A four-bedroom period cottage with huge renovation potential has hit the market for offers over £500,000.

Located in the picturesque village of Didlington, near Thetford, Park Cottage was once part of the historic Didlington Hall estate and has been occupied by the same family since 1973.

It is now for sale with Sowerbys, which describe the property as "a wonderful restoration opportunity".

The original Didlington Hall was constructed in the 17th century before being further extended into a magnificent residence in the 1800s.

Following its requisition and subsequent use by the army during the Second World War, the hall was demolished, but many of the charming period properties that served the estate – including Park Cottage – were retained.

Eastern Daily Press: Park Cottage was one of several properties to serve the Didlington Hall estatePark Cottage was one of several properties to serve the Didlington Hall estate (Image: Sowerbys)

Eastern Daily Press: Selling agents Sowerbys say the property is a wonderful restoration opportunitySelling agents Sowerbys say the property is a wonderful restoration opportunity (Image: Sowerbys)

Read more: Nine-bedroom listed farmhouse with pool and two annexes for sale for £1.75m

Sowerbys say the cottage is an “inspiring home with a rich history of fond memories and local connections, combined with charming elevations which would not look out of place in the pages of a fairy tale”.

Having been the home of the farm manager, day-to-day access was predominantly through the later addition of the utility room.

However, when approached from either of the two porches, it quickly becomes apparent that there is an element of symmetry – and this owes to the fact that Park Cottage was once two dwellings sat back-to-back.

Now combined, there are three generous reception rooms offering versatility in function and layout, plus the possibility of reinstating an additional entrance.

Eastern Daily Press: The garden is divided into numerous areasThe garden is divided into numerous areas (Image: Sowerbys)

Eastern Daily Press: Park Cottage is surrounded by mature trees and greeneryPark Cottage is surrounded by mature trees and greenery (Image: Sowerbys)

Eastern Daily Press: There are multiple outbuildingsThere are multiple outbuildings (Image: Sowerbys)

The dining room and sitting room offer high ceilings and feature fireplaces, one of which still has a vintage stove which could be restored as a focal point.

Being semi-open plan, Sowerbys say the two spaces “can combine together for larger gatherings or be delicately separated during cosy evenings curled up with a movie and the crackle of logs on the fire”.

An extra room downstairs is ideally proportioned for a variety of uses, whether as a study, snug or playroom.

The ground floor is completed by a well-sized kitchen, which is in need of updating, as well as a WC and greenhouse, both of which adjoin the utility.

Upstairs, an impressive landing area leads to three double bedrooms and a family bathroom with WC, sink, bath and separate shower.

There is a further bedroom off the largest of the three doubles, which would make for a small double or comfortable single room. However, Sowerbys suggest it presents buyers with an opportunity to create an “enviable principal suite in conjunction with its larger neighbour”.

Eastern Daily Press: The family bathroom The family bathroom (Image: Sowerbys)

Eastern Daily Press: The well-sized kitchen is in need of updatingThe well-sized kitchen is in need of updating (Image: Sowerbys)

Read more: Former rectory with its own spa to go to auction

Every room upstairs offers great views of the surrounding landscape, including a glimpse of the nearby church to the northeast.

Park Cottage is surrounded by mature trees and greenery – enjoying 1.7 acres of grounds with multiple outbuildings.

The garden is divided into numerous areas for taking in the sights and sounds of the countryside.

Two brick outbuildings offer potential for conversion (subject to relevant planning permission) into home offices, studios or, according to Sowerbys, “quiet retreats for young and old alike”.

There is also a timber barn with four compartments – ideal for general storage, a workshop or even a place to keep classic cars, bikes and hobby gear.

For more information, contact Sowerbys.

PROPERTY FACTS

Park Cottage, Didlington
Guide price: OIEO £500,000
Sowerbys, 01553 603607
sowerbys.com