Formerly the village blacksmith’s forge, the property dates back to the 17th century and is Grade II listed, with ample charm. Though much of its period character remains, the owners have updated the house sympathetically and internally it is beautifully appointed in an elegant, timeless style which reflects the country setting of the village. The kitchen, in particular, is very charming, with French Grey cabinetry, wood work surfaces and a deep Belfast sink. It is a spacious room, with space for a dining table for convivial meals with family and friends, and space for laundry machines and storage in a separate utility room. There are two ground floor reception rooms, each with their own unique character: a spacious sitting room warmed by a stove, with windows over the front and rear, and a smaller and wonderfully cosy snug, which would equally make a lovely study or playroom. Upstairs there is a further reception room which leads through to the principal bedroom, the latter with its dressing area and en suite bathroom, creating a lovely and very private suite of rooms. There are a further three bedrooms and a shower room on the first floor, and a final fifth bedroom on the second floor.

Outside

The Old Forge has a prime position within the village, on the corner of two pretty streets within a short distance of the village centre. Parking is available directly outside on Church Street and there is the added benefit of an attached garage with access through the utility room. To the front of the house there is a pretty garden, enclosed by a low stone wall, while to the rear a lovely south west-facing garden feels wonderfully private, tucked into the L-shaped design of the house. It is mostly laid to lawn and bordered by well-stocked flowerbeds of herbaceous shrubs, providing year-round interest. A paved terrace is accessible from the kitchen.

Situation

Bampton is a large and thriving settlement, described as both a town and a village, which has served as the fictional village of Downton in the global sensation show ‘Downton Abbey’ in its television series and feature films. The picturesque village is known for its historic stone buildings and Grade I-listed church. Amenities include two pubs, two coffee shops, a Co-op village store, butcher, library, primary school, GP surgery, pharmacist and post office with further amenities and pubs accessible in the neighbouring villages of Clanfield, Filkins and Alvescot. There are day-to-day amenities in nearby Faringdon, Burford and Witney, such as high street shopping, independent stores and secondary schools. Oxford is under 20 miles away and has more comprehensive recreational, shopping and cultural facilities. Schooling is well catered for including the local primary school and several other primary schools in the surrounding villages. Private schools in the area include St Hugh’s, Cokethorpe and the Abingdon Schools with Oxford providing many others. Soho Farmhouse, Daylesford, Estelle Manor, The Farmer’s Dog pub and Clarkson’s Farm are nearby.

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