Immortalizing dreams along the river: A picturesque riverside dwelling boasting a boathouse, croquet lawn, and an Olympic history
Rowing Down the River Thames: A Glimpse at The Manor
Get a peek at this stunning riverside home!
Let's kick off the conversation with a wild ride down the River Thames in a classic Victorian skiff. Now, ain't that the life, eh? Pubs, picturesque houses, and the gentle sway of the willows... Couldn't ask for more, mate.
One such house we gazed upon back then was The Manor, a beauty tucked away in the heart of Oxfordshire. Far, far from the hustle and bustle of Central London, The Manor exudes rural charm that'd make a fella's heart skip a beat.
In its heyday, The Manor was the pride and joy of Olympic rower Dick Southwood, who brought home the gold at the 1956 Olympics. Now on sale for a cool £3.75 million, this Grade II-listed gem is an absolute peach for any riverside connoisseur.
Sporting a history that dates back to the 17th century, this riverside stunner features 18th and 19th-century additions, seamlessly blending the old with the new. Its red-brick and wooden façade feels as authentic as they come, and every nook and cranny breathes classic charm.
Stepping inside, you'll find five bedrooms, four bathrooms, and three reception rooms with all the mod cons – but never fear, nary a trace of over-the-top renovations. This home has been carefully modernized to cater to today's standards without compromising the rich history that lies within its walls.
The ground floor leads you to a spacious kitchen, dining room, reception hall, and sitting room filled with old-world character. And don't forget the private study, because who doesn't need a snug den to curl up with a good book and a dram?
Upstairs, you'll find four bedrooms and two bathrooms, including the master suite, while the fifth bedroom can be found on the second floor. And as if that wasn't enough, the property boasts a garage complete with a self-contained one-bedroom flat above.
Formal gardens stretching over three acres will make your heart sing, with a sweeping driveway leading to manicured front lawns and a croquet pitch. Yep, you read that right – a croquet pitch. British as they come, mate.
But the cherry on top, the big kahuna, the show-stopper, is the private boathouse and included riverboat. How's that for a unique touch? Sit back, pour yourself a drink, and enjoy the river flowing by as you dream about casting off with the wind at your back.
Nestled in the quaint village of Long Wittenham, the hustle and bustle of the outside world is a distant memory. Sure, you'll find a pub, restaurant, primary school, and church all within easy reach, and Abingdon and Wallingford are just a stone's throw away, but it's The Manor's tranquil embrace that makes it such a rare find.
So, there you have it, a taste of the high life in The Manor. If you fancy a slice of the riverside dream for yourself, drop by Savills and get a closer look. And remember – a man can dream!
Disclaimer: Prices and availability are subject to change, so be sure to double-check with the listing agent before making any plans.
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Discussing the riverside home's appeal, one could argue that it offers an idyllic blend of lifestyle options, such as fashion-and-beauty with its classic charm, food-and-drink opportunities at the nearby pubs, and home-and-garden peace in its expansive, manicured gardens. Additionally, travel enthusiasts might find the location's tranquil village setting, coupled with the convenience to larger towns like Abingdon and Wallingford, an exciting prospect for a change of scene.
