A house, which has played an important role in Meltham village history over the years, is up for sale.
The Old Vicarage in Wessenden Head Road, known originally as Parsonage House, is now on the market as owners Julian and Kate Askew plan a move to a newly built property in nearby Wilshaw.
It is evident from historical records that this imposing property, built originally by the Rev Joseph Hughes in 1839, was held in great esteem by local villagers and used for local fetes and village events.
An extract from an old book containing details of the history of Meltham says: “The building of this house was an event of great interest to all the inhabitants of Meltham. Its elevated position, overlooking the village and visible from many points of view, led them to expect it would be a most pleasing feature in their landscape.’’
Indeed the finished house appears to have met all their expectations.
Today the house is still a very ‘pleasing feature’, set back in large gardens away from Wessenden Head Road. With five bedrooms, period features and well stocked mature gardens, all approached via a sweeping driveway, it is a magnificent family home. Julian, Kate and their children have lived at The Old Vicarage for eight years, during which time they have made many improvements including a complete reconfiguration of the upstairs space, fitted all new windows and re-roofed the property.
“The biggest difference is the upstairs’’, said Julian. “We completely reconfigured upstairs to create five bedrooms and a contemporary house bathroom off a large central landing with the master having a walk-in wardrobe and en-suite with unique feature window.’’
Most of the bedrooms are dual aspect with views over the extensive gardens.
Downstairs the house is entered via a grand hallway which has an original stone flag floor. The accommodation on this level includes a large lounge with French doors out into the garden, a dining room, a second sitting room which has a 1930s Art Deco style fireplace and large bay window with lovely views onto the garden, a kitchen and utility room along with downstairs lavatory.
Many of the original features can be seen straightaway and include deep skirtingboards, ceiling cornices, coving and architraves.
Under the house there are three large cellars, ideal for storage.
Julian said: “The house also has planning approval for an orangery and extension to make the kitchen and utility room much larger. Plans have also been submitted to allow the building of a detached house within the grounds.’’
Outside, the house has a double garage and south-facing gardens.
One of the main selling points of this house is its situation in Meltham, being just a few minutes’ walk from the village centre and close to good local schools, a supermarket, shops etc. At the same time it is also a short walk to local countryside, ideal for walking.
Julian, who is a service provider for the oil industry, said it has been a delight to live at The Old Vicarage and be part of the history of this impressive local home.
If you want to see this house for yourself then go along to an open viewing this weekend on Saturday January 31 and Sunday February 1 from 11am to 1pm.
The property is being marketed by Ryder & Dutton estate agents 01484 689792.
No upper chain and a generous allowance is available to either upgrade the kitchen or towards stamp duty costs.
PRICE: £695,000.
