The Old Temperance Hall, Kingsley

Staffordshire. Sleeps up to 10

This stunning detached former temperance hall is situated in the Staffordshire village of Kingsley, just eight miles from Alton Towers. Built in 1855, the owners have renovated and refurbished the property to exacting standards to create a fabulous contemporary space, providing a memorable holiday home for a family get together. The property beautifully combines modern fittings with original features including the fully-restored vaulted ceiling with exposed timber trusses and stone gothic-style mullion windows which give the cottage a truly impressive aspect. Walk up the external stone steps and enter through the hallway which leads into a spectacular open plan living space with a spacious sitting and dining area alongside a contemporary kitchen. There are two bedrooms on the ground floor along with a bathroom featuring a monsoon shower. Climb your own private staircase to access the master bedroom suite with a charming en-suite bathroom with roll-top bath and separate shower, plus another set of stairs access two further bedrooms and a family bathroom. Outside the hall, the superb renovation continues with off road parking for two cars on a gravel driveway beneath the large covered deck. In addition, there is a landscaped garden with a generous-sized terrace and a large deck, from which steps lead up to tiered lawns, all of which are fully enclosed by dry stone walls. The Old Temperance Hall is situated at the heart of the rural village of Kingsley with its rolling hills and open countryside for those who wish to take advantage of the numerous walks and public footpaths this area provides. The Staffordshire Way, covering over fifty miles of open countryside, runs directly behind the property. The Churnet Valley retains the largest remaining concentration of semi-natural woodland in Staffordshire and is designated for its high natural flora value and breeding bird populations. All five species of British owls breed here and Kingsley Bird & Falconry Centre has one of the largest collections of birds of prey in the country. It is an ideal place for visitors to see and learn about the birds, situated on the side of the Churnet Valley with breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside. The Churnet Valley Railway runs steam and historic diesel trains between Leekbrook Junction and Froghall, and is a remnant of the North Staffordshire Railway, built through the valley in the 1840s. Steam trains leave from Froghall Station, which is just a five minute walk. There is even a Rail Ale Trail that happens every summer, visiting various pubs along the route. For the young at heart, Alton Towers Theme Park is only eight miles away, whilst for a more sedate day out, why not visit the charming market town of Leek with an antique market on Saturdays, food market on Sundays and many great pubs. With the nearest golf club just a few miles away in the village of Whiston, and with horse riding available at various local equestrian centres, The Old Temperance Hall really is a wonderful holiday home that will live long in the memory.