Having the living accommodation on the first floor means you’ll be riding high in this characterful 18th century coach house conversion, says LUCY BOON
IN a private setting with glorious views across the River Thames and on into South Oxfordshire, stands an 18th century property that’s seen its fair share of pony nuts.
Believed to date from 1760, the house originally belonged to nearby listed Purley Lodge, as its stabling and coach house.
You’ll be expecting red brick elevations, fireplaces, vaulted ceilings and exposed beams. But what you won’t be expecting is finding the kitchen on the first floor.
“The Coach House is a family home of more than 2,700 sq ft where the owners have chosen to create versatile arrangement to suit their needs,” says Duncan Kent of the Goring branch of Warmingham, which is marketing the property.
“Others may choose to work it differently. Two of the ground floor rooms are currently being used as offices, but there is a significant amount of options, depending on desired set-up.”
Also on the ground floor is a family bathroom, two bedrooms, a WC, and access to the garage. The main entrance to the house is also on this floor, through a particularly impressive hall.
When you reach the upstairs you’ll find the first floor provides the principal living rooms and three bedrooms including a master en suite.
The split-level living room and oak-floored dining room are particular features with their vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and open fireplace.
Off the dining room is the beamed kitchen/breakfast room with adjoining conservatory that has doors opening out to part of the garden. “Because the house is on a slight hill, the coach house was essentially built into the side of the garden,” adds Duncan Kent.
Set in a semi-rural position, the Coach House is as charming on the outside as it is on the inside. As if complementing those views, the secluded gardens are lovely with walled sections, lawns and a terrace ideal for entertaining.
At this time of year, Easter egg hunters will find there are plenty of nooks and crannies for hidden treasures, too (see story on page XXVII).
Approached off a private drive, with the large gravelled forecourt providing ample parking, commuters will find it easy to get to Reading and beyond, either with the M4 or train (and Crossrail, once that opens in Reading).
The house is a mile from Tilehurst station (mainline train to London Paddington) and on the outskirts of the nearby village of Purley, which has amenities such as a post office and shops.
“The Coach House is looking for new owners. Or should that be ‘neigh-bours’?” laughs Duncan. “And we think this wonderful property could be snapped up fast.”
Thanks for the warning, Duncan, we’ll hoof it round there to take a look…
* The Coach House, Purley. Guide price: £875,000. Agent: Warmingham on (01491) 874144. For more information, speak to Duncan Kent.
AT A GLANCE
Bedrooms: five Bathrooms: two Reception rooms: five Other: large hall, downstairs WC, upstairs WC, utility room, garage, drive and parking, large garden Guide price: £895,000 
