A charming country house in the highly sought-after village of Freshford, with extensive gardens and far-reaching views over the Frome Valley.

Description

Abbotsleigh is an elegant family house occupying a rare and coveted position overlooking the Frome Valley.

Built in 1838 by the Edwards family, the house is constructed of ashlar stone elevations under a slate roof with gothic style windows. Internally, the rooms are arranged beautifully around the central hall and landing, with splendid period decorative details, including original fireplaces, panelled doors, sash windows and ornate ceiling mouldings.

The proportions of the principal rooms are wonderful, and of particular note is the drawing room with its bay window, which is complemented by the dining room, sitting room and family room. In addition is a comfortable kitchen/breakfast room with adjoining larder, and a delightful conservatory added by the current owners, which takes in the lovely views of the western garden.

The impressive and spacious first floor provides a range of attractive rooms, including a principal bedroom with en suite bathroom. There are a further five bedrooms on this floor (one with en suite bathroom), a separate WC and a large linen cupboard. The rear of the first floor is serviced by a second staircase, which leads to the hallway next to the kitchen.

The extensive cellar provides a useful array of rooms, including a games room, utility room, wine cellar and stores, all accessed via two staircases from the main hall and conservatory.

Outside
Abbotsleigh is a beautiful house to observe, with mature, established wisteria and roses covering much of the front façade. Wonderful landscaped gardens surround the property with the immediate lawn to the south of the house providing stunning southerly views over the valley and stepped access down to the beautiful formal gardens, surrounded to the north by marvellous ashlar retaining walls. Within these gardens are herbaceous borders, a lily pond and a gazebo.

Beyond are a copse and meadow grassland, which provide variety and points of interest.

To the east of the house, adjacent to the driveway, is a former grass tennis court surrounded by yew hedging, which could be reinstated with ease.

The gated driveway to the house provides ample off street parking as well as garaging for three cars.

Location

Abbotsleigh occupies a commanding elevated position and enjoys far-reaching views of the Frome Valley and beyond.

Sharpstone, which has a number of attractive stone-built houses and cottages, is part of the sought after village of Freshford which has a pub, community shop, cafe and post office, and a primary school.

The local railway station is within approx. 0.6 miles with connection to Bradford on Avon and the Georgian city of Bath with its variety of cultural, leisure and retail facilities.

The M4 motorway at junction 18 is approx. 14.2 miles north. Bath Spa station has frequent connections to London Paddington (journey time from 75 minutes).

Square Footage: 7,050 sq ft


Acreage: 3.59 Acres

Directions

From Bath travel south on the A36 (Warminster Road), past Claverton and on towards Monkton Combe. Continue straight across the traffic lights over the viaduct and travel up Stoke Hill. At the top of Stoke Hill turn left into Church Lane signposted Freshford. Enter the village and upon passing the school, turn right signposted Sharpstone. Continue along this lane and fork left by the war memorial. Abbotsleigh is found after several hundred yards on the left hand side.

Additional Info

Agent’s Note: There is a footpath that crosses the land - further information and a plan is available on request.