Datchet Village

Astracot, Horton Road, Datchet, Berkshire
Astracot is a captivating Grade II Listed residence of immense charm and character, occupying a generous plot in the heart of the picturesque Thameside village of Datchet. Beautifully presented throughout, this deceptively spacious home successfully blends period features and historic character with the comfort and convenience of modern living.
The attractive white-rendered elevations, complemented by black-painted window frames and an impressive full-width leaded bay window, create an elegant and distinctive façade. Internally, the property showcases a wealth of original features, including exposed beams and timbers, alongside stylish contemporary finishes.
A particular highlight is the magnificent open-plan kitchen and dining room situated to the rear of the property. This exceptional space features a vaulted, beamed ceiling, skylights, a wood-burning stove, and doors opening directly onto the terrace and gardens, creating a wonderful environment for both family living and entertaining.
The ground floor accommodation comprises a welcoming reception hall with coat storage, leading through to the charming sitting and family room with exposed brick fireplace, wood-burning stove, bespoke display shelving and fitted storage cupboards. The stunning kitchen is fitted with an extensive range of hand-painted cabinetry, granite work surfaces, integrated appliances, a breakfast bar, and a Smeg range cooker. Completing the ground floor is a useful utility room with laundry facilities and a contemporary wet room.
On the first floor, the principal bedroom enjoys a double aspect, vaulted beamed ceiling and a stylish en-suite shower room. There are two further beautifully presented bedrooms together with a luxurious family bathroom featuring twin vanity basins and a traditional freestanding bath.
To the front of the property, a gravel driveway provides off-street parking. Timber gates lead through to the rear gardens, where there is further parking and a substantial outbuilding.
The delightful gardens have been thoughtfully designed in a traditional English country garden style and provide a peaceful and private retreat. A sheltered paved terrace offers an ideal setting for outdoor dining and entertaining, whilst mature lawns are framed by beautifully stocked borders. An elevated terrace sits beneath a magnificent cedar tree adjacent to the vegetable garden and enjoys views towards the village church spire beyond. The gardens are further enhanced by a superb detached studio/home office, offering versatile accommodation suitable for a variety of uses.
Historical Significance
Astracot occupies a site of considerable historical interest. Together with The Dutch House and London Road Cottages, the property shares a rich ownership history dating back centuries. The dwellings now known as The Nook, Lovell Cottage and Astracot (Nos. 17–19 Horton Road) originally formed a single house believed to have been constructed in the early 1500s, almost certainly by Thomas Mathew.
In later years, a terrace of nine small tenements known as Challoner Row was constructed behind Astracot, although these were demolished around 1900 after being deemed unfit for habitation. Historically, the Astracot plot extended northwards to what is now London Road, although subsequent divisions of the land have altered the original layout.
The property remains fondly remembered within the village as the home of Mollie Griggs' renowned Tea Shop. During the 1950s, Mollie Griggs purchased the entire property, including the established tea room business, which had been operating since at least the 1920s. The name "Astracot" was in use by 1935 and held special significance for Mollie and her partner, both former members of the Women's Royal Air Force. The tea rooms became a cherished local institution until Mollie's retirement in 1970.

Location
Astracot enjoys an enviable position in the centre of Datchet, one of Berkshire's most desirable Thameside villages. The village offers a range of everyday amenities, including shops, cafés, restaurants and public houses, whilst the historic town of Windsor provides an extensive selection of shopping, leisure and cultural facilities.
The area is particularly well served by both state and independent schools. Datchet railway station offers direct services to London Waterloo, whilst nearby Slough provides fast connections to London Paddington via the Elizabeth Line.
For commuters, Junction 5 of the M4 is within easy reach, providing convenient access to Heathrow Airport, Central London, the M25 and the wider motorway network.
Additional Information

Tenure: Freehold
Council Tax Band: F
EPC Rating: D