Ralph reviews a character cottage in Churton

I have to say that I am glad that January is behind us, hopefully battling my way through howling wind, rain and mud on my morning walks will soon be a distant memory (until next winter!).  Now that February is here, I can see glimpses of spring – the snowdrops are out and I have even spotted a few daffodils.  And, of course, February sees the start of the Chinese year of the Fire Horse.  Apparently this is a year of intensity and bold action, so maybe I will renew my membership of the doggy gym, finally resolve to trek with dad up Snowdon and I could even revisit some of the business ideas I parked over the years – doggy pilates, the soft play centre for puppies, the pup ancestry service  – find out where you come from – are you from a long line of cavalier king Charles spaniels who sat regally at the feet of kings… or do you descend from  working dogs brought up on the moors of Yorkshire…. Or even my online guide – how to train your human in three easy steps.

So many ideas and I do have to say that I feel surprisingly invigorated for this time of year. Indeed, no sooner had the Monday morning team meeting ended, than I trotted out the door of the office with dad in tow, off to visit the subject of this week’s Ralph’s Review.  (Normally, I would sneak in 40 winks whilst the team have the first coffee of the day!) However, with the barks of my wise old Grandpug ringing in my ears (Win the morning, dear boy, and you’ll win the day) I shimmied dad along and before we knew it, we had arrived in the village of Churton outside an utterly charming character cottage.

Dad opened a rustic style gate and pulled the car into a parking area just to the side of Corner Cottage.  I hopped down from the car and made my way enthusiastically towards the front door.  I stepped through the entrance porch and found myself in a charming sitting room which simply oozed character.  I gazed around in appreciation at the beamed ceiling and feature Inglenook fireplace.  To my delight there was a roaring fire in the grate, and I wandered over to feel the warmth envelop my entire body – oh I could just picture my favourite orthopaedic bed nestled close enough to the fire to warm me through and through after a brisk winter’s walk.

I spotted a staircase in one corner which I surmised would lead to the first floor, however, there was time enough to explore up there later.  For now, I was fully focused on the ground floor, especially since a tantalising smell of bacon was guiding me onwards towards the kitchen.  Following my nose has never let me down and sure enough, heading out of the living room I found myself in the kitchen which had a real country cottage feeling to it.  Beyond the kitchen, I stepped into a dining room which also had a beautiful “Olde World” feel to it.  A large window promised views over the garden and so I hopped up on a chair to have a look and was not disappointed – the cute country garden would be sure to delight throughout the seasons…

Beyond the dining room I found a rear hallway, with a door to outside and a very handy cloakroom which would certainly be a great place to clean up after a walk.  There was also a door which led into an attached single garage.  How fabulous – mum would be delighted – even on rainy days she could park the car in the garage and get dad to get the shopping in without him getting wet and treading wet footprints through the house! With a wide smile I turned about tail and headed back to the sitting room where I took the stairs up to the upper storey.  There I found three good sized double bedrooms, one with an en suite shower room and a family bathroom.  Every room in this gorgeous cottage exudes cosy charm, comfort and a sense of serene homeliness.

Feeling rather reluctant to leave this welcoming home, I slowly made my way back downstairs and out the front door to explore the outside space.  I found two large paved areas, one on either side of the house, a beautiful raised garden which was mainly laid to lawn (perfect for playing frisbee on) and at the end of the garden I also discovered a workshop – my ears pricked up at this – could this be a sign that I really should revisit some of my business ideas – this could be the perfect spot for my doggy pilates or the puppy soft play centre… You know, there could be something in this Year of the Fire Horse….

If you have been charmed by Corner Cottage and feel that this year is your time to be decisive and make a change in your life then why not contact myself or one of my team on 01244 322322 or [email protected] to arrange a viewing of Corner Cottage.

Until next time

Love Ralph X