Compton Dando, Bristol, Somerset, BS39

An idyllically located former rectory, beautifully presented throughout and set within peaceful grounds of over an acre in the popular village of Compton Dando.

Description

The Old Rectory is an exceptional Grade II listed country house dating from 1849 and believed to stand on the site of an earlier dwelling. Constructed of attractive stone beneath a traditional slate roof, the gabled elevations are a fine example of Victorian ecclesiastical architecture, a style much admired and increasingly sought after for distinguished family homes.

Occupying an enviable raised position in the heart of the Village, the house is approached via a long private driveway crossing its own paddock, creating a sense of arrival and seclusion. Nestled amongst mature trees and adjoining the historic church of St Mary’s, the setting is both private and picturesque.

The driveway opens into a gravel forecourt at the front of the house and provides access down to the courtyard and outbuildings. Beautifully tended gardens and grounds envelop the property, offering a peaceful and sheltered environment.

Inside, a welcoming reception hall with an elegant staircase sets the tone, showcasing the refined architectural detailing of the mid nineteenth century. Features include panelled doors, deep architraves, ornate ceiling mouldings and a combination of wooden and sisal flooring. The generously proportioned rooms benefit from high ceilings, large windows (with original shutters) and fireplaces within the principal reception spaces. Both the drawing room and sitting room enjoy French doors opening directly onto the garden, creating an effortless connection between house and grounds.

The breakfast room forms the heart of the home, ideal for family life and casual entertaining, and is served by the adjacent principal kitchen and a separate utility room. For more formal entertaining there is an elegant and spacious dining room. A sizeable downstairs loo with the added benefit of a shower provides further practicality. The cellar offers ample additional storage for wine etc.

On the first floor, the bedrooms are all well-proportioned, beautifully presented and enjoy attractive views across the gardens and surrounding countryside. A family bathroom and an en suite complete the accommodation on this floor.

Gardens and Grounds

The formal gardens surrounding The Old Rectory are a particular highlight, featuring expansive lawns, an ornamental topiary, a sunny terrace ideal for outdoor dining, and immaculately maintained planted borders. To the east, a substantial courtyard provides an excellent range of garaging, storage and ample parking. The paddock to the south enhances both privacy and setting, forming part of the charming approach to the house.

A second drive access approaches the house into the rear courtyard where the garages are to be found, which would be an ideal proposition for conversion, subject to obtaining the necessary consents.

Location

Compton Dando is a charming village located to the east of Bath,ideally positioned almost equidistant between Bath and Bristol. A beautiful blend of architectural styles sits harmoniously within its attractive rural setting. At the heart of the village are the community village hall and the much loved Compton Inn ‘Pub’ and two minutes drive to The Pig nr. Bath.

The nearest railway station is at Keynsham, approximately 3.5 miles to the north, providing regular services to Bath and Bristol, both of which offer mainline connections to London Paddington.

The historic Georgian City of Bath provides an extensive range of shopping, educational and leisure facilities, along with renowned cultural attractions including the Theatre Royal, the Roman Baths, the Thermae Bath Spa and the Pump Room. Sporting and recreational opportunities in the area are excellent, with Bath Rugby at The Rec; racecourses at Bath, Chepstow, Newbury, Cheltenham and Wincanton; a wide choice of golf courses including Bath, Orchardleigh and Wells; fishing on the rivers Avon and Frome; and plentiful walking routes through the surrounding countryside.

Educational provision is particularly strong, with well regarded independent schools including King Edward’s School, Kingswood School and Prior Park College in Bath, Wells Cathedral School and Downside to the south, as well as highly regarded state schools such as Ralph Allen School, Hayesfield and Beechen Cliff.

Square Footage: 4,791 sq ft