When Hexham was named “Best Place to Live in Britain” by Country Life magazine, the people of the market town were pleased, but not surprised. Those who live and work in the area have always known that Hexham offers a unique mix of rural charm and vitality, combined with a bustling retail centre and some of the finest buildings in Northumberland.

With its historic Abbey, covered market place, winding streets and even a racecourse, all set upon a hillside in the picturesque Tyne Valley, Hexham is truly a picture postcard setting. It was once the county town of Hexhamshire, originally a district of the Kingdom of Northumbria, which became part of Northumberland in 1572. This inspired a sense of civic pride and heritage which is still much in evidence today.

Close to the heart of this charming town, you will find Haining Croft, a stunning Victorian mansion that is being brought back to life as Millhouse Developments transform it to create 16 luxurious homes.

When wealthy local chemist, George Bell built his house in the 1860s, he endowed it with a grand entrance at the top of St Wilfrid's Road. Beyond the gates, the widower Mr Bell created a quiet haven for himself and his daughter. The design of the house itself is a simplified version of mid-Victorian Gothic, typical of the lavish homes built by many successful middle class merchants.

The brief for the modern day architects was to create modern homes within the original building, while maintaining the essential character of the house and the unique sense of space. Meticulous workmanship will see the property sympathetically restored, with features such as the Victorian staircase painstakingly recreated. The new Garden House reflects the grandeur of the main house and gardens to truly enhance this tranquil corner of Hexham.