Fieldgrove Lane, Bristol, BS30

History Fieldgrove House is an unspoilt gem, nestled in a secluded part of South Gloucestershire, between Bath and Bristol. The house is constructed of tenant stone rubble under a hipped modern tile roof with stone coping, quoins and freestone dressings. The magnificent facade was added in the eighteenth century, creating a Georgian appearance with a symmetrical three-storey front, complemented by a central portico with four Tuscan columns. The house has a fascinating provenance and is believed to have been a hunting lodge in Saxon times before undergoing several additions and extensions over the intervening period. In the 16th century Sir John Harrington, a godson of Queen Elizabeth I, is recorded to have lived at Fieldgrove House, where he entertained the monarch. He and his brother Francis, of Kelston Towers, were the original inventors of the flushing toilet, which they designed in the cellars beneath the house. Fieldgrove was also occupied by the Fry family who built their chocolate factory beside the nearby River Avon. Today The house has been improved and modernised to create superb modern-day family living, whilst retaining much of the Georgian detailing, which includes ornate cornicing, working fireplaces and window shutters. The house balances both elegant formal rooms and flexible family accommodation. Of particular note are the well-appointed reception rooms and the kitchen/breakfast room, with its vaulted ceiling and views over the rear courtyard. Whilst substantial in many ways, the house is easily maintained and the modern, efficient services ensure reasonable running costs for a property of this size and calibre. The house is very secure with state-of-the-art protection and independent power and sewage systems installed. Gardens and Grounds A long gravel drive sweeps around the lake to the front of the house, creating a fabulous sense of arrival, this continues to a large area of parking at the side of the house. There is also a second entrance gate providing discrete access for the cottage and deliveries. Fieldgrove is a magnificent family home, ideal for entertaining and the gardens complement the house perfectly. The balance of landscaped gardens, ponds, a lake, stream, paddocks and pasture, has created a wildlife haven, with diverse ecosystems enhancing the sense of rural living, despite being so close to Bath and Bristol. The south-facing elevations of the house are surrounded by areas of terrace with a hot tub and plenty of space for alfresco dining. The extensive lake, home to swans and a variety of other waterfowl, features bathing jetties, a sandy beach, a boat dock and two islands. To the east of the lake, is the stream with extensive wetland area and a small paddock (a larger field, extending to about 10 acres is available by separate negotiation). Two large stone barns provide plenty of stores and additional garaging to support the running and maintenance of the house. Location Fieldgrove House is situated in a very private and peaceful setting at the end of a quiet country lane, on the edge of the village of Bitton. Its proximity to the cities of Bath and Bristol (each approximately 7 miles) makes it an ideal location. Culture/Amenities The City of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers first-class shopping and cultural attractions including The Roman Baths, Holburne Museum and Royal Crescent. The area offers an excellent range of sporting and recreational opportunities; golf, cricket, rugby, motor racing, flying and hunting are all within a short drive of Bitton. Connectivity There is good access to the national motorway network with the M4 and M5 within a short drive. Rail services from Bath Spa to London Paddington take approximately 90 minutes. There are also the nearby stations of Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway. Bristol International Airport is approximately 15 miles away offering extensive national and international connectivity. Education The area is renowned for the quality of its private and public schooling. Prior Park, Stonar, Monkton Combe, King Edwards, The Royal High and Kingswood are all within easy reach. Slightly further afield are Badminton, Downside, Cheltenham, Marlborough, Millfield and St Marys Calne. The University of Bath is ranked eighth in the country by the Sunday Times. Tenure: Freehold Council Tax Band: G South Gloucestershire