Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Adderbury, Banwell is a charming retreat that seamlessly blends vintage character with contemporary comfort. Named after one of its early owners, this 18th-century mid-terrace cottage has been lovingly refurbished, while proudly retaining many of its original features, including the beautifully preserved elm plank flooring in the sitting room and the striking oak-beamed ceiling in the cellar.
History of the Village
Nestled in the heart of Oxfordshire, Adderbury is a picturesque village with a rich history dating back over a thousand years. Once a Saxon settlement, it flourished in the medieval period, thanks to its proximity to Banbury and the trade routes through the region. The village is known for its beautiful 13th-century Church of St. Mary, which boasts a striking spire and intricate stained glass windows. Historically, Adderbury was a centre of the wool trade, and many of its charming honey-colored stone cottages and manor houses reflect its prosperous past. Today, Adderbury offers visitors a glimpse into quintessential English village life, with its scenic countryside, traditional pubs, and strong sense of community.
Banwell's Central Location
Banwell boasts a central location within the village, just a few minutes’ walk in any direction to one of four excellent local pubs. Whether you’re looking for a casual pint with the locals or a gastro pub featuring a delightful food menu and Sunday lunch, there’s a pub to suit every taste. Turn left out of the front door, and you’ll find a fabulous café and hairdressers just a few metres away. To the right, it’s only a one-minute walk to a well-stocked village store.
Description of Banwell
Banwell offers much more space than meets the eye, making it ideal for families and groups of friends. The property comfortably accommodates up to 8 guests across four king/double bedrooms, three of which feature en-suite bathrooms. The remaining two bedrooms share a large bathroom on the ground floor. With a spacious open-plan kitchen and dining area, a separate living room, and a cozy snug/games room, Banwell provides plenty of room for everyone. Whether you're looking to enjoy shared moments of fun or a few quiet moments of relaxation, this home has the perfect balance of communal and private spaces for a harmonious stay.
Bedroom 1 – Master Bedroom
Located on the first floor at the front of the house, the Master Bedroom features a comfortable king-size bed, an original cast iron fireplace (non-functional), and a charming double-glazed sash window with views of the village green. The room also has blackout curtains, a cozy chair, and wall-mounted coat hangers. The luxurious en-suite boasts a spacious shower, toilet, sink, mirror, and heated towel rail.
Bedroom 2 – Guest Bedroom
Situated at the back of the house on the first floor, this peaceful guest room includes a luxurious king-size bed with side tables and lamps, a chair, and wall-mounted coat hangers. The en-suite has a toilet and vanity sink with an illuminated mirror. Guests also share access to a large bathroom on the ground floor with the cellar bedroom.
Bedroom 3 – The Old Wash House
Once the original wash house, this ground-floor bedroom features a vaulted ceiling and an indulgent king-size bed with side tables and lamps. The double-glazed window, fitted with a blackout blind, overlooks the rear courtyard. With underfloor heating, this room offers a cozy retreat. The spacious en-suite includes a large shower, toilet, sink, mirror, and heated towel rail.
Bedroom 4 – The Cellar
One of the most charming rooms in Banwell, the cellar bedroom, though slightly smaller, is rich in character. Down ancient stone steps, you'll find an original antique brass double bed and a beautiful oak-beamed ceiling. The moody lighting complements the natural light from the underground window, which also serves as an emergency exit. Underfloor heating and quirky furnishings make this cozy hideaway a guest favourite. Guests share a separate luxury bathroom across the corridor with Bedroom 2.
Living Room
This room, with its matching comfy sofas, beautiful panelled sash window, and stunning original elm plank floor, is the perfect place to unwind with a good book, chat with loved ones, or enjoy a glass of wine. A log burner will be installed in time for winter 2024, adding extra warmth and charm.
Kitchen Diner
The vaulted ceiling and skylights create a bright, open-plan contemporary living space. The kitchen is fully equipped with utensils, crockery, and modern appliances, including an oven, hob, large fridge freezer, and dishwasher. We provide fresh ground coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and a few basic cooking ingredients. In season, fresh herbs grow in the courtyard. The solid oak table seats eight, with a high chair available on request. The leather sofa, oak coffee table, and large 4K TV create a multifunctional space perfect for relaxation and entertainment. French doors open onto the courtyard, ideal for alfresco dining during the warmer months.
Utility Room
The utility room is equipped with a washing machine, ironing board, and iron.
The Old Workshop – Snug/Games Room
Off the courtyard, you'll find the old workshop, featuring an original fireplace, vaulted ceiling, and quirky décor. With underfloor heating, this space serves as an all-year-round games room, a quiet hideaway, or a warm alternative to the courtyard if the weather changes.
Courtyard
The kitchen diner opens onto a walled courtyard complete with electric BBQ facilities, tables, and chairs. This suntrap is perfect for spring and summer, with fresh herbs growing in pots that you’re welcome to use. A dog wash area with a hose and shower is also provided. In the evenings, ambient lighting turns the courtyard into an enchanting space to relax. Please keep noise to a minimum between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. out of respect for the neighbours.
Children
All ages are welcome at Banwell, but children should not be left unattended. We can recommend local babysitters. A travel cot is available and fits in the master bedroom, though you will need to bring your own linen. A high chair is also available on request. Please be aware that the stone cellar steps do not have a protective banister rail and the sash window in the master bedroom has a block to limit opening of the lower section. A stair gate can be used at the bottom of the main staircase.
Dogs
We welcome your pets at Banwell, and the property can accommodate up to two small or medium-sized dogs. To ensure the cottage remains in top condition for future guests, we kindly ask that you adhere to a few simple rules.
Adderbury and the surrounding area offer many fantastic country walks, and all local pubs and cafés are dog-friendly. Please keep your dog on a lead, as there are main roads and livestock in some fields. Remember, it’s important to pick up after your dog, even in the countryside.
All dogs staying at Banwell must be fully house-trained, and we ask that you do not leave them alone in the house or courtyard at any time. Dogs are not permitted in the bedrooms or on the soft furnishings. The enclosed courtyard is a safe space for your dog, and we provide a dog wash for your convenience—ideal for cleaning off after country walks. Please refrain from washing your dog elsewhere. Be sure to clean up thoroughly if your dog soils the courtyard.
A supplement will be charged for bringing your dog, and additional cleaning fees may apply if necessary. Please note that any damage caused to the property by your pet will also incur charges.
Respecting the Neighbours
Banwell is situated near residential neighbours, so it's important to be considerate, especially regarding noise. While the law requires minimal noise between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., we kindly ask you to keep noise levels low between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. This is particularly crucial in the games room and courtyard, where music and conversation can be disruptive late into the evening.
Guest access
Please arrange to check in between 3pm and midnight, in order to minimise any disturbance to our neighbours we would prefer you to arrive before 10pm
You will have full access to the house throughout your stay and if you require a later check-out, please let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
