An Exceptional Six Bedroom Grade II Listed Stone and Thatched Cottage in the Heart of Oakham
A truly enchanting six-bedroom period home, believed to date from the 17th century, combining historic charm with thoughtfully designed contemporary living. With a substantial extension completed in 2005, the property offers versatile accommodation, beautifully landscaped gardens and a private gated driveway with double garage all set within moments of Oakham’s town centre.
The Property
17 Northgate is an exquisite example of a Rutland stone and thatch cottage, showcasing a wealth of original features including exposed beams, quarry-tiled floors, feature fireplaces and elegant proportions throughout. The later brick-built extension has been carefully and sympathetically integrated, enhancing both space and natural light while fully respecting the home’s heritage.
A central entrance hall sets an inviting tone, leading through to two impressive reception rooms within the original part of the house.
To the left, the principal sitting room is a wonderfully bright, dual-aspect space with French doors opening directly onto the garden. Rich in character, it features two fireplaces and a built-in drinks cabinet, alongside exposed beams and a blend of parquet flooring and soft carpeting creating a space that is both refined and deeply comfortable.
Opposite, the dining room is equally charming, enjoying dual aspects, an open fireplace, exposed timber beams and herringbone oak flooring. Bespoke shelving enhances both practicality and presentation, making it ideal for entertaining.
At the heart of the home lies the beautifully appointed kitchen, thoughtfully designed to balance practicality with understated elegance. Fitted with a range of quality cabinetry and generous work surfaces, it provides ample storage and preparation space, complemented by integrated appliances including a Lacanche Range cooker, double drawer dishwasher, fridge and freezer and pantry cupboard. A peninsula island creates a natural gathering point for informal dining and day-to-day living, with French doors leading out onto the garden.
Beyond, the garden room provides a beautifully light and versatile space, with areas for informal dining and relaxation beneath a part-glazed ceiling. Further French doors connect seamlessly to the garden, drawing the outside in.
A discreetly linked hallway leads to two ground floor bedrooms, offering excellent flexibility for multi-generational living, guest accommodation or income potential. Each bedroom benefits from its own en suite shower room and direct garden access, ensuring both privacy and independence.
Further ground floor accommodation includes a thoughtfully designed boot room/study with fitted storage and coat hooks, alongside a well-appointed utility room offering additional storage, sink facilities and laundry space. A separate W.C. completes this level.
The first floor hosts four beautifully presented double bedrooms, each retaining the charm and character synonymous with the property while offering a wonderfully light and welcoming ambience. Generous windows allow natural light to pour in, complementing the soft textures, warm tones and period details that create an inviting, homely feel throughout.
The principal bedroom serves as an elegant and tranquil retreat, featuring extensive built-in storage and a newly fitted en suite shower room with electric mirror, heated towel rail and contemporary fittings.
The remaining three bedrooms each offer individual character, with features including fireplaces, exposed stonework, wooden floorboards and built-in cupboards. These are served by a well-appointed family bathroom, while a generous airing cupboard on the landing provides additional storage.
Ground and Gardens
The gardens at 17 Northgate are a particular highlight; beautifully established and thoughtfully designed to provide year-round interest. The rear garden is a quintessential English country cottage garden, featuring well-maintained lawns centred around a magnificent mature apple tree, deep, colourful planting beds filled with roses, lavender, foxgloves and salvia as well as archways and structured borders creating a sense of journey and enclosure.
A variety of terraces and alfresco dining spaces for entertaining and productive areas including fruit cages, cutting beds and vegetable plots. The overall effect is both picturesque and practical ideal for relaxation, gardening and outdoor entertaining.
To the front, a gravel driveway, bordered by sumptuous planting, offers parking for up to three vehicles and leads to the double garage, complete with power, lighting and sink.
View payable Stamp Duty for this property
From the moment I arrived at 17 Northgate, I was completely bowled over. It is one of those rare homes that effortlessly combines an abundance of period character with wonderfully light and beautifully proportioned living spaces. Every room tells a story, from the exposed beams and fireplaces to the thoughtful extension that blends seamlessly with the original cottage. The gardens are simply magical; a true cottage garden oasis filled with colour, charm and hidden corners to enjoy throughout the seasons. What makes this home even more special is its setting: right in the heart of Oakham, yet once through the gates it feels remarkably peaceful and secluded. It is a truly exceptional property that I feel privileged to bring to the market.
Victoria ShortProperty agent