This traditional stone cottage which dates back to 1761, is built of Isle of Wight chalk and brick. It is situated in breath-taking countryside on an attractive farm at Merstone. The picturesque village of Godshill is nearby and the sandy beaches of Sandown, Shanklin and Ventnor are within a 15-minute drive. This is a wonderful walking area with footpaths leading along the course of the River Yar and to the nearby village of Godshill. Visitors are free to stroll across the fields of the farm and around the lovely lake in the grounds of the Manor House. There is an open grassland area near the lakes with panoramic views where barbecues and picnics can be enjoyed. Please note that the garden of the Manor House is private.
The cottage is excellent for cyclists as there is access to a network of cycle paths directly from the farm, and arrangements can be make for the storage of bikes. There is a nature trail on the farm so that visitors can enjoy the plethora of wild life; this includes herons, ducks and geese on the lakes; swallows and kestrels often nest in the barns; pheasants, foxes and badgers, plus rabbits which abound. A small herd of cows is kept on the farm and there is an area for children with a small rare-breed bagot goat that will eat from the hand and free-range chickens. From the cottage there is also direct access across the fields to the cycle track which links Sandown to Newport and Cowes. Arrangements can be made for the storage of bikes.
In 2005 Hackney Stable Cottage was voted by the Isle of Wight Society, overall winner of their conservation award for the quality, sensitivity and charm of the renovation. Wherever possible, original features have been retained. It has been furnished to a high standard and is centrally heated. On the ground floor there is a spacious twin bedroom and a separate bath room with a bath, built in shower, basin and WC.; a well-equipped kitchen with fitted units, an electric cooker and hob, microwave, dishwasher, washer-dryer and fridge freezer. The cottage has a lovely open-plan sitting room with comfortable sofas and television with Freeview and DVD player, plus a pleasant dining area.
A staircase leads from the sitting room to two additional bedrooms; one double and one twin room, plus a bathroom with bath, basin and WC. Central heating and electricity are provided at no extra cost. A wooden cot and high chair are available on request, along with WiFi internet.
The cottage has a pretty, fenced garden. A path to the side of the cottage leads to a raised lawned area with garden furniture. Three cars can be parked at the rear of the cottage. Access to the farm is along a gravel lane. Two public houses which are great for meals, a farm shop and arts and crafts studios are within five minutes drive or a pleasant 30-minute stroll. A regular bus service is within a 15 minutes walk.