Coastal farm on market for first time in 50 years

A residential Suffolk coastal farm that has been in the same family for more than 50 years is up for sale.

Red House Farm is situated at Harkstead on the Shotley Peninsula, near Ipswich. The five-bedroom farmhouse, buldings and land are being sold through farm agency team at Savills with a guide price of £5m.

The property comprises some 260 acres (105 hectares) of light, irrigated land occupied by a local farmer under a Farm Business Tenancy (FBT) until 30 September 2026. It  includes commercially let farm buildings which generate more than £20,000 annually, says agent William Hargreaves.

“Sandwiched between the River Stour to the south and River Orwell to the north, Red House Farm is an exemplary residential farm that has been a treasured family home for more than 50 years.

“Very rarely does such a fabulous opportunity arise in such a coveted location. Offering amenity value as well as commercial opportunity, Red House Farm is sure to appeal to a wide range of buyers.

‘Fabulous opportunity’

Mr Hargreaves says the property would suit anyone who is perhaps thinking of a change of lifestyle – yet still wants the ability to generate a little extra income through various rentals and farming agreements.”

Commenting on the farmland and commercial opportunities, he adds: “Located opposite the farmhouse are a range of modern and traditional farm buildings, most of which are let on commercial terms to a range of tenants. The accompanying farmland meanwhile is ideal for growing vegetable crops with cereals – most recently cropped with potatoes, parsley, sugar beet, winter wheat and barley.”

Land types

About 40% of the land is classified as being Grade 1 and 40 per cent Grade 2, with the balance towards the western boundaries being Grade 3, says Mr Hargreaves.

The five-bedroom unlisted Georgian farmhouse has an outdoor swimming pool, summer house, tennis court and vegetable garden. Features of note include elegant timber sash windows throughout and well-proportioned accommodation across three floors.

The rooms at the front of the property date from the Georgian era and include open fireplaces and views across the garden, while to the rear is a modern kitchen with dining area and snug.