St. Marys Street, Painswick, Stroud

Steeped in history, The Old Bath House is a charming Grade II listed 3/4 bedroom home that perfectly blends period character with comfortable living.

History Of The Property - Construction began in 1922 and was completed in early 1924, funded by the Frederick Gyde Trustees, who recognised the need for public baths among the less affluent. The agreement was that the Parish Council would take over the building, its associated costs, and the management upon completion.

Architect Sidney Barnsley was appointed to design the new bathhouse including the caretaker’s private accommodation. Eric Gill inscribed the stone over the front door to the house.
A careful L-shaped building was made from Cotswold Limestone, which maintained the layout of the street and provided the building with a service yard at the rear. Windows were carefully placed to ensure sunlight flooded each room.

The Parish Council first appointed Harold Lippett with an annual salary of £15 and free use of the caretaker’s cottage. He was paid an additional £4 per annum to launder the towels.
Lippett opened the Public Baths on 1st February 1924 and continued operating until 1975 under the care of several caretakers over the years.

In 1936, the Public Baths were converted from gas to electricity, and the cottage was converted a few months later.
In 1977, the Parish Council sold the building for £18,250, where it was subsequently converted into a single dwelling in 1978 and has remained in private ownership since.

Description - A welcoming entrance hall with red quarry tiles and a crafted oak staircase and banister showcases the property’s Arts and Crafts craftsmanship and heritage. A large storage room provides excellent practicality.

The living room features original oak floor, dual-aspect mullion windows with iron hardware, and inviting oak window seats overlooking the village and garden, and a Cotswold stone fireplace focal point.
The contemporary kitchen is fitted with ample storage and oak worktops, with a traditional Belfast-style sink bringing the room together.
The sitting/dining room is complete with a gas fire and an oak staircase, which formally would have been used by the public. A door leads to the garden, allowing plenty of natural light to filter through the room.

Upstairs are 3 double bedrooms, a study/bedroom 4, and 2 bathrooms, featuring many original doors with iron fittings. Mullioned windows frame picturesque views across the valley and garden.

Walled Garden - The Old Bath House offers a charming, south-easterly facing walled garden, comprised of stone paving, mature borders, and a pond. Gated side access leads to the parking area.
Perfect for alfresco dining, the garden features neat planters, and a peaceful, low-maintenance setting that complements the home’s period character.