The Zookeeper’s House, one of Cheltenham’s most recognisable and historic homes, has been brought to the market by Savills.
The Grade II listed Italianate villa was designed by famed local architect Samual Daukes, who was renowned for his work on churches and designed Lansdown Station in Cheltenham.
The designs were part of a wider speculative scheme in 1833 by local solicitor and land owner, Thomas Billings, to create Gloucestershire Zoological, Botanical and Horticultural Gardens at The Park Estate.
The property, also known as Cornerways, was built in around 1865 as the zoo keeper’s house and an ‘eyecatcher’ for the zoological gardens, the design of which is thought to have been influenced by Regent’s Park in London.
Over the years, The Zookeeper’s House has been home to many well-known locals, including a Cheltenham College schoolmaster, a professional rugby player, and an army major.
In the Sixties, the property was acquired by St Paul’s College, which later became the University of Gloucestershire, with the building used to conduct seminars and lectures as well as accommodation.
Fifty years later, an architect, captivated by the building’s charm, took on the meticulous task of restoring it to its former glory.
Located at the tip of The Park, The Zookeeper’s House offers sweeping views of Cheltenham and The Cotswolds.
Set over three floors, it extends to 3,556 sq. ft., and has numerous elegant period features, including floor-to-ceiling sash windows.
Entered through a traditional entrance hall, the well-designed layout takes in an impressive open-plan kitchen and family room which provides an ideal space for gatherings and family time.
Steps lead down to a cosy dining room and versatile boot room, utility area, and cloakroom. Additionally, there is a sitting room and a dedicated study on the ground floor.
The five bedrooms are arranged across the first and second floors, with the open-plan principal suite on the first floor enjoying an open-plan feel and a dual aspect, featuring a striking freestanding bath and shower facilities.
A particularly unique feature of The Zookeeper’s House is the charming low-arched doorway on the second floor which leads to what was originally known as the smoking room, providing a ladder to the viewing tower, a one-of-a-kind in Cheltenham, with a quaint, boarded seating area and impressive views over The Park, Cheltenham and Cotswolds beyond. Bedrooms four and five are also on this floor.
There is also a sizeable lower ground basement, which has previously been granted planning permission for conversion into a living space.
Outside, the gardens of The Zookeeper’s House provide a picturesque setting for the villa, softening the elevations with a large, level expanse of lawn.
Phil Bates, head of Savills residential sales in Cheltenham, said: ‘Properties of this calibre and history rarely come to the market, particularly in such a desirable location in the heart of Cheltenham. With its blend of period character, modern conveniences, and unique viewing tower, it promises an exceptional lifestyle for its next owners.’
The Zookeeper’s House is on the market with Savills Cheltenham for a guide price of £1,695,000.
Image source: Savills
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