Horse lovers are sure to fall head over heels for this beautiful farmhouse complete with steading, barn, stables and a derelict cottage.
Set within 43 acres of the picturesque Tarland countryside with stunning views of the Morven and Corrachree hills, this off-grid gem also has its own dog kennels, woodland, an orchard with fruit and nut trees and raised vegetable beds.
It was the peaceful setting and glorious views that first attracted Helen Miskelly, a small-animal vet, to Wester Braehead and Woodside Cottage.
“I first saw the house on a moonlit, winter’s evening in February 2019,” said Helen.
“The top of Morven was covered with snow but despite it being dark, the mountain looked stunning under the light of the moon.
“The lights from the farmhouse twinkled in the darkness at the end of the track.
“I was drawn to the romance of the place, the awesome location and the sense of freedom and adventure.”
Rural paradise
For the past three years, the sprawling country pile has been a rural paradise for Helen, her two dogs and cat.
“I’ve most enjoyed the tranquility, freedom and glorious views,” said Helen.
“There’s nothing better than to sit outside watching the red kites and hares, or to walk through the fields with the dogs.”
Reluctantly, Helen has put her wonderful property on the market as the pandemic has resulted in a change in her circumstances.
“I think the property would suit someone/a family who have their own horses or who would like to live the good life,” said Helen.
“It’s also the perfect place to live off-grid as the farmhouse has its own water supply and the Esse stove in the kitchen is plumbed into the heating system.”
18th Century
Dating back to the late 18th Century, Wester Braehead farmhouse was originally constructed as a single-storey house before a second storey was added in the late 19th Century by the officially appointed Aberdeen City Architect John Smith.
A delightful traditional farmhouse, Wester Braehead has been extensively refurbished to offer the perfect blend of modern living and period features.
Stepping over the threshold, the property opens up with a welcoming entrance hall, which is on open-plan to the sitting room.
Period charm
Retaining its period charm is the dining kitchen complete with granite fireplace with traditional salt cellar niches and an Esse Ironheart cooking range.
Also on the ground floor is a utility/boot room and toilet while upstairs there are two en suite bedrooms both with beautiful views.
Over the past few years, Helen has put her own stylish stamp on the property.
“New showers were fitted in both upstairs en suite bathrooms and the downstairs bath was removed in the boot room,” said Helen.
“In its place the joiner created a useful shelving unit to house the washing machine and tumble drier.”
Steading and barn
Linked to the farmhouse is a large stone-built steading and beyond that is a two-storey stone-built barn which both offer endless potential.
Outside, horticultural horizons are expanded as the property sits within 43 acres of land.
“Since moving in, I’ve spent the majority of my time tidying up outside,” said Helen.
“Fourteen acres were fenced and planted last year with native trees by the Forestry Commission.
“I wanted to do my part for climate change, but also to provide cover and shelter for wildlife.”
Woodside cottage
A westerly track from Wester Braehead allows access to Woodside Cottage, a currently derelict cottage with planning permission to create a single-storey three-bedroom home.
Also included in the sale is a two-bedroom caravan with its own fenced garden which is ideal as a dog run or poultry enclosure, and a useful storage shed.
Meanwhile, horse enthusiasts are bound to be impressed by the stable block with four loose boxes, including a stallion box, tack and feed room as well as a double horse shelter.
Perfect for horse lovers
Asked what she thinks will most appeal to buyers, Helen said: “Everyone who comes to visit is immediately drawn to the view,” said Helen.
“What I also love is that you own the land all around the farmhouse, so you’re not overlooked and can see most of the land from the house itself.
“Also due to the existing planning permissions, there is scope to create the house of your dreams plus have a guest house or holiday let cottage.
“For anyone who owns their own horse, the place is perfect as the stables are high spec with the benefit of an amazing view.”
It will be with a heavy heart that Helen leaves Wester Braehead.
“I had hoped to build my dream home and life at Wester Braehead; family get togethers, children cantering ponies around the fields, dogs playing, wonderful North American style Christmases with roaring log fires… I will miss that fantasy the most.
“Hopefully someone else will make it a reality.”
To book a viewing
Wester Braehead and Woodside Cottage, Tarland, Aberdeenshire, is on the market for offers over £525,000.
To arrange a viewing contact Savills on 01356 628611 or go to the website.
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