We may have just found the smallest detached property in England, and it’s lovely. This unique apartment’s tiny floor plan reaches the dizzying heights of 286 square feet, rivaling any downtown micro-apartment.
However, they say size isn’t everything – and that’s certainly true in the case of this well-known monument. What The Round House does not have in size, it makes up for in character.
Originally built in 1793, the hexagonal thatched-roof house of Stanton Drew was originally a toll house, collecting royalties from those heading west towards the coast.
It is said that a silver wallet hung from a hook above the front door, and bus drivers dropped their tickets into the wallet as they walked freely along the road.
But by 1870, The Round House was already a residential dwelling. Locals say a family of eight once lived within its small confines, with bunk beds built between the rafters of the roof. The exposed beams remain today – but it still takes a little imagination to see how eight people once fit into it. It would certainly have been “comfortable”.
The hexagonal interior accommodation at Maison Ronde includes an open-plan kitchen and living room (no doubt by necessity!) As well as a modern shower room on the ground floor. A narrow spiral staircase leads to a double bedroom which has a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams and enjoys a lovely countryside feel.
Chapel-shaped windows with shutters, an arched front door and an out of service letterbox add to the charm of this property.
While living inside the house might not be for the claustrophobic, go outside and you will have all the space you could possibly need. Ok, so the plot of land is actually a patch of grass between the roads. But literally on the doorstep is the open and unspoiled countryside in the heart of the Chew Valley.
That being said – Bristol Live doesn’t recommend moving in a large family – we’re sure it must be breaking some sort of overpopulation law. But maybe this lovely cottage would be perfect for a getaway for two?
La Maison Ronde fits well into Stanton Drew, which also has a range of listed buildings dating from the 13th to 15th centuries.
Located less than eight miles from Bristol city center, buying this miniature house, which is on the market for £ 140,000, may be more convenient than it initially looks.
Stanton Drew has an elementary school, a pub, a church and a village hall. It is a comfortable ride from Bristol or Bath, while a school bus runs to the popular Chew Valley Secondary School.
But all the practicalities aside – how cool it would be to be the next custodian of such a wonderful bite-sized piece of local history.
“What an opportunity! Debbie Fortune Estate Agents claimed.
“Whether you are looking for a bed and breakfast, a rental opportunity or even just to acquire an integral part of the local history, look no further!
Interested parties can contact Debbie Fortune on 01275 333888.
