Viale Degli Asini, Bourne End, Buckinghamshire

In a picturesque riverfront setting, Thornbie House is one of Bourne End’s loveliest homes: at over 125 years old it has only had five owners since it was built, which is testament to the property’s charm and location. The substantial Victorian residence is well situated for access to amenities, yet has a very private, idyllic feel that’s sheltered from main roads and neighbouring properties. Much of its original character remains, and period features can be seen throughout; outside there is a stunning loggia looking over the gardens, while internally, characterful elements include the original bells and switches, wood floors and cast iron fireplaces. While a number of updates have been made, the interiors are appointed in a traditional, classic style that feels timeless, and provides excellent scope for further improvements or modernisation.

The accommodation is well planned with a versatile layout that is well suited to larger families, providing a variety of reception rooms downstairs and as many as seven bedrooms across the first and second floors; the upper floors of the house also enjoy beautiful views over the gardens towards the river. In addition to the main house there is a separate detached studio/office which occupies the first floor over the three-car garage; this is well appointed and would be ideally suited to an au pair or perhaps older children living at home, with an open plan studio bedroom, en suite shower room and kitchenette. On the lower ground floor, below the garage, is a useful storage area.

The magnificent reception hall leads to three generous reception rooms on the south west side of the house, including a sitting room, drawing room and dining room. The kitchen, with its light-filled breakfast area, is at the heart of the home, and has its own butler’s pantry, a separate pantry and utility room. There is also a TV room/snug. The first floor has a magnificent principal suite with dressing room and en suite bath/shower room, in addition to a sitting room with balcony overlooking the river; A further double bedroom with en suite, which connects to a single bedroom through the bathroom; an additional double bedroom; and a family bathroom with a separate WC. The second floor has two bedrooms, a shower room, library, study and storage.

Thornbie House sits at the end of a private road, tucked away in a fabulously secluded position. The plot is well sheltered by mature trees for privacy yet has direct access out onto the Thames Path, providing a fast pedestrian route to the station and across the river to Cock Marsh Nature Reserve and Winter Hill – both excellent places for walking, with stunning views over the surroundings.

The house is approached over an expansive gated driveway, with the added benefit of intercom access. There is parking for a substantial number of cars in addition to a triple garage. The gardens to the rear of the house are beautifully landscaped, with specimen trees such as impressive palms, magnolia and abundant shrubs around the borders. The views of the garden can be enjoyed from a number of seating areas, including a covered loggia adjoining the house and a fabulous partly-walled terrace, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. An expansive lawn leads down to a hedged boundary and a secure access gate across the footpath to a second lawned riverside garden, which adjoins the northern bank of the river Thames. There are magnificent views across the water and access to the river via the home’s private 130 ft mooring.