18th-century blacksmith forge home for sale in Hampshire village
A Grade II-listed cottage in Micheldever, once a working forge for 200 years, is now on the market with original features intact. The Smithy combines historic charm with modern living, including a double-height forge converted into a kitchen-living space.
A Grade II-listed home with a 200-year history as a blacksmith’s forge has hit the market in Micheldever, Hampshire. The Smithy, which predates 1799, served the village until the retirement of its last blacksmith, Hugh Symes, in 1995. Now fully converted into a residence, the property retains its industrial past through exposed brick furnaces, a chimney structure, and the original stable door that once served as the forge entrance.
The property spans three bedrooms, including a main suite with an en-suite bathroom on the upper floor, while two additional bedrooms and a family bathroom occupy the ground floor. The ground-level layout offers flexible living arrangements, as noted in the listing, with a central hallway leading to a spacious kitchen-living area carved from the forge’s original double-height space. Black quartz worktops, a range cooker, and a wood-burning stove now occupy the former furnace room, while the chimney structure remains a striking architectural feature.
💡 Pro Tip
When touring historic properties, inspect original features for structural integrity. Ask the estate agent about grants or tax incentives for heritage conservation, which can offset renovation costs.
Original elements such as the internal feature window with colorful glazing, which overlooks the forge room, and the Velux-lit landing add character. The property also includes a landscaped garden with a terrace, gravel driveway, single garage, and workshop. A mature cherry tree in the rear garden provides a focal point, while a secluded decked area offers privacy.
| Feature | Original Use | Current Use |
|---|---|---|
| Stable Door | Forge Entrance | Main Entry |
| Brick Furnaces | Blacksmithing | Kitchen Island |
| Chimney Structure | Ventilation | Statement Fireplace |
The Smithy’s interior benefits from modern amenities, including underfloor heating, while outdoor spaces include a detached workshop, garden store, and a wood store attached to the garage. The listing describes the home as "steeped in local history and character," with flexible accommodation tailored to contemporary living.
Key Points
- ✅ Grade II-listed cottage dating back to 1799
- ⚡ Converted from a 200-year-old blacksmith’s forge in 2000
- 💡 Retains original brick furnaces, chimney, and stable door
According to historical records, The Smithy was a cornerstone of Micheldever’s early economy, supplying tools, horseshoes, and farm equipment to local farmers and tradesmen. The property’s conversion to residential use preserved its heritage while adapting to modern standards, including the addition of a utility room, cloakroom, and study area on the upper floor. The garage, currently functioning as a workshop, offers potential for further development.
📋 By The Numbers
- 3 — Number of bedrooms, including a main suite with en-suite
- 1799 — Year of earliest recorded forge activity
- 1995 — Year the final blacksmith, Hugh Symes, retired