A country house near Bath which dates back to the 18th century has changed hands after going on sale with a guide price of £2.75m.
The Waterhouse in Monkton Combe, pictured, which has 13 en-suite guest bedrooms and 10 serviced offices, has been bought by a private individual after a high level of interest from potential owners.
The property is on a landscaped plot of more than three acres which includes a Matron’s Cottage with development opportunity for a range of alternative uses, according to property agency Savills, which sold it on behalf of owners The Wilsher Pension Trust.
Savills, which described the hotel as “magnificent” and “situated in a tranquil location in the Midford valley with countryside surroundings and stunning views”, also said it has potential for residential use subject to permissions.
The name of the private buyer – only its fifth owner it in its history – has not been disclosed or the amount they paid.
The Waterhouse, around three miles from Bath city centre, was originally a substantial stone country house built in the late 18th century and extended when a modern wing was added in 1983.
It remained in private ownership until 1947 when the Rev Percy Warrington converted it to a residential home. It stayed like that until 2008 when the Warrington Homes Charitable Trust decided to close the home and sell the building.
According to Savills, the sellers lovingly restored the property by reinstating many of its original features including cornicing, wooden floors, fireplaces, shutters and oak staircases. The grounds were also beautifully landscaped.
As well as the bedrooms, it also has a bar and restaurant with 22 covers, lounge with seating for 10, a conservatory, accommodating 30 theatre style, The Manor Room capable of sitting 50 theatre style and The Roberts Room, accommodating 10 theatre style. In addition, there are two staff bedrooms and a staff studio flat.
Savills Hotel capital markets team director James Greenslade said: “We are delighted to complete the sale of The Waterhouse.
“We received significant interest from a range of investors attracted by the many original features of the building and picturesque location, on both an existing use and alternative use basis.”
Luke Brady, director in the residential team at Savills Bath, added: “It has been a privilege to have been involved with the sale of The Waterhouse a decade on from the last time that we acted in the sale.
“The Wilsher group are long-standing clients and transformed Waterhouse into a superb mixed residential and commercial facility. This iconic building sits in the heart of one of Bath’s most sought-after rural locations.”
