Margot´s Townhouse
Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, UK
A greenery-infused internal courtyard brings a burst of botany to this luxury self-catering home near Bath, in which vintage embroidery, gilt framed mirrors and slick slabs of marble add opulence to an 18th Century weaver’s studio in the heart of Bradford-on-Avon. Filled with glamour and stories, without the need for polished perfection, Margot's Townhouse is a metaphor for the modern luxury traveller.
Introduction
City dwellers get in line; here is a place designed for discerning weekending Londoners. With a direct line from Waterloo and hourly trains from Paddington, you'll soon slip into holiday mode when you land in pretty Bradford-on-Avon and find yourself just three minutes’ walk from this luxury self-catering home off St Margaret's Hill. Restored with sense and sensitivity by a local conservation architect, Margot's Townhouse offers lofty, light-filled living over three stories in the centre of town. In heritage style, expect open fires, deep seating, and a lifetime’s collection of food and travel books collected throughout the owner's career as a restaurateur.
Inside
Honest, tactile materials set the tone at this luxury Wiltshire home which is now more elegant townhouse than humble weaver’s workshop. Exposed Bath stone, glossy marble, teak and elm run throughout, framed by oak beams and a modern greenhouse-like extension that merges the inside and out. The original Georgian staircase leads to two double bedrooms and a modern family bathroom adorned in pearlescent tiles. Next, the second floor (originally built to house the workers' weaving looms) is now devoted entirely to the principal bedroom suite with its silk canopy, vogueish marble bathroom and views over the rooftops.
Outside
A steel-framed glass door connects the hand-crafted kitchen-diner to the botanical courtyard garden. Here, flowering climbers and lavender beds flanked by box parterre provide a verdant space for wine and olives al fresco before heading into town for supper. Sauntering along the golden streets of Bradford-on-Avon, you’ll soon see that while the honey-coloured Wiltshire town may be pocket-sized, it packs a punch. Peddle the canal towpaths by bicycle, amble about the Grade-I Listed Peto Gardens of Iford Manor, or tuck into patatas bravas and Galician octopus at Pablo's Tapas in Lamb Yard. There's no shortage of entertainment here.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 6 guests
From £2,250 per week, £1,695 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 4 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThree bedrooms are accessed via the original narrow staircase. On the first floor sits the family bathroom (with reclaimed bath, WC and walk-in shower) plus two double bedrooms; on the second floor is the principal suite with emperor-sized bed and en suite bathroom featuring a WC and marble bath with handheld shower attachment. There is also a separate ground floor WC.
View bedrooms - PetsOne small well-behaved dog is welcome
Pets are charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Day: Friday or MondayArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabes-in-arms and children aged eight and above are very welcome. One travel cot and highchair are available on request.
- PracticalitiesDue to its central location, there is no parking at the property. Guests are encouraged to drop bags at the steps and park at the station (the owners provide two permits) a three-minute walk down the hill. The chef´s kitchen is well equipped, including a gas burner (with two-ring hob), Aga Range, undercounter fridge, microwave oven, Nespresso coffee machine with milk frother, kettle, toaster, blender and two dishwashers. The pantry houses a fridge-freezer while the utility has a Bosch washing machine and Creda dryer. There is underfloor heating in the kitchen, living room and bathroom to keep these areas a cosy 22 degrees year-round. Outside, the front garden allows access for the neighbouring house, however the courtyard garden is fully enclosed and all yours.
- Homestay includesA welcome hamper of local produce, a bottle of the owner´s favourite wine, luxury toiletries, firewood to get you started, Sky broadband, two televisions, Sonos speakerHouse book - your property and destination guideDiscover more little luxuries
- Private cateringDiscover your options for private dining and fully catered breaks.
- Additional extrasA handpicked selection of unique experiences are available at this property.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsEV charger locationsCheck mobile signalRecommend to a friend
Prices & Availability
Bradford-on-Avon
Traced back to Roman origins, this hillside town on banks of the River Avon is a historic Wilshire gem, filled with plenty for the culture-hungry tourist. And just next door in neighbouring Bath there´s rooftop spas and exquisite architecture to explore.
