Reading, Berkshire

Oaks

Barton

BARTON OAKS

Barton Oaks was converted in the 1930s from a barn originally belonging to the nearby Calcot Manor, at the centre of the park, which was built in 1755. Barton Oaks is thought to be a similar age.

STEP INSIDE

The property is built of brick elevations under clay tiled roof and has mostly leaded windows. The property requires some updating and offers the potential for a buyer to create a spectacular forever home in an exclusive location. There are six bedrooms, five reception rooms and four bath/shower rooms in total, with the principal bedroom having a dressing room and en-suite bathroom.

Internally, the rooms are spacious and light and evidence of the barn’s great oak frame – which supports the house - can be seen throughout. Principal rooms are to the rear south facing side of the house and benefit from the sun all day while overlooking the private garden. There are open fires in the sitting and drawing rooms, that in the drawing room being an impressive inglenook with wood burning stove. The kitchen has an Aga.

To one end of the house, the garaging area and the bedrooms above, together with the second staircase, could provide an excellent annex accommodation. The property also benefits from an incredible loft space, already provided with four dormer windows and which could provide further accommodation as necessary. (Subject to obtaining the necessary consents etc.)

SELLER INSIGHT

We’ve had the privilege of living at Barton Oaks for the past 14 years. Originally a 16th century barn, Barton Oaks was transformed into a grand country house in the 1930s. Located within the grounds of the former Calcot Manor – now the renowned private Calcot Park Golf Course – it is an impressive property, with two staircases and unique features such as a partially working call panel illustrating its historic past.”

“Through the years we have maintained and gently enhanced the property including the installation of an EV charging port and the considered removal of numerous overgrown conifers from the garden, restoring balance to the landscape.”

“Surrounded by ample greenery, the property is easily visible from the golf course and approach roads, its elongated structure aligned southwest to northeast. To the northwest, an extensive gravel driveway fitted with electric gates, leads to the main entrance, bordered by flower beds and a laurel hedge. Adjacent lies a hard tennis court, while further northwest, a secluded patch of wild terrain has potential for transformation.”

“The property benefits from delightful sunsets casting a glow over the main lawn during spring and autumn in particular, which can be enjoyed from several rooms, the conservatory, or the full-width terrace at the rear of the property. From select rooms, particularly bedrooms 5 and 6, one can experience extensive, panoramic views of the 16th hole of the golf course.”

“Our conservatory becomes a haven for Salem, our cat, from March to October, providing a warm and cosy spot for relaxation. It also doubles as an excellent setting for pre-dinner drinks at the end of the day.”

“The expansive dining hall serves as the perfect venue for entertaining guests, with ample space to accommodate a sizeable dining table. On occasion, we’ve transformed this space into a rehearsal environment for band practices, showcasing its versatility. With the table extended, it comfortably seats 10, but there’s room for more given an appropriate table, allowing for large gatherings. Moreover, the interconnected layout of the ground floor, conservatory, and outdoor patio and garden areas effortlessly accommodates large parties, fostering a convivial atmosphere where guests can mingle and celebrate without feeling cramped. We’ve hosted gatherings of over 40 people here, and the space never fails to impress with its comfortable hospitality.”

“Barton Oaks makes a strong impression, its picturesque facade and ample space offering a tranquil retreat with a rural feel just a stone’s throw away from urban conveniences. Its serene ambiance, coupled with proximity to major thoroughfares like the M4 and the bustling heart of Reading, renders it a unique sanctuary from the connectivity of modern life.”

“We have fond memories of living here derived from the home’s spaciousness, adaptability, and sense of security. We’ve been blessed with the opportunity to see remarkable wildlife on the golf course grounds including badgers, foxes, multiple species of deer, owls, red kites and of course neighbouring cats.”

“As we move into another rural setting, Barton Oaks will forever hold a special place in our hearts, a testament to many memories and a life well-lived.”*

* 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.

