THE timber-framed Maple Cottage dates back to the 16th century and brings old-world character to the village property market this spring.

The heavily-beamed cottage, in the village of Mapledurwell, is listed, and the accommodation was increased by a two-storey extension in 1999.

Period features include an inglenook fireplace in the sitting room, exposed timber floorboards and vaulted ceilings to the three upstairs bedrooms, where there is also an en suite shower room and newly-refitted family bathroom.

The master bedroom features a fireplace with a wood-burning stove, and the shower cabinet in the en suite is also a steam room.

Exposed floorboards feature in the dining room, and the kitchen-breakfast room is fitted in country style with an Aga, set into a recess, and a butler sink.

Attached to the cottage is a gar-age - which is plumbed for a washing machine - and a garden store.

The secluded cottage garden has a paved patio and timber sleepers edging the shrub and flower beds.

Maple Cottage adjoins farmland in the village and its price guide through agents Knight Frank is £499,000.