Getting there
- On the Map Margot´s Townhouse is a peaceful haven in the bustling town of Bradford-on-Avon, 7.5 miles from Bath
- By Car The house is 45 minutes from Bristol, and a two-and-a-half hour drive from central London
- By Train Bradford-on-Avon station is a three to five-minute walk down the hill, with a direct line from Waterloo and hourly trains from Paddington station
- By Air Bristol Airport is one hour's drive away with car hire available
From the owner
“The property owes so much to the previous owners who realised a vision to bring two derelict cottages into one in an impressive from-scratch refurbishment, resulting in a sense of place that feels as close to Tuscany as it does Bath.”
The house started life around 1790 when it was first built to house clothmakers between two cottages with their workshop above. It came up for sale for the first time in 2011, when major renovations took place, before we purchased it in the autumn of 2020. I made the decision to share this charming place with others when realised that unfortunately I wouldn't be living here as frequently as I'd envisioned. Opening my home to guests is a first for me, but the transport links make the house so accessible, it felt like a sensible option to ensure remained both lived in and enjoyed year-round. There are so many great locations to visit close by such as Bath, Frome and Lacock.
Although we loved the essence of the house, it’s character and charm, one thing we did change was the colour of the hand-built kitchen which is now a lush green to tie in with the garden. With a background in food and hospitality, my enthusiasm remains for the culinary imperatives of simple, seasonal, local ingredients handled with care and respect. I hope the kitchen atmosphere, accoutrements and reading materials I have left encourage guests to gather some local farm shop ingredients and get creative in the kitchen, which really is the heart of this house for me.
Mike
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Bradford-on-Avon with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
The Thai Barn, Bradford-on-Avon
With its secluded outdoor patio eating area designed to look like an oriental secret garden, this al fresco spot is perfect on a warm summer’s evening. The food is unfailingly excellent, as is the wine list.
To Do
Botany and Butterflies, Wiltshire
Dominated by its chalk hills and the vast Salisbury Plain, Wiltshire provides a unique habitat for all things birds, botany and butterflies. For curious English gardens, head to The Courts, Bowood Estate or Dyrham Park.
To Eat
Pablo´s Bistro, Bradford-on-Avon
Authentic, vibrant and irresistible tapas, with a blackboard menu of seasonal specials such as asparagus, padron peppers and Spanish-style seafood. Its spot in Lamb Yard is a dream setting for al fresco dining and watching the world go by.
To See
The city of Bath
The city of Bath is one of the nation´s most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Spend a day discovering Roman remains like the Temple of Sulis Minerva, before finding a delicious dining spot among the Saxon and Georgian architecture.
Guest Testimonials
Margot’s Townhouse has the sort of calm sophistication I wish I had in my own home - understated and elegant. A fabulous base to share the weekend with girlfriends and enjoy the great selection of restaurants and cafes on offer. Just a quick hop on the train to gorgeous Bath too.
It was a beautiful property and the attention to detail was spot on. We especially loved the quality of the bed linen and towels. The property certainly exceeded our expectations- thank you!
What a wonderfully special place. We had a fantastic stay and look forward to coming back to Margot´s Townhouse one day soon. Thank you for all of your recommendations too!
Unique extras
Enhance your stay with a unique experience from one of our preferred suppliers. From professional in-house chefs to luxury at-home spa therapists and wine delivered to the door, see what’s on offer for your bespoke escape.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Best cabin stays in the UK
The Times
May 2023Staycation in splendid isolation
Country Living
May 2023Britain´s best holiday cottages
The Telegraph
May 2023Best holiday homes in the UK
Conde Nast Traveller
May 2023A look inside The Fable x The White Company
House Beautiful
May 2023Britain´s best offbeat escapes
Country Living
May 2023Follying up the folly
Country Living
May 2023The hidden heart of Cornwall
Financial Times
April 2023
Collections > Luxury New Year Breaks > UK > Wiltshire > Bradford-on-Avon > Margot´s Townhouse
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
