The Folly, Cold Ashton, Gloucestershire, SN14

An exceptional family home situated down a long driveway surrounded by 3.7 acres acres of beautiful gardens and wild flower meadows.

Description

Rectory Farm is an exceptional contemporary barn conversion that combines spacious living with modern practicality. It offers views from most windows across its immaculate gardens or into the attractive Mediterranean courtyard. Finished to a high standard throughout, the interiors are defined by generous proportions and an uplifting sense of light and openness.

Upon entering the property, there is a large reception hallway that also serves as a study area. This space features a practical flagstone floor, open views and a corner woodburning stove. It leads into a central hallway that connects the bedrooms and the main living space, while also providing a private seating area overlooking the courtyard. This area is partially enclosed by bookshelves and features hidden double doors opening onto the gardens.

The main living space comprises a sitting room with a vaulted ceiling and an impressive feature fireplace, flowing seamlessly into the kitchen and breakfast room. The kitchen is fitted with high quality units, including a large island, a breakfast bar and direct access to the courtyard. Stairs from the main living area lead to the first floor, where there is a guest bedroom with a walk in wet room and wonderful open views. The ground floor also includes a utility area and a cloakroom.

The bedrooms are accessed from the inner hallway and include a double bedroom and a long single bedroom, both served by a spacious family bath and shower room. The principal suite features a vaulted bedroom, a dressing room and a walk in wet room, with easy access to the courtyard. All bedrooms enjoy pleasant views and offer flexibility in their use.

Throughout the property, the interiors feel bright, airy and meticulously maintained. Each room benefits from the home’s thoughtful orientation and extensive glazing, ensuring a constant connection to the surrounding landscape and the enclosed courtyard at the centre of the layout.

Gardens and Grounds
Privately positioned within just over 3.7 acres, this attractive period property enjoys a wonderfully secluded setting. Approached via a long driveway, the house sits towards the rear of its grounds, providing exceptional peace and privacy.

At the front of the property are two generous paddocks, formerly used for horses and now established as wildflower meadows with mown pathways. These areas are a haven for wildlife, including a nesting pair of owls, and are bordered by stone walls, mature trees and established hedging. Deep hedgerows separate the meadows from the formal gardens, which surround the house and are mainly laid to lawn. Well stocked flower beds provide colour and seasonal interest, while a productive kitchen garden includes raised vegetable beds and a greenhouse.

A wide gravel driveway and turning area offer extensive parking to the front and side of the house. The former stable block has been thoughtfully converted to provide excellent ancillary space, including storage, a home office and a gym, although it could easily be returned to equestrian use if required. A charming timber garden lodge with a woodburning stove creates an inviting space for entertaining or relaxing, while a second, smaller garden room sits in a sunny corner with views back towards the house.

One of the property’s most striking features is the enclosed Mediterranean style courtyard, which is hidden from view and accessed from several points within the home. Complete with an ornate fountain, flagstone flooring and a mature vine, it provides a superb sheltered area with ample space for outdoor dining, a barbecue and even a hot tub.

Location

Cold Ashton offers a quintessential Cotswold setting, blending handsome period architecture with sweeping rural vistas and outstanding access to Bath, Bristol and major transport routes. This highly desirable village sits on the south western edge of the Cotswolds in an elevated position, enjoying far reaching views across St Catherine’s Valley, the Wiltshire Downs, and even towards the Forest of Dean on clear days. Its enviable location between Bath (5 miles) and Bristol (11 miles) makes it perfectly placed for both commuting and leisure.

The village enjoys a warm and welcoming community centred around its well used community hall, offering opportunities to be involved as much or as little as desired, with activities such as concerts, yoga and painting. A network of footpaths, including one with direct access from the property, leads from the village into the surrounding countryside, providing a variety of walking routes through some of the area’s most picturesque landscapes.

For everyday amenities, the neighbouring village of Marshfield (2 miles) provides shops, pubs, clubs and a popular primary school, ensuring convenience without compromising the tranquillity of rural living.

For those needing to travel further afield, M4 Junction 18 is just 3.5 miles to the north, giving rapid access to London, South Wales and the wider motorway network. Chippenham Railway Station (11 miles) offers direct services to London Paddington and the South West, making Cold Ashton an excellent choice for commuters.

The area is well served for schooling, including Marshfield CofE Primary, Swainswick CofE, and independent options such as Kingswood School and The Royal High School on the northern slopes of Bath.

Overall, this delightful village offers the best of both worlds: peace, quiet and idyllic country living combined with exceptional modern day connectivity a rare and compelling combination.

Square Footage: 4,123 sq ft


Acreage: 3.7 Acres

Directions

The property is located up long driveway accessed of the A420 and the house name at the foot of the driveway.

For what3words use refernce ///expectant.hung.lungs

Additional Info

The property is in a conservation area and on a private drainage system.