Bibury, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7

A charming Grade II listed Cotswold stone cottage full of charm and character close to the heart of Bibury, with idyllic countryside views and delightful mature gardens.

Description

On the western edge of one of the Cotswolds’ most picturesque villages, Long Cottage is a beautifully presented Grade II-listed home with a fascinating history. Originally a modest cottage, it was enlarged in 1799 and later combined with the adjoining village shop. Over the years it has served as an alehouse, complete with a rare Georgian beer cellar and well, and subsequently as the village antiques shop. Today, these elements combine to create a charming and deceptively spacious home extending to approximately 1,900 sq ft over three floors.

Rich in character, the cottage retains many period features including exposed beams, stone wall detailing, window seats, fireplaces, Georgian alcove cupboards, and both timber and stone flooring. Thoughtfully updated throughout, the interiors blend modern comfort with timeless country style. A particular highlight is the southerly outlook across a neighbouring orchard and open countryside beyond.

The accommodation begins with an entrance hall leading to a formal dining room, a 22 ft sitting room centred around an inglenook fireplace, and a well-appointed kitchen with an AGA and integrated appliances. Beyond are a utility room, cloakroom and practical pantry with direct garden access. The first floor offers two generous garden-facing bedrooms. The principal suite features an en suite bathroom with a freestanding roll-top bath and generous walk-in wardrobes, while the second bedroom is served by a shower room from the landing. On the second floor, two versatile attic rooms provide flexibility as further bedrooms, home offices, or hobby spaces.
Long Cottage is approached via a private no-through lane close to the village centre, with parking for two cars. Footpaths nearby connect to Ablington and an extensive network of countryside walks throughout the stunning Coln Valley.

Externally, honey-coloured stone elevations are draped in wisteria, complemented by deep herbaceous borders and a sage-green front door. The enclosed rear garden is a private oasis, beautifully planted with climbing plants, herbs, shrubs and colourful borders. Seating areas are thoughtfully arranged throughout, including a pergola-covered terrace ideal for al fresco dining. At its heart lies a tranquil raised pond, rich in wildlife. The garden has featured in Bibury Open Gardens and has been included in the National Garden Scheme for the past two years.

Location

Bibury was once described by Williams Morris as “the most beautiful village in England,” and supports a parish church, primary school, hotel, pub and a number of shops and cafes. Wonderful stone buildings are strung out along the banks of the river Coln, and Arlington Row is so photogenic that it even appears on the inside cover of the British passport.

Nearby Cirencester, often referred to as the ‘Capital of The Cotswolds', provides excellent boutique shops, restaurants and two supermarkets, including a Waitrose. Market Place and the stunning Church of St. John the Baptist in the centre of Cirencester are a driving route of 6.7 miles away.

There are easy links to the M40 via the A40 and to the M4 via the A419. There are also train links from Kemble Station (driving route of 11.9 miles) to London Paddington and Bristol Temple Meads. The area is well-situated for some of the best schools in the country in Cheltenham and Oxfordshire, including Hatherop Castle, Westonbirt School, Beaudesert Park, Powell's Church of England Primary School, and Cheltenham College.

Directions: Leave Cirencester via the B4425 and continue for approximately five miles. Enter Bibury village and after approximately 0.3 miles turn left onto a no-through lane where the property will be seen immediately on the right-hand side.