Harnhill, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7

A striking detached Cotswold country home of exceptional character, offering over 3,000 sq/ft of beautifully refurbished accommodation set within approximately six acres. Occupying a commanding yet private position between the sought-after villages of Harnhill and Driffield, just a short distance from the historic market town of Cirencester, Rats Castle combines the tranquillity of rural living with excellent accessibility. Sympathetically modernised, the property successfully blends contemporary interiors with its rich period heritage and further benefits from paddocks and stabling, making it ideal for equestrian use or those seeking a country lifestyle.

Believed to date back to 1834, the accommodation is arranged over two floors and has been thoughtfully updated. A magnificent full height entrance hall, showcasing exposed beams and brickwork, creates an impressive first impression. The ground floor offers a generous dual aspect sitting room, a stylish open plan kitchen dining room fitted with contemporary units, a dramatic full height snug, study with adjoining storeroom, utility room, boot room, cloakroom and side hall, providing a practical yet highly versatile layout for modern family life.

The first floor is arranged across two distinct wings. The principal staircase rises to a galleried landing leading to the impressive principal bedroom suite, complete with vaulted ceiling, walk-in warbrobe and en-suite bathroom. Two further double bedrooms, both featuring vaulted ceilings, are served by a beautifully appointed shower room. A separate staircase from the side hall provides access to a guest suite with fitted storage and its own contemporary en-suite shower room, ideal for visitors, older children or multi-generational living.

Outside: the property is approached via a private, tree lined driveway, creating a wonderful sense of arrival. Two paddocks lie to either side of the drive, one incorporating a field shelter, while the formal gardens surround the house with lawns, mature trees and a variety of sun-soaked terraces perfectly suited to al fresco dining and entertaining. Beyond the gardens is a stable block with an open fronted shelter, offering excellent equestrian facilities or potential for a range of alternative uses. To the western boundary, a charming spinney provides a secluded retreat complete with a covered outdoor dining area and chicken coop, further enhancing the appeal of this outstanding country home.

NB - the property is not on a flood plain and classified as Low Risk.
However, the stone lined culvert under the road above the property has been collapsing for many years meaning it was partially blocked, so on 24th/25th November 2024, during Storm Bertie, water flowed over the road down the paddock and through the house. The vendors were out of the house for 9 months while refurbishments were undertaken. John Lewis were the insurers at the time and have continued to insure subsequently.

Resolution and Flood Defences:
The Council resolved the issue in June 2026 . The old Culvert was dug out and new pipework used instead.

Before the above work was agreed, the vendors
- dug a deeper ditch along the road to redirect any water going over the road back into the drainage ditch that runs along the side of the property.
- the side ditch was dug deeper.
- dug a new ditch at the top of the paddock to direct any water in the field back into the drainage ditch.
- built a bund along the width of the bottom of the paddock into the side ditch to further direct any water that gets into the paddock.

However, now the new culvert is in place these defences should be redundant, as any water will flow under the road and into the drainage ditch.

Situated in the tight-knit, historic parish of Driffield and Harnhill, the property provides the ultimate escape to the country without compromising on convenience.
The vibrant town of Cirencester, universally celebrated as the "Capital of the Cotswolds," is located just over three miles away. Cirencester offers an exceptional array of independent boutique shops, fine-dining bistros, historic weekly markets, and outstanding state and private schooling options. For outdoor enthusiasts, an abundance of scenic public footpaths, equestrian routes, and the nearby Cotswold Water Park are right on your doorstep.