BEECHCOTESpencers Lane | Berkswell | CV7 7BY

The house of Derek and Carol’s dreams, Beechcote is a spectacular property they had admired for many years. “We had driven past Beechcote, almost every day, taking the children to school in Berkswell,” says Derek. “I’d often said to my wife that I’d like to live there. The ‘For Sale’ board went up whilst I was away on business in Italy and, as soon as I returned home, Carol told me that ‘my’ house was up for sale and I immediately knew which house she was talking about. We viewed within a couple of days and made an offer, even though our house wasn’t on the market at that time and weren’t actually looking to make a move. Fortunately, the vendor accepted our offer and five months later, we were all moved in!”

The couple were attracted to the parkland style setting, which they consider to be one of the best features. The current house replaced a large Victorian building, and is thus centrally located on the land, with a large area of mature garden screening the house from the road. The property also faces almost due south at the rear, which is perfect for sitting out on the decking from spring through until autumn.

There has been a settlement in Berkswell (Bercul’s Well) since before Saxon times and parts of the Church date from the 9th Century. “There are two stories that we have been told since we’ve lived here,” explains Derek, “Before 1960 the large Victorian property was owned by an eccentric gentleman who was involved in the performing arts and, we understand, let our rooms to travelling actors and musicians who were performing locally. In addition we can also claim that a Wimbledon champion regularly played tennis in our garden. Although it would be difficult now, due to the overhanging branches of the copper beech tree, there was once a grass court on the front lawn and one of the anchor stones, used to secure the net post, is still visible. Maud Watson, the daughter of the Rector of Berkswell Church, was the first ever winner of the Wimbledon Ladies title in 1884, defeating her sister, Lillian, in the final. Maud repeated her success in 1885 but lost in the final in 1886 before being unable to reproduce her form in later years due to a combination of injury and illness. Both Maud and Lillian are buried at Berkswell church.” Berkswell is also the home of the famous Berkswell (Ewe’s milk) cheese, which is produced on the adjacent farm and has been recommended by TV chef Rick Stein.

There is a small shop and tearoom in the village itself and a greater variety of shops and services in Balsall Common, which is only a short distance away. Further afield, there are shops and a Waitrose in Kenilworth, whilst the larger shopping centres of Coventry, Solihull and Leamington Spa are all within easy reach. The Bear at Berkswell is a traditional pub/restaurant that dates from the 16th century, providing excellent local fayre. “For a relatively small village Berkswell is very fortunate to have a school which was rated as ‘outstanding’ following the most recent Ofsted inspection. Both of our children attended the school, which caters for children from nursery age through until year six, with full size classes in each year group. We are also in the catchment area for Balsall Common Junior School, which was also rated as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted inspectors. For senior school children, state education is available at the Heart of England School situated in Balsall Common. There are several private schools within a reasonable distance, including Warwick and Solihull School, as well as King Henry VIII and Bablake schools in Coventry. King Henry’s is situated opposite Coventry railway station, which is only five minutes from Berkswell station. The motorway network is easily accessible, as is Birmingham airport and Birmingham International railway station. You can catch the fast train to London Euston from International and Coventry, or take the more relaxed train journey from Warwick Parkway into Paddington.”

The focal point of the property is the open plan kitchen/breakfast/family room. The AGA draws people to it and enhances the perfect, relaxed ambience. “We love this space,” describes Carol, “as this is where we spend most of our time. We also like the fact that that it feels like we are very much ‘out in the country’ but, in fact, we are in very close proximity to all the communications, shops and services that you could possibly need. The conservatory is lovely, especially during the spring and autumn as it warm and light whilst overlooking the pool and gardens. We also like the balcony off the master bedroom where you can sit drinking coffee on a lazy Sunday morning (or anytime actually!) There are no near neighbours and all the rooms look out over the beautiful garden and surrounding fields.”

The property is ideal for working from home, offering several options for the entrepreneur. The study is situated away from the hub of the house and has a lovely outlook out over the front garden. Alternatively, there is a first floor room in the annex which could be used as an office/study or, if more space was required, the pool/games room could easily be converted into an office/consultation rooms.

* These comments are the personal views of the current owners 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.

Enjoying a private setting stands this lovingly cared for detached residence which has been extended to create a wonderful family home. The welcoming Reception Hall leads you into the large Kitchen, beautiful Dining Room, Study, Music Room and a well sized lounge benefiting from copious amounts of light.

The well presented kitchen which has enough space for a large Rangemaster and American style fridge / freezer and a benefits from windows overlooking the stunning rear gardens patio and lawns.

This home provides plenty of rooms to entertain family and friends in, or just relax and appreciate the beautiful views that surround the property and seclude it from the rest of the world without taking away any amenities.

The family room / play room has a wood burning stove, a window to rear and a door leading into a very spacious sitting room which also has a wood burning stove and a dining area with door opening out to and overlooking the rear garden.

To the first floor, there are four double bedrooms, whilst bedroom two benefits from having an attractive feature fireplace. The other two double bedrooms are well sized plus a wonderful principle bathroom which has a wood panelled bath and a separate walk in double shower cubical, and a window providing a clear view over the fields beyond.

