Langford Road, Bristol

History
Somerlea House shares its lineage with Langford House through the Hill family, specifically the wealthy merchant, landowner, and philanthropist Simon Sidney Hill who owned nearby Langford House (now Bristol University Vet School). During the Edwardian period, relatives, the Christie sisters were prominent residents. Over the centuries it has remained an important village residence, carefully adapting to changing times while preserving much of its original character.
During the Second World War the property was requisitioned as a military hospital, with the present playroom serving as a surgery. Today, a wealth of fascinating original features remain, offering a tangible connection with the house's rich past.
The former scullery still retains its original bread oven and hand-operated water pump, now providing useful storage, while the butler's corridor features the original wall-mounted bell system. Throughout the house, original fireplaces, elegant staircase, period joinery and beautifully proportioned reception rooms reflect the craftsmanship and quality of the Georgian era.
An unusual feature is the former squash court (with potential for development, subject to consents), together with a detached single garage.
Accommodation
A stone pillared entrance leads to a gravelled driveway with ample parking at the side of the property.
A welcoming hall leads to the elegant reception hall which immediately sets the tone for the accommodation beyond, with an impressive staircase rising through the house beneath high ceilings. The two principal reception rooms are beautifully proportioned, flooded with natural light with large bay windows overlooking the gardens. The charming south facing sitting room, complete with a window seat, provides a peaceful retreat. Both have wood-burning stoves in attractive fireplaces.
At the heart of the home is an impressive open-plan kitchen/dining room with painted wooden units, range cooker and wood burning stove. Thoughtfully remodelled by the current owners, the space was created by combining two separate rooms. A striking picture window and French doors leading directly onto the terrace and gardens flood the room with natural light, creating a wonderfully sociable space that is perfectly suited to modern family living and entertaining.
The service wing provides an intriguing glimpse into the house's history, incorporating the original butler's room on the first floor with an en suite WC and laundry room, whilst on the ground floor, a back corridor leading to the former pastry room, now a practical utility room and a boot room.
The first floor offers exceptionally flexible family accommodation including five bedrooms (including the previously mentioned butler’s room).
Three of the bedrooms have en suite bath/shower rooms and the spacious family bathroom combines a traditional roll-top bath with a large contemporary walk-in shower.
On the second floor are 4 further bedrooms, with bedroom 9, with high vaulted ceiling, currently used as a games room. There is also a bathroom with a large walk-in shower and loft storage room.
Outside
Outside
Somerlea House is approached through an attractive, low-maintenance front garden, while to the rear the beautifully established grounds extend to approx. 2 acres.
A paved sunny terrace looks over the lawns which are interspersed with mature specimen trees including Copper beech, Sweet chestnut, London plane, Oak, Holly and flowering Cherry, creating a private and picturesque setting throughout the year. Gravel paths meander among the colourful borders and shrubs and a tranquil fish pond further enhances the gardens. Wild flowers, butterflies and birds thrive in a paddock area at the rear.
The grounds are exceptionally well suited to family life and entertaining, with an outdoor swimming pool heated by air source pump and changing room, together with a full-size tennis court. The former squash court offers further recreational or development potential for additional garages or separate accommodation, subject to any necessary consents.
Practical outbuildings include a wood store, tool shed and detached single garage.
Location
Somerlea House enjoys an enviable position in the centre of Langford, one of North Somerset's most desirable villages, lying on the northern edge of the Mendip Hills. Combining an attractive rural setting with excellent accessibility, Langford is highly regarded for its strong community spirit, beautiful surrounding countryside and outstanding convenience for Bristol.
The village offers an excellent range of everyday amenities including The Langford Inn, café, convenience store, doctor's surgery and a variety of local businesses. Nearby Wrington and Churchill provide further independent shops, pubs and restaurants, while Bristol and Bath offer an extensive choice of shopping, culture and fine dining.
The area is particularly well known for its excellent schooling, including Churchill, Burrington or Wrington Church of England Primary Schools and the highly regarded Churchill Academy and Sixth Form. Buses service schools such as Wells Cathedral and Sidcot Schools. The University of Bristol Veterinary School at Langford contributes to the village's academic character and vibrant community. The University bus operates all year round directly to the centre of Bristol, available to the public.
The surrounding countryside provides exceptional opportunities for walking, cycling and riding, with the Mendip Hills, Burrington Combe, Cheddar Gorge and Blagdon Lake all within easy reach. Golf courses, sailing, fishing and a wealth of other country pursuits are readily available nearby.
Despite its peaceful rural setting, Langford is exceptionally well connected. Bristol is approximately 13 miles away, Bristol Airport is a 10 minute drive and Junction 20 of the M5 is easily accessible. Mainline rail services from nearby Yatton provide direct connections to Bristol Temple Meads and London Paddington.
Key Features
Mains gas with newly installed heating/boiler system, electric, water and drainage
Council – North Somerset, Tax band H
EPC rating – tbc
Charger for EV (3 phase power supply, 22KW)
NB – this house is not listed.