A long-standing organic farm near Malpas, Cheshire, has entered the property market with a price tag of £1.95 million. Crabtree Farm, a vast estate located just two miles from Malpas and 16 miles from Chester, is being offered for sale for the first time in over 80 years. The property includes a period farmhouse with four bedrooms, a diverse range of agricultural outbuildings, and nearly 116 acres of fertile grass and arable land, making it an appealing prospect for those interested in rural living or agricultural pursuits.
This property, which has been managed by the same family since the 1940s, carries a rich farming heritage. It was officially certified organic in 1997 and initially housed a dairy herd before transitioning to a suckler herd in 2006. Today, the farm stands as a model of traditional, low-impact agricultural methods, and its sale presents a rare opportunity for potential buyers to acquire a substantial piece of Cheshire countryside.
Idyllic Location with Rural Appeal
Nestled in a tranquil location near the village of Malpas, Crabtree Farm combines a sense of seclusion with proximity to amenities in the nearby town of Chester. The farm’s central location, along with its extensive land and traditional farmhouse, is likely to appeal to a variety of buyers, including agricultural investors, equestrian enthusiasts, and those seeking a countryside retreat with potential for future development.
Among the property’s unique features is a collection of farm buildings that include an L-shaped brick barn, cubicle sheds, and a Dutch barn. These buildings are part of the farm’s legacy and provide versatile options for further use. Additionally, planning consent has been granted for the conversion of the traditional brick barns into two separate dwellings, offering additional residential potential for those with redevelopment in mind. This consent is set to expire on 13 December, making it an immediate opportunity for prospective buyers interested in such development.
The listing agent has highlighted the rarity of such a property coming to market in this part of Cheshire, noting its unique appeal to a diverse range of buyers. The estate is described as an exceptional chance for those seeking both land and a traditional residence in a picturesque and desirable rural setting.
Historic Farmhouse with Potential for Modernisation
The centrepiece of the property is the farmhouse, a four-bedroom residence steeped in character. The ground floor includes a reception hall, a spacious kitchen with a breakfast area, multiple reception rooms, and a dining room, providing a charming setting for family gatherings or entertaining. Upstairs, there are four bedrooms and a family bathroom, offering generous accommodation space.
While the farmhouse is fully functional, there is ample opportunity for new owners to modernise and personalise the property, enhancing its historic charm with contemporary comforts. Surrounding the farmhouse are well-maintained gardens spanning approximately three-quarters of an acre, which include a patio, a pond, a vegetable patch bordered by fruit bushes, and a brick-built garden store. Mature trees, including a variety of fruit trees, add to the natural beauty of the grounds.
Extensive Farm Buildings and Versatile Land
The farm’s extensive outbuildings, which include a mix of modern and traditional structures, add to its overall appeal. Positioned around a characterful cobbled and concrete yard, the buildings comprise a brick range, cubicle sheds, a Dutch barn, and cattle sheds, providing ample storage and facilities for livestock. Subject to planning consent, these structures could be adapted for various uses, such as workshops, stables, or additional residential accommodation.
The farmland itself is predominantly level, with medium loam soil that supports high-yield silage production, making it ideal for both grazing and arable farming. Roughly 40 acres of the property, situated along Wrexham Road, have historically been used for growing crops, while the remaining grassland serves as rich pasture for livestock. With such a diverse layout, the property is well-suited to a range of agricultural operations.
Unique Investment with Development Potential
Crabtree Farm’s listing comes at a time when demand for rural properties, particularly those with agricultural and development potential, remains strong. As interest in organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices grows, properties like this are becoming increasingly sought after. The planning consent for barn conversion provides an immediate opportunity for those looking to expand the residential capacity of the property, whether for personal use, holiday lets, or other purposes.
For equestrian enthusiasts, the property’s expansive land offers the potential for developing stables, paddocks, or training facilities, further broadening its appeal. The existing farm buildings could also be reimagined to serve a range of functions beyond their current agricultural roles.
A Rare Opportunity to Shape a Piece of Cheshire Countryside
As Crabtree Farm enters the market, it marks the end of a significant chapter for the property, which has been under the stewardship of the same family for generations. Now, this historic farm is poised for a new beginning, with potential buyers able to continue its agricultural legacy or explore new avenues for development.
The farm’s combination of residential and agricultural assets, coupled with its location near the amenities of Chester and the scenic surroundings of the Cheshire countryside, make it a unique offering. Whether the next chapter involves a continuation of traditional farming, the introduction of equestrian facilities, or the pursuit of residential development opportunities, Crabtree Farm is well-positioned to attract interest from a wide range of prospective buyers.
