IN A MANOR OF SPEAKING We’re talking a Grade II Swainswick manor house with spectacular views, swimming pool, a separate annex and its own cider gardens By John Mather
78 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
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f you were going to tell somebody else about this five-bedroom country pile you might have trouble getting the words out because your breath would’ve been well and truly taken. This stunning and substantial part of a Grade II listed manor house is found just two miles from the edge of the city in the prettyas-a-picture village of Swainswick and commands magnificent views across a rural valley. On approach, the formal gates lead onto a cobbled path through the manicured lawn bordered by evergreens, trees and shrubs bursting with flowers, and that leads up to the garage at the side of the property. Above the garage, with self-contained access, is a newly renovated two-bedroom annexe, originally known as The Cider House, but more on that later. First the gorgeous property itself. It has that rustic, wooden beam, charm but with an airy lightness and wellthought layout normally associated with more modern builds. Arranged over two floors, the good-sized formal drawing room and substantial dining room are linked by a grand reception hall, both with large open fireplaces and mullion windows, plus there’s golden parquet wooden flooring throughout. At the rear of the house, opening onto the garden, is
