Manningford Abbots, Wiltshire

Set within open countryside, in a breathtaking 1 1/2 acre plot, this exceptional detached residence is a once in a generation opportunity to own a piece of Wiltshire’s architectural heritage.

Manningford Abbots is a charming hamlet set in the heart of the Pewsey Vale characterised by rolling countryside and unspoilt downland which is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Welcome to Sundown — a truly extraordinary country home set within the gently rolling landscape of the Pewsey Vale, in the peaceful and sought after village of Manningford Abbots.

Surrounded by open countryside, this individually designed 1920s detached home offers the perfect blend of timeless character, generous proportions, high ceilings, and enchanting gardens — all within a level sunny stunning plot.

From the very first glimpse, Sundown exudes presence. Step inside through the grand front door and you’re greeted by a magnificent entrance hall, where a sweeping galleried staircase rises elegantly. This sets the tone for a home that instantly captivates, offering a sense of nostalgia and charm.

The drawing room is delightfully atmospheric — think roaring fires on winter evenings and deep armchairs under the glow of soft lighting. Its feature 1920s brick fireplace is fully working, beautiful, and a real focal point. This spectacular room has views over the garden and patio doors that lead straight out, perfect on hot summer days.

Double doors lead seamlessly to the south facing garden room, where the past whispers gently through the original Crittall doors (still with their original key) and even a 1920s radiator. This is a great space to enjoy the garden, for children to play, or even as an informal dining room. From here patio doors lead out into the garden and a paved area which is a perfect spot for a barbecue.

This home flows with an ease that suits both family life and grand entertaining. The sitting room, with its wood burning stove and garden views, offers a cosy retreat, while the dining room is perfect for celebratory dinners and lazy Sunday lunches.

The study has a quiet tranquil feel and is next to a well appointed downstairs bathroom with a large walk-in shower, so could easily be used as a bedroom if needed.

Alongside this bathroom is a sunny bedroom. Once two rooms, it has a special feel to it with spectacular views through the wisteria framed windows out to the expansive garden.

The heart of the home is the kitchen/breakfast room — a space made for bustling family mornings and catch ups over coffee. Complete with a range of cabinetry, larder cupboard and an aga, this is the perfect space for those who enjoy cooking and entertaining.

Patio doors lead to the rear of the house where you can find a seating area and lots of pots of flowers – a place to sit on a sunny evening and enjoy an afternoon tea or a glass of wine.

There is a handy utility room with hand built storage and a laundry room with space for washing machine and a freezer, adding further practicality.

Upstairs, the three bedrooms are all set off a wide, gallery landing hall that enhances the feeling of space and light. The principal bedroom is a real showstopper and is dual aspect, with views stretching over the front garden and mature trees beyond, it’s a tranquil retreat at the end of the day.

The remaining upstairs bedrooms are both charming and well proportioned, perfect for children, guests, or dressing room space. The family bathroom features a bath positioned beneath a window framing peaceful countryside views — just imagine sinking in with a book and the sound of birdsong outside. There's also a separate shower cubicle, adding practicality for the family.

Annex possibility - Previous owners of this home used the sitting room, bedroom six, the laundry room (there is plumbing for bathroom facilities) and part of the kitchen (the kitchen was split in two) as a separate annex accommodation – this would be very simple to reinstate for those looking for options for multigenerational living.

Outside, Sundown becomes something truly magical.
The south facing garden has a wonderful, almost secret garden quality which is part-walled, beautifully landscaped, and brimming with mature trees, flowering borders, and peaceful corners. There are a number of fruit trees, a summer house with a store, a shed, and two garages, offering endless potential for hobbies, projects, or simply enjoying the outdoor life.

This garden is made for family celebrations, children’s play, barbecues, or just sipping a drink as the sun sets — quite literally — over Sundown.

Whether you're looking for a forever family home, a retreat from the hustle and bustle, or a truly special property where every detail has a story, (even the original servant’s bell system remains in place which is a delightful reminder of the home's history, though now silent),

Sundown is a rare find. Utterly unique, rich in character and bursting with charm, this is a home that needs to be seen, felt, and experienced.
This home is a storybook classic, waiting for its next chapter to be written.

The Vendors Love - "Thirty one years ago on a beautiful sunny May morning our family of five moved into Sundown.
A riot of bluebells, the house wrapped in wisteria it began to unravel its treasures and delights as we settled in.
A happy family house - Sunny rooms, an Aga warm kitchen, a drawing room that accommodates that extra special large Christmas tree, a cosy snug, lots of places for hide and seek, cricket matches, football games, golf and rounders in the garden. The dogs eating the fallen apples. So many parties- inside and out!
A wedding reception for our daughter but always a quiet spot to reflect on how special this home is.
Sundown isn’t just a house it has become the sixth member of our family, much loved and truly magical!

Favourite Spot…..
When the house is quiet, a seat at the bottom of the stairs for a chat on the phone with the front doors open wide on a lovely day…. The best view ever- maybe even in the rain!"

Kim Loves – "I’m honestly lost for words when it comes to describing what I love most about this incredibly special home. The moment I stepped into the breathtaking entrance hall, I felt it — that unmistakable sense of warmth, light, and deep-rooted love that only comes from a home that’s been truly cherished. It wrapped around me like a hug, and I just knew… this is one of those rare places where memories have been made and where new ones are waiting to unfold."

Area - Manningford Abbots is a truly idyllic village nestled in the heart of the Pewsey Vale, surrounded by sweeping countryside and steeped in rural charm. Life here feels like a peaceful retreat from the rush of the modern world, yet it's still remarkably well connected for commuters and families alike. The village itself is full of character, with pretty period homes, a historic church, a village hall, and a real sense of community spirit.

For those needing to travel, Pewsey Station is just a couple of miles away, offering direct services into London Paddington in around 65 minutes. By road, the A303 is a short drive away, linking easily to the M3 and onward to London, and the M4 can be reached in under 30 minutes, giving plenty of flexibility for travel across the South.

Families are well catered for too with a great mix of both state and independent schooling nearby. Local children often attend Woodborough CE Primary School or one of the many excellent private schools such as St Francis in Pewsey. Older students have access to well-regarded secondary options including some outstanding independent schools such as Marlborough College, Dauntsey’s, St Mary’s Calne, and Farleigh.

The nearby towns of Pewsey, Marlborough, and Devizes offer a wide range of everyday amenities and more. Pewsey has a good selection of shops, a leisure centre and medical services. Marlborough is known for its stylish high street, boutique shopping, cafes, and cultural events, while Devizes offers extensive facilities including supermarkets, gyms, and lovely canal-side walks.

Services - Mains electricity and water. Oil fired central heating. Septic tank drainage - please note, the septic tank is due to be replaced by a Sewerage Treatment Plant under Wiltshire Council's Revamp Your Tank scheme very soon.

Council Tax Band: G | EPC Rating: E

AGENT ID CODE 4111