Hinksey Hill, Oxford

The Firs is a substantial detached Arts and Crafts home, originally constructed in 1904, that enjoys a private location, ensconced within some 2.3 acres of charming grounds and seamlessly marries character with sustainability. The present owners have maintained and extended the house and gardens to create a fabulous well considered family home with spacious and flexible accommodation that provides the ability to entertain on a grand scale.

Electric gates open onto a tree-lined gravel driveway, which forks to provide separate access to the main residence and cottage. The sweeping turning circle, complete with a central fountain, offers a grand entrance and ample parking for multiple vehicles.

Upon entering through the porch and lobby into the entrance hall, there is a real sense of arrival. This is created by its unrestrained scale, architectural integrity and detail, which continues throughout this beautiful and magnificent house. Original features include ornamental plasterwork, stained glass windows, mahogany staircase, charming serving hatch in the dining room and functioning butler`s bell and board system, along with wonderful fireplaces that illustrate what a remarkable house this is.

The bay-fronted sitting room, warmed by a log-burning fire that meets current regulations, provides a cosy space for relaxation. The grand drawing room and formal dining room offer wonderful areas for entertaining, while the light-filled garden room is the perfect place to enjoy garden views with a cup of tea. The spacious kitchen and breakfast room is ideal for family life, complemented by a utility room with direct access to a double garage and plant room beyond.

Upstairs, the striking mahogany staircase leads to four beautifully appointed double bedrooms. The main suite is a luxurious retreat with an ensuite, dressing room and a private balcony with far reaching views. Two additional bedrooms also feature their own balconies overlooking the grounds, with one enjoying an ensuite. The top floor with the fifth bedroom provides a flexible space that could be used for guests, work or leisure.

Sustainability is at the heart of this home, with solar panels generating enough revenue to cover most of the cost of gas and electricity. Hot water panels on the roof usually provide cost free hot water from March through October. These eco-friendly features not only reduce costs but also contribute to a more sustainable way of living.

Located at the western boundary of the property, Little Firs is a self-contained annex offering excellent versatility. A semi-detached cottage with an open-plan kitchen/dining/sitting room, wet room, double bedroom and balcony plus underfloor heating and separate utilities, it is an ideal space for guests, extended family, office or rental opportunities. Planning permission has also been granted to separate Little Firs from the main residence, allowing for even further flexibility.

Secluded gardens bursting with seasonal delights lie predominantly to the south and west of the house. Inspired by the great Arts and Crafts gardens, mature hedges frame different areas, creating distinct garden rooms that provide ever-changing vistas throughout the seasons. A well-established orchard and kitchen garden produce an abundance of fresh produce, including apples, plums, pears, mulberries, gooseberries, blackcurrants and redcurrants. An enclosed hard tennis court adds a recreational element, while the expansive lawns, rose walk, rose garden, mature trees and beautifully curated borders create an idyllic setting. A summerhouse, tractor garage and shed further enhance the outdoor experience, providing additional space for relaxation and storage. There is enough firewood stored for c. five years and a working well provide water for the greenhouse and gardens.

Enjoying a prime location on Hinksey Hill, The Firs offers the perfect blend of countryside tranquillity and excellent connectivity. There is easy access to Oxford`s city centre, just 2.5 miles away, with its world-renowned university, cultural attractions and vibrant shopping and dining scene. Commuters will appreciate the proximity to Oxford and Didcot Parkway railway stations, offering fast connections to London, while the A34 and M40 provide convenient road links to the Midlands and the South. Everyday amenities, including supermarkets, independent shops and charming pubs, are within easy reach, while scenic walking and cycling routes through Hinksey Hill Nature Reserve and the surrounding countryside provide a welcome retreat. The area is also well known for its outstanding educational opportunities, with prestigious schools nearby.

The Firs is more than a home and gardens, it is a lifestyle of comfort, sustainability and natural beauty. Whether you are drawn to its period charm, its self-sufficient gardens or its energy-saving innovations, this is a property that offers something truly special. Arrange your viewing with Elizabeth Baddeley today and experience the unique appeal of this exceptional residence.

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Notice
Please note: JCP have not tested any apparatus, fixtures, fittings, or services. Interested parties must undertake their own investigation into the working order of these items. All measurements are approximate and photographs provided for guidance only.