Trench Green, Mapledurham, Reading, Oxfordshire, RG4

A former school house set in a tranquil position and surrounded by 0.8 acres of mature garden.

Description

The Old School is a charming five-bedroom home located in a stunning Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Formerly known as the Mapledurham Church of England School, it was built around 1830 for the vicar, Reverend Augustus FitzClarence—the illegitimate son of King William IV. The school closed in 1973 and was subsequently sold into private ownership. Since then, it has had just two private owners.

The accommodation retains many original period features, particularly in the living and dining rooms—formerly the school's classroom—which boast high vaulted ceilings, exposed timber flooring, and large sash windows.

Upon entering through the porch, the entrance hall leads to the drawing room, which features exposed double-framed beams and an open wood-burning stove, creating a cosy and inviting space. Wooden double doors open into the current dining room, originally the main classroom. This room is full of character, with its vaulted ceiling, fireplace, and two large sash windows.

The open-plan kitchen/breakfast room is bright, neutral, and styled in a classic country aesthetic. It includes a range of base units, a larder for storage, and charming wooden ceiling battens. Adjacent to the kitchen are a utility room, boot room, and cloakroom.
On the opposite side of the house are four bedrooms and two bathrooms. The principal bedroom includes a dressing room—also suitable as a nursery—and a recently updated en suite with brick tiling and a walk-in shower.

Completing the accommodation is a garden annex, ideal for a growing family or multi-generational living. It comprises a small kitchenette, bathroom, and a mezzanine bedroom.

Outside
The gardens and grounds are a true feature of the home. The property sits on an approximately 0.8-acre plot with far-reaching views of open countryside, offering a genuine sense of tranquillity. The landscaped gardens feature mature trees, flower beds, and a pergola just off the kitchen—perfect for outdoor dining and entertaining. There are also multiple growing areas, including a greenhouse, vegetable patch, and an abundance of fruit trees, such as apple, plum, medlar, and a grapevine.

Two separate shingled driveways provide ample parking for multiple vehicles. At the rear of one driveway is a generous double garage, offering additional storage. To the left of the house and the main driveway is an open-fronted barn, which could be used for further covered parking or flexible use.

Location

The Old School is situated in beautiful South Oxfordshire countryside within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The house sits within 0.8 acres and enjoys a peaceful, rural location. While it’s not a no-through road, it finishes at Mapledurham village which is a quiet and small hamlet.

It is within easy reach of extensive amenities being just 4 miles from Reading Station and its excellent rail connections (London Paddington from 25 minutes) via the Elizabeth Line direct into Paddington, Bond Street and Canary Wharf. Road connections Via the A329(M) spur link (10 miles) there is fast access to the M4 at J10 or via J12 (10 miles).

Caversham (3 miles), Henley and Reading have an excellent range of shopping and recreational facilities. There are also schools of excellent repute in the area including The Height’s Primary school, The Abbey, Shiplake College, Reading Bluecoat, Queen Anne’s Caversham. There is also the Reading Boys and Kendrick Girls Grammar Schools.

Mapledurham has an active local community and a village hall. Both Caversham and Mapledurham golf club are within close proximity with an 18 hole course and spa facilities.

Square Footage: 2,781 sq ft



Directions

From the centre of Henley-on-Thames, take the road past the Town Hall, past Greys Court and through Greys Green. At the T junction at Bolts Cross, turn left onto the B481 to Reading and pass through Peppard Common. Continue on this road, down Peppard Hill, and take the right turn to Kidmore End and Woodcote. At the crossroads proceed straight over and continue through the villages of Rotherfield Peppard and Gallowstree Common. Pass Wyfold Road on the right and continue for approximately half a mile. At the T junction turn left onto the A4074. Proceed on this road for approximately 2 miles and (opposite the Pack Saddle public house on the left) turn right signposted Mapledurham and Goring Heath. Continue straight on Sheepways Lane and after approximately half a mile the property will be found on the right hand side.