IF YOU dream of living in a historic cottage but need to work in a modern office, this property could be the answer.

The Grade II listed home is thought to date back to 1622.

There was an extension in 1860 and a whole new “west wing” built in 1960.

But there is also a big, up-to-the-minute office over the garage, complete with air conditioning.

Part of the garage is currently being used as a heated archive room.

But you will need deep pockets for your dream work/life balance – the cottage, Strouds, in Church Lane, Horsted Keynes, near Haywards Heath, is on the market for £1,350,000.

The village is home to newscaster Katie Derham, who lives in what she has called her “forever home” because the area is so lovely.

Strouds cottage sits in 0.631 acres of land and is surrounded by manicured gardens.

There are impressive camellias and rhododendrons and there is a children’s play area featuring large beech and oak trees.

There is also a summer house in the grounds fitted with electricity.

Inside, the five-bedroomed cottage is packed with period features, notably an impressive inglenook fireplace with enough room to sit in.

French windows lead from the dining room on to a terrace.

One of the reception rooms is lined with enough shelves to satisfy even the most avid bookworms.

The newer west wing houses the kitchen which has a central Aga.

The east wing includes a large sitting room with a feature fireplace and a conservatory with a view of the gardens.

To find our more about the property, contact Hamptons International in Haywards Heath on 01444 360175.