St Aldates, Central Oxford, OX1

ACCOMMODATION

A charming Grade II Listed townhouse arranged over four floors, ideally positioned opposite Christ Church and its beautiful meadows in the heart of Oxford. The property has late medieval origins, later redesigned in the early 18th century and carefully restored in 2007 with conservation architect Julian Harrap. The house offers elegant, light-filled accommodation with a wealth of period features including timber framing, bog oak panelling, parquet flooring and a historic spiral staircase. The first floor hosts a striking dining room with large window overlooking Christ Church, alongside a modern Bulthaup kitchen with stainless-steel worktops and oak floorboards. A bright sitting room with fitted bookcase occupies the second floor together with the master bedroom and shower room. The top floor provides two further bedrooms and a bathroom with freestanding cast-iron bath, plus access to refurbished attic storage. Available immediately, unfurnished. EPC Rating: E | Council Tax Band: G

HISTORY

St. Aldates has had many lives since it was built in the 16th century. The house was requisitioned during the Civil War, when it became home to the Royal court’s entourage. But the most notable transformation took place in the early 18th century, when the existing house was remodelled and an external passage that once ran alongside the house was incorporated into the living space. The Georgian building remains intact and preserves many of the original features including original oak panelling, a moulded cornice parapet and a Welsh slate roof. Later in life, in the mid-1950s, the legendary restaurant Elizabeth opened in the house; a unique dining club that hosted many of Oxford’s grandees and famous visitors. In 2007, Julian Harrap oversaw the restoration of St Aldates. It received an Oxford Preservation Trust Award in 2008 in recognition of the quality and merit of his intervention. The comprehensive renovation includes work behind the scenes, such as complete re-plumbing, (truncated)

SITUATION

The property is exceptionally well located. It lies in Oxford’s city centre, yet is on a relatively quiet road, which has been largely pedestrianised except for buses and taxis. With Christ Church College and its famous meadow and the Botanic Gardens in front, the views are exceptional. The River Thames is also a short walk away. Next door to the house on the south side is the famous ‘Alice’s Shop’, which was the real shop that Alice Liddell – she of ‘Alice in wonderland’ fame – would visit as a child and features as The Old Sheep Shop in ‘Alice Through the Looking Glass‘ by Lewis Carroll. On the north side is the Bishops Palace (now the University Catholic chaplaincy), Christ Church School, Pembroke College and the Town Hall. An array of museums, shops, cafes and restaurants are nearby, including four supermarkets and the Westgate Shopping Centre. At the top of the road is the famous Covered Market, which hosts everything from artisan grocers to independent cafes and (truncated)

LOCAL AUTHORITY and SERVICES

Oxford City Council, City Chambers, Queen Street, Oxford OX1 1EN Tel: Oxford City Council tax band F. Gas central heating.

DISCLAIMER

These particulars are a general guide only. They do not form part of any contract. Services, systems and appliances have not been tested.

CONGESTION CHARGE

Please note: Certain areas of Oxford are subject to a congestion charge of £5. Please check the website below before driving to your viewing to confirm whether your journey will cross a charging location. For further details, visit the Oxfordshire County Council website: