Rhode, Bridgwater, TA5 2AD

The Chantry 
 
Extraordinary Grade II Listed Historic Somerset Residence Dating Back To 1316 

Hidden quietly within the beautiful Somerset countryside beneath the rolling backdrop of the 
 Quantock Hills, The Chantry represents an exceptionally rare opportunity to acquire a 
 remarkable piece of English architectural history — a residence whose origins are believed to 
 date back more than seven centuries to 1316. 
 
Rich in provenance and historical significance, The Chantry formed part of the distinguished 
 Halswell and Paulet Estates until the nineteenth century, standing today as an extraordinary 
 example of heritage architecture where centuries of craftsmanship, character and authenticity 
 remain beautifully preserved. 
 
Properties of such historic significance rarely come to market. 
 
At first glance, the home presents with the quiet grandeur one would expect from a residence of 
this calibre, its handsome façade immediately conveying permanence, elegance and timeless 
 English country charm. 
 
Although appearing entirely detached, the property is discreetly connected at the rear to two 
beautifully converted barns, thoughtfully positioned with their own entirely independent access 
and largely concealed from view, ensuring the principal residence retains its sense of privacy and 
independence. 
 
Stepping inside, The Chantry immediately reveals the extraordinary character that only 
centuries-old homes can offer. 
 
Beautifully proportioned reception rooms unfold throughout the ground floor, each rich with 
original architectural detailing and exceptional craftsmanship. 
 
The magnificent drawing room immediately impresses with its striking cross-beamed ceiling, 
elegant open fireplace framed by a beautifully preserved period mantelpiece and graceful arched 
alcoves, creating a room of genuine warmth and quiet sophistication. 
 
Opposite, the principal reception room offers an equally atmospheric setting, centred around an 
exceptional Blue Lias stone inglenook fireplace, exposed original beams and beautifully 
preserved period detailing that quietly reminds visitors of the remarkable history embedded 
within the walls of this extraordinary home. 
 
At the heart of the residence, the beautifully appointed kitchen and breakfast room perfectly 
balances traditional country house living with everyday practicality, centred around a traditional 
AGA that creates a wonderfully inviting family space designed equally for quiet mornings or 
larger gatherings. 
 
A further reception room, currently serving as an intimate sitting room or study, continues the 
home’s extraordinary architectural story, complete with exposed beams, original inglenook 
fireplace and wood-burning stove. 
 
Practical spaces include a traditional dairy, pantry, cloakroom, integrated storage areas and 
extensive attic rooms on the upper floor, offering excellent storage and exciting future potential 
for further accommodation, subject to the necessary consents. 
 
The first floor offers a collection of beautifully proportioned double bedrooms, each retaining 
individual character and period authenticity. 
 
Particularly remarkable is the principal suite, where an extraordinary historic plaster panel dating 
to 1655 remains preserved above the fireplace — a beautiful reminder that generations have 
passed through this remarkable home long before its next custodian arrives. 
 
The accompanying bathroom offers generous proportions while complementing the scale and 
architectural elegance found throughout the residence. 
 
Outside, the gardens are every bit as captivating as the home itself. 
Approached through a traditional timber gate framed by elegant stone pillars crowned with 
sandstone finials, a beautiful winding pathway leads across sweeping lawns towards the house, 
immediately creating a wonderful sense of arrival. 
 
A magnificent south-facing terrace stretches across the front elevation, perfectly positioned for 
outdoor dining, entertaining and quiet enjoyment of the surrounding countryside. 
 
The mature gardens have been carefully cultivated over many years and are enhanced by a 
wonderful collection of specimen planting, most notably a magnificent Copper Beech tree that 
provides striking structure and extraordinary seasonal beauty. 
 
Sheltered seating areas are thoughtfully positioned throughout the grounds, creating peaceful 
private corners from which to enjoy the tranquillity of the surrounding landscape. 
 
To the western side of the residence, a charming rose garden flows naturally towards the rear 
where established stone walls and mature planting create a wonderfully secluded atmosphere. 
 
The secondary entrance, positioned near the garage and private parking area, also incorporates a 
productive kitchen garden — an elegant reminder of traditional country living rarely preserved 
so beautifully today. 
 
Perfectly positioned within Somerset countryside yet exceptionally well connected, The Chantry 
offers immediate access to Taunton, Bridgwater, the M5 corridor and direct rail connections 
to London Paddington, creating the increasingly rare combination of complete rural tranquillity 
and excellent accessibility. 
 
The Chantry is not simply a home. 
 
It is a remarkable piece of English history.  A residence whose story began over seven hundred years ago. 
 
And now awaits its next custodian.