7 bedroom character property for sale

This charming home located in the heart of Brighstone is a stunning Grade II listed property, steeped in English heritage and nestled in a picturesque village setting. With beautifully landscaped gardens and an elegant blend of historic charm and modern convenience, this former rectory offers an exceptional opportunity to own a piece of British history. The property includes a self-contained second-floor apartment, ideal for guests, extended family, or rental income. This historic residence has hosted a series of prominent figures who contributed significantly to British society. Its first rector, later Bishop Ken, was a notable figure who refused to swear allegiance to King Charles II and was imprisoned in the Tower of London. He is also remembered for composing the hymn “Awake My Soul and With the Sun.” Other rectors included the son of abolitionist William Wilberforce and George Moberly, a former headmaster of Winchester College and later bishop. In the 19th century, the rectory became home to William Fox, regarded as the father of British palaeontology. Fox's fossil discoveries—including a Tyrannosaurus Rex—were studied and assembled on the rectory lawn, and Charles Darwin is known to have visited him here.

The property is approached via a gravel drive framed by ancient stone pillars. Inside, the entrance hall features larch timber floors, ornate cornicing, and a grand period fireplace. The west-facing reception hall boasts Gothic architectural elements, while the dining room offers sash windows, carved doors, and an open fireplace. A light-filled drawing room opens to the gardens, and the kitchen blends rustic charm with modern functionality. Additional ground floor amenities include a utility room, cloakroom, laundry, cellar, and plant room. Upstairs, four generous double bedrooms are complemented by en-suite bathrooms, traditional shutters, and tranquil views. The top floor contains a separate two-bedroom apartment with its own kitchen, bathroom, and lounge, currently producing rental income. The landscaped gardens feature formal lawns, vibrant borders, a pond, and a rose arch. A wide stone terrace offers an ideal space for outdoor gatherings. Additional features include a double garage and a private gate leading to the village and churchyard.

What the Owner says:
As soon as we stepped inside this character property steeped in history, we had a great feeling straight away and loved the motto etched within the stonework ‘Think and Thank'. Our home has seen many happy times, filled with fun and laughter and a superb venue in which to entertain our friends and family. The convenience of its location has served us well, within walking distance of the beautiful village centre and its wealth of amenities and a short distance from the West Wight's rustic coastline. The time has come to pass over the house to its next custodians, who will no doubt appreciate its remarkable history.

Room sizes:

• Entrance Hallway
• Kitchen / Breakfast Room: 16'11 x 10'10 (5.16m x 3.30m)
• Drawing Room: 23'11 x 18'4 (7.29m x 5.59m)
• Reception Hall
• Dining Room: 25'7 x 17'1 (7.80m x 5.21m)
• Cloakroom
• Wine Cellar
• Store Room / Workshop
• Separate Toilet
• Laundry Room / Utility
• Store Room 1
• Store Room 2
• Landing
• Bedroom 1: 15'5 x 14'1 (4.70m x 4.30m)
• En-Suite Shower Room

• Bedroom 2: 18'1 x 15'9 (5.52m x 4.80m)
• Bedroom 3: 15'1 x 14'1 (4.60m x 4.30m)
• Bathroom
• Bedroom 4: 15'9 x 12'2 (4.80m x 3.71m)
• Bedroom 5: 12'0 x 9'0 (3.66m x 2.75m)
• Family Bathroom
• Apartment Kitchen: 11'4 x 10'10 (3.46m x 3.30m)
• Apartment Lounge: 21'0 x 10'10 (6.41m x 3.30m)
• Apartment Bathroom
• Apartment Bedroom 1: 13'0 x 10'10 (3.97m x 3.30m)
• Apartment Bedroom 2: 17'3 x 10'6 (5.26m x 3.20m)
• Apartment Loft Room: 20'0 x 10'6 (6.10m x 3.20m)
• Gardens
• Driveway Parking
• Double Garage: 16'0 x 15'0 (4.88m x 4.58m)

The information provided about this property does not constitute or form part of an offer or contract, nor may it be regarded as representations. All interested parties must verify accuracy and your solicitor must verify tenure/lease information, fixtures & fittings and, where the property has been extended/converted, planning/building regulation consents. All dimensions are approximate and quoted for guidance only as are floor plans which are not to scale and their accuracy cannot be confirmed. Reference to appliances and/or services does not imply that they are necessarily in working order or fit for the purpose.

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