Impressive Old Rectory with separate cottage and outbuildings set in about 2.24 acres of mature grounds.
The Old Rectory is an impressive brick and knapped flint country house set in the rural village of Garvestone. The property was built in 1846 for the Rev Francis Edward Jackson Valpy and is a particularly fine example of Victorian architecture. Upon entering the double height entrance hall, the accommodation flows across two floors. On the ground floor there are four reception rooms, including a wonderful drawing room with French doors leading out to the garden and enjoying a south-westerly aspect. A spacious dining room with double aspect, provides a fantastic space for entertaining. Both these rooms and the entrance hall have attractive cornicing and original ceiling roses. The Old Rectory offers the now essential study, as well as a library which is currently utilised as a second home office. The current custodians have carried out much work during their ownership including installing a bespoke kitchen/ breakfast room with practical pantry and utility attached. Bespoke double glazing has been fitted to all main windows. The ground floor also has the benefit of a shower room providing a useful degree of flexibility for the rooms in this area. An attractive staircase then leads up to a galleried landing from which the five bedrooms are accessed. This includes the spacious principal bedroom suite with dressing room and newly appointed en suite shower room. A family bathroom, again recently updated, is utilised by the four additional bedrooms. Of particular note in the property is the sizeable basement. This area has been enjoyed as a cinema room with kitchenette and boasts a nuclear war shelter that was installed by a previous owner.
Outside, the Old Rectory has the benefit of a Coach House which has been cleverly converted into separate accommodation. It is currently arranged as a reception/dining room leading through to a fully equipped kitchen with a bedroom and en suite beyond. This space would make an excellent cottage for family members and guests or can also be utilised as a separate home office. An attractive Victorian glasshouse is attached to the cottage and the Coach House has the benefit of a private terrace area.
The gardens and grounds are a particular feature of the Old Rectory. Set within about 2.24 acres of mature shrubs and trees, the property is accessed via an in and out drive leading to a formal turning area in front of the house.
The main lawns are laid to the west of the house with a lovely walled kitchen garden, which has a lean-to green house with apricot and peach trees, a potting shed and polytunnel. There are two orchards with productive fruit trees. There are also two useful outbuildings including a sizeable barn workshop as well as garaging.
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It will be the first time in my career that I'm selling a property with a nuclear war shelter. One hopes it will never be required but it certainly provides a degree of comfort!
Natalie Howlett-ClarkeProperty agent