Castle Square, Benson, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10

A beautifully restored Grade II-listed former village bakehouse and grocery in the heart of Benson, offering over 3,200 sq ft of characterful living space with original period features, five bedrooms, and a charming courtyard garden moments from the River Thames.

A smart glazed door, set to the right of the handsome former shopfront, opens into a bright and welcoming entrance hall that immediately sets the tone for this wonderfully characterful home. From here, there is access to the principal reception spaces, while a cloakroom and staircase are conveniently positioned off the hall. The magnificent sitting room occupies the front of the house, where the original shop windows flood the space with natural light while retaining privacy. Rich in period character, the room features original shop shelving spanning one wall, exposed brickwork with original alcoves, tongue-and-groove panelling and a cosy log-burning stove creating an inviting focal point. An elegant archway leads through to a charming snug, complete with fitted shuttered cabinetry, log burner and Crittall-style glazing overlooking the courtyard. To the rear of the house lies the impressive open-plan kitchen/dining room, an exceptional entertaining space fitted with extensive bespoke cabinetry. A fascinating reminder of the building's former life, the original bread oven remains proudly on display, alongside exposed brickwork and a traditional bread-warming plate set within an alcove. Above the dining area, a striking pitched glazed roof fills the room with daylight, while double doors and an additional single door open directly onto the enclosed courtyard, creating a seamless connection between inside and out. The first floor provides four well-proportioned bedrooms. The principal suite overlooks the village street and enjoys elegant painted panelling, together with a dedicated dressing room fitted with extensive storage. Beyond lies a luxurious ensuite bathroom featuring a freestanding roll-top bath and separate walk-in shower. Three further bedrooms are arranged across this floor, one of which benefits from its own ensuite shower room beneath a beautifully panelled barrel-vaulted ceiling, while the remaining bedrooms are served by a spacious family bathroom. Occupying the entire second floor is a delightful fifth bedroom (or playroom/study), a peaceful retreat characterised by exposed beams and rafters that celebrate the building's historic fabric.
Below the house, the generous cellar has been thoughtfully adapted as a cinema/games room, with original stone walls and exposed timbers creating an atmospheric and highly versatile space that could equally lend itself to a cinema room, gym or hobby area.

Outside, the private walled courtyard garden has been designed for both relaxation and entertaining. Combining paved and decked seating areas, it offers ample space for outdoor dining beneath a pergola, while borders and pots provide opportunities for herbs and seasonal planting, creating a tranquil and sheltered setting at the heart of this remarkable former village bakehouse.