Abbey Gardens, Upper Woolhampton, Berkshire

26 Abbey Gardens occupies a prime position within this Grade II listed building, utilising what was the grand dining hall and former kitchens for the Benedictine Monks whom attended the Douai School, on the site of Douai Benedectine Abbey. Dating from the late 19th century, it was sympathetically converted and fully renovated by Bewley Homes in 2003. Original, large wooden double doors open into a spacious entrance hallway where upon you are met by an incredibly impressive space, with vast ceilings height containing artistic, period detailing, large arched windows, a fireplace, culminating in a striking stained-glass window, containing reclaimed glass from damaged French churches during the First World War. A couple of subtle level changes, cleverly break up the 1,100 sq ft of space into distinct flexible areas for dining and formal seating. Additionally, there is the perfect mezzanine level for fully appreciating this room and currently operates as a very comfortable study area. A significant second living space forms the centre of the apartment with a large cupola skylight currently set up as a more relaxed, living room measuring in excess of 600 sq ft next to a modern, semi-open plan, kitchen containing shaker style units, black marble work tops, Smeg ovens, an induction hob, dishwasher and an island / breakfast bar. A spiral staircase leads to a 1st floor level that has the flexibility to be many things including an over-spill, fourth bedroom. Finally, there’s a discreet utility and laundry room and a great deal of storage space in the form of cellar rooms that can be directly accessed via proper stairs from the apartment. There is modern, underfloor heating throughout.
There are three recognised, bright double bedrooms, with high ceilings and each with smart and wellappointed en-suite bathrooms. Two contain a separate bath and shower cubicle. In addition to views onto the communal gardens, two have direct access to a private south-easterly facing terrace.

Abbey Gardens features well-maintained, communal landscaped gardens with pristine lawns, paved and gravel pathways, planted beds and topiaries with a number of distinct areas for quiet reflection and sitting. The gardens and grounds surrounding the abbey buildings include rolling lawns and parkland, mature trees and woodland areas. By arrangement there is benefit of the use of tennis courts, as well as a cricket pitch and pavilion. Of particular note is secure underground parking with two designated spaces and lift access.

Abbey Gardens is set in a picturesque position on the edge of the village of Upper Woolhampton, close to the popular Berkshire locations of Newbury, Pangbourne and Reading beyond. The surrounding area is renowned for green open spaces and walks, with a number of picturesque nearby villages, of which many have good pubs. A greater selection and variety of shops and facilities can be found in Newbury or Reading. The nearest station is Midgham with regular London bound services as well as relatively quick access to either the M4 at junction 12 or the A34 towards Oxford via the A4. There is an excellent range of schooling in the area, including Elstree, Cheam, Bradfield College, St. Andrew’s, Downe House and Pangbourne College.