Blog
Historic equestrian home on London’s doorstep
Wednesday, September 6, 2017
The Old Vicarage in Wraysbury is a Grade II Listed family home set in over four acres in total. Its origins lie in the early 15th century; some parts date back to the early 1400s when Henry V was King of England and is almost certainly the oldest residential property in the parish. Much modernised and altered over the years, The Old Vicarage has many original features: fine interior timbers, beamed ceilings and walls, timber floors, leaded casement windows, open fire places, an old tile roof and 17th century chimney.
The property is approached via security gates and the outbuildings include an annex, barn, three stables, tack room and garaging for 5 cars. Whilst the house is striking, the extensive formal gardens, are equally impressive, offering flexible outdoor space. In addition to the main grounds of one and a half acres, a separate paddock of approx. 2.5 acres is also available for purchase and can be accessed from both the stable area and from Magna Carta Lane.
The current owners have a wealth of information about the property which has been a fantastic family home for the past 25 years. Its history has been traced back and catalogued into a booklet which is available to view.
Combining beautifully appointed and fully modernised accommodation with all the historic charm and character of a bygone era, the house has not always been occupied by clergy. For example, before 1846 The Old Vicarage was acquired by Matthew Drummond Calquhoun, a scottish gentleman who had fought in the Napoleonic Wars in his youth. Over the years the property has also been a farm under various tenants and, in later years, was home to Derek Bramble, a song writer who penned a number of bestselling records including tracks for David Bowie.
Wraysbury village saw a significant change in 1848 with the arrival of the railway, which opened up employment opportunities and the potential to travel easily and quickly to and from the village. Local historian G.W.J. Gyll described it as having “been of great use to it; has enhanced the value of property, as is the case wherever such a project has been executed, despite the fears of those who repressed the enterprise.” That same ease of access is even more evident today; Wraysbury is ideally situated between the M4 and M25 with access to junctions of both motorways within two miles. Heathrow Airport is approximately 10 minutes’ drive and there are bus routes to Staines, Slough, Eton Wick and Heathrow. Two stations within the village are serviced by the Windsor to Waterloo line with a journey time into London of 45- 50 minutes.
Offering a village location but with easy acess to London, the motorway network and Heathrow, The Old Vicarage provides an oasis of calm yet with all the benefits of city life literally on its doorstep. Bordering National Trust lands there are numerous riverside walks and trails to explore. For details contact our Wraysbury office.
