Ready Token, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7

An outstanding Cotswold country residence with beautifully designed living spaces, set in fifty-seven acres of landscaped grounds.

Description

Occupying a prominent position within this historic hamlet, Ready Token House is believed to have once served as the hamlet’s coaching inn. Constructed of traditional local limestone beneath a stone-tiled roof, the house is characterised by its handsome stone mullioned windows, generous proportions and beautiful period detailing. Thoughtfully remodelled by the renowned architects Yiangou and complemented by an extensive landscaping programme completed in 2015, the property balances its historic character with refined contemporary design, while remaining true to its architectural heritage. Today, extending to over 6,000 sq ft across three floors and draped in mature wisteria, it stands as one of the area’s most distinguished homes.

The welcoming reception hall flows effortlessly into a trio of reception rooms. They all enjoy south-facing views, with two spacious sitting rooms centred around impressive stone fireplaces, while elegant Crittall doors allow natural light to flow between the spaces. One of the sitting rooms is particularly striking, with elegant blue panelled walls creating an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere. Beyond, the west wing provides an excellent study/ games room with a wood-burning stove, connected to the main house by a bespoke bar area with built-in wine storage.

Occupying the east wing, the kitchen has been designed for everyday life and entertaining. Arranged around a substantial island, sleek black cabinetry is complemented by a range of integrated appliances including a Sub-Zero freezer, Wolf oven and hob, Miele dishwasher and Franke sink with instant hot water tap. Underfloor heating and a wood-burning stove ensure year round comfort, while ample space for dining and direct access to the gardens make this a wonderfully sociable room. Practicality has been considered throughout, with a utility room, two secondary entrance halls providing direct garden access, two cloakrooms, a cellar and a dedicated first-floor laundry room.

Upstairs, the luxurious principal bedroom enjoys exceptional views and comprises a dressing room with bespoke fitted wardrobes, together with a beautifully appointed marble en suite featuring a twin oriental style vanity, bathtub and generous walk-in shower. Three further double bedrooms each benefit from their own en suite bathrooms and far-reaching views, one also featuring a dressing room. The east wing bedroom is accessed via its own staircase while being connected to the remaining accommodation. The second floor provides a fifth double bedroom and an additional beautifully finished bathroom, creating ideal guest accommodation.

Outside: Set within just under sixty acres, the estate enjoys magnificent panoramic views across the surrounding Cotswold countryside towards the North Wessex Downs. A long, winding driveway leads from the principal gated entrance through the grounds before arriving at the house, while a second gated entrance provides convenient access via the stable yard, guest cottage and carriage driveway.

The gardens immediately surrounding the house have been expertly landscaped to create a series of elegant outdoor spaces, combining formal planting with a more natural landscape beyond. Carefully positioned seating areas provide exceptional settings for outdoor dining and entertaining, all enjoying uninterrupted views.

The manicured lawn is framed by meticulously clipped topiary and beautifully stocked beds, while beyond, grassland meadows are dotted with pockets of woodland and lead to a picturesque natural pool, creating a wonderful sense of privacy and tranquillity.

Perfectly positioned to enjoy the outstanding outlook, the heated outdoor swimming pool is accompanied by a particularly elegant and well-equipped pool house with a shower, changing facilities and a plant room. To one side, a productive kitchen garden with raised beds and an elegant glasshouse offers the opportunity for year-round cultivation. To the side, a beautifully converted two-bedroom guest house provides independent accommodation, comprising a fitted kitchen, sitting and dining room and family bathroom.

Complementing the house is an impressive collection of traditional outbuildings including a well house, two open-sided barns, a four-bay carport and an excellent stable yard with three loose boxes, tack room and tool store. Garages positioned at either end provide storage, with one incorporating a first floor offering excellent annexe potential, subject to the necessary consents. The estate is further enhanced by discreet modern security, including CCTV and a comprehensive alarm system, ensuring complete peace of mind whilst enjoying this remarkable Cotswold home.

Location

Ready Token is a peaceful Cotswold hamlet, surrounded by rolling countryside and offering a serene rural setting with scenic views and easy access to nearby walking routes. The hamlet is the site of an ancient crossroads where the Roman Akeman Street met the Welsh Way and is just 2.5 miles from the picturesque village of Bibury, “the most beautiful village in England” (as described by C19th designer William Morris), which supports a parish church, primary school, hotel, pub and a number of shops and cafes.

Nearby Cirencester, often referred to as the ‘Capital of The Cotswolds’, provides excellent boutique shops, restaurants and two supermarkets, including a Waitrose. There are easy links to the M40, via the A40, and to the M4, via the A419. There are also train links from Kemble Station (about 11 miles) to London Paddington in approximately 75 minutes. The area is well-situated for some of the best schools in the country in Cheltenham and Oxfordshire, including Hatherop Castle and the Cheltenham colleges.

Square Footage: 6,138 sq ft


Acreage: 57.43 Acres