Castle Combe, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14

Originally forming part of the Castle Combe Estate, Grade II listed Lower Colham Mill is a remarkable property steeped in history dating back to circa 1275. Nestled in about 41 acres of private land it is believed to predate the village itself, making it the oldest house in Castle Combe, often referred to as “the prettiest village in England.” Prior to the current owners, who have lived here since 2013, the house was the summer retreat for John Julius Norwich, the 2nd Viscount Norwich, and his wife. The current owners say, ‘when they were no longer able to make regular visits, the estate purchased it back in around 2009. As far as we know, this will be the first time in more than 100 years it has been seen on the open market.’ In their eyes, Lower Colham Mill has always been the pick of the houses in the village. Uniquely positioned next to the river, it enjoys sun all day long and offers wonderful 360-degree views of the valley and woodland. The house is surrounded by wildlife and nature, with deer often seen in the garden, woodpeckers heard in the trees, owls observed in the evening, and kingfishers and otters spotted fishing in the river. The owners explain that one side of the valley – part of the property – has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) as ‘the best-known example in Wiltshire of a lightly grazed Jurassic Limestone sward with a mosaic of grassland scrub transitions supporting a diverse butterfly population.’ Idyllically set at the end of its own track, this four-bedroom house includes a newly built three-car garage with versatile space above and a self-contained annex. It is conveniently close to Bath, Bristol, the M4, and just an hour’s train journey to London Paddington from Chippenham. ‘The house has that quintessential chocolate-box look coupled with absolute serenity and privacy.’ ‘The garden typifies an English country garden, featuring flat lawned areas, flower beds, a lavender-lined path, and a small orchard with fruit-bearing trees.’ ‘Whether using the all-weather outdoor kitchen and dining area or enjoying camping in the paddock, Lower Colham Mill is an excellent place to host social occasions.’ ‘Favourite rooms include the ensuite bathroom, where one can soak in the roll-top bath while overlooking the mill pond, and the living room with its cosy inglenook log burner.’ ‘We will miss absolutely everything about living here.’ Additional Information: Postcode: SN14 7HZ Local Authority: Wiltshire. Conservation area. Listed: Grade II Council Tax Band: G Services: Mains electricity. 5.4kw solar installation. Air source heat pump. Private water supply. Private drainage. Tenure: Freehold EPC: F Broadband: Please see - checker.ofcom.org.uk/en-gb/broadband-coverage Mobile Phone Coverage: Please see - checker.ofcom.org.uk/en-gb/mobile-coverage Stamp Duty Payable: Please see - gov.uk/stamp-duty-land-tax/residential-property-rates