Farming used to be the main form of employment in the Cotswolds, something which Flora Thompson encapsulated perfectly in Larkrise to Candleford.

Larkrise was set in the north of the Cotswolds at the end of the 19th century. In those days, barns served functional purposes: housing livestock and crops at farms and smallholdings.They were often built with high doors to allow cart access, and in many cases timber A-frames were constructed to support the roof.

Local stone, used to construct the barn walls, reflected the characteristics of different areas, ranging from mellow Cotswold limestone found in the west to the rich golden colours of Hornton stone to the north.

What to look for

The Cotswolds is a highly desirable residential location, and barn conversions are particularly popular among prospective buyers, who are attracted by their solid construction, rustic appearance and often picturesque rural setting within proximity of market towns.

Many barn conversions are Grade II listed, and retain their traditional external appearance. However, interior styles can vary considerably between properties, ranging from traditional dark beams and woodwork to lighter timbers and modern fittings.

Barn conversions, and unconverted barns that can be converted, are always in demand among buyers, and tend to sell quickly – often reaching or exceeding the guide price.