The large master benefits from absolutely stunning views having access to a balcony that overlooks the rear garden and fields. There is also a contemporary en-suite connected with a large walk in shower.

There is a courtyard which provides parking for half a dozen cars in addition to a large double garage which has a studio apartment above with a lovely sized sitting room / bedroom, kitchenette and shower room. The property stands in around three quarters of an acre of lush grounds, all accessed by a long private drive. To the rear of the property there is a patio area for entertaining, a beautifuly designed natural swimming pool that blends stunningly into the current grounds.

Coventry

The 10th largest city in England, Coventry was the capital of England more than once in the 15th century and it’s heritage includes the Roman Fort at Baginton, Lady Godiva, St Mary’s

Guildhall (where kings and queens were entertained) and three Cathedrals.

Coventry is situated 95 miles from central London, 19 miles from Birmingham, and 24 miles from Leicester. Coventry was the world’s first twin city, when it formed a twinning relationship with the Russian city of Stalingrad and is now twinned with 26 cities around

the world.

Coventry Cathedral is one of the city’s key attractions having been built after the destruction of the 14th century Cathedral church of Saint Michael during the infamous Coventry Blitz

during WWII .

Coventry motor companies have contributed significantly to the British motor industry. The city has two Universities, the city centre-based Coventry University and The University of

Warwick on the southern outskirts.

Birmingham

Lying at the seat of England’s Industrial and commercial heartland, the “Second City” is the very model of a beaming cosmopolitan global city that sets the standard for others to mirror. Increasingly recognised as an important cultural hub with the Birmingham Royal Ballet based in the city, along with a magnificent and striking new library.

Birmingham also boasts some of the best shopping in Europe with the superb Bullring Shopping Centre containing over 140 shops including a flagship Selfridges department store. The exclusive Mailbox development is host to a range of designer stores including Armani and Harvey Nichols.

LOCATIONThis property is located in the small and very sought after village of Berkswell. Located on Spencer Lane and providing excellent access to the A45 and the M42. Easy access to Birmingham City, Coventry City and Birmingham International Airport.

SERVICES TO THE PROPERTYMains

LOCAL AUTHORITYSolihull Metropolitan Bourough Council

VIEWING ARRANGEMENTSStrictly via the vendors sole agents Fine & Country on 02476 500 015

WEBSITEFor more information visit www.fineandcountry.com/uk/Coventry

OPENING HOURSMonday to Friday 9.00 am - 5.30 pmSaturday 9.00 am - 4.30 pmSunday 11.00 am - 3.00 pm

DIRECTIONSDepart Greyfriars Road toward Sheriffs OrchardTurn right onto B4544 / Warwick RoadTurn left and then bear left onto A429 / Warwick RoadAt roundabout, take 1st exitTurn right onto A45 / Fletchamstead HighwayAt roundabout, take 2nd exitTurn left onto B4101 / Tile Hill LaneAt roundabout, take 2nd exit onto Spencers LaneArrive at Spencers Lane on the leftThe last intersection is Truggist LaneIf you reach Baulk Lane, you’ve gone too far

Agent Notes: All measurements are approximate and quoted in metric with imperial equivalents 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 and 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.Ground Floor

Family Room5.79m x 4.87m(max)19'0" x 16'0"(max)

Kitchen5.96m x 5.05m(max)19'7" x 16'7"(max) Cloakroom

Porch

Study5.15m x 3.02m16'11" x 9'11"

Lounge6.09m x 5.14m20'0" x 16'10"

Reception Hall4.82m x 3.64m15'10" x 11'11"

Music Room4.26m x 3.64m(max)14'0" x 11'11"(max)

Dining Room6.18m x 3.64m20'3" x 11'11"

Breakfast Room3.58m x 3.41m11'9" x 11'2"

CUtility Room

3.56m x 3.49m11'8" x 11'5"

Lobby

WC

Reception Room5.59m x 4.49m18'4" x 14'9"

Pool Room6.59m x 5.49m

21'7" x 18'0"

Approximate Gross Internal Area

Measurements Are Approximate Only,Illustration For Identification Purposes Only,

Main Building: 423.10 sq m / 4553.8 sq ftTotal: 423.10 sq m / 4553.8 sq ft

First Floor

Ensuite

W

Ensuite

Bedroom 23.71m x 3.67m12'2" x 12'0"

Ensuite

W AC

Bedroom 43.64m x 3.58m11'11" x 11'9"

Master Bedroom6.09m x 4.55m20'0" x 14'11"

WEnsuite

Ensuite

Bedroom 53.45m x 3.02m11'4" x 9'11"

Bedroom 35.61m x 3.64m(max)18'5" x 11'11"(max)

GalleriesLanding

Balcony

Sitting Room3.52m x 3.48m11'7" x 11'5"

W

W

Conservatory3.83m x 2.18m

12'7" x 7'2"

Ground Floor

Family Room5.79m x 4.87m(max)19'0" x 16'0"(max)

