5 bedroom detached house

Salisbury Villa stands in a prominent position opposite the castle gardens. The house has weather-boarded elevations with large sash windows under a lead roof and has recently been repainted and had a new roof in 2019. Although the principal elevation is believed to date from the early 19th Century, it is probable that the rear part is older, with the mix of periods adding to the appeal of the property. The present owner has spent much time and effort in a sensitive restoration and redecoration of the house that brings a bright and modern feel, ideal for contemporary living yet honouring the historic character.

The panelled front door leads to an elegant reception hall with a pretty fireplace. The adjacent dining room is a beautiful panelled room with display shelving and cupboards either side of the fireplace. Nearby is the cloakroom and a door with stairs to the cellar.

The well-fitted kitchen/breakfast room has a range of bespoke cabinets with integrated appliances and a 4-oven Aga; the breakfast area is in a more modern extension with a massive floor to ceiling window giving a dramatic outlook over the cathedral roofscape.

The sitting room is over 30 feet in length with a fireplace with wood burning stove, polished floorboards and access to the two walled gardens.

The principal bedroom, is accessed by the back stairs at the rear of the house, and has ample storage space and an en-suite bathroom.

The front stairs access the first floor landing and lead to two bedrooms overlooking the castle, bedroom 3 which connects to the principal bedroom, a WC and shower wet room, and a large family bathroom with roll top bath. On the second floor, the magnificent library occupies the full width of the house, with four sash windows making the most of the spectacular views. Two period fireplaces and polished floorboards help give the room a special character. The fifth bedroom is at the rear with an en suite WC and washbasin, and further en suite shower room with basin.

Salisbury Villa is situated within the walled heart of the ancient city of Rochester, overlooking both the Norman castle and cathedral. The city centre is probably best known for its associations with Charles Dickens and the attractive high street is lined with a selection of period houses dating in the main from Georgian and Victorian times. Rochester is known for specialist shopping and an active cultural programme. There is a good range of schools both in the independent and state sectors, including The King’s School (within 250 metres) and separate boys’ and girls’ grammar schools.

There are good commuter services from the new Rochester station (about 400 metres) with journey times to London St Pancras from 36 minutes. The M2 (Junction 1) gives access to the motorway network and also links with the Bluewater shopping centre and Ebbsfleet International station.

The property is, in the main, surrounded by a mellow brick wall with gates opening to a parking space and some covered storage. This leads to an enclosed garden at the rear with flowering cherry trees and an ivy clad arbour. There is an attractive timber gazebo over a paved terrace, with a decking terrace adjacent. The second walled garden is on the south side of the house giving two idyllic locations with a choice of sun or shade for alfresco dining.