Seller Insight

Back in 1990 when we bought the house, we chose it because we loved period properties,” say the current owners of Mere House. “The building dates back to the 18th century with later 19th century additions - and needed a complete renovation. So we set out transforming the property into a fantastic home again, taking care of course to restore and retain the original features we loved so much. All of the rooms have their own character: the lovely farmhouse-style kitchen is incredibly cosy with the AGA providing warmth all winter, while the sitting room, with its wood panelling and pretty alcoves, is a very peaceful, attractive room. The cellar is a useful bonus too, being great for storage and a second fridge-freezer. In 2005, we made further improvements with the conversion of a large outbuilding into an attractive one bedroom annex suitable for a range of purposes: as self-contained accommodation for elderly relatives or teenagers; an Air BnB to generate additional income; or as a separate space for working from home.”

This is the ideal home for everyday family life and entertaining alike. “Our grandchildren have loved Mere House as there are so many exciting places to play hide and seek,” the owners say. “They are all very sad to know we are selling this house, but we shall take with us many happy memories from our time here. All my daughters were married from this house, with parties here the day after the weddings. The three reception rooms allow for different needs, the dining room having been the venue for countless Christmas lunches with up to 10 guests seated around the large table. During the festive season, the annex comes in handy for extra accommodation, too.”

Outside, the south facing garden provides an extension of the indoor living accommodation during the warmer months of the year. “The garden is well stocked with spring flowers, roses, lavender, peonies, and more,” the owners say. “There is a large sunny York stone patio which has direct access from the kitchen, with a second back door to gain direct entry to the downstairs washroom - so useful when entertaining in the garden. Indeed, we have hosted several fabulous al fresco summer lunches for 30-40 friends and relatives. We used to do this annually, and have so many happy memories, particularly of hiring a magician when the grandchildren were small - all were spellbound by his magic!”

The local area has much to offer, too. “We love the village and its proximity to Buckingham,” say the owners, “the latter being just 4 miles away for a range of restaurants, supermarkets and boutiques. Local amenities are excellent, with a very good primary school in the village and Stowe School just 3 miles away, now offering a day school facility as well as boarding. My grandchildren went to this school and absolutely loved it! Also very close is Beechborough prep school. We have a local pub, The Red Lion, which serves very good pub food at reasonable prices, and an excellent post office/village shop in Tingewick, one mile away. Visitors always want to go to Bicester Village, the designer shopping outlet which is 8 miles from here. Silverstone is 7 miles away, Bicester North Station 7 miles, and Oxford 18 miles. We are also not far from Blenheim Palace, Waddesden Manor, Towcester Race Course and of course National Trust’s Stowe House and Gardens.”

* These comments are the personal views of the current owner and are included as an insight into life at the property. They have not been independently verified, should not be relied on without verification and do not necessarily reflect the views of the agent.

To the first floor, the landing has stairs rising to the upper floor, a useful storage cupboard and a window to the rear.

The feature bedroom has further storage, two windows to the front and a window to the rear, whilst the guest bedroom also has a storage cupboard and a window to the rear.

There is also a box room on this level which has a window to the front, whilst completing the first floor accommodation is the family bathroom which has a bath, separate double shower and windows to the front and side elevations.

To the second floor, the landing provides access to two further double bedrooms, both having Velux windows and a window to the side, with both having built in storage cupboards.

Both of these bedrooms are serviced by the guest WC.

An excellent feature of Mere House is the separate annexe which is ideal as a teenage suite, for an elderly relative to live on site whilst retaining their independence, or potential to let out through Air BnB.

There is a sitting room with a kitchenette, a bedroom and bathroom.

The rear garden is beautifully presented and is mainly laid to lawn, with raised planters and a stone wall.

There is also space to enjoy alfresco dining, whilst a gate leads to a parking area which is situated to the side of the property.

A beautiful home full of character which must be viewed.