Kitchen5.96m x 5.05m(max)19'7" x 16'7"(max) Cloakroom

Porch

Study5.15m x 3.02m16'11" x 9'11"

Lounge6.09m x 5.14m20'0" x 16'10"

Reception Hall4.82m x 3.64m15'10" x 11'11"

Music Room4.26m x 3.64m(max)14'0" x 11'11"(max)

Dining Room6.18m x 3.64m20'3" x 11'11"

Breakfast Room3.58m x 3.41m11'9" x 11'2"

CUtility Room

3.56m x 3.49m11'8" x 11'5"

Lobby

WC

Reception Room5.59m x 4.49m18'4" x 14'9"

Pool Room6.59m x 5.49m

21'7" x 18'0"

Approximate Gross Internal Area

Measurements Are Approximate Only,Illustration For Identification Purposes Only,

Main Building: 423.10 sq m / 4553.8 sq ftTotal: 423.10 sq m / 4553.8 sq ft

First Floor

Ensuite

W

Ensuite

Bedroom 23.71m x 3.67m12'2" x 12'0"

Ensuite

W AC

Bedroom 43.64m x 3.58m11'11" x 11'9"

Master Bedroom6.09m x 4.55m20'0" x 14'11"

WEnsuite

Ensuite

Bedroom 53.45m x 3.02m11'4" x 9'11"

Bedroom 35.61m x 3.64m(max)18'5" x 11'11"(max)

GalleriesLanding

Balcony

Sitting Room3.52m x 3.48m11'7" x 11'5"

W

W

Conservatory3.83m x 2.18m

12'7" x 7'2"

Ground Floor

Family Room5.79m x 4.87m(max)19'0" x 16'0"(max)

Kitchen5.96m x 5.05m(max)19'7" x 16'7"(max) Cloakroom

Porch

Study5.15m x 3.02m16'11" x 9'11"

Lounge6.09m x 5.14m20'0" x 16'10"

Reception Hall4.82m x 3.64m15'10" x 11'11"

Music Room4.26m x 3.64m(max)14'0" x 11'11"(max)

Dining Room6.18m x 3.64m20'3" x 11'11"

Breakfast Room3.58m x 3.41m11'9" x 11'2"

CUtility Room

3.56m x 3.49m11'8" x 11'5"

Lobby

WC

Reception Room5.59m x 4.49m18'4" x 14'9"

Pool Room6.59m x 5.49m

21'7" x 18'0"

Approximate Gross Internal Area

Measurements Are Approximate Only,Illustration For Identification Purposes Only,

Main Building: 423.10 sq m / 4553.8 sq ftTotal: 423.10 sq m / 4553.8 sq ft

First Floor

Ensuite

W

Ensuite

Bedroom 23.71m x 3.67m12'2" x 12'0"

Ensuite

W AC

Bedroom 43.64m x 3.58m11'11" x 11'9"

Master Bedroom6.09m x 4.55m20'0" x 14'11"

WEnsuite

Ensuite

Bedroom 53.45m x 3.02m11'4" x 9'11"

Bedroom 35.61m x 3.64m(max)18'5" x 11'11"(max)

GalleriesLanding

Balcony

Sitting Room3.52m x 3.48m11'7" x 11'5"

W

W

Conservatory3.83m x 2.18m

12'7" x 7'2"

Ground Floor

Family Room5.79m x 4.87m(max)19'0" x 16'0"(max)

Kitchen5.96m x 5.05m(max)19'7" x 16'7"(max) Cloakroom

Porch

Study5.15m x 3.02m16'11" x 9'11"

Lounge6.09m x 5.14m20'0" x 16'10"

Reception Hall4.82m x 3.64m15'10" x 11'11"

Music Room4.26m x 3.64m(max)14'0" x 11'11"(max)

Dining Room6.18m x 3.64m20'3" x 11'11"

Breakfast Room3.58m x 3.41m11'9" x 11'2"

CUtility Room

3.56m x 3.49m11'8" x 11'5"

Lobby

WC

Reception Room5.59m x 4.49m18'4" x 14'9"

Pool Room6.59m x 5.49m

21'7" x 18'0"

Approximate Gross Internal Area

Measurements Are Approximate Only,Illustration For Identification Purposes Only,

Main Building: 423.10 sq m / 4553.8 sq ftTotal: 423.10 sq m / 4553.8 sq ft

First Floor

Ensuite

W

Ensuite

Bedroom 23.71m x 3.67m12'2" x 12'0"

Ensuite

W AC

Bedroom 43.64m x 3.58m11'11" x 11'9"

Master Bedroom6.09m x 4.55m20'0" x 14'11"

WEnsuite

Ensuite

Bedroom 53.45m x 3.02m11'4" x 9'11"

Bedroom 35.61m x 3.64m(max)18'5" x 11'11"(max)

GalleriesLanding

Balcony

Sitting Room3.52m x 3.48m11'7" x 11'5"

W

W

Conservatory3.83m x 2.18m

12'7" x 7'2"