A very rare piece of Oxford architectural history set within about an acre of landscaped gardens.
Entrance hallway
Five reception rooms
Four basement rooms
Six bedrooms
Kitchen
Family bathroom
WC
About one acre in all
Set behind a discreet high walled entrance, The Priory, is believed to be Oxford’s only example of “Strawberry Hill” gothic architecture. The Priory is a stunning Grade II listed Villa approached via a sweeping drive through wooded grounds and a park like setting commanding an elevated position in mature grounds. The property, thought to be built in 1840, characterises many Neo Gothic features such as a crenelated parapet and traceried windows, originally serving as a day and boarding school run by the Ursuline nuns until 1891, when the property became a private residence owned by a Miss Kemp and following its
elaborate existence fell into disrepair.
The current owners purchased the property in the 1990’s and then invested in the restoration of this historic building and managed to save the property through substantial remedial work. The house now requires refurbishment in order to create a 21st century residence of some stature, utilising the historic superstructure. Of particular note and so indicative of a property of this period are significant features which include gothic arched windows, some with shutters, the original open fire places, some with blue Delft tiling, high ceilings and original wooden panelling. Original mullioned fenestration and the frame of a beautiful original iron loggia / canopy hint at the splendour of this wonderful building.
The property is accessed through a high walled gateway and a sweeping tree lined driveway extends majestically to the property and its main entrance doors The 0.93 acre grounds are interspersed with mature specimen trees including a fine and ancient Mulberry and the driveway terminates currently in an extensive parking area. The main garden area is mainly of formal lawn and can also be accessed from several of reception rooms in the main house, principally from the elegant lower ground floor.
The gardens, grounds and house are of great historical interest and offer immense privacy and seclusion and would in themselves make a wonderful undertaking for those with an interest in horticulture.