Church Street, Baldock, Hertfordshire

7-9 Church Street is an impressive five-bedroom period house, with extensive accommodation and a wealth of original character, set in the heart of the Hertfordshire town of Baldock. There are five reception rooms and more than 3,000 square feet of living space with exposed timber beams and original fireplaces on display in various parts.

This is a Grade II listed property in Baldock’s conservation area, which has a range of period buildings radiating from its 12th century Parish Church. The original house dates from the mid-16th century, comprising a half-timbered ‘hall house’ with mullioned windows which remain visible inside in the principal bedroom. The main living room has an impressive beamed inglenook fireplace, with carvings of a bearded man’s head at its centre and a leafed-acorn on one end.

In the 17th century a brick façade was added, with the original leaded casement upper windows still facing the street. Of particular note is the early 18th century Queen Anne period canopy to the front door, which is featured in published literature:
"The later bricked front is remarkable for its early 18th century hooded doorway. The concave domed canopy is supported upon scrolled brackets with incised decoration to both sides. A carved centre finial and elaborate bottom edge moulding enhance the plain interior of the dome, whilst the underside of the canopy is panelled, a feature which, although easily overlooked, completes the balance of the design. A ‘text book’ Queen Anne period hood in every way, the doorway would be an unexpected find in many a country town, and its survival contributes greatly to Baldock’s 18th century heritage" (18th Century Doorways in Baldock, 1980, Bruce Moss).

At the front of the ground floor there is a well-proportioned sitting room with a grand original inglenook fireplace. There is also a family room to the front, while further towards the rear there is a study with French doors opening onto the garden, a formal dining room/conservatory and a further sitting room with a fireplace. The kitchen has fitted wooden units and space for the necessary appliances. A large cellar provides further space for home storage and appliances if required.

Upstairs, two separate staircases lead to five double bedrooms, each of which is well proportioned. The large principal bedroom has an impressive, vaulted ceiling with exposed original timber beams to the walls and ceiling, and two orginal mullioned windows.

The family bathroom is also on the first floor, while a useful shower room is located on the ground floor.

The property opens to the front onto picturesque Church Street, with its many historic buildings. Parking is available on-street for resident permit holders, while the house also benefits from a small, off-street integrated garage. The walled courtyard garden to the rear is ideal for al fresco dining, with its paved terracing and raised border beds, with various shrubs and plants.

The property is set in the heart of the historic Hertfordshire market town of Baldock, just moments from its town centre and and within striking distance of Baldock station. The town provides a good range of shops, cafes, restaurants and amenities, including both a well -regarded independent butcher and baker, and hosts a weekly market. There is also a large supermarket, while nearby Letchworth Garden City provides further shopping, supermarkets and leisure facilities. Baldock offers both primary and secondary state schooling, while independent St Francis College and St Christopher School can be found in Letchworth Garden City. The area is well connected by road and rail, with the A1(M) just two miles away, while Baldock’s mainline station offers fast services to Cambridge (25 minutes) London Kings Cross (37 minutes) and London St. Pancras International (42 minutes).