The farmhouse where the beloved children's television series Bagpuss was brought to life has been listed for sale at £1.2 million. Hillside Farm, situated in Blean near Canterbury, was the family residence of the late illustrator, artist, and puppeteer Peter Firmin, who co-created the iconic pink-and-white cloth cat alongside writer Oliver Postgate.
A Historic Country Estate
This four-bedroom farmhouse, set within approximately 6.12 acres of gardens and grounds on Blean Hill, is being marketed as a 'truly special and historic country estate'. It was within a disused cow shed on the property that Firmin and Postgate, through their production company Smallfilms, brought Bagpuss to life. The Firmin family played an integral role in the show's creation: his wife Joan helped craft props, and their daughter Emily served as the inspiration for the character of the Victorian child in the series.
Legacy of Smallfilms
Only 13 episodes of Bagpuss were ever produced, yet they were repeatedly broadcast from its debut in 1974 until 1986. In 1999, a BBC poll declared it the most popular children's show of all time. Smallfilms also produced other cherished programs such as The Clangers, Ivor the Engine, and Noggin the Nog, which continue to be adored by generations. Postgate passed away in 2008, followed by Firmin a decade later.
Property Features
The farmhouse retains many original features, including fireplaces, tiled floors, picture rails, and original internal doors. A standout feature is the large oak-framed, vaulted first-floor sitting room, described as a 'wonderful area for entertaining and family living'. The estate also includes a detached Kentish barn, traditional stables, and a brick-built workshop, all surrounded by mature gardens, woodland, paddocks, and a large pond.
Estate agents Finn's suggest that the barn could offer conversion potential, subject to planning permission, while parts of the land may present future development opportunities. The listing notes: 'Prospective purchasers should note that part of the land is subject to an overage'—an extra payment typically triggered by development-related actions.
Location and Renewed Interest
Despite its rural setting, the property is less than two miles from Canterbury city centre and close to Blean Primary School, Canterbury's grammar schools, and the University of Kent. The sale coincides with renewed interest in Bagpuss, as a new feature film blending live-action and animation is in development for a 2027 release. Meanwhile, the original 50-year-old puppet remains on display at Canterbury's Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, drawing visitors. Hillside Farm is being offered for sale with no onward chain.
