Fern Bank, Mottram Road, Stalybridge

A Victorian Semi of Rare Presence 

Behind solid timber gates and a tidy frontage of planters, this four-bedroom Victorian semi announces itself with confidence. Warm period brickwork, graceful arched entrances and wrought ironwork set the tone before the front door has even opened. 

Inside, light is the first luxury. Tall, shuttered windows draw it deep into the house, lifting high ceilings and richly moulded cornices. Three reception rooms unfold in easy succession, bound together by hardwood floors, ornate fireplaces and a scattering of chandeliers that cast a soft, flattering glow. In the formal lounge, antique mirrors and a considered mix of classic and contemporary pieces stretch the sense of space. In the second, a bespoke spiral staircase winds down to the cellar level, where two generous rooms, one warmed by a log burner, wait to become whatever life requires: a wine store, a home gym, a studio. 

The heart of the home is the Tom Howley bespoke shaker kitchen, anchored by an Aga taking pride of place, while the granite-topped island complete with integrated gas hob, oven and wine cooler and breakfast bar seating, invites family and friends to stay for one more coffee or a glass of wine. Large windows and French doors dissolve the boundary with the garden, so the party moves outside as easily as it moves in. 

Practicality is just as thoughtfully handled. The former kitchen is now a spacious utility room with fitted storage for the family's coats and boots, keeping everyday life calm and clutter free. Completing the ground floor, a fourth double bedroom (equally suited to a home office), a WC and a shower room. 

Upstairs, three double bedrooms are restful retreats, each with lofty ceilings, fine mouldings and statement lighting. The principal bedroom is the finest, generous in proportion and rich in period detail. The family bathroom feels more boutique hotel than family home: a freestanding clawfoot bath takes centre stage, surrounded by quality fittings. 

Outside, the immaculate garden is made for summer lunches al fresco, barbecues at dusk, and plenty of room to linger. Off-road parking at both the front and rear adds a welcome ease to daily life. 

Mottram Road is one of Stalybridge's most desirable addresses, and the tennis club opposite gives the house an open, leafy outlook. The town centre is close by, with independent shops, charming cafes and a large Tesco for the weekly shop, while the railway station keeps commuters well connected. It's a home that pairs historic character with modern convenience, equally well suited to families and professionals. 

Garden

Landscaped front garden laid to artificial grass and resin pathway to side garden and seating area

Parking - Off street

Dedicated off street parking to the front of the property and parking to the rear at the property for multiple cars