The Gables, Painswick, Gloucestershire GL6

Why We Love The Gables

Grade II* listed, The Gables is a veritable cabinet of curiosities; extensive research has revealed its earliest origins dating back more than 600 years. Of note, Historic England describes The Gables as 'an important Survival in the Town Centre'. The earliest timbers suggest an open hall and fires - so imagine a house long before the fine covered-chimneys and pieces - which are now a wonderful feature of the house. A gradual gentrification was largely completed by the 1620s and the house today would be familiar to its Jacobean predecessor, with its beautiful plasterwork ceilings. Of particular note are the decorative plaster thistles that strongly suggest a celebration of England’s new king James I and VI of Scotland. Mullion windows, timber and stone floors and exposed beams add their own patina to the historical layers that define this beautiful house. 

Take a Tour

Entering The Gables for the first time is a wonderful experience with so much to appreciate. At every turn, there is some small but perfect detail, from the stone floors in the entrance hall, ancient timber floors elsewhere, a magnificent 16th-century carved stone fireplace in the drawing room (with wood-burning stove).

The kitchen is the perfect combination of style and substance, a range of bespoke cabinets, an Aga, as well as space for a breakfast table. This leads to the next part of the house, which is now a former barn converted to a one-bedroom suite with a vaulted ceiling. This, in turn, leads to a library study.

A courtyard outside has double gates, which would allow for off-street parking (if desired) and also gives on to the donkey barn, currently arranged as a heavenly writer's retreat. 

Upstairs, there is a generous principal bedroom with rare Jacobean plasterwork ceiling and an adjoining bathroom.  The second bedroom has a large 16th-century carved stone fireplace, more Jacobean ceilings and a shower room.  The landing also features plasterwork along with impressive beams.

There is a large second-floor attic space fully floored (with windows), which is currently being used for storage.

The gardens are a surprise and are delightfully laid out with the same care and precision, with an unexpected first ‘room’ with lawn, and a second room where an orchard can be found.

The views over the church spire and Catholic chapel complete the picture. 

A Medieval vaulted cellar, with the feeling of an undercroft, houses the spacious utility room.

Living in Painswick

Painswick, often referred to as the "Queen of the Cotswolds," is a charming town in Gloucestershire. It's known for its stunning Cotswold stone buildings, beautiful scenery, and rich history. Surrounded by rolling hills, Painswick sits at the head of the five valleys, making it a great retreat for walkers.

The Cotswold Way runs through the Golf Course on the Painswick Beacon, providing wonderful walks and stunning views.

One of the highlights of Painswick, however, is the famous Painswick Rococo Garden, which showcases beautiful design and horticulture from the 18th century. 

The town also has a number of quaint shops, cafes, and pubs, providing a cozy atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

Living in Painswick means enjoying a slower pace of life, but crucially it is well placed to access the motorway network M5, which provides access to Cheltenham and Bristol, and a fast road to Cirencester and, in addition, the M4 to London.

Trains from Stroud (4 miles) leave every hour to London and take just 85 minutes into Paddington.