The house challenges the stereotypes of a British home(Image: Fine and Country)

Inside remarkable and historic rural Derbyshire home branded 'architectural masterpiece'

It has palm trees, a river and a pizza oven - and that's before you even walk through the doors

by · Derbyshire Live

A marvellous Derbyshire home has been branded a "unique architectural and historic masterpiece" by an estate agent after recently appearing on the property market. The Cheese Factory, which lies in Longford, between Derby and Ashbourne, has been masterfully converted by an award-winning architect with "exquisite attention to detail", says Fine and Country, the estate agent managing the sale of the property.

The six-bedroom, open-plan dwelling has previously featured on Phil Spencer's Channel 4 TV series, History of Britain in 100 Homes. It was established in 1870 by the Coke family of Longford Hall.

Initially, the cheese factory was overseen by American cheese-maker, Cornelius Schermerhorn - who not only introduced his American cheese-making techniques but also replicated the design of his American factory with a long, weather-boarded structure.

After the factory ceased operations in the 1950s, the building fell into disrepair until it was saved by renowned Derbyshire architect and current owner, Matthew Montague. This 19th-century timber and red brick building has been extended and meticulously renovated over the years, preserving its original character while incorporating state-of-the-art amenities.

A spokesperson for Fine and Country said: "This architectural masterpiece offers an impressive 6,800 sq ft of living space, including underfloor heating, an integrated sound system, and Cat 5 cabling for home office convenience. Families will be captivated by the grand scale, while the extensive garden and outdoor areas offer a private haven for relaxation and entertainment.

"The private, gated driveway leads to a triple garage, ensuring ample parking for residents and guests alike. The plot extends to a generous 0.7 acres, featuring lush lawns, enchanting watercourses, and a fabulous outdoor terrace designed for luxurious alfresco dining."

The property is listed with a guide price of £2,000,000. You can take a sneak peek at this stunning property in our photo gallery below:

The conservatory is stunning(Image: Fine and Country)
The kitchen looks more like a trendy cafe than a home(Image: Fine and Country)
It has lots of intriguing nooks and crannies(Image: Fine and Country)