£1,300,000 /Sale price

Wonderfully characterful and generously proportioned, Craven Lodge is one of the most prestigious homes on the west side of Newbury, with excellent access to the surrounding road network and the many amenities of desirable Speen. The Grade II-listed house dates back to the late 18th century and is a handsome brick construction, with an imposing entrance featuring a reeded architrave and Doric columns. Internally the period character continues with decorative mouldings, period fireplaces, sash windows and exposed beams. Though somewhat dated, the interiors have been well maintained and there is fantastic potential to improve and modernise to suit the tastes of the new owner. The house is set within established mature gardens and further benefits from gated parking and useful storage. The spacious and well-planned interiors have excellent proportions, with bright, sizeable rooms, high ceilings and large windows affording excellent natural light. The layout is perfectly configured for entertaining, with two generous reception rooms at the front of the house perfect for formal entertaining and big family celebrations. At the rear of the house, two less-formal spaces are ideal for relaxing at home, including a lounge with an adjoining WC and a charming and cosy snug warmed by a wood-burning stove. The adjoining kitchen and laundry have plenty of space for appliances though would benefit from modernisation to take full advantage of the space. There are useful cellars on the lower ground floor for storage. On the first floor, the principal bedroom is an excellent size and has an en suite bathroom and built-in storage. There are three further spacious bedrooms, a shower room, a bathroom and a WC, with a further two double bedrooms situated on the second floor.OutsideCraven Lodge is situated on the corner of Speen Lane and Bath Road, the latter providing easy access to both the A34 and the centre of Newbury – a fantastic position for commuting. The house is tucked away behind high walls and mature trees providing a high degree of privacy, with tall gates opening to a sizeable gravel driveway and a detached garage with adjoining storage space. The gardens envelop the house on three sides, with lush green lawns extending to the boundary of trees affording a leafy backdrop. Mature borders around the house and the lawns include shrubs and roses, adding colour and interest.SituationSpeen is situated on the western edge of Newbury, with amenities including pubs, a golf course, a Waitrose supermarket and a leisure centre in the local area. The centre of Newbury is under two miles away and provides a full range of shopping and recreational amenities, including High Street shopping, a David Lloyd gym and a racecourse. Newbury station offers fast commuter services to London Paddington. The A34, M4 and M3 can be easily accessed for travel towards London and its airports or the West Country. Educational needs are well served, with local primary schools in Newbury itself and the neighbouring villages. There are a good range of independent schools nearby, including Bradfield, Elstree, Downe House and the highly regarded state and independent schools in Newbury. The area is popular with outdoor recreation and there are many footpaths and bridleways exploring the beautiful countryside, including the rolling chalk escarpments of the North Wessex Downs and the National Trust land at The Chase. Property Ref Number: HAM-60549Additional InformationMains water, drainage and electricity are supplied to the property. Gas-fired central heating. West Berkshire Council - Band H