Demand for country homes soared over the summer as people’s experience of lockdown encouraged them to search for somewhere with more space both inside and out.

And those who have now completed the move will no doubt be looking forward to spending their first winter in their new home.

I’ve had the privilege of living in the countryside all my life. For me there’s no better place to be at this time of year than out in the sticks. There’s plenty of fresh air to blow away any seasonal cobwebs and when you return home you can spend a cosy evening in front of the fire.

For the uninitiated, however, it may well pose one or two unforeseen challenges. Whether you’ve already moved in or will soon be handed the keys – our tips for countryside winter living will hopefully help you to make the most of your new home.

• If you haven’t done so already have chimneys swept, the boiler serviced and clear guttering and ground level drains of any debris. A good outside light is essential for the darker evenings and it’s worth investing in a few draft excluders.
  
  
•  If your property isn’t connected to mains gas talk to your neighbours about supplies of heating oil – many rural communities have buying groups to secure a better price.
  
  
• Make sure you have plenty of firewood. Take it from someone who knows, it’s no fun if you run out. Only buy seasoned wood and talk to your supplier about how much you’ll need. It’s also worth stockpiling newspapers, egg cartons and old boxes for tinder.
  
  
• Buy a decent shovel. If it snows it might just make all the difference. Sometimes a benevolent farmer will appear with a tractor, but your neighbours will also be grateful – especially if they’re elderly.
  
  
• Put a few food essentials in the freezer and stash away a couple of pints of long life milk. A good supply of candles and a rechargeable torch is also advisable.
  
  
• Invest in some high quality outdoor clothing. Good, sturdy shoes or wellies are also a must. 
  
  
• If you get caught out with something this year – not enough firewood, draughty windows, some rooms colder than others or a particular species of wildlife nesting in the shed – make a note so you can prepare for next year.
  
  
• Embrace the mud. On the plus side there’s no need to routinely clean your car (just think how shiny and new it will look come spring). But a boot room is often a sensible addition so that you have somewhere for dirty wellies and dogs when you first enter the house.
  
  
• If you’re keeping livestock make sure water supplies to troughs are lagged to help prevent freezing and be prepared to carry out buckets and fodder if there is a lot of snow.

The lifestyle on offer in the countryside is second to none. Many rural spots provide a different charm in winter and can be invigorating. So wrap up warmly and enjoy it.

Further information

Contact Ben Rivett

Contact Savills Buying or Selling Country Property