Dunsbridge Turnpike, Shepreth, Royston, Cambridgeshire, SG8

A Striking Converted Barn with River Grounds, Self-Contained Annexe and Exceptional Outdoor Living

There are some homes that simply refuse to fit the usual mould, and Upaloft is one of them. Tucked away from the road yet wonderfully connected for everyday life, this striking converted barn combines character, contemporary interiors and an exceptional setting, with the River Shep flowing through its grounds.

Approached through a gated entrance and along a sweeping gravel driveway, the property immediately feels private and secluded. A bridge crosses into the main parking area and gardens, creating a rather memorable arrival and setting the tone for what lies beyond.

The principal residence offers approximately 2,692 sq. ft. of versatile accommodation arranged across three floors, with the original character of the barn thoughtfully combined with a contemporary finish. The first floor provides an impressive open-plan kitchen, dining and sitting area, where generous proportions and exposed character create a wonderful space for both everyday living and entertaining. The arrangement is complemented by further bedrooms and bathrooms, together with flexible accommodation that can adapt to the needs of its next owners.

A particularly appealing feature is the recently converted former Mill House, which now provides a self-contained one-bedroom annexe with its own private access. Offering genuine independence, it would be ideal for guests, extended family, older children or those seeking a separate space for work or other lifestyle requirements.

Outside, the grounds are undoubtedly one of Upaloft’s greatest assets. The River Shep runs through the plot, creating a wonderfully tranquil backdrop and giving the gardens a sense of movement and character rarely found in a residential setting. Generous areas of lawn are framed by mature trees, while paved seating areas beside the river provide the perfect places to enjoy the surroundings throughout the seasons.

The grounds also offer an array of additional spaces designed for enjoying life outdoors, including a treehouse accessed via a bridge footpath and a breeze house with electricity and a built-in bar area. Further outbuildings provide useful storage and practical space, while the extensive parking and gated approach add to the property's practicality.

Despite its secluded atmosphere, Upaloft is exceptionally well placed for access to the wider area, situated just off the A10 with convenient connections towards Royston, Cambridge and beyond. It is a home that offers the rare combination of privacy, character and countryside living without sacrificing connectivity.

Unique in both setting and design, Upaloft is a truly individual home offering exceptional flexibility, river frontage and an enviable outdoor lifestyle, all within easy reach of Royston and the surrounding countryside.

Seller Insight
“Upaloft has been our home since 2012. What first attracted us was the riverside location and the beautiful setting. We actually put an offer in before we had even seen the house, which probably says a lot about how much we loved the setting.”

“The property also has a fascinating history. Parts of it date back to the Domesday Book, where the old barn was originally used for sheep and cows. The old water wheel is still here and has become a lovely feature.”

“When we moved in, the house was very run down and needed a lot of work. Over the years, we have completely modernised it, added an extension and created an open plan living space.”

“We were really keen to make the most of the views, so we added large windows and bi-fold doors. It has made such a difference, bringing in lots of natural light and allowing us to enjoy the river and the surrounding countryside from inside the house.”

“My favourite room is the main open plan living space. It's a really sociable area and it has truly been the heart of the home.”

“The garden is very private with bridges over the water and our land stretching towards the woods. We've created an oak outdoor entertaining area, and the grandchildren have a treehouse that they absolutely love. Because we're surrounded by the river and woodland, there's also a huge amount of wildlife. We have cameras which capture the animals visiting, and we've ended up with so many photographs over the years.”

“The old water mill is another special feature of the property, and we've converted part of it into an annex. There's also a flat below the house, which has been incredibly useful when we've had family and friends staying.”

“The house has always been very much about entertaining. We are definitely the party house. We've had some pretty memorable occasions here, including 28 people for Christmas dinner, a mystery party, our son's 30th, another for our daughter's 40th, 60th birthday celebrations and plenty of family parties and bonfire nights. The house and garden have been perfect for that.”

“Despite feeling quite private where we are, we're still really well connected. There are local shops, garden centres, lovely walks and places to grab a coffee or get your hair done. The Green Man pub is within walking distance, and we're also close to the main road links, making it easy to get into Cambridge and London.”

“I think what I'll miss most is the garden and the entertaining space. We've had so many people here and so many occasions over the years, so those are the things I'll probably notice most when we leave. But it feels like the right time for a new chapter. We're staying local, which I think is a testament to how much we love the area - we're just ready for a change.”

Village Information
Surrounded by beautiful open countryside, Shepreth is a peaceful South Cambridgeshire village ideally positioned approximately six miles north of the historic market town of Royston and around nine miles south-west of Cambridge. Its rural setting offers a wonderfully tranquil lifestyle, while excellent transport links place both centres within easy reach.

Despite its modest size, Shepreth has a strong community spirit and a surprising array of local amenities, including two well-regarded pubs, village facilities, a recreation ground and a variety of clubs, organisations and fitness activities. The neighbouring villages of Meldreth and Barrington provide further everyday amenities, including primary schooling and local services, while Royston offers a broader selection of independent shops, cafés, restaurants, leisure facilities, sports clubs, healthcare services and highly regarded schools.

One of the village's best-known attractions is Shepreth Wildlife Park, situated on the southern edge of the village. The park is dedicated to wildlife conservation and provides a fascinating home to a diverse collection of species, from meerkats and lynx to owls and hedgehogs. The village is also home to the historic All Saints Church, a charming 12th-century building which remains in regular use today and forms an important part of village life.

For commuters, Shepreth benefits from its own railway station, with regular services to Cambridge taking approximately 14 minutes and Royston around eight minutes. Services also provide convenient connections towards London King's Cross, while nearby Royston station offers fast direct trains to the capital in as little as 37 minutes.

By road, the A10 provides straightforward access towards Cambridge and Royston, with the A1(M) and M11 both approximately a 20-minute drive away. London Stansted and London Luton Airports can both be reached in around 30 minutes by car.

The university city of Cambridge provides an exceptional choice of independent schools, sixth-form colleges, cultural attractions, restaurants and shopping, while Royston's attractive market-town setting offers many of the amenities required for everyday life.

Combining a picturesque rural setting with excellent transport links, local amenities and easy access to both Cambridge and Royston, Shepreth offers a highly appealing balance of village living and convenience.

Agents Notes
Tenure: Freehold
EPC: E
Local Authority: South Cambridgeshire
Council Tax Band: E


BUYERS INFORMATION
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