STEP OUTSIDE

To the south of the house there is a range of outbuildings which, while in need of repair, could hold potential for a home office or possibly further accommodation, subject to consents. The outbuildings at one stage provided stabling and storage space as well as a room with an open fireplace.

The house is located on the private Calcot Park Golf Course, and is approached from Broadlands Close (a cul de sac) through electric gates into a gravel driveway providing parking for multiple vehicles.

To the front of the property and screened from the house by hedges there is a hard tennis court which would benefit from resurfacing. The gardens lead around the side of the house to a partly walled back garden providing flat lawns on two levels. There is also a terrace area running the full length of the rear of the house. The gardens are private and contain mature trees and shrubs.

LOCATION

Barton Oaks enjoys a quiet setting on the picturesque Calcot Park Golf Course. The course is an undulating, traditional, parkland course and is recognised as one of the most challenging and best in the area. It was designed by the famous golf-course architect Harry Colt in 1930 who also built, amongst others, Beaconsfield, Sunningdale Old, and the East and West courses at Wentworth Club in Surrey.

This unique location lends the property a rural feel, and a wide range of wildlife can be observed including badgers, deer, foxes, owls, and red kites. Calcot is very convenient for access with the centre of Reading just 3 miles distant. Reading train station allows fast commuting into London with Paddington being only approx. 23 minutes and Central London via the Elizabeth Line is only around 50 minutes. The M4 junction 12 is 1.5 miles away and connects to Heathrow Airport (30 miles) and the wider motorway network. The area is well served for schools, with easy access to Reading School, Kendrick, Bradfield and many others.

INFORMATION

Services

Mains electricity, water and drainage. Oil fired heating. FTTC broadband is supplied by BT. You can find more information here - https://www. openreach.com/fibre-broadband . The vendors report no mobile coverage issues and are on the EE network. More information is available here https://checker.ofcom.org.uk/

Other Information

There are a few Oak trees on the property that are subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Roadways through golf course including Broadlands Close are maintained by golf club. Golf club levies an annual charge for maintenance which is currently £100 PA.

Tenure Freehold

Local Authority

West Berkshire Council

Viewing Arrangements

Strictly via the vendors sole agents Fine & Country – Adrian Beatty 07899 875966.

Website

For more information visit www.fineandcountry.com/reading

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8.00am – 10.00pm Saturday 8.00am – 8.00pm Sunday 8.00am – 8.00pm

Agents notes: All measurements are approximate and for general guidance only and whilst every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy, they must not be relied on. The fixtures, fittings and appliances referred to have not been tested and therefore no guarantee can be given that they are in working order. Internal photographs are reproduced for general information and it must not be inferred that any item shown is included with the property. For a free valuation, contact the numbers listed on the brochure. Printed 10.05.2024

FINE & COUNTRY

Fine & Country is a global network of estate agencies specialising in the marketing, sale and rental of luxury residential property. With offices in over 300 locations, spanning Europe, Australia, Africa and Asia, we combine widespread exposure of the international marketplace with the local expertise and knowledge of carefully selected independent property professionals.

Fine & Country appreciates the most exclusive properties require a more compelling, sophisticated and intelligent presentation –leading to a common, yet uniquely exercised and successful strategy emphasising the lifestyle qualities of the property.

This unique approach to luxury homes marketing delivers high quality, intelligent and creative concepts for property promotion combined with the latest technology and marketing techniques.

We understand moving home is one of the most important decisions you make; your home is both a financial and emotional investment. With Fine & Country you benefit from the local knowledge, experience, expertise and contacts of a well trained, educated and courteous team of professionals, working to make the sale or purchase of your property as stress free as possible.

ADRIAN BEATTY DIRECTOR

Fine & Country Reading 01182 074997 | 07899 875 966

adrian.beatty@fineandcountry.com

Adrian has been in the property industry for a number of years having previously worked in finance in the City. He has extensive knowledge of new builds and property developments having completed a number of successful projects himself.

His ethos is to work transparently with his clients on a one-toone basis and put them first, listening to their requirements and getting them the outcome they want with uncompromising integrity and discretion.

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