Property description

A Truly Unique Detached Four Bed Period Family Home Incorporated from the Architecturally Stunning Spaces of Chapel, Manse and Schoolhouse, with Inspiring Potential to Shape the Property for Business or Family Pursuits

Entry Porch – Chapel – Galleried Double Bedroom – Downstairs Shower Room – Schoolhouse Great Room – Utility – Hallway – Rear Porch – Downstairs WC – Sitting Room – Study – 3 Double Bedrooms – Family Bathroom – Garage – Tool Shed – Log Store – Garden

The Old Manse is a characterful property steeped in history from its stone 1848 Chapel, brimming with period features to the red-brick Schoolhouse addition of 1881. These large open-plan spaces, flooded with light, are surprisingly well combined into a unified whole but could as easily be redefined into work zones, thus inspiring the fulfilment of diverse family dreams of creating a breath-taking modern country home or incorporating a home-based business complimented by the splendour of its sympathetic architecture.

Located in the tiny hamlet of Great Oak, named after the historic-1000-year-old-tree noted on the Black and White Trail for county visitors, the Old Manse basks in panoramic views across the Wye valley to the Black Mountains. It lies a half mile from the thriving village of Eardisley with its shop, Post Office, Primary School and 2 pubs and approximately 7 miles from the market towns of Kington and Hay-On-Wye, internationally famed for its literary Festival. Hereford is a further 30 mins drive from the property.

The Property

Stepping through the original arched double doors into the vestibule of the Chapel Porch, twin gothic arch insert windows and exposed beam pitched roof offer the first tantalising period details that infuse this ecclesiastical building.

Proceeding into the Chapel, reveals an inspiring space of vaulted ceiling, dual aspect tall Gothic arch windows with lovely expansive views, original marble wall tablets, staircase to Galleried Double Bedroom and original wood flooring. Previously utilised as separate Holiday Let accommodation, there is a Kitchenette and Downstairs Shower Room with shower cubicle, WC, basin and heated towel rail; elements that offer practicality to its current incarnation as a Professional Artists’ Studio. This is a malleable space of staggering potential, whether as a base for a business venture, artisan / artist pursuits or just a sumptuous spacious Sitting Room.

Climbing a couple of steps twin double folding doors open into the Schoolhouse’s Great Room. Another expansive and malleable space, flooded with light from triple aspect large windows and exceptional high ceilings. Perhaps offering the potential to lower the ceiling and utilise the vast roof space above; subject to the relevant planning permissions.

Currently to the far end lies the Kitchen, fitted in cream units to one side with solid wood countertops and Belfast sink. There is space for both dishwasher and under-counter fridge, and a second run of green units with space for cooker and hob. Ample room for a dining table divides the space from the cosy sitting area before the large focal Wood burner on stone hearth with wood lintel. 

Off the Kitchen the original school entry with its red floor tiles, has been converted into a Utility, housing the Worcester Heat slave boiler, while fitted units with sink have open shelves above. There is ample room for washing machine, dryer and freezer with an External door leading to the rear garden.

Beyond the Great Room lies the Hallway with original wood flooring, off which lies the Rear Porch with ample storage for the divestment of coats and muddy boots and a Downstairs WC. 

To the far end lies the Sitting Room, a pleasingly bright and airy room with twin original windows and a focal fireplace home to a large Multi-fuel Stove beside an arched alcove with fitted shelves.  

With views into the rear garden, lies a Double Bedroom with bread oven recess feature.  To the front of the Manse, the Study has glorious views from dual aspect windows, an original fireplace with mantelpiece and fitted shelves to the side. 

Upstairs are a front Double Bedroom with lovely views towards the Black Mountains and a loft hatch to access the roof. The second Double Bedroom has original wood flooring and a fitted double wardrobe with cupboards above and an Airing Cupboard housing the hot water tank. 

Between lies the Family Bathroom with full bath, mixer tap with shower attachment, WC and basin complimented by stripped wood flooring and door.

Outside

In the Front garden metal railings enclose flower borders while climbers, roses and pear trees clamber up the stone walls. The Rear garden is also enclosed with the driveway leading to a Garage, while opposite are the Tool Shed and Log Store. This South-facing garden has a flat lawn surrounded by flowerbeds. Beyond the property’s grounds a gated access leads into the Chapel’s graveyard, a charming secluded spot with fruit trees and roses, while the adding footpath winds down to the village. 

Practicalities

Herefordshire Council Tax Band ‘F’
Oil-Fired Central Heating 
Mains Electricity, Water and Private Drainage
Broadband Available

Directions

From Hereford, take the A438 Brecon road, at the Whitecross roundabout take the second exit onto Kings Acre Road and continue straight for 12 miles into the centre of Eardisley village. Turn left onto Woodeaves Road at the Tram Inn. In a half mile the property is to be found on the right at the sign for the Great Oak.

Property Info:

• FLOOR PLAN