Hay Barn House, Springwell Lane, Hertfordshire, WD3 8UW

Waterside architectural masterpiece offering rare, canal and river access and backing onto the Grand Union Canal Description Hay Barn House is a property of remarkable contrast.

Tucked away at the end of a discreet, industrial-heritage approach, this is a “reveal” house - where a modest exterior hides an architectural triumph of light, volume and 18th-century character.

While part of a larger historic barn assembly, the property has been designed for maximum independence.

With only two limited points of structural contact with the neighbour, the home retains the feel and privacy of a detached residence.

Most of the footprint stands entirely free, oriented toward its own internal courtyard and waterside views. The River Colne flows through the Grand Union here, so the water is notably clear and fresh.

With its own private slipway and “End of Garden” mooring the property invites a truly amphibious lifestyle, whilst free of flood risk due to its elevation.

Whether it is an early morning paddleboard or an afternoon on a boat, the water is an extension of the living space. Wildlife is abundant here.

Swans and ducks regularly glide by, often stopping at the slipway to preen their feathers.

Beyond the canal lies Springwell Lake, reed beds and nature reserve, home to myriad waterfowl and other birdlife.

The heart of the home is the magnificent, vaulted living room, converted from the original 18th-century hay barn.

With its exposed timber framework, handcrafted oak mezzanine, and substantial log burner, it is a space of both grandeur and quiet comfort.

The expansive kitchen and family wing is designed for the modern host. Bi-fold doors create a seamless transition to both the waterfront garden and secluded central courtyard.

This “hidden garden” provides an entirely private outdoor space - ideal for evening drinks or quiet reflection. The property features four substantial and unique en suite bedrooms.

Rather than a traditional family layout, the bedrooms stand apart from each other, providing guests or residents with a genuine sense of independence and privacy.

For the collector, the property offers a secure, integrated garage equipped with a full-size inspection pit.

It is an ideal space for the maintenance and display of a cherished classic car or motorbike, kept safely within the footprint of the home.

Equipped with Air Source Heat Pumps for sustainable heating and with Gigabit FTTP available for connection, it is perfectly suited for those who require high-performance living in a historic setting.

Approached via a shared private driveway, the home offers off-road parking for at least four vehicles and further on-street parking - a rare commodity for a waterfront setting.

Location Rickmansworth is a sought-after location and there is a great connection to both rural life and convenience of local amenities.

Rickmansworth High Street (2.5 miles) has a great mix of independent and boutique shops, cafes and eateries, as well as larger supermarket retailers.

The town is situated along the Grand Union Canal, providing a scenic backdrop for leisurely walks, cycling, and boating plus the Aquadrome has a nature reserve that offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Rickmansworth’s location ensures easy access to London, with the Metropolitan Line station plus the Chiltern Line to Marylebone. There is a choice of both state and private schools locally.

The M25 Junction 17 is 1.5 miles away with connections to the motorway network and airports.

Rickmansworth station is about 2 miles away and Denham station (trains towards Oxford and Birmingham) is about 4 miles away which makes for a great spot for the commuter by car or rail.

[All distances are approximate] Square Footage: 3,739 sq ft Directions From Riverside Drive, follow the A412 Uxbridge Road towards the M25 Junction 17.

Before the Reach School turn left into Drayton Ford/Springwell Lane and follow the road for about 0.75 miles and the house will be found on your right.