Grove Road, Beaconsfield, HP9

Top Meadow, as the name suggests, once stood at the top of the meadow. The landscape has since changed but the history and charm remain intact. Upon entering beneath the blue plaque which is fixed above the front door, one takes a fascinating journey through time. The celebrated author, philosopher and journalist G K Chesterton purchased a plot of land in 1912 opposite to the house he rented at the time. Having admired the meadow opposite, he commissioned an architect to build a Studio on the land in the Arts and Crafts style. This magnificent structure is now the heart of this family home, a captivating space with a double height vaulted ceiling, a large working fireplace at the centre, a small stage at one end and a minstrel’s gallery at the other. The sitting room as it is now, has seen many gatherings over the years from literary events with famous visitors such as George Bernard Shaw, religious gatherings from which the minstrels gallery was used by Chesterton to preach and has since hosted many family gatherings. The inviting smell from years of log fires has permeated the space, seeping into the wooden surfaces and adding to the charm and ambience of this delightful room. Beyond the sitting room is the dining room, originally the study, this was the last addition Chesterton made to the house. This is accompanied by a serving kitchen which also retains the original fireplace. The current owners, have taken great care to source original tiles and sanitary wear and the downstairs shower room is beautifully designed in emerald green. A set of hidden stairs that provide a delight for children and adults alike, lead to the minstrels’ gallery giving an impressive, lofty view of the sitting room as well as a peaceful, secluded hideaway. Walking back through the hallway towards the kitchen/breakfast room, one enters the part of the home that was added in 1922. The continuous theme throughout, along with history, is wood; beautiful wood flooring, staircases, beams, 40+ solid oak doors and the most notably, the beautiful oak tree that was reluctantly taken down to build the house, remains as a post that stands proud next to one of the staircases travelling up through the house. The contemporary kitchen is bathed in light from the lantern skylight, light surfaces and oak bi-fold doors which open onto the garden. Adjacent to the kitchen is the family room. The vendors have taken great care to preserve the character of the property and traditional beams continue throughout. Beyond the kitchen is a utility room, another beautifully styled cloakroom and a charming downstairs bedroom with en-suite and drop down ladder leads to a loft room above. The bedroom is bordered by a gallery hallway which transmits light into the room but it can easily become private once blinds and curtains are drawn. Walking through the gallery hallway, there is access to the garage, with a store room, another shower room and a wooden stairway to the large office space above; this adaptable space could take on a number of uses. From the central hallway in the main body of the house, the wooden stairs lead to the principal bedroom with en-suite bathroom, two more bedrooms, a family bathroom. On the second floor are two more bedrooms and plenty of storage. The oak tree post is a feature at the top of the stairs.

Outside

The property is set behind electric wrought iron gates, leading to an ample driveway with plenty of parking and turning space. The beautifully manicured lawns to the right with immaculate hedges and topiary frame the front of the house and are reminiscent of a stately home. The secluded rear garden is landscaped with seating areas, walkways, an abundance of mature shrubs and plants, a pergola and a pond.

Situation

Situated equal walking distance to the Old and New Towns with their distinct personalities and range of amenities including a wide range of shops and supermarkets, restaurants, gastro pubs and bars. For commuters there is a fast-track train line within a few minutes’ walk providing access to London Marylebone in under 30 mins. The M40 is on the outskirts of Beaconsfield, which in turn provides access to the M25 and M4 with London Heathrow close by. There are a number of highly regarded schools both private and state. Boys’ schools include Davenies in Beaconsfield itself as well as The Royal Grammar School and John Hampden in High Wycombe. Girls’ schools include High March preparatory school and Beaconsfield High School. St Mary & All Saints is an esteemed Church of England primary school. Beaconsfield has a number of sporting facilities and green space for country walks.

Property Ref Number:

HAM-54236