A six-bedroom farmhouse for sale on the North Downs has its own special place in British aviation history.

During the first world war, airmen were taught to fly a revolutionary biplane fighter aircraft over fields around Bells Forstal Farm, near Faversham, with their officers billeted in the farm itself.

Introduced on the Western Front in 1917, the plane was the Sopwith Camel, which went on to become one of the best known fighter aircraft of the conflict. Armed with twin machine guns, it was credited with downing 1,294 enemy aircraft, more than any other Allied fighter of the first world war.

Today, Bells Forstal Farm, at Bells Forstal, Throwley, near Faversham, is a comfortable home that’s for sale with Hobbs Parker, with a guide price of £1.2m.

It has high ceilings, oak beams, stone fireplaces and wood-burning stoves.

The house sits in a two-acre plot and comes with a covered swimming pool, paddock and period outbuildings including stables, barn, a former forge and an inhabited bat house.

Alex Davies, of Hobbs Parker, says: “This handsome period property, having been owned by the current vendors for over 50 years, has been a much loved and comfortable home.

“It is believed to date back to the 16th century, evidenced by its jettied front elevation with later Georgian additions.

"The accommodation enjoys good ceiling heights and an abundance of character.

"The well presented accommodation is generously proportioned.

"It includes two elegant principal reception rooms with a large stone fireplace.

"There is attractive panelling to the drawing room, which enjoys views over the grounds.

"The first floor features an impressive master suite which boasts a superb bedroom with both a dressing room and en suite shower room.

"In addition there are five further double bedrooms together with a family bathroom and separate shower room.

“This historic home was requisitioned as an officers’ mess until 1918.

"This was while the land in the area was acquired by the Royal Flying Corps."

Ring the agent on 01233 506260

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