Victoria Spa Lodge, Stratford-upon-Avon, House & Annex

A Distinguished Late Georgian Residence of Rare Character and Versatility – With Private Canal Access and Exceptional Lifestyle or Commercial Potential, Moments from the Heart of Stratford-upon-Avon

Occupying a peaceful position on the edge of Stratford-upon-Avon, this remarkable Georgian residence offers an extraordinary fusion of architectural elegance, historic provenance and modern-day flexibility. Situated along a quiet lane just a short stroll from the town’s renowned theatres, riverside walks, independent boutiques and cafés, the property combines tranquillity with immediate access to the very best the town has to offer. Direct canal frontage and ample private parking further enhance its rare appeal.

Constructed in 1834, the house was the ambitious vision of four enterprising businessmen who sought to establish Bishopton as a spa destination to rival nearby Leamington and Cheltenham. Inspired by the area’s natural mineral springs — locally known as the “proud waters” — they created an elegant residence alongside a separate spa building equipped with pump and purification systems, hoping to attract visitors in search of health, refinement and prestige.

The property’s place in history was firmly secured in 1837, when the young Princess Victoria stayed here on the eve of the spa’s grand opening, just six weeks before her coronation. In recognition of her visit, the owners were granted the rare honour of displaying her personal coat of arms — a distinction that endures as a testament to the home’s unique royal connection.

In the 20th century, the house became home to celebrated cartoonist Bruce Bairnsfather, creator of the iconic First World War character “Old Bill,” whose wry humour provided comfort to soldiers and civilians alike. His cultural legacy remains embedded in British history, further enriching the property’s remarkable story.

Today, the house has been meticulously restored and thoughtfully enhanced to a spacious home. Arranged over several floors, the accommodation includes six generously proportioned en-suite bedrooms, a bespoke dressing room, an impressive entrance hall and a substantial cellar. The interiors honour the building’s heritage through soaring ceilings, elegant sash windows and fine period detailing, seamlessly complemented by high-quality finishes and contemporary comforts.

At its heart lies a magnificent drawing room — a space of refined grandeur ideal for both formal entertaining and relaxed family living. It flows naturally into the stylish kitchen and elegant dining room, achieving a perfect balance between historic splendour and modern functionality.

To the rear, a self-contained one-bedroom annexe with its own private entrance offers exceptional versatility. Whether utilised as guest accommodation, staff quarters, independent living space or an owner’s retreat, it also presents compelling potential as a holiday let, particularly if the main residence were operated as a boutique guest house or bed and breakfast.

Outside, the courtyard garden opens directly onto the canal, providing a peaceful setting for morning coffee or evening relaxation by the water’s edge. The generous and private front garden lends itself beautifully to family life and outdoor entertaining, while the driveway accommodates multiple vehicles — a valuable asset so close to the town centre.

A detached outbuilding sits discreetly at the rear of the plot, benefiting from its own canal-side access. Currently arranged as a utility space, it offers significant scope for creative adaptation — potentially as a charming coffee kiosk or micro-café (subject to the necessary consents), serving the steady flow of walkers, cyclists and boaters who frequent the canal towpath.

This is, in every sense, a rare opportunity to acquire a distinguished piece of Stratford-upon-Avon’s living history — a home of scale, elegance and provenance, offering both refined private living and exciting commercial possibilities.

Whether envisioned as a substantial family residence, a multi-generational home or a distinctive lifestyle enterprise, this exceptional property delivers character, flexibility and heritage in abundance.

The home is currently coded as a guest house so a change of use may be required by potential buyers. The home has an electrical safety certificate, The boiler is 7 years old with a service history, There is a water softener. As the home was a former hotel, there is an element of a "flying freehold". All 6 showers have their own water tanks to ensure strong, independent pressure.