Past and present merge in this atmospheric, Grade II listed former coaching inn, a fine timber-framed property with Tudor origins. Painstakingly restored and sympathetically updated by the current owners, this property has been moulded into a charming family home which seamlessly incorporates the luxuries of modern-day living into the fabric of a fascinating historic building. Now known as Swan House, the former Swan Inn is believed to be the oldest surviving house in the small but popular village of Blakeney. The property dates from the reign of Henry VII in the 16th century, when it is thought to have been built as a magnate's house. Dendrochronology dating indicates it was substantially refurbished in 1628/29, around the time when it is thought to have become a coaching inn. The inn was then extended in the Georgian era, when the front was faced with Blakeney stone. Step inside The long list of the property's wonderful original internal features includes a wealth of exposed timber framing, beamed ceilings, panelling, ancient doors, imposing open fireplaces, lead glazed windows, stone flagged floors, original oak floorboards and a stunning two-flight, newel staircase with an octagonal newel. In the vaulted wine cellar, there are even thought to be the remains of the Saxon Monastery which was previously on the site. Yet whilst this house oozes history from every nook and cranny, it has the contemporary comforts of a bespoke kitchen and luxurious bathrooms with sanitary ware and furniture carefully sourced to complement the property's character. The spacious accommodation, extending to over 5,500 square feet includes four/five bedrooms, three bathrooms and three reception rooms, many of which have unusually high ceilings for a house of the era. With a games room/gym, converted from the garage, plus a first floor drawing room with second kitchen/breakfast room, the property provides plenty of accommodation for extended family. Explore the area: Blakeney is a small, thriving village with a strong community spirit, situated on A48 between Gloucester and Chepstow. With good access to the road network, cities like Gloucester, Cheltenham, Bristol, Newport and Cardiff are all within easy reach. Whilst 16th century Swan House is the oldest in the village, it has several 17th and 18th century buildings and the Church of All Saints dates from the early 18th Century. Village facilities include a Post Office, fish and chip shop, village hall and primary school. Blakeney is situated on the eastern edge of The Forest of Dean, a designated National Forest Park which is both beautiful and atmospheric. Its magical aura has inspired artists and writers including Tolkien and JK Rowling. Its wealth of activities and visitor attractions provides for many a great day out. Outside - OUTSIDE Swan House is set in approximately 3.5 acres of formal gardens and grounds. There's an orchard, a large semi-wild paddock and a separate smallholding. To the side of the house, thoughtfully designed to enhance the setting of this historic property, there's a knot garden with a central water feature. At the back of the house there are attractive terraced courtyards. Alongside the property there's a parking area in front of the former garage. There is also a private driveway and parking at the rear of the property Viewings Please make sure you have viewed all of the marketing material to avoid any unnecessary physical appointments. Pay particular attention to the floorplan, dimensions, video (if there is one) as well as the location marker. In order to offer flexible appointment times, we have a team of dedicated Viewings Specialists who will show you around. Whilst they know as much as possible about each property, in-depth questions may be better directed towards the Sales Team in the office. If you would rather a ‘virtual viewing’ where one of the team shows you the property via a live streaming service, please just let us know. Selling? We offer free Market Appraisals or Sales Advice Meetings without obligation. Find out how our award winning service can help you achieve the best possible result in the sale of your property. Legal You may download, store and use the material for your own personal use and research. You may not republish, retransmit, redistribute or otherwise make the material available to any party or make the same available on any website, online service or bulletin board of your own or of any other party or make the same available in hard copy or in any other media without the website owner's express prior written consent. The website owner's copyright must remain on all reproductions of material taken from this website.
