Inside Homes: Astley House – a Georgian landmark at the heart of Faringdon

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Set beside the ancient tower of All Saints’ Church and overlooking the historic Market Place, Astley House is one of Faringdon’s most distinguished private residences. Steeped in history and extending to more than 6,000 square feet, this remarkable Grade II listed Georgian home combines architectural grandeur with the comforts and flexibility demanded by contemporary family life.

Dating from around 1720, Astley House occupies a prominent position in the fabric of the town. Over the centuries it has served as the Dower House to Faringdon House and later as the town’s Vicarage, reflecting its longstanding importance within the community. Today, following a series of carefully considered enhancements, it remains an exceptional family home while preserving the elegance and character that define its Georgian heritage.

Approached through gates from the bustling Market Place, the property immediately conveys a sense of arrival. A gravelled forecourt leads to the original front entrance, where stone steps rise to a handsome façade characterised by sash windows, dormers and deep coved eaves. Inside, an impressive reception hall is centred around a striking early eighteenth-century staircase, setting the tone for the accommodation beyond.

Throughout the principal rooms, period detailing has been beautifully preserved. High ceilings, decorative cornicing, feature fireplaces and tall sash windows create spaces that are both elegant and welcoming. The drawing room is particularly impressive, bathed in natural light and perfectly suited to formal entertaining, while the dining room and study provide equally refined settings for family life, work and social occasions.

The most transformative chapter in Astley House’s story can be found within the former coach house. Sensitively converted and integrated into the main residence, it now provides an extraordinary kitchen and dining space approaching 480 square feet. Bespoke hand-crafted cabinetry, integrated appliances and generous proportions create a contemporary heart to the home, where family gatherings and entertaining naturally unfold. A conservatory extends the living space further, opening directly onto the gardens and strengthening the connection between house and landscape.

The accommodation is equally impressive upstairs. The first floor offers four generous bedrooms alongside family and en-suite bathrooms, while the principal suite occupies a particularly luxurious position within the converted coach house. Complete with dressing area, spa-like bathroom and a versatile adjoining studio or gym, it offers a private retreat within the home itself.

On the second floor, a collection of flexible rooms presents opportunities for a variety of uses. Currently arranged as additional living accommodation with a bedroom and bathroom, the space could readily support multi-generational living or an independent annexe arrangement, subject to the necessary permissions.

Outside, Astley House continues to impress. The south-west facing gardens have been extensively landscaped to create a series of attractive outdoor spaces designed for relaxation and entertaining. A substantial paved terrace now occupies the site of the former swimming pool, creating a private suntrap framed by mature planting, established borders and lawned areas arranged across two levels.

Practicality has not been overlooked. A recently constructed double garage provides extensive storage and parking, complete with electric vehicle charging facilities. The building also offers potential for future ancillary accommodation, further enhancing the property’s versatility.

What makes Astley House particularly special, however, is its setting. Faringdon remains one of Oxfordshire’s most appealing market towns, balancing historic character with everyday convenience. Independent shops, cafés, traditional pubs and a weekly charter market contribute to a strong sense of community, while excellent road and rail connections place Oxford, Swindon and London within easy reach.

For families, the area’s educational credentials add further appeal. St Hugh’s School is located nearby, with a range of highly regarded independent and state schools accessible across Oxfordshire and beyond.

Properties of this scale, provenance and position rarely come to market. Astley House represents an opportunity not simply to acquire a substantial period home, but to become custodian of a notable piece of Oxfordshire’s architectural heritage — one that has evolved gracefully across three centuries while remaining perfectly suited to modern living.