The Street, Farmborough, BA2

Full Description

Dating back to circa 1747, Oakhill Cottage is a beautifully restored and thoughtfully modernised period home set within approximately a third of an acre, positioned on one of Farmborough’s most attractive historic streets. Originally owned by the prominent Popham family until 1911, and later forming part of the Oakhill Brewery estate until 1952, the property combines rich heritage with carefully considered modern living. Constructed from locally sourced white lias limestone with refined Bath stone ashlar detailing, the property showcases the enduring craftsmanship of the Georgian period. The exterior has been recently and expertly repointed using traditional lime mortar, enhancing both the aesthetic integrity and long-term durability of the building while remaining faithful to its heritage. The solid construction typical of the period is evident throughout, with thick external and internal stone walls contributing to both the character and sense of permanence, while windows are set deep within the structure and finished internally with tiled sills. A newly installed composite front door in Chartwell Green provides a tasteful and sympathetic modern addition to the façade. In 2021, the property underwent a comprehensive and carefully considered refurbishment, seamlessly blending period character with modern performance. This included the installation of bespoke double-glazed sash windows, full internal insulation, new electrics, updated heating systems, and complete replastering throughout. The ground floor is finished with elegant solid limestone flooring and has been thoughtfully opened to create a flowing, door-free layout that enhances light, space, and connectivity between the living areas. At the heart of the home is a handcrafted solid wood kitchen, centred around a 110cm electric Rangemaster cooker and complemented by a dedicated pantry, making it ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. The living and dining areas are anchored by impressive Bath stone ashlar fireplaces, each enhanced with hand-cut Welsh oak mantels, adding warmth and craftsmanship to the space. The living room further benefits from a wood-burning stove fitted with a steel liner, creating a cosy focal point, while both rooms also feature bespoke alcove shelving in matching Welsh oak, reinforcing the cohesive, high-quality finish throughout. The kitchen connects to a dedicated boiler room housing an efficient biomass wood pellet heating system, while a lean-to conservatory to the rear is currently utilised as a practical utility space. Upstairs, the property continues to impress with two generously sized double bedrooms and a third smaller bedroom, ideal as a nursery, guest room or home office. The second bedroom further benefits from a useful walk-in wardrobe or toy cupboard, adding valuable storage and flexibility for family living. All rooms are finished with neutral carpeting and energy-efficient LED lighting, creating a clean and versatile backdrop for a range of interior styles. The two principal bedrooms retain original Bath stone fireplaces, also finished with hand-cut Welsh oak mantels, while the main bedroom is further distinguished by an exposed white lias limestone chimney breast, finished with traditional lime pointing — a striking and authentic feature. A spacious landing enhances the sense of light and proportion, leading to a beautifully appointed family bathroom. Styled in keeping with the period of the home, the bathroom features a freestanding bath, traditional suite including toilet and sink, and a large custom-built shower. High-quality chrome and steel fittings from Crosswater, including freestanding taps and shower fixtures, complete the space, creating a refined and timeless balance of period charm and modern luxury. The loft space has also been well insulated, further contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the home. Externally, the property is exceptional. The gardens wrap around the front, side and rear of the house, extending to approximately a third of an acre and offering a rare combination of structure, usability and natural beauty. To the front, a recently installed 9m x 3m elevated Indian sandstone terrace provides an ideal setting for outdoor dining and entertaining. The property benefits from a desirable south-facing orientation, with the front patio and garden acting as a true sun trap throughout the day, enhancing its appeal for both relaxation and social gatherings. The front lawn is framed by David Austin roses, adding colour and character. The side garden offers a more tranquil space, with a pond, established flower beds and additional lawn. The side and rear boundaries have been replanted with native hawthorn hedging in 2021, creating a natural, wildlife-friendly environment while also providing privacy and a sense of enclosure. The rear garden has been thoughtfully arranged into a series of terraced areas, creating distinct zones for both productivity and relaxation. A well-maintained vegetable garden with raised hardwood sleeper beds sits alongside a gravelled seating area, ideal for social gatherings. Beyond this, a small orchard includes two plum trees, two apple trees and two pear trees, leading into a wildflower meadow that enhances the sense of space and connection to nature. A particularly attractive addition to the garden is a recently constructed A-frame garden office (approximately 4m x 4m), complete with electrics, heating and high levels of insulation. Finished in green box profile sheeting and complemented by an external decking area, the space provides an ideal environment for home working or creative use, with double doors opening directly onto the garden. Further benefits include an efficient biomass heating system, as well as a recently installed solar energy system (2024), comprising 3.6kW of solar panels and 5kW of battery storage. The system is fully owned (not leased), offering both environmental benefits and long-term energy cost savings. Modern smart home features include Nest smoke alarms throughout and external Nest CCTV, providing additional comfort and peace of mind. Oakhill Cottage is situated along a particularly attractive historic street, characterised by a gentle brook and a collection of similar period cottages, creating a quintessential village setting. Parking is available on-street, in an area that has been used by residents for over a century. In addition to the existing grounds, there is further potential available by separate negotiation with a neighbouring landowner. This includes an area of land currently leased to the rear of the property (circa £100 per annum), presently used as an extensive vegetable garden, with the option to purchase subject to agreement. There is also the possibility of securing rear vehicular access, also by separate negotiation with the neighbouring landowner. Historically, the property formed part of a larger L-shaped residence under the ownership of the Popham family. Following its acquisition by the Oakhill Brewery Company, the building was subdivided into a number of workers’ cottages, before being partially reduced in the mid-20th century and later reconfigured into the single dwelling seen today. Historic photographs illustrating the original footprint and scale of the property are available. A Lawful Development Certificate could be applied for in respect of a side extension, designed to significantly increase the overall footprint of the property while remaining sympathetic to its character and informed by its historic scale. The proposed extension is intended to be constructed using matching materials and design principles to the existing house and would still remain smaller than the property’s historic footprint. The existence of historic photographic evidence of the original footprint may offer further scope for future extensions, subject to the necessary planning consents, potentially allowing for a partial restoration of the property’s original scale and presence. Farmborough itself is a highly desirable Somerset village, surrounded by open countryside and offering an excellent balance of rural charm and everyday convenience. The village benefits from a well-regarded primary school, local shop, and traditional pubs, all contributing to a strong sense of community. There are numerous walks and outdoor pursuits directly from the doorstep, with the surrounding landscape providing a picturesque and peaceful setting. The area is also well known for its excellent food scene, with a number of highly regarded pubs and restaurants nearby, including The Pig near Bath, The Wheatsheaf at Combe Hay and The Pony Chew Valley, all offering high-quality dining within a short drive. Despite its rural feel, the property is exceptionally well connected, with the city of Bath approximately 10–15 minutes’ drive away and Bristol within easy reach, making it an ideal location for commuters seeking a quieter lifestyle without compromising accessibility. Oakhill Cottage offers a rare opportunity to acquire a home of character, scale and future potential in a highly desirable village setting.