Free Street, Bishops Waltham, SO32

INTRODUCTION

Lithend is an exceptional Georgian country house, occupying a remarkable position where historic grandeur, generous proportions and a wonderful sense of privacy meet within a short walk of Bishop’s Waltham town centre. Grade II listed and dating principally from the 18th century, the house is a significant part of the town’s architectural heritage, yet the current owners have carefully and extensively renovated the property over the past eight years, creating a home that feels both beautifully preserved and wonderfully livable.

From its elegant proportions and characterful detailing to the exceptional breadth of accommodation, Lithend offers something increasingly rare: the opportunity to live within a genuinely historic house without compromising on the flexibility demanded by modern life.

Whether imagined as an impressive family home, a place for entertaining, a multigenerational retreat or simply a wonderfully private country residence, the possibilities are extensive. The main house provides five bedrooms arranged over three floors, while the exceptional self-contained annexe introduces an entirely separate dimension of space, ideal for guests, extended family, working from home or pursuing individual interests.

This is a home that deserves to be experienced rather than simply described.

LOCATION

Lithend enjoys one of the most appealing combinations Bishop’s Waltham has to offer, the atmosphere and privacy of a substantial village residence, while remaining just a short stroll from the heart of the town.

Bishop’s Waltham is a thriving Hampshire market town, with an excellent selection of independent shops, cafés, restaurants, pubs and everyday amenities, while the surrounding Meon Valley provides an abundance of countryside and opportunities for walking, cycling and exploring.

Beyond the town, the landscape quickly opens into the beautiful countryside of the South Downs, giving Lithend an enviable connection to the natural environment. It is a setting that allows a morning coffee in the garden, an afternoon walk across open countryside and an evening in the town to feel equally effortless.

For those needing to travel further afield, the property is also well placed for Winchester, Southampton and the south coast, with the wider motorway and rail networks accessible from the area.

INSIDE

The interiors of Lithend are defined by scale, character and an extraordinary degree of versatility.

Approached through one of three entrances, the principal reception spaces immediately establish the character of the house. The drawing room is particularly evocative, with its high ceiling, fireplace, piano and beautiful timber staircase creating an atmosphere that feels wonderfully connected to the property's past. The architecture is not merely decorative; it gives the house a sense of occasion and permanence that is difficult to replicate in a modern property.

The current owners have undertaken an extensive programe of renovation, introducing beautifully considered décor and fittings while remaining sympathetic to the character of the building. The result is an elegant balance between period architecture and comfortable contemporary living.

The accommodation is exceptionally flexible. Alongside the principal reception rooms are dining and family spaces, a well-appointed kitchen, utility facilities and further practical accommodation. Upstairs, five bedrooms are arranged over two floors, providing plenty of room for family and guests, while the basement offers additional storage and scope for alternative use.

The exceptional annexe has operated as a successful Airbnb for the past five years, offering earnings potential of £20,000–£30,000 per annum. Arranged over two floors, it offers multiple bedrooms, shower rooms, office space, studio accommodation, storage and versatile living areas. Far more than a conventional annexe, it provides excellent flexibility for extended family, guests, business use, hobbies or creative pursuits.

OUTSIDE

The grounds are perhaps where Lithend's lifestyle offering becomes most apparent.

Approached via a sweeping driveway, the house sits within mature and beautifully established gardens, with a recently renovated electric gate providing security and privacy. There is generous parking for six or more vehicles beneath and around the characterful carport, making the property particularly well suited to entertaining.

The gardens have the maturity and romance that only comes with time. Herbaceous borders, rose beds, established shrubs and fruit trees create a succession of color and interest, while raised vegetable beds, a potting shed and a new Alton greenhouse will appeal to those who enjoy gardening and growing.

At the far end of the garden, a charming wooden gazebo provides an idyllic covered seating area, surrounded by herb beds and positioned to enjoy a wonderful outlook back across the grounds. It is an inviting place for summer lunches, quiet morning coffees or simply enjoying the garden long after the evening has cooled.

Lithend is ultimately much more than a substantial period house. It is a lifestyle, a rare opportunity to become the custodian of an important piece of Bishop’s Waltham’s history, whilst enjoying beautifully considered accommodation, remarkable flexibility, mature private grounds and the extraordinary convenience of town and countryside being quite literally on the doorstep.

SERVICES:

Gas, water, electricity and mains drainage are connected. Please note that none of the services or appliances have been tested by White & Guard.

Broadband: Full Fibre Broadband Up to 115 Mbps upload speed Up to 1600 Mbps download speed. This is based on information provided by Openreach.

Disclaimer

Buyers: If you have an offer accepted on a property through White & Guard, under Anti Money Laundering Regulations (2017) we are required by law to conduct Anti Money Laundering Checks. There is a charge of £40 + VAT for these checks per applicant. Sellers: Upon receipt of instructions to act in the selling of your home, under Anti Money Laundering Regulations (2017) we are required by law to conduct Anti Money Laundering Checks. There is a charge of £40 + VAT per owner