Church End, South Leigh, Witney, Oxford

Positioned on the edge of the hamlet of South Leigh, historic Holyrood House was founded as St James’ College in 1875 before evolving through a variety of uses. In the 1990s, the house was converted into an exclusive collection of private homes. Today, the property offers an exceptional family residence, combining character, with refined contemporary living across three beautifully presented floors.

Refurbished throughout, the property features electric underfloor heating to the sitting room and bathrooms, solar panel technology and a modern alarm system. The heart of the home is a stunning dual-aspect kitchen/breakfast/dining room, beautifully light and finished with polished flooring. It features traditional cabinetry, a central island and integrated Miele appliances, including ovens, an induction hob, dishwasher and wine fridge. An open fireplace complements the dining area, and partially glazed doors open into the striking vaulted sitting room. Here, exposed timbers, characterful glazing and French doors opening on to the terrace, create a superb family space. A log burner provides a cosy central focal point. A study/snug, a utility room and a cloakroom provide additional practicality and flexibility.

On the first floor, the dual-aspect principal bedroom features fitted storage and a stylish en suite bath and shower room, alongside a further double bedroom served by a bathroom. The second floor offers three additional bedrooms and a shower room, creating well-balanced accommodation ideally suited to modern family life. All bedrooms enjoy garden vistas.

The property presents an attractive red-brick façade with clay-hung tile detailing, complemented by a generous block-paved driveway providing ample parking and access to the stone-built double garage. A five-bar gate leads to the rear gardens, a particular highlight of this home.

Beautifully landscaped, the fully enclosed gardens provide a substantial block-paved terrace as a wonderful setting for al fresco dining. Beyond, the lawn is framed by well-stocked borders, where an abundance of mature planting brings colour, texture and seasonal interest. Pathways meander through a series of distinct garden areas, including attractive gravelled seating spaces.

A stylish timber-framed garden studio, extensively glazed to maximise natural light, offers a versatile space for home working or quiet relaxation, with a useful garden store and shed discreetly positioned behind. To the far end, an expansive lawn is interspersed with mature and specimen trees, creating dappled shade and a peaceful retreat within this exceptional outdoor setting.

South Leigh is a small hamlet with a church and village hall situated three miles east of Witney, a thriving market town on the river Windrush on the edge of the Cotswolds. The town centre is well served by a range of shops and services, including Waitrose, Sainsbury’s and Marks and Spencer supermarkets, a variety of pubs and restaurants and a number of educational establishments. The City of Oxford is approximately 13 miles away and has many shops as well as leisure attractions including theatres, cinemas, sporting venues and museums – the village is well placed for Oxford and London with easy access via the A40/M40 and there are good train links from Hanborough and Oxford Parkway. There are frequent local bus services to Oxford. The village is well located for Soho Farmhouse, Estelle Manor and the Cotswolds, with its lovely walking, picturesque countryside and popular pubs.