From Generation To Generation

A new chapter is about to begin in the long and proud history of Hareholes Farm Cottage on the Duchy’s Needwood Estate in Staffordshire.  Following an extensive refurbishment project, the building has been restored to its former glory and updated throughout in line with the Duchy’s quality standard and specification.

Hareholes Farm Cottage is a large, four-bedroomed property set in over 9.5 acres. Built in the mid-19th century, it was badly affected by the Faulds Mine explosion in 1944, after which it had to be re-roofed and partially rebuilt. In the intervening years, it was the family home of the Renshaw family for over 40 years, until Mr Renshaw became unable to remain in the property due to ill health.

Over the past year, the property has been fully restored and refurbished, ready to receive a new generation of tenants and play its part in a new family history. Having seen other examples of the Duchy design standard elsewhere on the estate, the Oliver family signed up to a new lease at the very beginning of the project and have been playing an active part in the refurbishment throughout the process.

“We were looking for a family home which combined character and comfort,” said Gary, “and we had been impressed with the quality of the finish on another property that the Duchy had refurbished earlier in the year.  When we knew that Hareholes Farm Cottage was going to be renovated, we jumped at the chance and we have really enjoyed seeing the planned improvement works unfold. We are very much looking forward to bringing this lovely house to life as a family home once again.”

Duchy Head of Rural Christopher Sparrow added: “Part of the Duchy’s role is to protect and preserve historic properties such as Hareholes Farm Cottage and to make sure that a new generation of tenants will want to move in and build their memories here. We know that the Oliver family will enjoy living here and are delighted to welcome them to the Duchy family.”

The Duchy of Lancaster’s Needwood Estate includes around 60 residential properties. For information on properties currently available to let in Staffordshire, please contact Naomi Bloxham on 0115 934 8123.