fire.
The drawing room with double-aspect windows overlooking the garden is particularly impressive with its open fireplace, chandelier and family portraits lining the walls. There’s plenty of space for relaxed socialising here, while the dining room with its large mahogany dining table is perfect for family gatherings or formal entertaining.
The beautiful, Scandi-white kitchen features a breakfast island and bar stools which allow for relaxed conversation as you prepare dinner on the large induction range cooker. The separate cosy snug is home to a leather sofa and chair, piano, and equine paintings and is perfect for hunkering down in the evenings.
Upstairs are four comfortable, pastel-hued bedrooms, comprising a large master suite with a king-size bed and dressing table, two airy doubles – one with an ensuite bathroom – a twin room, and two family bathrooms. To keep you entertained on rainy days, the games room is complete with ping-pong and American-style pool tables.
Atop the Old Vicarage's gated gravel drive you'll find the edges of the pretty village of Beadnell. This includes its 200-year-old harbour, church with stained-glass windows, and good pubs, while Beadnell Bay is just a quarter of a mile away. These extensive golden sands are as perfect for family bucket-and-spade days as they are for watersports such as kite and windsurfing.
Nearby, Seahouses boasts a working harbour from which boat tours depart to the Farne Islands to admire seabirds and seals. Day trips to the ionic Bamburgh Castle and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne are also a must, as is a visit to the ruined Dunstanburgh Castle – best enjoyed during a short walk along the coastal path, from which dolphins are often spotted.
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