A picture perfect Cotswold stone cottage with an enchanting interior and exquisite garden.

Description

The property is a classic and divine Cotswold stone cottage which is Grade ll listed. Detached and probably dating back to the mid 17th century the cottage is a rare find particularly when coupled with its wondrous position within this unspoilt hamlet. The outlook from its elevated position enhances its appeal and with the river flowing through the hamlet, an atmosphere of peace and tranquility prevails.

The cottage itself has been stylishly improved whilst retaining its original charm and character. The period features include oak and stone mullion windows with leaded lights and shutters as well as exposed timbers. The cosy sitting room conveys a feeling of space and airiness and features an impressive stone fireplace with woodburning stove; engineered oak flooring, window sets and recessed cupboards. Adjacent is the custom-made kitchen which is fitted with high end appointments including an electric Esse range cooker, essential appliances and Silestone work surfaces incorporating a Belfast sink.

A concealed spiral staircase rises from the sitting room to the double bedroom which enjoys windows to three elevations. Adjacent is a bespoke bathroom and from the bedroom there is access to a large vaulted roof void. The cottage benefits from underfloor heating and the central heating is by way of an oil fired boiler.

Of particular note is the planning permission which enables the detached stone built outbuilding to be demolished and a home office to be erected.

The absorbing nature of the interior is equally matched by the mesmerising garden which extends to about a quarter of an acre. Not surprisingly the garden has been approved for the National Garden Scheme due to its quality, character and interest.

Laid out in compartments and divided by yew hedging and dwarf stone walls, the garden also includes a judicious use of topiary with the box trees being high, sculptured and elegant.

Gravelled and paved pathways lead to a level lawn with a parterre-style kitchen garden and a splendid Radley Victorian style greenhouse on the opposite side. Designated sitting out terraces have been strategically placed for alfresco entertaining. There is also a white garden shaded by a high stone wall and another suitable entertaining area for very hot days. Above is the stone built outbuilding suitable for a variety of uses and for which planning permission has been passed for demolition and the erection of a home office. To the rear of the cottage is a less formal area of garden with compost area. From the flagstone terrace at the front of the cottage there is a pedestrian gate onto the village lane which leads down to the river.

Adjoining the garden is the private gravelled parking area edged, gated and edged with high beech and yew hedging and large enough to accommodate four vehicles.

Location

The enchanting hamlet of Ablington is situated in the heart of the Coln Valley, one mile northwest of Bibury and in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The 19th-century artist and craftsman William Morris called Bibury "the most beautiful village in England" when he visited and it is easy to see why. With the River Coln flowing through the centre the village is made up of honey coloured houses and cottages as well as supporting a shop, cafe, primary school, Saxon church, pub, hotel and a trout farm. Both Northleach and Fairford offer day to day necessities. Cirencester, often referred to as the Capital of the Cotswolds, is the nearest large centre and includes a range of specialist shops as well as Waitrose and Tesco superstores. Close by are the A40 and M40 which provide good access to London (80 miles). It is 21 miles from Swindon with its mainline train station (58 minutes to London Paddington) and about 20 miles from the M4 motorway.

Square Footage: 694 sq ft


Acreage: 0.25 Acres

Directions

From Cirencester follow the signs to Bibury and Burford on the B4425 and proceed through Barnsley. Continue into Bibury, cross over the river and at The Swan Hotel turn left. Proceed for about 0.8 miles and the cottage will be noticed beyond the sycamore which stands in the centre of the road. Keep right and the entrance to the parking area will be found on the left hand side after a short distance.

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Additional Info

Services: Mains water and electricity. Private drainage. Oil fired central heating.

Bibury 0.75 miles, Northleach 5 miles, Cirencester 7 miles, Burford 9 miles, Swindon 14 miles, M4 (J15) 18 miles. London (Hyde Park) 85 miles