Country living in the City
One of only two thatched properties remaining within Winchester city boundaries this beautiful example of a 16th century cottage lies conveniently close to shops and amenities on the north western fringes and is concealed within very special gardens of almost half an acre. Pond Cottage has been much altered over the centuries but has retained lovely mellow brickwork, now partly clothed in wisteria, and benefits from a recently thatched roof.
The interior, unusual for a thatched cottage, is light and airy with good ceiling heights but also with a wealth of character created by vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, fireplaces and a superb fully vaulted drawing room with a mezzanine study.
An impressive studded and panelled oak front door opens to the entrance hall which is double height in part and with a solid oak floor.
The lovely beamed sitting room has a brick lined fireplace, former bread oven and a window seat with a southerly aspect. The kitchen is fitted with hand crafted oak cabinets with polished granite work surfaces with limestone flooring extending through to a large utility area, dining space and French doors to both front and rear.
There is also a spacious formal dining room with a fireplace and this leads through, via a lobby area to the superb drawing rom which was added in the 1980s. A balustraded mezzanine study area overlooks the room where one wall is completely lined with book cases and there is a feature brick chimney breast extending up over both levels.
Promoted stories
On the first floor are two superb double bedrooms with vaulted ceilings displaying structural timbers and each with excellent fitted wardrobes. Two further bedrooms lie close to the bathroom and separate shower room, both recently upgraded with quality fittings, attractive tiling, heated towel rails and downlighters.
The gardens provide a magical backdrop and amenity, being partly walled and very private. With a variety of mature trees and shrubs, the garden is divided into various distinctive areas where lawns, paved terraces, colourful flower borders, fruit trees, clipped hedging and a raised vegetable garden all make an appearance.
Pond Cottage is approached through a five bar gate and there is parking for several cars in addition to the double garage which is smothered in Virginia Creeper, at its glorious best this time of year.
Jackson-Stops & Staff in Winchester quotes a price of £1,450,000 and welcomes enquiries on 01962 844299.