7 bedroom semi-detached house for sale

A truly exceptional opportunity to purchase a spacious and characterful Georgian town house situated at the heart of the popular market town of Bishop’s Castle.

Bishop’s Castle is a vibrant market town in beautiful South Shropshire surrounded by some of the most spectacular countryside; a haven for walkers, cyclists and nature lovers. This particularly spacious house is positioned in the centre of the town within walking distance of all amenities including schools, independent shops, bank, pubs and restaurants. Bank House is an impressive home with over 5,000 square feet of living space with versatile accommodation set over three floors plus an extensive cellar space. The house has been completely upgraded and remodelled by the current owner to bring this early Georgian property into the 21st century - while retaining the unique history of the building. Built around 1710 this former merchant’s house has had a long association with banking in the town and provided accommodation for the bank manager’s family until the 1970s. A particular feature of this house is the double staircase which runs the entire height of the house. Fairly early in its life the house was divided into two dwellings but the final traces of the centrally dividing wall were removed as part of the renovation work.

Currently run as a successful B&B the property provides a fabulous opportunity for either family living or for someone looking for a business opportunity combining work with lifestyle. Attention to detail throughout has been second to none with great care taken to preserve the original character of each room in the house.

Entering from the High Street the front door opens into an incredibly grand hallway which provides a flavour of the house beyond. This first space is remarkable with stone flooring, high ceilings and a unique double staircase lit from above.

Doors lead from the hallway into the three main ground floor living spaces: The large sitting room retains the 18th century oak panelling and fireplace with a multifuel Clearview stove. The huge sash window looks east onto the rear garden. The south facing dining room has parquet flooring and a large fireplace with a Morso multi fuel stove. Doors from here lead out to a large terrace overlooking the pretty landscaped garden.

The kitchen is well fitted and vast with the full range of integrated appliances, storage options, granite worktops and a large island workspace. The inglenook fireplace is a stand out feature which includes a further Clearview multi fuel stove. A large south facing window floods this room with light and provides views over the garden. Steps down from the kitchen lead to the utility room (opening onto the parking area and garden) and onward to the boiler room and additional storage.

Doors from the rear of the hallway provide access to the downstairs cloakroom and rear garden and to the cellar (which can also be accessed from the garden).

The first floor of the house has five large bedrooms all with ensuite facilities. Each room is different in style with its own character and quirks. You will find wide Georgian oak floorboards, panelling, sash windows and fireplaces throughout this space but with the benefit of immaculate bathrooms and central heating. The second floor accommodation is utilized as a private apartment for the current owner. This floor is laid out with two ensuite bedrooms, a large sitting/dining room/kitchen and double sized studio space. This arrangement could also provide an option for independent living within a family home. There is a wealth of character to discover on this floor with period beams, a further two wood burning stoves and incredible views across the town and onwards to the Long Mynd. There is access to the attic and the roof from this floor.

Outside, there are two garden areas to enjoy. The garden to the rear of the property includes a terrace and lawn and provides a sunny spot for relaxing. The more formal garden to the side of the house is beautifully paved and planted and includes a selection of mature trees. A shared lane to the side of the house leads to a private driveway with parking for 3-4 vehicles.

Background to the renovation of Bank House

The current owner acquired Bank House at the end of 2013 and spent the following year working with award winning Shropshire architects Greenspace with the aim of creating a comfortable and efficient house within the Georgian space. The aim to preserve the key historical features was achieved alongside a switch from oil to renewable heating. The house was completely rewired and an entirely new plumbing system was installed to create three heating zones. Soundproofing was added between the floors and a partial sprinkler system and fire detection system completed the safety considerations. A new roof was added in 2021 as part of a project which included external redecoration, new guttering, soffits etc.

The business opportunity

Bank House has been trading as a B&B since 2015 and has attracted five star reviews all round. The five ensuite guest rooms can accommodate up to 14 guests and the house is regularly booked by groups taking all of the accommodation either on a self-catering basis or including breakfast. The second floor of the house provides a very spacious two bedroom/ two bathroom apartment for the owner/ manager of the business. Full trading information is available on request. The studio room (also on the second floor) was designed to provide a space for yoga or to use for workshops. This space is currently used by the owner as a home office and craft room.

Buyers Compliance Administration Fee: In accordance with The Money Laundering Regulations 2007, Agents are required to carry out due diligence on all Clients to confirm their identity, including eventual buyers of a property. The Agents use electronic verification system to verify Clients’ identity. This is not a credit check so will have no effect on credit history though may check details you supply against any particulars on any database to which they have access. By placing an offer on a property, you agree that if your offer is accepted, subject to contract, we as Agents for the seller can complete this check for a fee of £75 inc VAT (£62.50 plus VAT) per property transaction, non-refundable under any circumstance. A record of the search will be retained by the Agents.

All material information is readily available from the Agent or via the listing for this property on ( ... ) or OnTheMarket.

Directions
From Ludlow proceed in a northerly direction along the A49 to Craven Arms. Carry on towards Shrewsbury and turn left onto the A489, signed Bishop's Castle. Carry on and turn left when you see the sign B4383 to Bishop's Castle. At the T junction turn left and next right to Bishop's Castle. Follow the road to the bottom of the hill and follow the road up until you will find Bank House on the right hand side.