Waterside living: bespoke Dutch barge in Hackney offers ample room, handcrafted design details and solar panels

Lead a carefree life cruising London’s waterways aboard Tjalk, a 54ft Dutch barge on the River Lea in Hackney.

Her conversion into a bespoke home makes for surprisingly roomy living space, plus a large decked roof terrace for summer evening lounging.

There’s a wood burner, ample storage cupboards, wood floors in the open-plan living area, wooden worktops in the separate kitchen and a cast-iron tub in the bathroom. The master bedroom is in the stern, while a child’s bedroom in the bow is lit by a stargazing hatch.

Solar panels power the electrics and the buyer can apply for a permanent mooring.

It's for sale for £86,000. Through Fyfe Mcdade (020 8012 6096).