New homes in Berkshire: Woolley Hall

Few properties set the heart racing as much as new homes carved from historic country mansions, especially those in the leafy commuter belt.

Buyers have an insatiable appetite for impressive, high-quality conversions that retain the best of the old architecture, while creating new floorplans and interiors that suit modern lifestyles.

It is about more than classic good looks and a sense of history. Often, these homes are set in landscaped grounds and are reached via a carriage drive or tree-lined avenue, making for a marvellous sense of arrival.

Woolley Hall, in Littlewick Green, Berkshire, falls into this category. The listed country estate dates back to 1780 and is set in 24 acres of woodland.

As well as creating six grand apartments in the main house, with original wood panelling and fireplaces, ornate plasterwork and stained-glass windows, developer Millgate has sensitively restored — and enhanced — the former stable block to create five charming homes, with up to four bedrooms.

Prices from £825,000. Call estate agent Braxton on 01628 674234.