Church Cottage, Park Road, Melchbourne

Nestled in the picturesque village of Melchbourne, this exquisite Grade II listed cottage boasts six spacious bedrooms, a stunning extension that blends historic charm with modern luxury, and a unique detached Water Tower providing additional versatile accommodation. Set on 0.85 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens in a secluded location, this unique residence is adjacent to the historic village church and Melchbourne Park Estate, offering an unparalleled living experience. Various areas in the property benefit from the comfort of underfloor heating, enhancing its modern appeal.

The thatch, made of water reed with a sedge ridge, is in good condition as confirmed by a 2020 thatch report, which indicated no repairs were needed.

Ground Floor

Upon entering, you'll find a glazed atrium linking the original cottage to the new extension, featuring Jerusalem limestone flagstones and solid oak doors. The sitting room, added in 2010, includes floor-to-ceiling windows, a paved terrace, oak panelled bookshelves, and exposed oak flooring. Leading off from the sitting room are two en suite bedrooms, providing convenient and luxurious accommodations on the ground floor. The dining room, with its views over the church, features a former bread oven. The custom-built kitchen, equipped with a range cooker and a ceramic butler sink, provides ample space for culinary endeavors. The snug, with its panelled walls and log-burning stove, adds a cozy touch. Additionally, the ground floor provides access to a tanked cellar with a water pump that has been converted into a utility space, offering practical storage solutions and convenience.

First Floor

The first floor is thoughtfully divided into three sections, each accessed by separate staircases. The first staircase leads to the principal bedroom and an additional bedroom, both elegantly designed and sharing a well-appointed family bathroom. The second staircase leads to a beautifully appointed guest bedroom with an en suite shower room, ensuring privacy and comfort for visitors. The third staircase leads to a versatile office space or dressing room above the ground floor bedrooms. These rooms combine period features with contemporary comforts, creating serene and inviting living spaces.

Outside

The property's enchanting gardens feature winding paths, an ornate iron pergola with climbing roses, and various outdoor entertaining areas. A split-level paved terrace, a summer house, and a barbecue area provide ideal spots for relaxation and gatherings. Additional amenities include a play area, a natural pond, and space for a hot tub. The former Water Tower, built by US armed forces during WWII, offers versatile accommodation, perfect for an annexe or home office. It was successfully operated as a holiday let for two and a half years with very full bookings through Sykes Holiday Cottages. There is also a single garage, and behind the Water Tower is an indoor plunge pool, although some equipment requires re-installing.

Rental Income Potential

The Water Tower has the potential to generate an annual income of £25,000. The entire property can generate up to £1,000 per night, with average nightly rates of £600+ in April, £800+ in August, and £500+ in October.

Location

Melchbourne is a tranquil rural village with an ancient stone church, a welcoming pub, and an active village hall committee. The area provides direct access to miles of peaceful field and woods walks on public bridleways and footpaths across the North Bedfordshire Wolds. It is conveniently located 13 miles north of Bedford, with good road access to London via the new A421 link to the M1, making it just 75 minutes to the northern suburbs of London. There is also fast rail access to London Kings Cross from Bedford and Wellingborough. The village is in close proximity to top public schools in Bedford and Kimbolton, within a 20-minute drive, and Oundle Public School, a 30-minute drive away. The major new Oxford-Cambridge rail link will run through Bedford when completed, and the drive time to Cambridge is now under 40 minutes on the upgraded A14. Additionally, Universal Studios is likely to establish their European holiday park just outside Bedford in the coming years.


Services, Utilities & Property Information

Utilities: Water, Sewerage, Oil (recently serviced) & LPG Heating, Electricity
Mobile Phone Coverage: Some 4G mobile signal is available in the area. We advise you to check with your provider.
Broadband Availability - Superfast broadband speed, up to 49 Mbps download and 8Mbps upload. We advise you to check with your provider.
Tenure: Freehold
Council Tax Band: F
Local Authority: Bedford Borough Council
Grade II Listed
EPC: Rating E (Valid until 24th October 2032)
Property Type: Cottage

For full details of this property or for more information or to arrange a viewing please contact Ben Perkins.