Clapton Row, Bourton-on-the-Water

Old Cranley Cottage, Clapton Row, Bourton-on-the-Water

A Remarkable Grade II Listed Cottage with Medieval Origins in the Heart of Bourton-on-the-Water

Every now and then a home comes to market that is simply impossible to compare with anything else. Old Cranley Cottage is one such property.

Occupying an enviable position in the very heart of Bourton-on-the-Water, this beautifully restored Grade II Listed Cotswold stone cottage is believed to be one of the village's oldest surviving homes. Rich in history yet sensitively updated for modern living, it offers almost 1,700 sq ft of wonderfully characterful accommodation, a beautifully landscaped south-facing garden, detached garage, workshop and private parking—an extraordinary combination in one of the Cotswolds' most sought-after villages.

An independent heritage assessment has identified compelling evidence that significant elements of the building pre-date the late eighteenth-century, suggesting medieval origins with surviving historic fabric incorporated into the home seen today.

The Property

From the moment you step through the front door, the atmosphere is unmistakable. Exposed Cotswold stone walls, ancient elm beams and handcrafted oak joinery combine to create a home filled with warmth, authenticity and timeless character.

The magnificent sitting room is undoubtedly the heart of the home. Dominated by an impressive inglenook fireplace with bespoke wood-burning stove, this wonderfully cosy room retains an astonishing forty two exposed elm beams, together with an original candle niche dating from a time before electricity illuminated the home. Every corner tells part of the property's remarkable story.

Beautiful bespoke oak cabinetry, solid oak doors, oak skirting boards and carefully selected finishes ensure that every modern addition complements rather than competes with the cottage's historic fabric.

A Kitchen Designed for Modern Living

The generous kitchen enjoys views across the garden and has been thoughtfully designed for everyday family life as well as entertaining.

Quality cabinetry is complemented by integrated Bosch appliances and extensive worktop space, while the adjoining dining area provides a wonderful place to gather with family and friends.

A useful ground floor cloakroom, complete with granite wash basin, completes the downstairs accommodation.

Upstairs

The first floor offers two beautifully proportioned bedrooms together with an elegant Jack & Jill family bathroom finished in natural travertine stone.

The principal bedroom benefits from bespoke fitted oak wardrobes, beautiful solid oak flooring and a feature electric fireplace with remote and colour changing flame options, creating a peaceful retreat.

The second bedroom has been enhanced with a fully sound-insulated floor, making it equally suited as a bedroom, nursery or home office.

The second floor provides an impressive principal guest suite beneath exposed roof timbers. This spacious bedroom is served by its own stylish bathroom with a freestanding bath, accent lighting and  again incorporating natural travertine stone, creating a luxurious private floor ideal for guests or older family members.

Gardens & Outbuildings

Stepping outside, it quickly becomes apparent that the gardens are every bit as special as the house itself.

Designed to enjoy sunshine throughout the day, the beautifully landscaped rear garden combines generous entertaining terraces with immaculately maintained lawns and elegant white planting schemes that provide colour, structure and seasonal interest.

Whether enjoying a quiet morning coffee or entertaining guests on a summer evening, this wonderfully private garden provides a peaceful sanctuary just moments from Bourton's bustling High Street.

The attached garage and separate workshop have both been fully insulated, including floors, walls and ceilings, opening up excellent potential for a home office, studio, gym or hobby space. The garage itself is large enough to continue accommodating a vehicle whilst incorporating a dedicated workspace with French doors opening directly onto the garden.

The water feature runs day and night, providing a relaxing, running water sound. Additional enclosed storage areas and a substantial wood store further enhance the practicality of this exceptional home.

A Home Rich in History

Old Cranley Cottage is far more than simply a beautiful period home.

Amongst the discoveries were reused pit-sawn timbers displaying historic smoke blackening, evidence of an earlier roof structure, a rare salt-drying niche and construction techniques consistent with a medieval hall house. The report concludes that the property may incorporate surviving fabric from one of Bourton-on-the-Water's earliest buildings and notes that it helps define the extent of the village's medieval settlement.

For buyers who appreciate architectural history, homes offering this level of provenance are exceptionally rare.

Life in Bourton-on-the-Water

Often referred to as the "Venice of the Cotswolds," Bourton-on-the-Water is internationally recognised as one of England's most picturesque villages. Gentle stone bridges cross the River Windrush as it meanders through the centre of the village, creating one of the country's most iconic settings.

Despite its popularity with visitors, Bourton remains a thriving community with an excellent range of independent shops, cafés, traditional pubs, award-winning restaurants, artisan bakeries, delicatessens and everyday amenities. Attractions including Birdland Park & Gardens, The Model Village and numerous walking routes make the village a wonderful place to live throughout the year.

Old Cranley Cottage occupies an enviable central position tucked just away from the busiest tourist routes, allowing owners to enjoy all the benefits of village life whilst returning home to a peaceful and private setting.

Schools

Bourton-on-the-Water is well served by highly regarded local schools including Bourton-on-the-Water Primary School and The Cotswold School, widely recognised as one of the region's leading comprehensive schools. Families also benefit from access to an excellent choice of independent schools including Hatherop Castle School, Beaudesert Park School, Cheltenham College and Cheltenham Ladies' College. The area also offers access to outstanding grammar schools including Pate's Grammar School in Cheltenham together with Sir Thomas Rich's School, Denmark Road High School, Ribston Hall High School in Gloucester, and Stroud High School and Marling School.

Commuting

Despite its idyllic rural setting, Bourton-on-the-Water enjoys excellent connectivity.

Cheltenham is approximately 16 miles away, Cirencester around 18 miles, Stow-on-the-Wold just 4 miles, while Kingham and Moreton-in-Marsh railway stations provide direct services to London Paddington. The A40, A429 and M5 are all within easy reach, making commuting across the Cotswolds, Oxfordshire and the South West straightforward.

The EweMove Summary

Old Cranley Cottage represents an exceptionally rare opportunity to acquire one of Bourton-on-the-Water's most historically significant homes. Beautifully restored, thoughtfully modernised and set within stunning landscaped gardens, it combines medieval character with contemporary comfort in a way few properties ever achieve.

Whether you're searching for a unique full-time residence, an idyllic Cotswold retreat or a home with genuine architectural significance, Old Cranley Cottage is quite simply unlike anything else on the market.