5 bed detached house for sale

Cuxham Road, Watlington OX49

A truly unique opportunity to acquire one of Oxfordshire’s most historic homes — Watlington Mill, a former working mill with origins dating back before 1066, set within approximately 30 acres of gardens, lakes and woodland. Steeped in history and natural beauty, this landmark property offers exceptional privacy, character, and potential in a highly desirable location close to the Chiltern Hills.

Property Overview
Approached via a long driveway with turning circle and covered porch, Watlington Mill enjoys a wonderfully private position within its own extensive grounds. A handsome stone archway opens into further parking areas, a walled kitchen garden, and a collection of outbuildings ideal for workshops, studios, or conversion into guest accommodation (STPP).

Inside, the home is arranged over three charming levels, where the original workings of the mill remain part of its character. A glass viewing panel allows the water channel to be seen flowing beneath the house — a rare and beautiful reminder of the building’s historic purpose. The accommodation includes a large family room perfect for entertaining, a lovely light and airy sitting room with open fire and direct access to the patio and gardens, a study, and a further reception room providing additional flexible living space. At the heart of the home is a small cosy cottage-style kitchen, complete with a large open fireplace.

Upstairs, there are five characterful bedrooms and two bathrooms, each full of quirky period charm, including a generous master suite with vaulted ceiling and beautiful views across the lake and gardens. The original mill layout creates interesting room shapes, exposed beams, and delightful old-world features throughout.

Grounds & Setting
The estate surrounding Watlington Mill offers complete privacy and tranquillity within its own boundaries. Adjacent to the house are the Mill Lake and a secondary ornamental lake, creating a beautiful waterside backdrop to the gardens and terraces. Beyond these lies a larger, extensive lake, forming part of the private nature reserve area of the estate — a stunning spring-fed expanse stocked with carp and rich in wildlife. The grounds also include mature woodland, meadows, and natural habitats that attract herons, egrets, ducks, badgers, and foxes. In total, the 30-acre setting provides exceptional opportunities for outdoor living, conservation, or small-scale equestrian pursuits.

Location
Ideally positioned between the thriving market town of Watlington and the picturesque village of Cuxham, the property enjoys a private yet convenient location. Watlington itself offers a wonderful sense of community, with independent shops, cafés, and several traditional pubs, as well as its own primary school and a highly regarded secondary school. The M40 is around 10 minutes away, providing fast access to London, Oxford, and Heathrow Airport. Set close to the Chiltern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the area provides superb walking, cycling, and country pubs, with Wittenham Clumps and The Ridgeway nearby.

EPC rating: E.