Magnificent residence showcasing horticultural and architectural elegance up for sale, situated close to Banbury.
Gather 'Round, Garden Enthusiasts!
It's that time again to marvel at breathtaking abodes nestled amidst lush green oases. As the RHS Chelsea Flower Show swings into action, we're delving into properties boasting gardens that'll make your heart skip a beat.
First on the list is Friars Well, a Grade II-listed gem hidden in Aynho, Oxfordshire. Presented to you by Mark Smith of Strutt & Parker's Banbury office, this nine-bedroom masterpiece stands proud in 171⁄4 acres of Capability Brown-inspired parkland, once part of the grand Aynhoe Park estate.
Built by the Cartwrights in 1763, this substantial stone mansion, originally known as Aynhoe Park Cottage, underwent a series of transformations over the years. In the 1950s, it was rebranded Friars Well, following the discovery of a naturalspring on the premises. Around the same time, the celebrated Classical architect Raymond Erith was commissioned by the Cartwrights to remodel the property. He breathed new life into Friars Well, amplifying its Georgian allure, rearranging the interior layout, and installing an awe-inspiring curved staircase, a hallmark of Erith's designs. Moreover, he increased the roof height and added a suite of attics.
During the 1960s, Lady Ward relocated from Aynhoe Park to Friars Well. She enlisted the help of John Fowler of Colefax & Fowler for interior enhancements and commissioned landscape architect Lanning Roper to design a series of garden 'rooms'. These carefully planned spaces were thoughtfully adorned with flora to protect against the wind, providing tranquil, secluded corners around the residence.
Fast forward to the present day, and Friars Well offers 5,735 square feet of exquisite living space. This includes five reception areas, nine bedrooms, and five bathrooms. Beautifully preserved during its current owners' 11-year stewardship, Friars Well awaits its new custodians with open arms.
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Friars Well is up for grabs at a guide price of £2.25 million via Strutt & Parker. Click here for more information and detailed images.
Penny Churchill
Enrichment Data:
Friars Well, originally Aynhoe Park Cottage, is a Grade II-listed residence built in 1763 by the Cartwright family. Over the years, the property has undergone numerous transformations, including an extensive 1950s remodel by renowned Classical architect Raymond Erith[1]. He introduced Georgian proportions, rearranged the interior, installed a distinguished curved staircase, and raised the roof with attic extensions. During the 1960s, Lady Ward commissioned further alterations from John Fowler and Lanning Roper to enhance the interior and create garden 'rooms'. These carefully planned exterior spaces offered sheltered havens around the house[1]. Presently, Friars Well offers 5,735 square feet of luxurious living space, including five reception areas, nine bedrooms, and five bathrooms[1].
- The interior of Friars Well was enhanced in the 1950s by John Fowler of Colefax & Fowler, famous for his design work, and landscape architect Lanning Roper, who created a series of garden 'rooms' that offer tranquil, secluded corners around the residence.
- Living at Friars Well means being part of the world of design and nature, as this Grade II-listed property boasting 5,735 square feet of luxurious living space, including five reception areas, nine bedrooms, and five bathrooms, is not just a home but also a lifestyle investment.
- Alongside staying updated on this stunning property, Friars Well, you can also receive gardening tips, lifestyle advice, and real-estate insights by subscribing to our newsletter, ensuring that marvels from the world of design and nature will drop right into your inbox.
