For Sale7 Bedroom Detached House in Brighstone, Isle of Wight, PO30£1,050,000

Steeped in remarkable history and situated in a picturesque village setting, this stunning former rectory, now Grade II listed, offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of English heritage. Nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens, the property seamlessly blends period charm with practical modern living, complete with a self-contained second-floor apartment ideal for guests, extended family, or income potential. This historic home in Brighstone has long been a residence of significance, home to a succession of historical figures who left indelible marks on British society. The first Rector, later Bishop Ken, famously refused to swear allegiance to King Charles II and was interned in the Tower of London. A renowned hymn writer, his works include the timeless “Awake My Soul and With the Sun.” Another prominent rector, the son of celebrated abolitionist William Wilberforce, went on to become a bishop, as did Moberley, the distinguished former Headmaster of Winchester College. During the 19th century, the house was occupied by William Fox, known as the “father of British palaeontology,” whose discoveries, including the Tyrannosaurus Rex now displayed in the British Museum, were first studied and assembled on the Rectory's lawn. Charles Darwin himself is known to have visited Fox here, adding further weight to the home’s extraordinary legacy. Entering the property through a gravelled drive flanked by ancient stone pillars, the entrance hall immediately impresses with its larch timber floorboards, intricate cornicing, and a striking period fireplace framed by elegant stone arches and columns. To the west lies a grand reception hall with gothic-inspired architectural features and decorative panelling. The dining room exudes historic charm with bespoke carved timber doors, deep sash windows with working shutters, an open fireplace, and a discreet serving hatch to the reception. On the opposite side, the drawing room is bathed in natural light through full-height sash windows opening to the garden, with an open marble fireplace offering a warm focal point. The kitchen/breakfast room combines rustic character and modern convenience, boasting a timber beam feature, a range of fitted appliances, and a stylish electric range cooker. A utility room, plant room, laundry, cloakroom, and cellar access complete the ground floor’s extensive amenities. Upstairs, the first floor provides four spacious double bedrooms, each enjoying idyllic rural or garden views. Two bedrooms feature en-suite facilities, and all are appointed with traditional shutters and built-in storage. The upper floor houses a charming self-contained apartment with two further bedrooms, a family bathroom, a kitchen/diner, and a lounge, all accessed privately or internally, and currently generating rental income. The gardens are truly enchanting, with formal lawns, well-stocked borders, an ornamental pond, and a rose-clad arch creating a serene retreat. A wide stone terrace lines the southern elevation, perfect for outdoor entertaining. The property also includes a double garage and a private pedestrian gate leading to the adjoining churchyard and village amenities. Rich in character and history, yet refined for modern living, The Old Rectory is a rare and distinguished offering in the heart of Brighstone.