House swap – quirky properties we love
If boring beige boxes aren't tickling your fancy and you're looking for a property with a twist then look no further. We've found 8 of the best quirky homes for sale in Northants.
Kingsthorpe, Northampton

Chanelling all the Chitty Bang Bang vibes with this actual Grade II listed windmill in Kingsthorpe – minus the sails but retaining a wealth of original features including the fabulous round tower, which currently houses the living room and two of the three bedrooms. There’s also exposed oak beams, a large conservatory and plenty of renovation work to get stuck into.
Braunston

One windmill not enough? Here’s another and this one has already had the renovation part done for you. This Grade II listed 19th century former mill is surrounded by far-reaching countryside views, set over 6 floors and boasts an additional cottage and not just one but two hot tubs. Pass the champers, we’re going in.
Litchborough

Pay attention children! This converted school in the pretty village of Litchborough is utterly charming and boasts the original school bell. Ding Dong. There are five bedrooms, including a galleried room overlooking the main living area. There is also an enclosed garden with a store and office space
Helmdon

Here’s the big one: Fancy your own castle? Thought so. This castellated stone farmhouse just outside Helmdon, on the market for a cool £1.5 million, is both Grade II listed and a Scheduled Ancient Monument set in a whopping 30 acres. It comes with stables, two flats and barns with planning consent for residential conversion for two dwellings. You’ll need quite deep pockets for this one, as there’s lots of work to be done.
Towcester

Please Sir, can I have some more? This one is hopefully somewhat more aspirational today than when it started life as a workhouse in the 19th century. Tucked away at the heart of Towcester, the imposing Grade II listed building was converted to homes in 1986. This property is a 3 bed townhouse with bags of period charm including oak beams and exposed stonework.
Deanshanger

A new build, top floor apartment with a twist. This fabulous 2 bed property has all the beams, open-plan, hi-spec contemporary living space and a refreshing amount of character for a new-build. Can we just take a moment to appreciate those vaulted ceilings?
Church Stowe

OK, so it’s not a house exactly, but a building plot with planning permission for a pretty jaw-dropping one. A contemporary, eco-friendly home set in two acres, to be precise, with 5,400 square foot of accommodation in one of the county’s prettiest and unspoilt little villages. Call Kevin McCloud, we’re all getting all Grand Designsy.
Brockhall

Part of a converted Jacobean manor, this three bed character property boasts original flagstone floors a huge gothic style front door, original Jacobean oak stairs, stone mullioned windows, a monks safe and countless other original features. You also get shared use of 14 acres of gardens and you don’t even have to mow the lawn.