Bank House, Bishops Castle

Step into Bank House, a truly exceptional and remarkably spacious Georgian townhouse, majestically positioned in the vibrant heart of Bishop's Castle. This impressive residence unfolds over 5,000 square feet, offering incredibly versatile accommodation arranged across three expansive floors, complemented by an extensive cellar. Meticulously upgraded and thoughtfully remodelled by the current owner, this early 18th-century former merchant's house has been expertly brought into the 21st century whilst cherishing its unique and rich history. Currently operating as a highly successful B&B, Bank House presents a fabulous turnkey opportunity for a thriving lifestyle business, or equally, a magnificent and adaptable family home. With unparalleled attention to detail, the property showcases a seamless blend of preserved original character and luxurious modern comforts, most notably featuring a magnificent double staircase that serves all floors.  

Originally built around 1710, Bank House has a storied past, including a long association with banking in the town and serving as accommodation for the bank manager's family until the 1970s. Early in its life, the house was divided into two dwellings; however, the final traces of this division were sensitively removed during the comprehensive renovation, restoring its original grandeur as one substantial residence.

The current owner embarked on this significant renovation project in 2013, collaborating with award-winning Shropshire architects Greenspace. The primary aim was to create a comfortable, efficient, and luxurious home within the historic Georgian framework, a vision that has been impeccably realised. Key historical features were painstakingly preserved, while a transition from oil to renewable heating (a biomass boiler) was implemented. The house was completely rewired, an entirely new plumbing system installed creating three distinct heating zones, and soundproofing was added between floors. Safety was also paramount, with a partial sprinkler system and a comprehensive fire detection system installed. To complete this meticulous overhaul, a new roof was fitted in 2021, as part of a wider project including external redecoration, new guttering, and soffits, ensuring Bank House is presented in immaculate condition.

Set back with a raised frontage from the bustling High Street, Bank House enjoys a surprisingly private and commanding presence. The impressive front door opens into a Grand Hallway that immediately sets a tone of historic elegance and impressive scale. Features include beautiful stone flooring, high ceilings, and the truly unique Double Staircase, an architectural marvel that gracefully ascends the entire height of the house. Magnificent arched windows above the central staircase, mirrored by similar windows to the side of the front door, flood this welcoming space with natural light.

Doors lead from the hallway into the principal reception rooms:

The Large Sitting Room is a testament to Georgian grace, featuring exquisite 18th-century oak panelling and a handsome fireplace housing a multifuel Clearview stove. A huge sash window offers delightful views onto the private rear garden.

The south-facing Dining Room exudes warmth and sophistication, with beautiful parquet flooring and a second large fireplace, also fitted with a multifuel stove. A door from this elegant room opens out to a large, raised decking area, perfect for al fresco dining and overlooking the pretty landscaped side garden.

A further door from the hallway leads to the Kitchen, with a separate Lobby acting as a convenient passageway between the kitchen and dining room. The Kitchen itself is both grand and generously proportioned, thoughtfully designed for modern living. It features an extensive range of fitted timber storage units, complemented by a suite of integrated appliances including a double oven, microwave, dishwasher, induction hob and Quooker boiling water tap. A Rangemaster cooker with a 5-ring gas hob takes pride of place. A particularly beautiful feature is the large inglenook fireplace with an exposed oak beam, now home to another Clearview multifuel stove, adding immense character. Quarry tiled flooring adds warmth and practicality, while a large sash window overlooks the picturesque garden.

Steps lead down from the kitchen into a handy Utility Room, which in turn provides access to the Plant Room (housing the biomass boiler) and on to a further storage room. A door from the utility room leads conveniently out to the parking area and rear garden.

Ascending the magnificent double staircase, the first floor reveals five large and individually styled bedrooms, all benefiting from en-suite facilities. Each room is a discovery in itself, brimming with character and unique quirks. Throughout this floor, you will find wide Georgian oak floorboards, original panelling, elegant sash windows, and period fireplaces. These historical features are perfectly complemented by immaculate and uniquely designed modern bathrooms and efficient central heating, creating luxurious and comfortable private spaces.

The second-floor accommodation is currently utilised as a spacious and private apartment for the current owner, offering superb flexibility.

This level includes a One-Bedroom Self-Contained Annexe/Apartment, comprising a comfortable living area, a well-equipped kitchenette with integrated appliances, and an en-suite bedroom. This arrangement offers an excellent option for independent living within a larger family home or as dedicated owner's accommodation if running the B&B.

Across the landing, there is a further large Bedroom with its own en-suite facilities and a door leading to a substantial attic space, offering excellent storage and access to the roof and chimneys.

Also on this floor is a Large Multi-Purpose Studio. Originally designed to provide a serene space for yoga or to host workshops, this adaptable room is currently used by the owner as a home office and craft room.

A wealth of character is evident throughout this top floor, with exposed period beams, a further two wood-burning stoves, and truly incredible, far-reaching views across the charming town of Bishop's Castle and onwards towards the majestic Long Mynd.

Beneath the property lies an extensive cellar space, offering significant storage and potential for various uses.

Tenure: Leasehold (949 years)