Astbury, Congleton, Cheshire

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The Rectory is an exceptional Grade II* listed former rectory, believed to date from the mid-18th century, which has been comprehensively reimagined by the current owners to create a remarkable contemporary family home.

Combining the elegance and architectural character of the original Georgian building with a striking contemporary extension by Scott Donald Architecture, the property offers an impressive balance of period grandeur and modern design. The owners have undertaken an extensive programme of works, including a complete rewire, replumbing, reroofing and remodelling, ensuring the house is exceptionally well equipped for modern living whilst retaining its historic identity.

The original house is rich in character, with impressive proportions, tall sash windows, decorative detailing and beautifully presented reception rooms. The entrance hall makes a particularly striking first impression, with its distinctive arched openings and Moroccan tiled flooring, whilst the principal reception rooms provide elegant spaces for both formal entertaining and everyday family life. The kitchen and dining room is equally impressive, with bespoke hand painted ‘in-frame’ cabinetry, Miele appliances, a Quooker tap and quartz work surfaces, arranged around a substantial central island with banquet seating.

In contrast, the contemporary extension introduces a completely different architectural language. Designed to contrast alongside the original building, it provides a superb open-plan living space, with extensive glazing framing views across the gardens and allowing the surrounding landscape to become part of the interior. The clean architectural lines, large format tiling, Walnut panelling, a feature Metalfire and other carefully considered detailing create a wonderful connection between the house and its setting.

The accommodation extends to approximately 7,974 sq ft within the main house, arranged over four levels, including extensive vaulted cellars. There are up to 7 bedrooms, a range of reception rooms, a study and generous family living spaces, providing considerable flexibility for modern family life and entertaining.

The property also benefits from an impressive level of integrated technology. A Crestron home automation system controls heating, lighting, security and audio, complemented by a hybrid air-source heat pump and gas heating system, together with a Tesla Powerwall.

A further significant feature is the adjoining two-bedroom coach house, extending to approximately 1,967 sq ft. Providing independent accommodation, it offers excellent flexibility for extended family, guests or staff. In addition, the extensive vaulted cellars within the main house offer further potential for a variety of uses, subject to any necessary consents.

Outside, The Rectory occupies approximately 4.7 acres, with established lawns, mature trees and beautifully landscaped gardens providing a high degree of privacy. The grounds include a particularly attractive formal garden with raised planting beds, alongside extensive lawned areas and far-reaching views across the surrounding Cheshire countryside. A private approach leads to the impressive principal façade, with a courtyard providing ample parking and access to the adjoining buildings.

The Rectory represents a rare opportunity to acquire a significant period home which has been thoughtfully transformed for contemporary living, combining architectural heritage, exceptional accommodation and an outstanding rural setting.

The Rectory occupies an attractive position within the historic village of Astbury, approximately 1.8 miles south-west of Congleton. Centered around a traditional village green, the village retains a strong sense of community and character, with the Grade I listed St Mary’s Church, a primary school, village hall and public house all close by.

Nearby Glebe Farm provides an excellent selection of independent amenities, including a farm shop, coffee shop, butcher and fishmonger, alongside a range of family attractions and local businesses. The neighbouring towns and villages of Congleton, Macclesfield, Prestbury, Alderley Edge and Wilmslow provide a wider choice of shopping, leisure and dining facilities.

Macclesfield is approximately 10 miles away, with Prestbury 11 miles, Alderley Edge 12 miles and Wilmslow around 15 miles. Macclesfield railway station provides direct services to Manchester Piccadilly in approximately 22 minutes and London Euston in around 1 hour 51 minutes, whilst Manchester Airport is approximately 18 miles away.

There is also an excellent choice of independent schooling in the area, including Terra Nova School, approximately 8.8 miles away, and The King’s School in Macclesfield, around 10.5 miles away.