Bridge Street, Hungerford, Berkshire, RG17

A 7 bedroomed town house suitable for a multi-generational family, situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with a variety of both residential and commercial letting potential.

The Property:
13 Bridge Street is Grade II listed with origins going back to the 13th Century. According to the Hungerford Virtual Museum, (13 Bridge Street) the site became a tavern called the King's Head in 1557, though this was destroyed by fire in c 1609, after which it amalgamated with 12 Bridge Street and carried on trading. It was rebuilt in c1705 along with No 12. It became the wharfinger's house when the Kennet & Avon canal opened in 1798. This very interesting property has retained a number of attractive original features and offers plenty of character throughout.

The very attractive front elevation on Bridge Street is mentioned, together with no. 12, by Nikolaus Pevsner, the architectural historian in his 1936 book Pioneers of the Modern Movement an important point of reference in the teaching of the history of modern (building) design.

The original front entrance is off Bridge Street and the front facing room is now used as a reception room, or, subject to planning, could be utilised for commercial letting purposes, as a shop or office. This was its use until the present owner retired from business in 2022 and closed her office. The use was then returned to a residential one.

Commoners’ Rights:
Attached to the property are desirable Commoners’ rights which are granted to a limited number of houses in Hungerford. These rights date back to about 1255 and include three days per week fishing on the Rivers Kennet and Dun, arguably one of the best trout streams in the South of England. The desirable grazing rights allow the keeping of at least two cattle on the Common which, when used in conjunction with the Hungerford Graziers’ Association, may provide a profit and an opportunity to buy some excellent beef.

Five Constables of the Town and Manor of Hungerford have lived in the property in previous years. More information can be found on the website of the Town and Manor of Hungerford.

Outside:
South-facing walled garden well maintained with flower beds, two lawns, summer house, greenhouse, fish pond, raised beds, various wooden sheds. Area at the rear for compost compartments. Area with table and chairs and a fire pit area with seating. There is a small south facing courtyard garden with views over Canal Walk, the Kennet and Avon canal, and the canal bridge. There is parking for 4 cars but, subject to planning, the side garden, currently raised beds, would provide further space for parking/a garage or other vehicle storage.

Services: All mains services including gas central heating. (2 boilers and 2 gas supplies)

Local Authority: West Berkshire Council

Council Tax: Band G