Combining “Old World” vintage charm with superb potential and amazing water views, this heritage valued home known as “The River Cottage” enjoys a rich local history of more than 110 years.

The first property you see when you drive into Taree off the Martin Bridge, this wonderfully solid structure, nestled on a 579sq metre level block, has stood the test of time.

Construction of the historic dwelling, circa 1900′s, was most likely completed before 1909. It enjoys an iron roof, delightful pressed metal ceilings, interior timber walls, floorboards, a wide hallway and a large eat in kitchen that epitomises its era.

The big home offers four bedrooms, including a master that enjoys its own fireplace, and is currently used as a third separate indoor living area. You get a big dining and family area off the kitchen, a renovated bathroom, internal laundry and sun room.

Outside is a wide front verandah, and an enclosed “man cave/she shed” on a side verandah that looks out onto the mighty Manning River.

The second smaller structure on the property previously used for a number activities, including commercial such as the popular “The Wild Fig” cafe, now has a bedroom, kitchen and living area.

It could be rented out, be an office or study, teenage retreat, function area for family gatherings and parties, or subject to council approval, it could easily be converted back to an eatery. There’s also a second toilet next to the building.

A shared driveway behind the “River Cottage” could easily allow the smaller building to be used as a big garage/workshop, while a large open air courtyard between the two buildings offers even more spectacular river views.

Yes, there’s a white picket fence at the front and side, some shade trees, easy care gardens and lawns and a child’s cubby house.

A brief look at the history of the property shows the builder was William Wrigley, who also built three similar houses in a row next to it. Two of those still remain to this day. The dwellings were described as “a new standard of residential design in the Taree area replacing smaller dwellings of lesser construction techniques”.

William Wrigley went on to build more than 100 cottages and other buildings in Taree. He was a council alderman for more than 30 years and twice served as Taree mayor. The well known surname of Wrigley lives on in Taree today.

This “walk to everywhere in town” property has been home to local luminaries, it was a guest house, a boarding house and most recently sold vintage wares and enjoyed a loyal patronage under the guise of “The River Cottage”.

Taree is only a 3.5 hours drive north of Sydney on the beautiful Mid North Coast. While the Manning River is quite literally only a stone’s throw, pristine beaches and peaceful hinterlands are also nearby. Inspection is by appointment only. Phone Greg Brassell on 0417 519 811 or Elders Taree on 02 6551 0999 to arrange your viewing.