The Square, Shipham

Description

The Old Rectory is one of those remarkable properties that rarely comes to the market. A distinctive period home with nearly 200 years of history at the heart of Shipham village, it has been an integral part of local life for generations. This significant house offers an expansive, versatile living space, generous private gardens, a range of outbuildings, and a central yet secluded position, providing a level of peace and privacy rarely found in such a prime location.

The current owners have made extensive improvements to the property including re-rendering the external walls with lime render, enhancing its layout, decor, and energy efficiency. Efficiency upgrades include the installation of hardwood double-glazed sash windows and French doors in keeping with its Georgian period, and substantial loft insulation. The accommodation spans approximately 3,558 sq ft (including the outbuildings) and comprises, on the ground floor: a welcoming entrance porch, impressive central hall, 18' kitchen/breakfast room with adjoining glass-covered veranda, drawing room, a spacious snug, dining room, utility room, downstairs WC, and workshop. The first floor boasts a striking split-level landing, five double bedrooms, two with en-suite shower rooms, family bathroom, and additional WC. The abundance of rooms offers great flexibility, a feature not often found in period properties. The Old Rectory can truly adapt to many needs and lifestyles, with characterful features throughout, from the original staircase, hardwood sash windows, French doors and shutters to wood-burning stoves, a double-oven Aga, and renovated Blue Lias stone floors worn smooth by generations of owners. The stone-vaulted cellar in the main house is ideal for wine enthusiasts or those in need of extra storage.

Externally, the property sits within mature, walled private gardens of just under half an acre, offering a tranquil and secluded environment with stunning views across the surrounding hills. Paved terraces surround raised vegetable beds, garden shed and a greenhouse. The outbuildings are generously sized and full of potential, including a vast 30' double garage/workshop with mezzanine storage, and detached stone-built home office/consulting room featuring a wood burner, underfloor heating, and mains water.

We believe The Old Rectory is perfect for a family seeking a rural yet accessible village setting. Its location offers excellent transport links to Bristol, Bath, and Wells, along with easy access to the surrounding countryside and highly regarded local schools. For the right buyer, The Old Rectory presents a unique opportunity for flexible and spacious family living, with room to grow. A viewing is essential to fully appreciate all this exceptional home has to offer!

A piece of history:
The 1839 tithe map clearly shows the house in its current form, and it is believed that in 1790, Hannah More established her headquarters here, setting up a Sunday and day school for 140 children from Shipham and Rowberrow. The Old Rectory has long been a cornerstone of village life and offers an exceptional, character-filled living space, while remaining unassuming, tucked away behind an imposing retaining wall.

Situation
Shipham is a highly sought after village nestled in the picturesque Somerset countryside. It is well served by both primary ( and middle schools ( and is much sought after by those commuting to Bristol, as it offers all the advantages of rural living with the Mendip Hills close by with convenient routes to primary business centres. Indeed, it is very well positioned for local transport links and the M5 motorway which is accessible via junction 20 at Clevedon, junction 21 at St Georges and junction 22 at Edithmead. Village facilities are available, including butcher/stores, garage, public house, hotel and further shopping facilities at nearby Winscombe and Cheddar. The new village hall (with its stage, sports hall, function rooms and kitchen) is a popular centre for a broad range of community events and activities for all ages. Private sector schooling is close by at Sidcot and the Downs School at Wraxall is within easy reach. In the state sector, Kings of Wessex School ( is nearby and for sports and recreational amenities, Churchill School is a drive away. The surrounding area is excellent riding country and is sure to appeal to equestrian enthusiasts and walkers. There is an international airport at Lulsgate and access to the mainline railway station at Yatton.

Directions
Travelling into Shipham from the Rowberrow direction, proceed into The Square and past The Shipham Inn. The Old Rectory can be found on your left hand side.