
Set in the heart of the historic market town of Tetbury, Gloucestershire, is this meticulously renovated, Grade II-listed Cotswold stone townhouse. Spanning some 1,600 sq ft across four storeys, the house has been reimagined to a beautiful standard, pairing its period integrity with a graceful contemporary sensibility. Its four bedrooms are bright, peaceful and retreat-like, exuding an understated refinement. Located within the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the house is within easy reach of plenty of countryside trails and atmospheric pubs for a post-walk refreshment.
Setting the Scene
Tetbury is steeped in south Cotswold heritage, known for its royal connections – most notably to nearby Highgrove House. A prominent centre for the wool trade in bygone centuries, the town retains its rich historical character with honey-hued stone buildings and a picturesque medieval market hall. During the Middle Ages, Tetbury was a major player in the wool and yarn trade – the Tetbury Woolsack Races are still held every year.
More recently, Tetbury has become a magnet for many of Britain’s most prominent antique and art dealers. Their emporiums are housed in a delightfully irregular patchwork of buildings, where Tudor-revival shops sit comfortably alongside grand Georgian townhouses.
It is thought that this house dates to the late 17th century, forming part of a gently curving terrace. It is defined by its steep gabled front and characteristic eight-over-eight sash windows. Likely a former a shop on what would have been a prominent 18th and 19th century thoroughfare, it stands as a fine example of vernacular Cotswold architecture.
The Grand Tour
Finished with a dusty limewash, the house’s Cotswold stone façade is offset with contrasting inky-hued woodwork. A striking gable front is centred around a pair of dark-painted double wooden doors that open directly into a welcoming open-plan sitting room and study.
Here, twin fireplaces create a warm and characterful space. White-washed exposed beams run overhead, accenting the gentle undulation of the vernacular walls. Stone steps descend to the converted basement snug, an intimate room for reading or quiet evenings.
At the heart of the house lies the dining room – a voluminous, light-filled space set beneath a double-height vaulted ceiling with skylights. More white-washed stone walls stand here and, paired with a pale palette, create an elegant space with room for hosting generous suppers.
The kitchen continues this rustic charm, its cosy nature accentuated with dark tones of blue. Original pale flagstones run underfoot, the edges rounded by centuries of footfall. Bespoke cabinetry, open shelving, and solid oak countertops are useful as well as beautiful, while a traditional Aga anchors the room. Thoughtful storage, a built-in larder and room for modern appliances complete the space. A stable door opens onto the courtyard garden, and a discrete WC lies just off the hallway.
A staircase at the front of the plan leads to the first floor, where two double bedrooms reside – both with built-in wardrobes and plenty of natural light. These are served by a sleek, modern shower room.
On the second floor, the principal bedroom is an extraordinary space that stretches across the entire storey. Vaulted ceilings reveal ancient beams, while oak flooring and panelling add tonal warmth. It has an open-plan layout, with generous wardrobe space and a striking wet room.
A separate staircase from the dining room leads to a further bedroom with a built-in wardrobe and an elegant open-plan wet room – a sublime, sequestered retreat for visiting guests.
The Great Outdoors
The courtyard garden is a peaceful, enclosed space lined with original stone walls. Designed to balance low maintenance design with maximum enjoyment, it has built-in storage and plenty of room for outdoor dining. Mature potted plants, climbing vines and traditionally styled outdoor furniture lend a charming Mediterranean air, ideal for quiet mornings or evening gatherings.
Out and About
A gentle, undulating landscape surrounds Tetbury, a characterful town in the heart of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. As such, the opportunities for exploring nature are near endless; highlights include Westonbirt and Ozleworth Park.
Tetbury town centre is peppered with independent boutiques, galleries and some of the country’s finest antique dealers. Long Street is the place to explore: it is home to the likes of Lorfords and Brownrigg, two revered names in British antiques, both offering a distinctive and ever-evolving mix of furniture and decorative objects. Among the town’s offering of independent shops is Moloh, known for its modern British tailoring and countryside-ready apparel – a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Lola and Co’s serves up an unparalleled supper, while The Close Hotel has a wonderfully sedate garden with striped deck chairs around a fountain – perfect for an afternoon aperitivo. Nearby, The Wild Carrot at Chavenage (?) offers rural dining with a focus on seasonal produce and elegant interiors. For drinks or supper, The Lucky Onion group’s collection of well-appointed pubs – including The Crown at Minchinhampton and The Wheatsheaf Inn in Northleach – are all within easy reach.
Beyond Tetbury, the ancient hilltop town of Malmesbury captures a rich tapestry of history and community life, centred around its magnificent abbey. Nearby Stroud brings a creative, slightly offbeat energy to the region, with a celebrated Saturday farmers’ market, thriving arts scene, and scenic canal paths. Meanwhile Cirencester, often called the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds’, combines its Roman roots with Georgian grandeur, providing excellent shopping, cafés, and open green spaces.
State-run primary and secondary schools are sited in central Tetbury; others can be found in neighbouring villages. Westonbirt School is popular local private option.
Kemble station is a 15-minute drive away and provides hourly services to London Paddington in just over 60 minutes.
Council Tax Band: F
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